Organization of trips to the Markakol Reserve -
Jeep tour to Lake Markakol along the Austrian Road -
Lake Markakol is one of the most picturesque mountain lakes in Kazakhstan, located at an altitude of 1447 meters above sea level. Its impressive size is striking: length - 38 km, width - 19 km, maximum depth - 30 meters. The lake is comfortably located in a mountain valley surrounded by picturesque peaks. On its shore is the charming village of Urunkhaika, which adds a special flavor to the region. You can get to the lake along the Austrian Road (old Austrian road), the length of which is 57 kilometers and passes through the Alatay mountain pass and the Burkhat mountain pass. On another road through Lake Zaysan and the village of Tekrekty, you can get to the lake through the Marble Pass. Both roads are accessible only in summer, in winter the roads are completely impassable.
Nature and features -
Markakol is a real natural masterpiece of Eastern Kazakhstan. Its crystal-clear water reaches transparency of up to 5 meters. The color of the water varies depending on the time of day and weather conditions: on a clear day it shimmers with blue and dark blue shades, and in cloudy weather it acquires a silvery or even black color. The shores of the lake are cut by picturesque bays, which in some places are covered with dense forests with tall larches, and in some places turn into flowering meadows. On the slopes of the mountains surrounding the lake, nature impresses with its diverse flora and fauna. The lake is home to such fish species as grayling and lenok (uskach), which makes it popular among fishing enthusiasts. In addition, the region is rich in ornithological opportunities: 258 species of birds live here, attracting the attention of both professional ornithologists and amateurs. In winter, the lake is completely covered with ice, and frosts in the area can reach a record -55°C. Summer is mild and pleasant, with temperatures up to +30°C.
How to get there, visit -
Lake Markakol is located in the Markakol National Nature Reserve, Kurchum district, East Kazakhstan region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 48°44'32"N 85°45'34"E
History and significance of the region -
Lake Markakol and its surroundings have been inhabited since ancient times. Traces of ancient civilizations have been preserved here, including rock paintings and the remains of ancient settlements. The region is also closely connected with the culture and life of the Old Believers, who once hid in these remote places. Harsh natural conditions and remoteness from civilization made this region not only difficult to access, but also uniquely preserved. In 1976, the Markakolsky Nature Reserve was created to protect the unique nature and biodiversity of this area. The reserve is home to unique plant species, many of which are listed in the Red Book. It is a habitat for large predators such as bears and lynxes, as well as rare ungulates. In the spring, the lake's surroundings bloom, turning into a bright natural kaleidoscope. In the summer, the water in the lake warms up, creating ideal conditions for fishing and walking along the shore. In the fall, the lake pleases with bright colors of foliage reflected in the mirror surface of the water. In winter, the lake freezes, attracting lovers of ice fishing. The lake is located near the state border with Russia and China, which adds strategic importance to the region.
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