Have you ever thought about traveling to Kazakhstan? Many people might not even know where Kazakhstan is or what it has to offer. Though it isn't well-known among Korean travelers, you might find yourself wanting to visit after reading this article. Kazakhstan is a gem of Central Asia, famous for its vast territory and diverse natural landscapes. The country's unique natural scenery offers travelers unforgettable experiences and showcases various geographic features and beauty. While there are many natural landscapes where you can experience the essence of Kazakhstan's nature, I would like to introduce four places I have visited: Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon, the Singing Dunes, and Shymbulak.

Kolsai Lake

A Glacier-Melt Lake in the Tien Shan Mountains

  Kolsai Lake is a series of three alpine lakes located in the highlands of the Tien Shan Mountains in southeastern Kazakhstan, protected as part of Kolsai Lake National Park. The first lake, at an altitude of 1,818 meters, is easily accessible. The second lake sits at 2,252 meters, and the third at 2,850 meters, each boasting its unique charm. The water of Kolsai Lake is incredibly clear and blue, fed by melting glaciers. The lake changes color with the seasons: blue in spring and summer, golden with fall foliage, and pure white in winter. Surrounding the lake are dense coniferous forests and majestic mountain peaks that frame the lake. The contrast of the snow-covered peaks with the blue waters creates a picturesque scene. In spring and summer, a variety of wildflowers bloom around the lake, adding to its beauty. At Kolsai Lake, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Hiking along the 25 km trail connecting the three lakes allows you to immerse yourself in nature. Camping and picnicking are popular around the first lake, where you can set up camp and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. You can also rent a boat to paddle on the tranquil lake and take in the surrounding scenery. The lake's clean and clear waters are home to various fish species, making it a great spot for fishing. You can rent fishing gear or bring your own. Kazakhstan is known for its horses, so horseback riding and archery are available. Thanks to the cool alpine climate, the temperature remains pleasant even in summer, and the star-filled night sky offers a special experience for campers. 

Charyn Canyon

12 Million Years of History

  Charyn Canyon, located in the Almaty region of southeastern Kazakhstan, stretches over 154 km and is a massive canyon comparable to the Grand Canyon in the United States. Formed around 12 million years ago, its red and orange rock formations and cliffs change color with the sunlight, showcasing the unique beauty of its landscape. The canyon is filled with various rock formations, eroded by wind and water over millions of years into unique shapes. The "Valley of Castles" area’s rock formations, resembling ancient castles, is particularly impressive. Visitors to Charyn Canyon can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Several hiking and trekking routes allow you to explore different paths and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. You can camp in the canyon, setting up tents and spending the night under a sky full of stars, with the sound of the river adding to the experience. The riverside camping spots are especially popular for their serene setting.

You'll find a parking lot, a small café, and souvenir shops at the canyon's entrance providing basic amenities. The well-maintained camping and picnic areas ensure a comfortable stay. Though these tours are not free, guided tours in small vehicles called "furgoons" are also available, offering informative commentary on the canyon's features and history.

Singing Dunes

A Natural Phenomenon in Altyn Emel National Park

  The Singing Dunes are a unique natural phenomenon within Altyn Emel National Park. These massive dunes, standing about 150 meters high and stretching 3 km long, resemble a desert. The dunes are famous for the distinct sounds they produce when the wind blows. The friction of sand particles causes this unique sound as they move in the wind, becoming more pronounced when the sand is dry or after rainfall. The entire dune acts like a giant musical instrument, creating mysterious melodies that give it the name "Singing Dunes." The dunes consist of golden sand and stand in stark contrast to the surrounding vast plains, creating a beautiful landscape. The view from the top of the dunes is breathtaking, offering a sense of the vastness and tranquility of the desert. Visiting during sunrise or sunset provides the best views as the changing sunlight casts different hues on the dunes, creating a romantic and mystical atmosphere. Hiking up and down the dunes is one of the most popular activities here. While climbing to the top can be challenging, the panoramic view from the summit is well worth the effort.

Shymbulak

A Mountain Resort

  Shymbulak is a mountain resort located about 25 km south of Almaty at an altitude of 2,260 meters, offering a range of outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery year-round. Shymbulak is particularly famous for its winter sports and mountain views. It is one of Kazakhstan's premier ski resorts, featuring modern facilities and slopes of varying difficulty levels suitable for beginners and experts alike. Equipment rentals and lessons are available for both skiing and snowboarding. During the winter season, many skiers and snowboarders flock to Shymbulak to enjoy the beautiful snowy landscape. In the summer, hiking and trekking are the main activities, with various trails around Shymbulak offering beautiful mountain views. Mountain biking is also popular, with several trails available for adventurous rides. There are plenty of picnic and camping spots where you can relax and enjoy nature with family or friends. Shymbulak is also known for having the second-longest cable car in the world. You can take a gondola ride from Almaty to Medeu and then continue by cable car to Shymbulak. The ride offers stunning views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains, with the cable car reaching up to 3,200 meters in altitude, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.

  Kazakhstan is a country filled with vast natural beauty and unique landscapes. Even the places I have introduced offer a variety of natural wonders, but they are just a small part of what Kazakhstan has to offer. There are many more famous natural attractions throughout the country, each with its unique charm, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors. Exploring Kazakhstan's nature reminded me once again of the wonders and beauty of the natural world. Kazakhstan offers these destinations as gifts of nature, and I hope more people will visit and experience their beauty.

Kim Eun-Seo Reporter 

Kes0047@mail.ulsan.ac.kr