Top sights to visit in Aktau before you hit Mangistau

The city of Aktau in Kazakhstan serves as the gateway to Mangistau, a region renowned for its unique attractions, including underground mosques, mysterious mountains, deep gorges, and otherworldly landscapes. Although its name translates as "white mountain" in Kazakh, Aktau actually lies far from any limestone peaks. Historically, the area was traversed by nomads with no permanent settlements until the 1950s, when the USSR discovered uranium deposits on the Mangishlak Peninsula. Shortly afterwards, a settlement was established to support the industry and was later renamed Shevchenko after the Ukrainian poet, who had spent time in exile there. In 1973, Aktau introduced a modern nuclear reactor, which enabled the construction of a desalination plant, thereby ensuring a sustainable water supply for the city. Nowadays, Aktau focuses on oil and gas development, offering modern amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and a nearby international airport. While Aktau is a relatively new city without a historic old town, there are still various attractions to enjoy before or after exploring Mangistau. Here is a walking tour I recommend in Aktau.

Rock Trail

Aktau's main attraction for tourists is the Rock Trail, a scenic pathway along the Caspian Sea coastline. The 1.5-kilometre pedestrian path is the city's most prominent landmark, offering views of white cliffs and the rocky shoreline. Along the route, visitors can admire bronze sculptures, explore an ancient cave, and view rock paintings. Additionally, benches and lookout points provide spots to rest and take in the scenery. The trail officially opened in 2019 and is well-maintained.

Melovoy Lighthouse

The Melovoy Lighthouse is a unique structure, distinguished by its location atop an 11-storey residential building. Built in 1974, it stands 73 metres above sea level. This lighthouse is one of the few in the world constructed in this distinctive style. In 2021, on the 30th anniversary of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the lighthouse was renovated and its lantern was reactivated during a celebratory event with fireworks. Although briefly under the control of the Naval Department, it was restored in 2023 as a city landmark and a symbol of Aktau.

Address: 4th Microdistrict, Building No. 9.

Ship statue

The bronze statue named Ship bears the inscription "Aktau" and is a replica of Christopher Columbus's Santa Maria caravel, symbolising the spirit of exploration. Situated in the heart of Aktau, in the 4th Microdistrict near the regional administrative offices of Kazakhstan, the monument features five sails adorned with symbolic images, including the sun, seagulls, stars, and comets. One sail, in particular, depicts swans – a characteristic sight in Aktau during the winter months.

Taras Shevchenko monument

In Aktau, there is a monument dedicated to the Ukrainian writer Taras Shevchenko, after whom the city was named until 1991. Located on Taras Shevchenko Alley, just a short walk from the seashore, the monument was unveiled in 1982 and has since become part of the city's park and architectural landscape. It includes viewing platforms, flower beds, and a stairway that leads down to the Caspian Sea. The statue depicts the poet seated on a rock, gazing ahead in a contemplative manner. The artist chose to portray Shevchenko as he appeared during his seven-year exile on the Mangyshlak Peninsula.

Aktau Musical and Drama Theatre

The main stage of the Aktau Musical and Drama Theatre, which opened in 2003, quickly became the focal point of the region's cultural and theatrical life. Named after the renowned actor Nurmukhan Zhanturin (1928–1990), the theatre boasts a repertoire of over 45 productions. Notable works currently in the repertoire include Hamlet, The Government Inspector, Romeo and Juliet, as well as original dramatic and musical pieces by Kazakh authors. The theatre also hosts national and international festivals each year. The monument next to the theatre depicts Nurmukhan Zhanturin in a reflective pose.

Address: Microdistrict 8, 28/2

Be sure to stop for a meal at the nearby Kaimak Café before continuing your walk.

Kaimak Café

Kaimak Café takes its name from the Kazakh word kaimak, meaning “cream” or “sour cream”. The café exudes warmth and authenticity from the moment you step inside, with traditional décor that immediately makes you feel at home. The desserts, prepared with homemade sour cream, are particularly delicious, while the classic Kazakh dishes stand out for their depth of flavour and high-quality ingredients. Attentive, polite service further enhances the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of both the cosy dining room and the peaceful terrace. With reasonable prices, the experience is all the more enjoyable.

​Address: Shopping centre Ardager​ 9th Microdistrict, 30/3

Walk of Fame

Aktau has limited avenues and parks, but one notable area is the Walk of Fame, which features significant landmarks such as the impressive Eternal Flame and memorial steles honouring those who participated in the Great Patriotic War.

MiG-21 aircraft

Another notable monument at the Walk of Fame is The Aeroplane, a MiG-21 aircraft donated to the site. Engineers from MSU-88 put in considerable effort to install the monument, which is why the number 88 is visible on the plane.

Aktau embankment

The city's embankment is a popular spot for leisurely walks, highly valued by the residents of Aktau. Spanning three kilometres, the promenade offers lovely views of the Caspian Sea, along with observation points, play areas, and neatly kept recreational spaces. The embankment is on the right when we reach the shoreline, but our route continues to the left.

Monument to Zhalau Mynbayev

Zhalau Mynbayev (1892–1929), a prominent political figure in the region, opposed Stalin's oppressive actions and advocated for the rights of ordinary people. His monument in Aktau stands as a symbol of the values of freedom and justice that the people of Kazakhstan cherish. Mynbayev, who served as Chairman of the Central Executive Committee of the Kazakh ASSR, openly criticised Stalin's policies in Kazakhstan. As a result, he was removed from his position in 1927 on charges of ''national deviationism'' and supporting factionalism. Mynbayev passed away following a severe illness, but was posthumously rehabilitated during Khrushchev's era of political reform.

The Triumphal Arch is situated a little further from the walking route, but it is well worth a visit if you have the opportunity.

Triumphal Arch

The Triumphal Arch, built in 2021 in the area between the 19th and 20th Microdistricts, was erected to celebrate Kazakhstan's 30th year of independence. The front of the arch is designed in a traditional national style, with relief sculptures of the founders of the Kazakh Khanate on both sides of the structure.

Where to stay

The five-star Caspian Riviera Grand Palace Hotel is an ideal choice for those who appreciate spectacular opulence, and it is a good place to start the Rock Trail.

Caspian Riviera Grand Palace Hotel

Experience breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea and enjoy exclusive access to a private embankment at the luxurious Caspian Riviera Grand Palace Hotel in Aktau. Located just 1.4 kilometres from the city centre and 30 kilometres from Aktau International Airport, this five-star hotel offers a convenient and picturesque setting for guests.Relax and enjoy a range of amenities, including an outdoor terrace with sea views, a spa centre featuring an indoor pool and sauna, free WiFi, and private parking.
The hotel offers various room types, each elegantly decorated and air-conditioned, some with private balconies overlooking the sea, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms supplied with complimentary toiletries. Additional amenities include a minibar, electric kettle, telephone, safety deposit box, and soundproofing for a peaceful night's sleep. Dining options include a buffet breakfast, the Le Voyage lounge and dining area, and a 24-hour lobby bar. Guests can also enjoy recreational activities, such as a winter garden, billiards, and an aquarium featuring unique sturgeon species.

For a comfortable and homely experience, consider staying at the three-star ZhanaOtel.

ZhanaOtel

ZhanaOtel is situated in the city centre and features 32 modern rooms, each equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars, electric kettles, and private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Guests can relax at the BARKHAN burger bar, located on the ground floor. The hotel is just a five-minute walk from the Caspian Sea coast, along Green Alley. Aktau International Airport is a 35-minute drive away. 

Practical information

The most convenient way to reach Aktau is by flying into Aktau Airport, which is what I did on a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul. I arranged a transfer to the city through ZhanaOtel via email, as public transport from the airport is limited. The local currency is the tenge, and while credit cards are widely accepted, it is advisable to have some cash on hand. I used a Revolut card for better exchange rates and to avoid additional fees on purchases. Aktau is unique in Kazakhstan for having very few street names; addresses are typically based on the microdistrict and building number, such as the Melovoy Lighthouse at 4th Microdistrict, Building No. 9. Google Maps may not always provide accurate directions, so some creativity may be required when using the map included below.

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What did you think? Have you been to Kazakhstan? I would love to hear from you, so please add your comment below.

Author: Anita Sane

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