Spanning more than 500,000 hectares, this vast protected area is home to the world’s northernmost breeding colony of flamingos, nestled along the shores and islands of Lake Tengiz. The name “Tengiz” means “sea” in Kazakh—a fitting title for this inland body of water with mineral levels even higher than the ocean. Recognized by the Living Lakes Network, Tengiz is the largest saltwater lake in Central Asia with no outflow to the sea.
Between April and October, the lake’s mosaic of islets becomes a vibrant nesting ground for pink flamingos. Ornithologists believe the ancestors of these striking birds have lived here since the Paleocene epoch, dating back 66 million years.
To spot them, you’ll want to bring binoculars—look for the graceful silhouettes along the lake’s edges or perched on the islands of Tengiz from April to October.
But the flamingos aren’t the only stars. The skies and wetlands are also home to black storks, whooper swans, and deeper in the reeds, wild boars roam. Occasionally, typical forest dwellers—lynxes, roe deer, and elk—wander here.
Access to the core protected area requires a special permit, but eco-routes tailored for tourists are open from May to October. If it rains, plan to postpone—muddy trails here can quickly become impassable.
The unique natural oasis is one of the largest and most important biodiversity conservation centers in the Eurasian steppe zone. The reserve is listed as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and is included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list.
