200,000 km2, the size of the Ustyurt Plateau

Central Asia has an abundance of bustling bazaars and ancient treasures dotted across the region, however, there is still a sense of mystery within these archaic lands.

Sweeping to the west of the region and running down the rim of the Caspian Sea, we stumble on the Ustyurt Plateau, one of the least researched places in the region. It holds a fascinating inconsistent terrain over thousands of miles with soaring peaks, plummeting gorges and mosques cut deep in to the earth. The reason for a lack of interest in this enchanting land? The location. For years the plateau has been difficult to reach through limited travel infrastructure and its sheer size. Ustyurt has, in more recent times, blossomed in enthusiasm, stemmed from true adventurers, where the region has now swiftly picked up interest from across the globe.

In the heart of this expansive desert is the 1980’s registered Ustyurt Nature Reserve, a space set aside by the Kazakh government to offer protection from human interference and exploitation, but we truly believe the reason this has been designated a protection status is simply, to showcase these remarkable landmarks. This reserve possesses some truly astonishing sites, which the Grand Canyon would break a sweat at. The moisture from the desert floor creates a moving mist sitting way below the peaks, creating a phenomenal ‘floating’ sensation of the surrounding natural architecture. From the near canyons we recommend climbing high to spectate the hazy vistas across this rugged landscape.

After a 4 night stay of roaming between the peaks, we suggest heading over to the north western side of the reserve, this is the location of the Beket Ata Mosque. This is certainly not the usual religious masterpiece you’d expect in the ‘Stans’, arriving by bus with fellow pilgrims, you’ll be met with dazzling deep blue domes perched atop a cliff with mesmerising views, the secret here though is what’s below the surface, cut deep into the rock is an intricate hollow with domed ceilings moving towards the light. This construction is one of admirable history, committed religion and out of this world architecture.

This journey to western Kazakhstan is a voyage truly worth taking, wether you’re looking deep adventure, cultural treasures or simply wanting to look deep into the illuminating starry night sky to take a breath.