Aktau is a coastal city located on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea in western Kazakhstan. Known for its stark beauty, Aktau is surrounded by desert landscapes and rocky plateaus, offering a unique mix of sea and arid terrain. The city is relatively young, originally established in the 1960s to support uranium mining, and its grid-style layout reflects Soviet urban planning.
The Caspian coastline is one of Aktau’s main attractions. Visitors can enjoy beaches, sea breezes, and scenic cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea. The nearby underground mosques and ancient necropolises, carved directly into limestone, provide a glimpse into the region’s rich historical and spiritual heritage.
Today, Aktau serves as a key port and energy hub, with a growing tourism industry. Despite its industrial roots, it offers a peaceful atmosphere, impressive sunsets over the Caspian Sea, and a gateway to exploring the natural wonders of western Kazakhstan.