Nestled on the border of Atyrau and Aktobe regions, approximately 200 kilometers from the city of Atyrau, lies a breathtaking natural wonder — the Akkegershin Chalk Plateau. This stunning landscape, adorned with a necklace of uniquely shaped white cliffs scattered across the flat steppe, presents itself to travelers like a mirage. Although not as towering as the Aktolagay, with its highest point reaching only 60 meters, the plateau captivates with its distinct beauty and intriguing features. Even from the summit, it’s challenging to grasp the entirety of this expansive plateau, which stretches endlessly toward the horizon.
As night falls, the pristine white formations take on a reddish-golden hue, transforming into the perfect backdrop for a Martian-themed film set. Nature has diligently sculpted this beauty over millions of years, making Akkegershin one of the most picturesque plateaus in the Caspian region.
Scientists believe that the chalk cliffs of the Akkegershin Plateau began to form during the Jurassic period. Once, this area was the floor of a vast ocean teeming with life. Fossils of prehistoric jellyfish, snails, sea urchins, cephalopods, and petrified corals can frequently be found on the mountains, resembling a layered cake. Additionally, explorers often uncover the teeth of ancient black sharks and fragments of dinosaur skeletons, making this location a paradise for researchers.
The relentless winds and rains continually refine the shapes of these natural sculptures. Since chalk is a fragile rock, the steppe winds have created a variety of formations resembling layered pyramids, palaces, and even animal silhouettes. The most famous rock formation, known as the “Three Brothers,” is a popular spot for nature lovers to hold photo sessions and picnics. With a height of up to 60 meters, these rock formations invite enthusiastic tourists to scale their heights.
Among the cliffs, there is a notable opening — in the 1980s, when scientific expeditions began in Akkegershin, this hole was relatively small. Today, it has expanded into a massive opening that locals refer to as the “Gateway to the Chalk Kingdom.” It is said that if one passes through this entrance, the canyon will reveal its secrets and show favor to those who seek its wonders.
Akkegershin has also piqued the interest of UFO enthusiasts. Some ufologists speculate that the white cliffs serve as beacons for extraterrestrial visitors, and specialized equipment can detect a column of energy emitted by the rocks.
Venturing deep into this arid, waterless steppe is not for the faint of heart, as there are no paved roads leading to this remote destination. Only dirt tracks, often overgrown due to infrequent use, guide travelers through the wilderness. Consequently, Western Kazakhstan remains relatively unexplored in terms of tourism.
