Borovoe

Borovoe (Burabai), Kazakhstan

The Burabay resort area, one of Kazakhstan’s most picturesque and celebrated destinations, captivates visitors with its natural charm. Known locally as «Borovoe» after the region’s largest and most famous lake, Lake Borovoe itself is a central attraction, holding a key place in the heart of this scenic locale.

Located in the Burabay District of the Akmola Region, the Burabay Resort is approximately 80 kilometers from Kokshetau, the regional center, and about 260 kilometers from Astana. This resort area includes the village of Burabay, located just 3 kilometers from Lake Borovoe, and is surrounded by fourteen larger lakes and numerous smaller ones, each offering sandy shores and peaceful, scenic views.

According to local lore, Burabay was formed by divine intervention. As Allah was creating the world, He scattered rivers, springs, forests, and mountains with a generous hand. However, upon reaching the Kazakh steppes, He found His sack of nature’s riches nearly empty. So, He poured out the last remnants, bestowing low-lying forested mountains, shallow but clear fish-laden lakes, and gentle natural beauty onto the Kazakh plains.

Another tale tells of how, when creating the earth, the Almighty allocated only steppes and deserts to the Kazakh people. When they requested mountains and forests, He turned a deaf ear. In response, Aldar Kose, a clever folk character, suggested a game of hide-and-seek with Allah. For a place to hide, Allah created a small hill in the steppe, later named Bukpa, meaning “ambush” in Kazakh. Aldar Kose then cleverly pierced Allah’s sack, spilling forests, lakes, rivers, and rocks across the Kazakh land, shaping Burabay’s natural wonders.

The Burabay resort sees its highest visitation in summer, attracting people from all over Kazakhstan, along with many Russian and international tourists. Statistically, over half of the international visitors to Astana also include Burabay in their travel plans. In 2022, the resort hosted around 550,000 foreign guests.

Where to Begin?

For first-time visitors to Borovoe, a great starting point is Burabay village. The main street, Kenešary Street, runs along the lake, offering various hotels and rentals (houses, apartments, rooms) for every budget. You’ll find numerous cafes and food stalls here, ideal for a meal before heading to Borovoe, where prices tend to be higher.

The route to Borovoe continues along Kenešary Street, with an entrance fee to the resort that’s very affordable, around 250 tenge per person as of 2023. A car is the most convenient way to get around. The first notable site en route is the Dancing Birch Grove, where birch trees curve and intertwine in fantastical shapes.

Further along, you’ll glimpse Lake Borovoe through dense pine forest. Ayutas Mountain, located right on the lake, is one of the first landmarks as you enter the resort. A bit further along, you’ll see a sign for Bolektau Mountain. This summit offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Borovoe and is a must-visit.

One of the region’s notable attractions is Jumbyktas Rock, an island formation with an iconic silhouette that remains etched in the memory of all who see it. Nearby, you’ll find a beach where you can sunbathe, swim, or rent a boat or catamaran. Also close is Okzhetpes Mountain. Although its summit offers stunning views, few attempt the challenging climb, which requires hours, mountaineering gear, and professional guides.

Okzhetpes Mountain

For those who enjoy hiking or cycling, follow the rocky shore for scenic views. Here, large rock slabs dip into the lake, while others form towering overhangs above the water. This path leads to Maxim Gorky Rock, affectionately known as “Maximka.” It’s unclear why the cliff is named after the Russian writer, but it offers an incredible lake view, and in summer, thrill-seekers can be seen jumping into the water from its heights.

The Field of Abylai Khan

By car, continue to the Field of Abylai Khan, where you’ll find parking, cafes, and benches for relaxation. It’s a bustling spot in warm weather, with local artisans selling their crafts and eagle handlers (berkutchi) offering memorable photo opportunities with their majestic birds. These handlers, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, are hard to miss.

This field, dedicated to Abylai Khan, an 18th-century Kazakh leader, lies at the foot of Mount Kokshetau. Here, a stela commemorates his 280th birthday, and slightly further along stands a stone throne. Local legend holds that circling the throne clockwise seven times while making a wish will ensure it comes true, drawing countless visitors to this spot.

Abylai Khan field, Borovoe

Step by Step

Hikers should venture to a nearby observation platform, located 135 meters up on the saddle of the Kokshetau Ridge. This ridge divides the main range from the “Three Sisters” rock formation, offering sweeping views of the area’s principal attractions. Opened in 2020, the platform is accessible via a half-hour ascent.

Those with energy to spare can continue to the “Three Sisters,” with distinct rock peaks named the Elder, Middle, and Younger Sisters, standing between 450 and 575 meters. While most visitors can reach the top of the Elder Sister’s northern slope, it is advised that those unaccustomed to strenuous physical activity, as well as the elderly and children, avoid this climb. The Younger Sister, nearest to Abylai Khan’s Field, is easily accessible to all. The Middle Sister, however, requires technical climbing skills, so professional guides are recommended.

From Abylai Khan’s Field, Nastya Hill is within walking distance or a short drive along the main road. Fewer tourists visit here, and while no special gear is needed, caution is advised. Older visitors and young children may prefer to skip this ascent.

Further on is the Imanayev Spring, sometimes called a waterfall. Though modest in size, it offers a scenic spot for photos, with both natural and decorative features.

Between Lakes Shchuchye and Maloe Chebachye rises Zheke Batyr Mountain, or “Lone Warrior.” According to legend, it commemorates a heroic batyr (warrior) who singlehandedly fought off enemies. Although climbing gear isn’t required, care should be taken, and the summit’s view is truly unforgettable.

Around the Lake

Not far from Lake Borovoe, set back from the main road, stands Bastion Rock, with stunning views of the unspoiled surroundings. Accessible only by footpaths, motorized access is restricted to protect the ecosystem, so it’s a quieter area for visitors to explore.

Venturing into the forest and following signs, you can hike or bike to the Kenešary Cave, where, according to folklore, 19th-century Kazakh ruler Kenešary would rest during his hunting trips. While not historically verified, the cave is a beloved tourist spot. West of the cave lies a small lake, Sulu Kol (meaning “beautiful lake” in Kazakh), while to the east lies the smaller Lake Lebyazhe, both accessible by foot or bike.

Lakes and Waterways

Burabay is a popular fishing destination. Shchuchye Lake, one of the deepest at 18 to 27 meters, teems with perch, pike, and chebak fish. Less frequented by tourists, Shchuchye is ideal for a serene summer day, located adjacent to the town of Shchuchinsk.

Large Chebachye Lake, known for its pristine water, is inhabited by crayfish, a species that only thrives in the cleanest waters. Further west, the smaller Chebachye Lake is home to carp, bream, pike-perch, and crucian carp.

Picturesque Katerkol Lake, surrounded by lush forest, is only 5 meters deep, but its clear waters and abundant greenery attract many vacationers. Nearby, the village of Katerkol offers lodging options for tourists.

Locals favor Tekekol Lake for its crystal-clear water, with visibility reaching the bottom at 8 meters, and it’s notably quieter here with fewer tourists.

Stone Fortress Taskamal

To reach Taskamal Fortress, follow the road from Shchuchinsk to the Okzhetpes Sanatorium. After passing through the pine forest, a trail leads up a hill to the fortress. Though its origins remain unknown, locals believe it’s an ancient wall constructed by warriors of Khan Abylai to demonstrate their physical prowess.

Open-Air Museum Botai-Burabay

The Botai-Burabay Museum of Ethnography and Archaeology showcases the Botai culture from the Eneolithic period (3700–3100 BC), a pivotal time when horses were first domesticated, and early nomadic dwellings were created, marking a crucial development in horse-stepped civilizations. The museum, located along the main road.