Kyzylkup Valley

Kyzylkup Valley and Mount Bokty stand out vividly among Mangystau’s many attractions due to their striking colors. The bright red and white layers on the hills and mountain create a unique, unrepeatable landscape. This layered chalk formation, enriched with iron deposits in places, has earned the nickname “Tiramisu” among locals, as its strata resemble layers of the famous Italian dessert.

Once, a lake called Kyzylkup, meaning «a lot of red» in Kazakh, filled this colorful corner of Mangystau. Now, it has dried up, leaving landscapes reminiscent of Mars. Millions of years ago, this was the seabed of the ancient Tethys Ocean, where iron settled periodically, forming the red streaks in the rock. When the Tethys receded, erosion shaped the soft rock over 40 million years, giving the hills their winding forms.

Mount Bokty, located just 7 kilometers south of Kyzylkup Valley, has a similar characteristic layering and rises to a height of 165 meters, surrounded by gray clay plains. This natural landmark is one of Kazakhstan’s symbols, even appearing on the 1000 tenge banknote.

Kyzylkup Valley and Mount Bokty are particularly beautiful during the golden hours of dawn and sunset, providing a perfect setting for memorable photos. For those inclined to explore, you can hike to the summit or stroll among the Tiramisu hills. Just be sure to wear trekking shoes to avoid slipping on loose ground and bring essentials for sun protection—sunglasses, a hat, and a water bottle.

Kyzylkup Valley is located 250 kilometers from Aktau, and nearby lies Mangystau’s most famous landmark, the Bozzhyra Valley, only 20 kilometers away.