Lake Balkhash, located in Kazakhstan, is one of the world’s largest inland, drainless water bodies. Spanning 614 kilometers in length, its width varies from 3.5 to 44 kilometers, with a maximum depth of 26 meters. According to geologists and geomorphologists, the lake is over 35,000 years old.
What makes Lake Balkhash truly unique is the stark contrast between its two halves. The western part of the lake contains fresh water, while the eastern side is saline. This distinctive feature, combined with its location in a desert environment characterized by a dry continental climate and minimal rainfall, continues to intrigue scientists. Despite lacking natural outflows, the lake sustains its water levels, which remains a fascinating phenomenon for researchers.
The biodiversity of Lake Balkhash is equally remarkable. It is home to nearly 20 species of fish, earning it the ancient Kazakh name “Balik As,” meaning “fish-food.” In addition to its aquatic life, the lake supports around 120 species of birds, including 12 that are listed as endangered in the Red Book. The flora around the lake includes up to 60 species of plants, both aquatic and terrestrial, making the region a point of interest for botanists and zoologists due to the rarity and uniqueness of its ecosystems.
One of the most scenic areas around the lake is the Bektau-Ata mountain range, situated to the north. This range is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, where majestic cliffs and canyons stretch for hundreds of kilometers, offering stunning visibility in clear weather.
Although tourism infrastructure around Lake Balkhash remains underdeveloped, the lake continues to attract beachgoers, particularly from Kazakhstan and Russia. Visitors are drawn to its natural beauty, even with limited facilities.
Unfortunately, the lake faces a significant environmental threat due to unsustainable water usage by Kazakhstan and China. Over-extraction from the lake’s inflows is causing water levels to drop, raising fears that Lake Balkhash may suffer the same tragic fate as the Aral Sea.
Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome
Explore historic launch pads
Tour the Space Museum
See iconic space artifacts
Witness rocket assembly facilities
Visit the Gagarin Start Pad