Western Kazakhstan includes four regions: the Aktobe, Atyrau, Mangistau and West Kazakhstan provinces which are situated at the crossroads of two continents. The second lowest point on the planet, the Karagiye depression, is situated here. The Great Silk Road passed through the territory of Mangistau for 2000 years and is now a fascinating tourist route. Apart from that, western Kazakhstan travellers will appreciate the rich hunting grounds, fisheries and a well developed infrastructure for water sports.

Yemelyan Pugachev’s house. The man who became Tsar Peter III lived in an ordinary Cossack house in the early 1770s. This was the place where Yemelyan Pugachev encouraged the Cossacks to defend their right for freedom for the first time.

Shakpat-Ata underground mosque .This is the oldest architectural monument in the region. The mosque’s entire architecture suggests that Shakpat-Ata appeared no later than in the X century.

Planetarium .The Aktobe planetarium is a unique educational centre. Its officials deliver fascinating lectures on a regular basis while local schoolchildren look forward to another session of amateur observations of the night sky.

The Ancient City of Saraichik .This is yet another vivid record of antiquity. Historians refer to Saraichik as the cradle of the Kazakh Horde.

Ustyurt Plateau .The Ustyurt Plateau appeared a million years ago. The sea retreated at that time but the traces of life of ancient sea organisms can still be seen here today.