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Aral Sea

Stretching across from the southwestern region of Kazakhstan and into Uzbekistan, the Aral Sea is a lake named for the numerous islands which once populated it. Over many years, the Aral Sea has faced disasters and troubles including pollution and climate change, both the cause and victim of drastic shrinking since the 1960s when Soviet irrigation projects diverted the water from its two main feeder rivers. However, more recently, projects have been underway to save what remains of what was once one of the largest lakes in the world.

Now dams have been set up, most notably the mighty Kokaral Dam, the area known as the North Aral Sea has seen water levels replenished by nearly 40 feet and many species of fish have begun to flourish once again. Consequently, fishing has become increasingly popular once again. Visitors flock to the region to hike across the now arid steppe where many ships now stand aground and cities that once flourished with fishing and trade are rendered ghost towns.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Aralsk

What was once a busy fishing port on the very edge of the Aral Sea is now nearly 40 miles from water. The Fishing Museum, the History Museum, the monument to the old port and a large mosaic in the town’s train station tell the story of the town’s history and how things have changed over the years.

Camping

Intrepid visitors are enchanted by the haunting expanse of dry steppe that was once covered with water. An excursion popular among outbound holiday-makers is a camping trip on the bed of the Aral Sea. Travelers set up their tents or traditional yurts under the stars, where once they would have been under the sea.

Hiking

The areas around the shrunken North Aral Sea are popular with trekkers and hikers. Famed for its dramatic scenery and endless view, the journeys from old port cities such as Aralsk, to the water’s edge, are poignant ways to experience the extent of the shrinkage.

Kokaral Dyke

In a bid to save the North Aral sea, a sand dam was built twice, in 1992 and 1998 - both times washed away - but the benefit to the water level and quality was noted. And so, the Kokaral Dyke was completed in 2005; since then, the water level in the North Aral Sea has risen significantly and many fish species have returned.

Ships graveyard

At Zhalanash, just six miles from the shore of the North Aral Sea today, visitors come to see the ‘cemetery of the ships’, where old boats have been left to rust after the waters dried up beneath them. Surrounded for miles by arid steppe and grazing camels, they are a dramatic sight.

Kazakhstan Regions

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Aral Sea Itineraries

All Itineraries
Intrepid
The Ultimate Kazakhstan Adventure

The Ultimate Kazakhstan Adventure

Duration
18 days / 17 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
See Itinerary
Epic Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan to Almaty via the Aral Sea

Epic Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan to Almaty via the Aral Sea

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,300
See Itinerary
Overnight Train

Overnight Train

Aral Sea, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s expansive country is sparsely dotted with main cities that lie thousands of miles away from one another. One of the best ways to traverse the terrain, glimpse its rural landscapes, and meet its local people is by train, which connects all cities and smaller places. Longer routes feature high-quality trains that have a restaurant and bar wagon attached. They offer standard 2-4 berth cabins, as well as upper level business class and grand cabins with ensuite toilet and shower. Sheets, pillows and blankets are provided for overnight journeys.

Aral Hotel

Aral Hotel

Aral Sea, Kazakhstan


Aral Hotel is the only hotel in Aralsk, (also known as just ‘Arul’), a small Kazakhstan city located in the south-west of the country. Being the city’s sole hotel, guests shouldn’t come expecting five-star luxury. However, what Aral Hotel lacks in style and sophistication, it does make up for in charm, with friendly staff, and enough facilities to make for a comfortable night’s stay. Rooms have large, comfy beds and come with room heating controls and private bathrooms. The hotel is located near the main Aral airport and is a short drive away from the picturesque North Aral Sea in Kazakhstan.


Renaissance Aktau Hotel

Renaissance Aktau Hotel

Aral Sea, Kazakhstan


The stunning five-star Renaissance Aktau Hotel offers wonderful Caspian Sea views as well as a range of modern and stylish rooms in the middle of Aktau, a large and popular western-Kazakhstan city. On top of its sumptuous sea views, which can be enjoyed from the comfort of guests’ own spacious and well-appointed rooms, this hotel also has an indoor and outdoor pool (with some more of those excellent sea views), a gym, spa facilities and various dining options. Each room comes with flat-screen televisions, coffee/tea making facilities, stylish en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. Guests opting to dine in the hotel can enjoy a range of cuisines in the Renaissance’s popular on-site restaurant, including Mediterranean, Asian and Western dishes – as well as a buffet breakfast every morning. There is also the Silk Bar and Chai Lounge for some evening drinks and the outdoor area serves freshly-prepared cuts of meat throughout the day.


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