Caspian Sea
The vast Caspian sea, though sometimes classed as a lake, is the largest landlocked body of water in the world. The gateway between Europe and Asia, it is bordered by Iran to the south, Azerbaijan and Russia to the west and Turkmenistan to the east, while Kazakhstan's Mangystau region lies to the northeast.
Nature abounds here and many visitors flock to explore the habitat for rare and interesting species. Home to Caspian Bream and Caspian Salmon and historically a haven for sturgeon, the Caspian Sea has long been a big producer of sturgeon eggs which are made into caviar. Meanwhile, many native species of birds have been named after the area, including Caspian Gulls and Caspian Tern. It's also famous for its Caspian Seals, one of a very few species of seals who live in an inland body of water. On its banks lies the city of Aktau, the administrative capital of the Mangystau region, a bustling center for tourism, originally built for oil industry workers.
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.
Aktau
The capital of the Mangystau region, Aktau is a busy, bustling hub of activity, from its beaches to the city center. Visitors can stroll through the city, taking in the concert hall, ancient feats of architecture, leafy avenues and the pleasant park.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular pastime and important industry throughout the waters of the Caspian Sea. From the shores of Mangystau in Kazakhstan, it is possible to rent or charter fishing boats or join fishing tours to spend a day angling on the water.
Fort Shevchenko
Historically a military stronghold, this fort city was given its current name in 1939 for the exiled Ukrainian poet who carried out military service here. Today it is used primarily as a Kazakh naval base. There is a monument and a memorial museum to the poet and a national history museum.
Sailing
The Caspian Sea is teeming with boats, ferries and ships. It is a popular way to travel from other major port cities such as Baku in Azerbaijan to Aktau, or down the mighty Volga Canal. Meanwhile, on a smaller scale, catamarans can be chartered from Aktau for a day on the water.
Watersports
The beaches of Mangystau, lapped by the waters of the Caspian Sea, are the jumping off points for many popular water sports. In the summer months especially, visitors enjoy sunbathing and taking a refreshing dip, while more active holidaymakers can windsurf and parasail to their hearts’ delight.
Kazakhstan Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
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Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Stan & Stare: Natural Wonders of Central Asia
- Author
- Remote Lands
Hidden in the yawning expanse of Central Asia that makes up the Stans are some treasures that should be on every intrepid traveler’s map. These seemingly uncharted lands are full of truly mind-blowing ancient and natural wonders.
Off the Grid in Kazakhstan
- Author
- Remote Lands
For intrepid explorers looking for rugged scenery, unchartered waters, adventure, thrills and spills, there is no better place to go off the grid and into the wild than on the diverse terrains of fascinating Kazakhstan.
Alinja Castle: The Machu Picchu of the Caucasus?
- Author
- Mark Elliott
In a remote corner of Azerbaijan, a ruined crag-top castle site is so dramatic that it’s often compared to the far more famous lost city of the Incas.
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
Jessika and David, Los Angeles
There was an authenticity to the type of experience set up for us that made every city we visited special and gave us countless moments we will never forget.
Brothers from Russia
The overall experience turned out to be exceptional and unforgettable - so many thanks to the entire team at Remote Lands.
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