Bozhira

Bozhyra: surreal "fangs" of the planet on the edge of Ustyurt

Discover Bozhyra - the most fantastic and alien landscape of Kazakhstan, the business card of Mangistau. This is the place where giant dazzling white cliffs known as Bozgyra’s fangs and spiral Mount Nautilus rise above the desert, making it feel like you’re standing on the edge of another world.

Why is Bozgyra a must-visit for a searcher of unique landscapes?

• Alien fangs and Mount Nautilus: You will see the famous Bozhyra fangs - sharp snow-white peaks rising from the ground, and the Nautilus mountain, resembling a giant fossilized shell. These shapes have no analogues and are among the most photographed objects in the country.

• Theatre of Light at Dawn and Sunset: Bozhyra is transformed twice a day. At dawn, the cold white rocks are painted in delicate pink and peach tones, and at sunset they blaz with fiery gold and scarlet. It is a sight for which photographers from all over the world come here.

• A night under the most starry sky: Remoteness from civilization and crystal clear air make Bozgyra an ideal place for astrotourism. At night, the dazzling Milky Way and a sea of stars unfold over you, which can be seen sleeping in a tent at the foot of ancient rocks.

• Traces of the ancient Tethys Ocean: Walking among the sedimentary rocks, you can find real fossils – imprints of mollusks and inhabitants of the prehistoric sea, which turns the trip into a fascinating geological investigation.

Practical information for the expedition:

• Location: Mangystau region, western chink (cliff) Ustyurt plateau.

• Coordinates for Yandex. Map (view platform for "fangs"): Latitude: 43.515556, Longitude: 54.05833

• How to get there: The path from Aktau takes 6-8 hours on difficult off-road and the Ustyurt plateau. This is a full-fledged expedition: a caravan of all-wheel drive SUVs, an experienced conductor, a supply of fuel, water and provisions is required. Self-driving without experience is extremely dangerous.

• Best time to visit: April-May and September-October. In summer unbearable heat, in winter strong winds. For better photography, plan an overnight stay in tents to catch both sunset and dawn.

• What to bring with you: Warm clothes (nights are cold even in summer), a solid tent (the wind can be strong), a sleeping bag, water supply (3-4 liters per person per day), food, lights, a camera with a wide-angle lens and a tripod for night shooting. All the garbage must be taken with you.

Bozgyra is not an excursion, it is the main adventure in Mangystau. It requires preparation, but generously rewards with a spectacle that turns the idea of earthly landscapes and forever remains in memory as an encounter with the primordial power of the planet.