Kyzylarai Mountains

Kyzylarai rises in the Karaganda region to Aksoran at 1,565 metres, the highest point of the Kazakh Uplands and of the whole central steppe, a granite massif far from any main road and visited by very few people. Like Karkaraly and Bayanaul it carries relict pine forest on its slopes, isolated survivors of a wetter climate, along with springs, small lakes and juniper. Argali sheep and a range of raptors live in the hills. Villages around the massif keep horses and sheep and some offer basic homestays. Petroglyph sites and burial mounds are scattered across the area. Reaching it means several hours of track from the nearest surfaced road.

What you actually see

• Aksoran - the highest summit of the central Kazakh uplands.
• Relict pine forest - the isolated woodland on the granite slopes.
• Springs and small lakes - the water sources among the hills.
• Argali and raptors - the wild sheep and birds of prey of the massif.

When to go

June to September, when the tracks are dry and the high ground clear. Winter closes the area with snow and cold. Spring thaw makes the approach impassable. Nights are cold even in summer.

Honest expectations

Access requires four-wheel drive and hours of unmarked track; a local driver is effectively necessary. There are no facilities, fuel or shops. Accommodation is village homestays or camping. Phone signal is absent over most of the area.

Nearby

Karkaraly lies northwest; Balkhash is south.