Kuybyshev Reservoir

The Kuybyshev Reservoir is a man-made lake on the Volga-Kama system spanning five Russian regions. Its shores alternate between flat coastal sections and steep rises that tower over the water on the right bank.

The Zhiguli hydroelectric dam rose between 1955 and 1957 and backed up the Volga into a vast basin. Several villages had to relocate at that time to escape the rising waters.

The flooding in the mid-20th century reshaped life in the waterside towns and formed new trade routes along the water. Ports and landing stages now shape daily routines for residents who rely on ferries and cargo boats for commerce.

The reservoir is best reached from the larger towns along its shores, where boat links and swimming spots are found. Areas along the water offer different access depending on the season and water level.

The old riverbed of the Volga runs close to the right shore, where hills rise several hundred meters. This topography creates strong depth changes that become visible when traveling across the water.

Location: Samara Oblast

Location: Mari El

Location: Chuvashia

Location: Tatarstan

Location: Ulyanovsk Oblast

Elevation above the sea: 53 m

GPS coordinates: 53.45000,49.16667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:34