Aktau mountains, Mountain range in Almaty region, Kazakhstan.
Aktau Mountains is a mountain range in Almaty region that runs along the Ili River, displaying striking layers of sedimentary rock in multiple colors. The peaks feature distinct cone-like formations with mineral-rich deposits visible across their slopes and summits.
The mountain range formed approximately 400 million years ago when the Tethys Ocean covered this region and deposited layers of sediment. Over millions of years, these marine deposits transformed into the rock formations visible today.
Fossils of prehistoric rhinoceros, crocodiles, and turtles found in the mountains provide evidence of ancient life forms from 25-30 million years ago.
The area is most easily reached via the Kapchagai highway, with the journey taking about two to three hours from Basshy village where the national park office is located. From there, paths lead to viewpoints and the most interesting rock formations.
The rock layers contain fossils of rhinoceros, crocodiles, and turtles dating back 25 to 30 million years. These remains reveal that the region once had a tropical climate with rivers and lakes.
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