Lake Tengiz, Saline lake in Central Kazakhstan
Lake Tengiz is a saline water body in central Kazakhstan that spans a large area with very shallow depths throughout. The lake receives water from several rivers and contains mineral-rich waters that support an exceptional ecosystem.
The area has been a major bird and wildlife crossing point in the Kazakh steppe for centuries. In 1976, a Soviet spacecraft unexpectedly landed on the lake's frozen surface during a rescue operation.
The lake's name comes from the Kazakh word 'teniz', meaning 'sea', showing how locals think of this expanse. The shallow waters and salt content shape how people relate to the place today.
Visitors can reach the lake from Akmola or via the Korgaljyn highway from Astana, depending on their starting point. The terrain is rough and uneven, so sturdy footwear and preparation are needed for exploring the area.
The waters contain high concentrations of red crustaceans, giving the lake a distinctive reddish tint that stands out against the steppe landscape. These minerals in the water directly feed the food chain that supports the massive bird populations each year.
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