Bartogay Lake, reservoir in Almaty Region, Kazakhstan

Bartogay Lake is an artificial reservoir in the eastern part of Almaty Region, set in a valley between dry steppe land and mountain slopes. The water has a deep blue color that stands out against the reddish shores surrounding it.

The dam on the Chilik River was completed in 1983 and the reservoir became operational in 1985, built as part of an irrigation project. A 60-metre-high stone-embankment dam, 330 metres long, holds back the water. The reservoir stores winter water and releases it from June through September to irrigate 150,000 hectares at the foot of the Ile Alatau; its outflow feeds the Big Almaty Canal.

Around the reservoir, ancient burial mounds and traces of old settlements dot the surrounding land, showing that people have lived in this valley for a very long time. Visitors who walk along the shore may notice these remnants scattered across the reddish terrain.

There are no facilities at the lake, so bring food, water, and everything you need for the day. From Almaty, the drive takes around three hours by car, and you can park close to the shore to start walking along the water.

Between June and September, the water level drops so much that the reddish soil at the bottom of the reservoir becomes visible, giving the landscape a completely different appearance. The same spot can look very different depending on when you visit, making the timing of your trip worth thinking about.