Complete list of 13 national parks in Kazakhstan

Aktau Mountains

Altyn-Emel

Bayanaul

Burabay

Charyn

Ile-Alatau

Karkaraly

Katon-Karagay

Kolsai Lakes

Korgalzhyn

Sairam-Ugam

Tarbagatai

Turkestan

Kazakhstan National Parks

The White Mountains Nature Reserve is known for its distinctive white limestone cliffs and unique geological formations. The area supports a diverse ecosystem of steppe and mountain flora and fauna. The reserve is particularly important for the conservation of rare plant species and serves as a crucial wildlife corridor.

Altyn-Emel is one of Kazakhstan's largest national parks, featuring diverse landscapes from desert to mountains. The park is famous for its Singing Dunes, ancient burial mounds, and rare wildlife including kulan wild donkeys. Its colorful rock formations, particularly the rainbow-colored Aktau Mountains, make it a geological wonder.

Bayanaul National Park is known for its unique rock formations and pine forests in the midst of the steppe. The park contains several lakes including Jasybay, Sabyndykol, and Toraigyr. It features diverse flora and fauna, with numerous endemic species and is a popular destination for rock climbing and hiking.

Burabay National Park is often called the Pearl of Kazakhstan, featuring pristine lakes surrounded by pine forests and distinctive rock formations. The park includes Lake Borovoe and several other lakes, creating a unique microclimate. It's renowned for its healing air, beautiful landscapes, and rich biodiversity.

Charyn National Park is home to the famous Charyn Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon's little brother. The canyon features spectacular red sandstone formations carved by the Charyn River over millions of years. The Valley of Castles section is particularly famous for its unusual rock formations and colors.

Ile-Alatau National Park encompasses the northern slopes of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. The park features dramatic mountain landscapes, glaciers, and alpine meadows. It's home to snow leopards, Central Asian lynx, and numerous endemic plant species.

Karkaraly National Park is characterized by its pine forests, granite rocks, and clear mountain lakes. The park features unique rock formations and ancient archaeological sites. It's a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing, with diverse wildlife including argali sheep and black storks.

Katon-Karagay is Kazakhstan's largest national park, bordering Russia and China. The park includes part of the Altai Mountains and features diverse landscapes from glaciers to alpine meadows. It's home to rare species like snow leopards and Altai argali sheep.

Kolsai Lakes National Park is famous for its three mountain lakes nestled in the Tian Shan range. The pristine alpine lakes are surrounded by dense spruce forest and snow-capped peaks. The park is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent hiking opportunities between the lakes.

Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wetlands and lakes. It's a crucial stopping point for migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans. The reserve protects important steppe ecosystems and hosts the world's most northern pink flamingo population.

Sairam-Ugam National Park is located in the Western Tian Shan mountains. The park features diverse landscapes from glaciers to subtropical valleys. It's known for its rich biodiversity, including snow leopards and Tian Shan brown bears, as well as numerous medicinal plants.

Tarbagatai National Park is located in the Tarbagatai mountain range, featuring diverse landscapes from alpine meadows to coniferous forests. The park is home to numerous rare and endangered species including snow leopards and argali sheep. Its unique ecosystem represents the transition between Siberian and Central Asian flora and fauna.

Turkestan National Park encompasses the cultural and historical heart of Kazakhstan, including the ancient city of Turkestan and its surrounding steppes. The park features the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. It preserves both natural landscapes and important historical monuments of medieval Central Asia.