Discovering Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders: From Vast Deserts to Majestic Mountains – A Nature Lover’s Guide

Did you know that Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world? It’s full of amazing natural wonders too. From deserts and canyons to green forests and snow-covered mountains, there’s a lot to see. Hiking, camping, and just relaxing are all possible here.

The Charyn Canyon

Fittingly called the little brother of the Grand Canyon, Charyn Canyon is located about 200 km from Almaty. It’s a must-visit if you want to see tall red rock formations and deep valleys. The most famous part of it is called the Valley of the Castles, because the rocks look like giant towers. Take the time to walk along the canyon and enjoy the view.

The Altai Mountains

Located in the eastern part of the country, the Altai Mountains are tall, wild, and beautiful. Carpeted with green forests and lakes, the mountains are completely covered in snow during winter. Snow leopards are a possible sight here. Many people visit for hiking and climbing. The invigorating fresh air and the scenery are bound to dispel all your worries and fill you with joy.

While you’re here reading about the exciting things to do in Kazakhstan, consider working with a travel agent to find the best possible travel package. Mackinnons Travels, for example, is one of the most reputable outbound travel agents in Sri Lanka.

The Singing Dunes of Altyn-Emel

Visit the Altyn-Emel National Park to find something unusual. What will you find there? A sand dune that sings! When the wind blows, the dune makes a low humming sound. These so-called singing dunes can reach up to 150 metres high. The area is also home to wild horses and gazelles.

Image by Mackinnons Travels

Lake Kaindy and Lake Balkhash

Known for its sunken forest, Lake Kaindy feels almost otherworldly – the trees under the water make it look magical. It was formed after an earthquake in 1911. Lake Balkhash, on the other hand, is one of the largest lakes in Asia. The western part has fresh water, while the eastern side is salty – something you don’t find everywhere in the world.

Strive to Discover Amazing Natural Wonders in Mauritius -An assortment of sea, sand and everything in between

Mauritius, a lone island located in the Indian Ocean, boasts of world’s most picturesque and unique natural wonders – from sparkling waters to dormant volcanoes to culturally rich natural wonders, the island is a destination that fits the definition of word “amazing” in every way.
As an island, the waters of Mauritius is world renowned. If you are to stay at a Mauritius resort such as InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort, you will be lulled to sleep, woken up and constantly be accompanied by the soothing sound of waves kissing the shore; and be treated to a mesmerizing view of the Indian Ocean, sparkling with the rays of tropical sun on it.

Mauritius | Ourplnt ourplnt.com
Mauritius | Ourplnt
ourplnt.com

Venture inland and a plethora of wonders await you. Seven Coloured Earths, naturally occurring colourful geological phenomena that are also the most famous spot for tourists in Mauritius is one place you must visit. Located on the Chamarel plain, this is an area of sand dunes where sand is of seven distinct colours: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow. With the shifting wind, the coloured sand arranges themselves in captivating patterns, with different colours spontaneously settling in different layers. The dunes never erode, and this nature’s magic can be witnessed in a handful of sand from the dunes as well.
Plunging 300 feet into an opaque pool of cooling water, Chamarel waterfall was once called “paradise” Mark Twain. Surrounded by the lush vegetation of Black River Gorges, the waterfall is formed by St. Denis River. You are offered two equally captivating viewpoints to admire this cascading beauty: an upper deck located at Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Reserve, and the bottom of the waterfall where a plunge into cool ultramarine waters of a shallow pool with is also possible.
Culturally speaking, Grand Bassin, a natural pool formed at the crevice of one of Mauritius’s many dormant volcanoes is prominent. Hindus flock here in numbers, especially during Maha Siva Rathri festival, as it is believed to be connected to holy river Ganges. The area surrounding the Crater Lake is scattered with temples and statues, allowing a glimpse into a harmonious blend of nature with man-made structures.
Be it the sea, the sand or something else altogether that you seek for, Mauritius offers a unique and unusual assortment of natural wonders that can cater to any palate.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+