ASTANA — The Aksu River Canyon is the deepest canyon in Central Asia and the hallmark of Aksu-Zhabagly, the very first nature reserve of Kazakhstan and the pearl of the Turkistan Region. Tourists who have visited this breathtaking place often compare it to ‘the lost world’ described in Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel. The natural landscapes and visitors’ impressions are detailed in a special report by Kazinform.
Photo credit: drenalinicsilence.kz Click to see the map in full size. The map is designed by The Astana Times.
The significant attention the canyon of the Aksu River receives from tourists is due to its picturesque views and its convenient proximity to Shymkent, which is only 100 kilometers away. The route to the canyon is not only accessible for experienced tourists but also suitable for beginners, elderly people and children. White river After traveling 60 kilometers from Shymkent, groups of tourists make their first stop at the narrowest part of the canyon.
Here, the distance from one bank to the other is about half a meter, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to cross from one side to the other with little fear. However, caution is still advised, as there is a drop of at least 30 meters below, where a blue strip of the river can be seen at the bottom. Aksu River.
Photo credit: drive2.ru The sources of the Aksu River originate from the glaciers of the Talas Alatau. The pure mountain river earned its name (“ak,” meaning white and “su,” meaning water in the Kaz.