The Mangystau region in western Kazakhstan has long been famous for its «otherworldly» landscapes. But there are still some places many people have never heard of. One of them is Balayuk Cave, which hides a lake with crystal-clear blue water at a depth of 120 meters. Kursiv LifeStyle found out how to get there and what you should bring.
Balayuk is widely considered one of the most famous vertical caves in Kazakhstan. The total length of its passages is approximately 190 meters. The entrance is located inside a huge sinkhole approximately 50 meters long, 6 to 15 meters wide, and about 7 meters deep.
What’s inside the cave
The cave consists of several large chambers connected by natural passages. Immediately after entering, a fairly steep descent begins, leading to the first chamber at a depth of approximately 28 meters. The path then continues to the second chamber, located at approximately 75 meters, and then to the cave’s deepest point.
Balayuk’s main attraction – a small underground lake – is located at a depth of approximately 120 meters. According to tourists, the water in the lake is so clear that visitors can see its bottom. It remains cold year-round, so only the bravest dare to swim in it.
Interestingly, the lake’s water has an unusual taste. Travelers say it initially seems slightly salty, then leaves a bitter aftertaste.
How difficult is the descent?
One of the main features of Balayuk is that within a few minutes of the descent, even the most daring tourists begin to feel uneasy. Natural light disappears completely long before one passes through all three large chambers, descending to a depth of more than 120 meters.
Despite this, the route is considered accessible even for untrained tourists; the descent takes about an hour, and the ascent about 30 minutes. However, the overall timing depends on the group’s physical fitness and pace.
No special climbing equipment is required to visit the cave. It is enough to exercise caution, use a good flashlight and keep to the left side of the trail when descending, as it is considered the most convenient route.
How to get there
Balayuk Cave is located approximately 350 kilometers from Aktau, on the Ustyurt Plateau, near the Karynzharyk Depression and approximately 20 kilometers from the border with Turkmenistan.
You can only get there by all-terrain vehicle. The last few kilometers are off-road across the steppe, so experienced travelers recommend traveling in a convoy of at least two vehicles. If your car gets stuck or breaks down, you cannot count on quick help.
Also, don’t rush the journey. The route is littered with deep potholes that can cause serious tire damage, even to off-road vehicles.
On the way to the cave, tourists often visit the Karynzharyk Depression, known for its «Three Brothers» chalk formations and the Kenderli salt marsh. Therefore, Balayuk is usually part of a larger trip through southern Mangystau.
What to bring on a tour
When planning a trip, keep in mind that there is no mobile service in the cave area. Furthermore, due to the proximity of the Turkmen border, you will need to obtain a permit in advance and carry identification with you.
It is also recommended that you download offline maps in advance, fully charge your phones and power banks, and bring a sufficient supply of drinking water, food and fuel.
In addition, make sure you have a light jacket or windbreaker, as it is noticeably cooler inside the cave than on the surface, even in summer. It is also important to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles, gloves and a good headlamp. Without one, it is practically impossible to see inside.
Despite its remoteness and challenging access, Balayuk remains one of Mangystau’s most unusual natural attractions. The opportunity to descend to a depth of 120 meters and see an underground lake with bright blue water makes this cave one of the most impressive places not only in the region but in all of Kazakhstan.
