In 1976, the Markakol State Nature Reserve was established on an area of ​​71,367 hectares to preserve and study the natural complexes of the southern Altai region and to study the ecology and fish population dynamics of the unique Lake Markakol.

Located in East Kazakhstan Oblast, the reserve protects natural complexes of meadows, steppes, larch taiga, mountain coniferous forests, subalpine and alpine meadows, and rocky tundra on the mountain slopes around Lake Markakol. (Lake Markakol on Google Maps). Photos by: Ilia Afanasieff.

The lake’s flora includes over 700 species. The reserve’s fauna includes approximately 55 mammal species, including elk, red deer, brown bear, wild boar, wolf, wolverine, sable, mink, and snow leopard.

The reserve’s aquatic life is no less rich and diverse. The lake is home to trout, grayling, loach, and many other rare fish species. The lake is also home to numerous rare bird species, including black storks, hazel grouse, partridges, common jacks, and kestrels.

The Markakol Basin has a sharply continental climate, with harsh, snowy winters and warm, moderately humid summers. Markakol is the coldest region of Kazakhstan.

Lake Markakol is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan. It is located at an altitude of 1,447 meters above sea level. It is the largest body of water in Altai. The lake is 38 km long, 19 km wide, and has an area of ​​455 square km. Its shoreline is 106 km long. Its average depth is 14.3 m, with a maximum depth of 24-25 m. The water is fresh and very soft.

The coastline in the west, north and northeast is a lakeside plain, while in the south and southeast the coast has a relatively narrow coastal strip, as the Azutau ridge is almost directly adjacent to the lake.

Today, tourists visit Lake Markakol to enjoy its pristine nature and see one of the most beautiful high-mountain lakes in Central Asia. The official website of the Markakol Nature Reserve.

Tags: East Kazakhstan oblast

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