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Burabay National Park adventures

Burabay National Park Adventures

Burabay National Park, often called the 'Kazakh Switzerland,' is a stunning natural reserve known for its unique rock formations, pristine lakes, and dense pine forests, offering a rich outdoor experience with hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic photography.

78,000 acres
Acres Protected
50 miles
Miles of Trails
200,000
Annual Visitors
2000
Year Established

About Burabay National Park

 

Burabay National Park is located in northern Kazakhstan, primarily within the Akmola and Kostanay Regions, covering a diverse and picturesque landscape that merges boreal forests, granite rock outcrops, and clear freshwater lakes. Established in 2000, the park conserves one of Kazakhstan’s most scenic and ecologically significant areas with mixed forests dominated by pine and birch, featuring numerous endemic plant species and supporting a range of wildlife including elk, roe deer, foxes, marmots, and over 200 bird species. The park's unique granite rock formations—such as the iconic Zhumbaktas and Okzhetpes rocks—rise dramatically from the forest and lakes, creating iconic views and countless photographic opportunities. Historically, the area has significance for local Kazakh culture and folklore, with many of the rock shapes linked to legends and storytelling. Visitors enjoy a variety of recreational activities including hiking through scenic trails that weave between lakes and rock formations, mountain biking, fishing in the park’s pristine water bodies, and swimming or boating in the summer. In winter, the park transforms into a snow sports destination with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Burabay’s accessibility from the nearby city of Nur-Sultan makes it a popular weekend retreat, yet its vastness and varied terrain provide ample opportunities for solitude. The park also offers well-maintained visitor facilities and several campgrounds, combining natural beauty with comfort. Overall, Burabay National Park is a jewel of Kazakhstan’s protected areas, balancing ecological preservation with outdoor adventure and cultural heritage.

Highlights

Highlight

Zhumbaktas Rock Formation – iconic granite pillar rising above Lake Burabay

Highlight

Okzhetpes Rock – notable cliff with panoramic views and rich folklore

Highlight

Lake Shchuchye – largest lake in the park known for crystal-clear water and fishing

Highlight

The Pine Forests – dense stands of pure pine providing serene hiking corridors

Notable Natural Features

Zhumbaktas Rock

A towering granite rock pillar considered a symbol of the park, offering dramatic views and photo opportunities.

Lake Shchuchye

The largest and deepest lake in Burabay, known for its clear waters and excellent fishing prospects.

Okzhetpes Rock

A cliff formation steeped in local legend, providing viewpoints overlooking the lakes and forest.