Naurzum State Nature Reserve Adventures

Established in 1931, Naurzum State Nature Reserve is one of Kazakhstan’s oldest protected areas, located in the Kostanay Region. It spans an extensive area of steppe, forest-steppe, and wetland ecosystems. The reserve is internationally recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan. Its landscape comprises several large lakes, such as Teniz, Kobeituz, and Chaglinka, surrounded by extensive reed beds and grasslands. These wetlands serve as vital breeding, nesting, and stopover sites for numerous migratory waterfowl species, including the vulnerable Dalmatian pelican and white-tailed eagle. The surrounding steppe supports populations of saiga antelope, wolves, foxes, and rich bird diversity. Visitors to Naurzum can enjoy guided wildlife observation, bird watching, and educational trails that offer insights into steppe and wetland ecology. Due to its protected status, recreational access is controlled, emphasizing conservation and scientific research. The reserve’s unique blend of forest, water, and steppe habitats offers a fascinating experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and scientists alike. Naurzum’s largely untouched landscapes also provide a rare window into Kazakh natural heritage, with cultural ties to the traditional ways of the local people.