Karynzharyk Depression

Karynzharyk is an 85km long and 15km wide depression in the Ustyurt Nature Reserve. The nearest village is Ak-Kuduk, which is situated 25km to the east, on the edge of the Karynzharyk Sands. Most of the depression is 40–50m below sea level. The Western Chink Ustyurt overlooks the eastside, reaching heights of 200–340m above sea level. Flanking its most northerly extent are the 15-kilometre-long Karaman Mountains and its Mount Karamaya high point (c. 219m).

Five prominent freestanding peaks rising out of the salt flats mark the southernmost end of the depression. The trio sitting furthest out, nicknamed the ‘Three Brothers’, rise to 116m above sea level. In rare moments of precipitation, the basin fills with rainwater, turning Karynzharyk’s arid terrain into a surreal, sea-like vista as seen in this Mangystau aerial video.