Kyzylkup Tract (Tiramisu), Mangystau

The Kyzylkup tract, nicknamed "Tiramisu", is an array of vibrant hills with red and white layers of ancient chalk rock, sprawling across the Kazakh steppe. Local guides coined the term "Tiramisu" as a marketing ploy, drawing a parallel to the famous Italian dessert due to the similar appearance of the hills' slopes and cliffs.

This site's original name, Kyzylkup, stems from a long-gone reservoir in the area. In Kazakh, 'kyzyl' means red, and 'kup' translates to a lot, aptly describing the abundance of red hues.

The Kyzylkup tract's formation is credited to the ancient Tethys Ocean, which existed from about 850 to 60 million years ago. Unique to this area, the new layers of the ocean floor were periodically infused with iron, lending them a distinctive red color. You'll also find layers with yellow and brown tints, resulting from the mixing of various minerals.

Tourists are mainly drawn to a cluster of hills with a scenic gorge, where the red layers form long, winding curves. Visitors can explore deep inside the gorge or ascend the loose slopes to the top for a panoramic view of the Mars-like landscape. Towards the south, the small Bokty Mountain is visible, featuring similar white and red layers. Standing at 165 meters, Bokty is a natural monument of Kazakhstan, even depicted on the 1000 tenge bill.

Reaching the Kyzylkup tract from Aktau involves a 250 km drive on smooth asphalt roads past Zhanaozen and Uzen, followed by a 5 km journey south on a well-maintained dirt road. Interestingly, before the recent construction of a quality road to the nearby Beket-ata mosque, the tract was accessible only to the most intrepid travelers. Just 20 km away lies the impressive Bozzhyra tract, often visited after Kyzylkup.

A visit to the Kyzylkup tract offers opportunities for short hikes and capturing stunning photos against the backdrop of the colorful hills. For the best photography, aim for the early morning or evening's golden hour, as the midday sun tends to flatten the natural patterns. Remember to bring sunglasses, a hat, and shoes with good grip for safe climbing.