Things to see and do Atyrau

This nature reserve, essentially made up of marshland, is a delight for birdwatchers. Far from industrialization, birds are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding an island where they can nest in peace and quiet. Underwater, it's also one of the last places where Caspian sturgeon can sleep peacefully. In 2012, the reserve was classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Visits are therefore regulated.

Striding across the 405 m-long pedestrian bridge over the Ural River is a walk in itself, and a pleasant way of crossing from Asia to Europe on foot, or vice versa. On the European bank, the bridge leads to the Pobedy Park, or Victory Park, a lungful of greenery for this small industrial town, as well as a popular place for strolling and relaxing. Numerous merry-go-rounds and small stalls make it a very popular spot for families on weekends.

Like the Almaty museum, the regional museum houses a "Golden Man". These are the golden weapons and armour of a Sarmatian chief discovered in the Atyrau region in 1999. Other highlights include the reconstruction of a yurt and its traditional interior, and a fresco depicting the region in the distant past when it was criss-crossed by Silk Road caravans. For the rest, there's nothing really exciting to discover.