About Bukhtarma Reservoir

The Bukhtarma Reservoir is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Kazakhstan and in the world, located in the eastern part of the country. It was formed by the construction of the Bukhtarma Dam on the Irtysh River, which is one of the most significant rivers in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

The reservoir is situated in the East Kazakhstan Region, near the town of Öskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk). It stretches across a vast area, reaching as far as the Altai Mountains. It was initially created for hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and irrigation. The dam operates the Bukhtarma Hydroelectric Power Station, which is a critical energy source for the region.

 

Bukhtarma Reservoir on Google map

The Bukhtarma Reservoir is enormous, covering approximately 5,500 square kilometers, with a volume of around 49 cubic kilometers. It is one of the largest artificial reservoirs by surface area globally. The reservoir's maximum depth reaches 80 meters, making it suitable for various water-related activities, including boating and fishing.

The Bukhtarma Reservoir bridge, the longest in Kazakhstan at 1,316 meters, will open for cars in October 2024. Built entirely by local specialists, the project overcame significant challenges, including deep rock drilling up to 40 meters and extreme weather conditions. The bridge, made with high-strength materials to endure the harsh continental climate, will feature icebreakers on its supports to handle severe winters. With a capacity of 20,000 vehicles per day, it will significantly improve connectivity in East Kazakhstan without affecting navigation on the reservoir.

Bukhtarma is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some key recreational activities include fishing, as the reservoir is home to various fish species including carp, pike, perch, and other freshwater varieties. It is a prime spot for both professional and leisure fishing. Due to its vast surface, the reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for boating, jet-skiing, and sailing. The Bukhtarma shoreline has several sandy beaches where locals and tourists can relax in the summer. One of the most well-known spots is Blue Bay, which attracts many visitors. The surrounding area offers scenic views and opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation. The nearby Altai Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for these activities.

The climate around the Bukhtarma Reservoir is sharply continental, with cold winters and hot summers. Winters can be harsh, with ice covering the reservoir, limiting recreational activities. However, the warmer months from June to September are the most popular for recreation, as temperatures rise and the weather becomes ideal for activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The sunny days and pleasant conditions during this period attract many visitors to the reservoir's beaches and outdoor areas.

 

How to get to Bukhtarma

To reach Bukhtarma, you can travel from different cities, but you must first get to Ust-Kamenogorsk. The distance from this city to the recreation bases around the reservoir ranges from 80 to 150 kilometers, which can be covered by various modes of transportation.

You can reach Ust-Kamenogorsk by train, bus, or 🛫 plane. From there, you have three options for continuing your journey.

🚊 Train: Train No. 641T "Oskemen-Zyryanovsk" runs between the Ust-Kamenogorsk railway station and the stations "Bukhtarma," "148 km," "Zavodinka," and "122 km" (north shore of the reservoir). From these stations, you can easily reach any recreation base by taxi or ferry. The Kulynzhon (Kaznakovka) – Kuigan ferry will take you from the Kokpektinsk side to the Kurchum side, while the Vasilyevskaya ferry connects the Katon-Karagay side with Kokpektinsk.

🚍 Bus: Ust-Kamenogorsk has two bus terminals, one at Abay Avenue 8 and the other at Myzy Street 1. Buses depart from these terminals to Zaysan, Altai, and Novaya Bukhtarma. Routes to villages on the eastern and northern shores include "Ust-Kamenogorsk – Katon" and "Ust-Kamenogorsk – Berel." You can check the schedules on the official bus terminal website.

🚘 Car: If you plan to drive, it's recommended to buy a road map of East Kazakhstan. You can access the right side of the reservoir via highways P-162, P-164, R-147, and P-163, and the left side via R-160 and P-137. To reach the southern part of the Bukhtarma Sea (Lake Zaysan), follow the M-38 highway. There are many gas stations along the roads, so refueling won't be an issue, and fuel prices are similar to those in Almaty. The road conditions are generally decent, with many sections recently repaired.

 

Top 10 Bukhtarma Resorts

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway, Bukhtarma Reservoir offers a stunning backdrop for relaxation and recreation. With its picturesque landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s no wonder that several resorts have sprouted along its shores. Here’s a list of the top ten best resorts at Bukhtarma Reservoir, each providing unique amenities and experiences to ensure a memorable stay.

Please remember, that all prices are subject to sudden change due to the weakness of the national currency.

1. Goluboy Zaliv (Blue Bay)

This resort offers well-developed infrastructure, a wide shoreline, and a large, landscaped area with greenery, alleys, children's playgrounds, and gazebos. It consists of two separate buildings with 137 rooms, categorized into standard, semi-luxury, and luxury. The most expensive rooms have a bedroom and living room, while standard rooms include one room, a shower, a fridge, and a TV. Guests can also stay in newly built cottages with modern amenities.

The resort provides three meals a day, included in the price, with a dining hall located in the first building. Catering to families, it features various activities for children, including a playground, a water park, a café, a cinema, a store, and a grill bar. Evening discos are held, and sports enthusiasts can enjoy billiards, table tennis, and volleyball. A sandy beach is nearby, where guests can rent boats or pedalos, fish, or walk along the shore. In winter, ice skating, sledding, skiing, and Russian sauna activities are popular.

For business events, "Goluboy Zaliv" offers facilities for seminars, conferences, and international forums. The complex is well-guarded with 24/7 security, and a shuttle bus runs to the resort during the summer season.

https://www.instagram.com/goluboizaliv/

 

2. Vesely Roger (Jolly Roger)

Located 115 km from Ust-Kamenogorsk and 25 km from Novaya Bukhtarma, this resort opened in 2009 and is designed for family vacations with a fun, lively atmosphere. It's especially popular with children, making it convenient for families.

"Vesely Roger" has 36 cottages for 2, 4, and 6 people. Each cottage offers varying numbers of bedrooms, but all include a summer veranda with panoramic views of the bay. The cottages are equipped with air conditioning, a kitchen with dishes, an electric stove, a fridge, and drinking water. Outdoor showers, toilets, and personal grilling areas are also provided. Meals are not included, so guests cook for themselves.

The resort features a store, volleyball court, sauna, free parking, and a children's playground with a slide, swings, and a pirate ship. The beach is spacious and clean, with wooden loungers available. Guests can rent boats, pedalos, and sun umbrellas. Conveniently located, the resort also offers good cell signal coverage from most operators.

https://www.instagram.com/veselyirodzherb/

 

3. Dolphin

A well-known and popular resort, Dolphin opened in 1998 and is located on the lakeshore near Sasha Kovalev's camp. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes, fresh air, and one of the greenest areas, with cottages nestled among tall, centuries-old pines, offering a secluded atmosphere.

The resort caters to different groups, from families with children to young people. Guests are accommodated in five-person cottages, equipped with basic furniture (spring beds), a fridge, a kitchen set, and drinking water from a well. Bedding, linens, and kitchenware are included for stays of 5 days or more, otherwise, they can be rented for an additional fee.

Activities include banana boat rides, a children's playground with rides, boat and pedal boat rentals, and table games like chess and backgammon. There's also a café, sauna, store, and secure parking. Check-in is available from 8 AM to 8 PM, and guests appreciate the safe environment and friendly staff.

https://www.instagram.com/delfinuka/

 

4. Raduga (Rainbow)

This unique resort complex offers various accommodation options, including cozy cottages for 4 to 5 people, comfortable guest rooms, and camping sites for tents. Cottages come fully equipped with a fridge, furniture, drinking water from a well, a kitchen set, dishes, and bedding.

Located on the picturesque Bukhtarma Reservoir's shore, just steps from the beach, Raduga attracts families with children as well as solo travelers seeking relaxation. Guests can recharge, forget their troubles, restore their energy, and boost their immunity.

The package includes three meals a day, and visitors can also explore local shops, cafes, or bars. The resort features sports and children's playgrounds, a sauna, and a rental service for boats and pedal boats. In addition to swimming, guests can enjoy fishing and various water activities.

https://www.instagram.com/baza_otdyha_raduga_buhtarma/

 

5. Melada

This elite resort is located on the first shoreline of the Bukhtarma Reservoir near Mount Mokhatka. Luxurious and stylishly furnished cottages are just 30 meters from the beach. Guests can choose from townhouses accommodating 2, 5, 6, or 10 people. In addition to the standalone cottages, there is a modern hotel offering double and quadruple rooms, many with stunning views of the water. The cottages and rooms feature quality furniture, bathrooms, showers, air conditioning, satellite TV, and fully equipped kitchens.

Three meals a day are included in the accommodation cost. Guests can enjoy the sauna, café, and billiard room, along with parking for those arriving by car. The resort is accessible via a paved road and is under 24-hour security. Available activities include fishing, biking, hiking, and beach access.

https://www.instagram.com/melada.baza

 

6. Altai Coast

This cozy resort complex is situated on the shores of the reservoir, offering numerous opportunities for both relaxation and active recreation. Nearby, a pine forest provides a refreshing and energizing walk, enhancing the beautiful and pleasant environment filled with lush green grass, fresh mountain air, vibrant colors, and warm sunshine.

Guests are accommodated in comfortable cottages for 2 to 8 people, each equipped with satellite TV, hot and cold water, a toilet, a shower, kitchen utensils, and bedding. Children under 3 stay free of charge, and meals are included in the price.

Entertainment options include a playground for children and various water activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. Guests can also explore hiking and biking trails. In the evenings, a traditional wood-fired Russian bath is available for relaxation.

7. Orion Lux

Located in the Zhyryanovsk district in the Borok area, adjacent to a forest, Orion Lux is known for its secluded atmosphere, making it ideal for family vacations. The resort features several premium summer cottages designed for families or groups of 3, 4, and 5 people. Each cottage is equipped with a porch, gas stove, refrigerator, and kitchenware, along with running water. Convenient access and parking are available near each unit, and guests receive fresh bedding.

For those who enjoy cooking over a fire, there are 18 stationary barbecue pits on-site. The complex also offers a children's playground, sports area, hammam, and a shop. A separate, sandy beach is located just 20 meters from the cottages and is well-maintained and inviting. Orion Lux has been providing family vacation services since 1997, with packages available only during the summer season.

https://www.instagram.com/orion_lux_kz/

 

8. Dream of Altai

Dream of Altai is a captivating destination where visitors can unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The clean air, warm waters, charming wooden cottages, stunning nature, and popular water activities promise an unforgettable vacation experience.

This resort caters to families with children, seniors, and solo travelers alike, featuring 40 four-person cottages that can accommodate up to 160 guests. All cottages are located on the beachfront. On-site amenities include a sauna, parking, swings for both children and adults, a play area, and barbecue facilities. The resort operates from June to August, and it's advisable to book in advance to secure a spot.

https://www.instagram.com/dom_otdyha_me4ta/

 

9. Mimosa

Mimosa is a secluded hotel located on the shores of Bukhtarma Reservoir, just 2 km from New Bukhtarma and near Mount Mokhnatka. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, this resort offers a perfect retreat to relax and recharge, with cool waters, beautiful nature, fresh air, and warm sunshine.

Guests can choose from two types of accommodations:

- 20 two-story cottages designed for 4, 6, and 8 people, each featuring two bedrooms, a sofa, double beds, and all necessary comforts.
- Stylish and modern apartments**.

The beach is only 300 meters away, featuring a flat and sandy shore. On-site amenities include a sauna, barbecue area, and a playground. Prices are affordable, allowing guests to find options that suit their budget. Meals are included in the stay, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at the restaurant, where visitors rave about the delicious and diverse local and European cuisine. There are also opportunities for active recreation, hiking, and fishing.

https://www.instagram.com/mimosabaza/

 

10. Aina

Concluding our ranking is the renowned **Aina**, situated in a pine forest. This popular resort features over 600 cottages and is known for its stunning nature, oil-rich air, and extensive range of services. A stay here not only boosts mood and well-being but also strengthens the immune system, making it especially beneficial for those who are frequently ill.

The first cottages were built in the 1960s, alongside newer constructions. They are made from either wood or cinder blocks and include all essentials for comfortable living—fridge, furniture, bedding, electric stove, and kitchenware. Stays last for 10 days, with bus services from the bus station during the summer months.

Aina's standout feature is its developed infrastructure. Nearby, you’ll find sandy beaches with attractions, a volleyball court, shooting range, billiards, a shop, café, and even a small market. Sunbathing is possible not only on the sand but also on a plastic pontoon.

The resorts are spread across various locations on the Bukhtarma Reservoir, with limited roads, making established resort areas rare. However, the beautiful surroundings and reasonable prices attract many visitors, who leave satisfied.

https://www.instagram.com/buhtarma_aina/