Lake Kobeituz, located to the northeast of the city of Yereymentau in Kazakhstan, derives its name from the local Kazakh language. In this linguistic context, "kobei" signifies "multiply," and "tuz" conveys the meaning of "salt." This etymology reflects the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, highlighting the significance of the Kazakh language and the presence of salt, perhaps indicating the saline nature of the lake.

Kobeituz Pink Lake: A Rare Natural Wonder in Kazakhstan

Lake Kobeituz is situated within the Teniz basin, which is connected to the salt lake known as Lake Teniz in the Olenti river basin. It is located at an elevation of 253 meters (830 feet) above sea level, approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) to the east of the eastern shoreline of Lake Teniz.

One of the striking features of Lake Kobeituz is its pink coloration, which is a result of the presence of Dunaliella salina, a species of algae. This alga imparts a pink tint to the water, and it is known to be a common occurrence in lakes with high salt concentrations. The pink coloration tends to be most pronounced during the warm months when the salinity of the water is at its highest.

Dunaliella salina is known to adapt to various environmental conditions, and in high-salinity environments like Lake Kobeituz, it produces carotenoids that give the water its reddish or pinkish hue. This phenomenon of pink lakes resulting from high salt concentrations and the presence of specific algae is observed in several other lakes around the world, making it a fascinating natural occurrence.

Lake Kobeituz's high salt concentration allows individuals to float in a manner similar to the experience at the Dead Sea. However, swimming in Lake Kobeituz is impractical due to its shallow nature, with a maximum depth of approximately 20 centimeters, allowing visitors to wade in the water only knee-deep. Despite its shallow depth, the lake remains a popular destination for young people seeking to capture stunning photographs. For the most vivid coloration of Lake Kobeituz, it is recommended to visit on sunny days, as microorganisms within the lake are believed to release their pigments most actively under such conditions, creating the vibrant and captivating pink hue.

Kobeituz Pink Lake – Kazakhstan’s Natural Rose-Tinted Marvel

Nestled in the vast Kazakh steppe of the Akmola Region, about 160 kilometers southeast of Astana, lies one of nature’s most photogenic surprises — Kobeituz, the pink lake of Kazakhstan. With its surreal rosy hue, this shallow salt lake offers a rare and breathtaking sight that draws photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Kobeituz (Kazakh: Көбейтуз) is not just beautiful — it’s also delicate and seasonal, making timing essential for those who wish to experience its bright pink color firsthand.

📍 Location & Fast Facts

Region: Akmola Region, Kazakhstan

Distance from Astana: ~160 km southeast (~2.5–3 hours by car)

Coordinates: 51.4522° N, 69.9348° E

Type: Salt lake

Color change: Seasonal, mostly visible in late spring to mid-summer

Name meaning: “Kobeituz” is said to derive from Kazakh meaning “to increase with salt”

🌸 Why Is Lake Kobeituz Pink?

The lake’s pink color comes from a high concentration of salt and the presence of halophilic microorganisms — particularly Dunaliella salina, a type of algae that produces a red pigment to protect itself from intense sunlight and salt levels.

This phenomenon is also observed in other famous pink lakes around the world, such as Lake Hillier (Australia) and the Great Salt Lake (USA).

Note: The pink color is not permanent. It appears only under certain conditions:

High salinity

Hot, sunny weather

Minimal rainfall and water disturbance

🕒 Best Time to Visit Kobeituz

Tip: Check recent photos on social media before planning your visit to ensure the lake is pink.

🛣️ How to Get There

From Astana:

Drive southeast via A1 and R-3 highways

Travel time: ~2.5–3 hours

Closest village: Ereymentau

No public transport directly to the lake

Recommended: Rent a car or join a local tour

Road Conditions: Final stretch to the lake is off-road; 4WD vehicle preferred

🚫 Important Conservation Warning

In 2020, the lake suffered severe environmental damage when visitors drove vehicles into the water, walked on fragile salt crusts, and illegally collected the pink salt. Since then, awareness campaigns have urged travelers to treat the site with respect.

Please follow eco-friendly travel guidelines:

Do not enter the water

Do not collect salt or disturb the crust

Take photos only from safe areas

Leave no trash behind

📸 Photography Tips

Visit during midday to late afternoon when sunlight enhances the pink hue

Use polarizing filters to cut glare and intensify color

Bring a drone for stunning aerial views (check for flight restrictions)

Wear light-colored clothing for contrast in portraits

🏕️ Visitor Information

No infrastructure at the lake (no restrooms, food, or water)

Bring your own supplies and sun protection

Closest accommodation: Ereymentau or a return trip to Astana

Wild camping is possible but not recommended without experience

🌍 Why Kobeituz Matters

Lake Kobeituz is one of Central Asia’s few pink lakes and a living example of fragile natural beauty. Unlike tourist-heavy destinations, it offers a quiet, untouched atmosphere — perfect for those seeking raw nature, science, or stunning landscapes.

💡 Final Thoughts: Experience Kobeituz Responsibly

Kobeituz is a rare seasonal phenomenon, a pink jewel on the Kazakh steppe that appears only for a short time each year. If you’re lucky enough to witness its color in full bloom, remember that its beauty depends on our respect. Enjoy it, photograph it, but leave it exactly as you found it.