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100 EXPERIENCES OF MODERN KAZAKHSTAN
PLATEAU AKTOLAGAI This chalky white plateau protrudes from the earth a few hundred kilometres from the border of the Atyrau and Aktobe regions and in the northern extension of Ustyurt, once a seabed. The abundant fossilised remains of shellfish, corals, sea urchins, and other marine life that lived millions of years ago can be clearly seen there. The teeth of ancient sharks, bones of ichthyosaurs (giant marine reptiles) and dinosaurs, petrified trees and plants of unknown species that can be found today attest to an unparalleled diversity. Looking out over the area, it is hard to believe that life once thrived and developed here. Today Aktolagai impresses with its desolate landscape, where the wind whistles ferociously over the desert and saline lands. Amongst the picturesque view of the white rocky outcrop there is only a handful of vegetation that provides precious shade from the glaring sun. Those who visit this solitary place look for silence and space among the untrodden paths of adventure. 150