Wooden Lake (Derevyannoye Lake): A Hidden Gem of Kazakhstan’s Almaty Region
The unique Derevyannoye Lake, commonly known as Wooden Lake, stands as one of Kazakhstan’s most distinctive natural wonders. Located in the Almaty Region, this remarkable water body offers visitors a stunning contrast of landscapes where azure waters meet golden sand dunes and lush Turanga forests. This comprehensive guide provides all essential information for travelers seeking to explore this extraordinary destination.
Location and Geographic Features
Wooden Lake is situated in the Uygur District of the Almaty Region, approximately 280 kilometers from Almaty city. Positioned at an altitude of 520 meters above sea level, the lake serves as the source of the Karaeren River. This remarkable body of water sits to the west of the Sharyn River near its mouth, creating a unique ecological zone in the region.
The lake’s geography represents a fascinating natural boundary between several distinct ecosystems. From the north, it abuts against the advancing sands of the Karabaskum Desert, while salt marshes with Turanga groves support it from the south. The surrounding landscape features a dramatic juxtaposition of sand dunes, sandy beaches, reeds, and scattered forests that create a picturesque panorama unlike anywhere else in Kazakhstan.
One of the most striking features visible from the lake is the Aktau Mountains (White Mountains) on the opposite bank of the Ili River. These mountains are visible from the tops of the lake’s sand dunes and are located within the territory of the state National Natural Park “Altyn-Emel”. The contrast between the mountains, desert, and water creates a photographer’s paradise.
Origin of the Name
The lake derives its distinctive name from the dried tree trunks that stretch from the bottom of the reservoir. Unlike Lake Kaindy (another famous “sunken forest” lake in Kazakhstan), where the trees are better preserved, Wooden Lake features weathered trunks that create a hauntingly beautiful landscape. The juxtaposition of these wooden sentinels rising from the turquoise waters against the backdrop of golden sand dunes makes this location truly unique.
History and Formation
Wooden Lake was formed either in the late 19th or early 20th century. Its creation was a result of natural geological processes involving the advancing sands of one of the branches of the Charyn River. Over time, these environmental changes created the lake that visitors admire today.
The stagnant lake has developed into an excellent habitat for various plants and animals, becoming a vital ecological niche in an otherwise harsh environment. The surrounding Turanga forest (a type of poplar that is adapted to the region’s extreme conditions) provides additional ecological value to the area.
Flora and Fauna
Plant Life
The area surrounding Wooden Lake features a diverse array of plant species adapted to the harsh continental climate. The most notable vegetation is the Turanga forest, composed of a special type of drought-resistant poplar. These trees have adapted to survive in the extreme temperature fluctuations and limited rainfall of the region, creating small islands of green amid the surrounding sand dunes and desert landscape.
Wildlife
Historically, until approximately the 1930s, the reeds and poplar forests surrounding Wooden Lake were home to the now-extinct Turanian tiger. Today, the area hosts a variety of mammalian wildlife including foxes, wild boars, wolves, and hares.
The lake also serves as an important stopover location for numerous migratory birds. Visitors may observe wild geese, ducks, cranes, and herons during their seasonal movements across Central Asia. This diversity of birdlife makes the lake a potential destination for birdwatchers interested in Central Asian avian species.
Aquatic Life
The waters of Wooden Lake support rich marine life similar to that found in the nearby Sharyn and Ili rivers. Fish species include carp, grass carp (white amur), bream, perch, and catfish. This abundance of fish makes the lake popular among fishing enthusiasts visiting the region.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Wooden Lake experiences a continental climate with extreme temperature variations between seasons. Understanding these climate patterns is essential for planning a visit:
Winter (December-February)
Winters feature stable snow cover with average January temperatures around -4°C. However, frosts can reach as low as -40°C, making winter visits challenging. The lake’s unique landscape under snow offers spectacular photographic opportunities for those willing to brave the cold.
Summer (June-August)
Summer brings average July temperatures of 28°C, occasionally rising to 45°C. The intense heat combined with limited shade can make midday exploration uncomfortable, so early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended during summer months.
Spring and Fall (March-May, September-November)
These transitional seasons receive most of the area’s limited annual precipitation (up to 300mm), primarily in spring and autumn. May through September represents the optimal visiting period, balancing accessibility with comfortable temperatures.
Tourist Activities and Attractions
Wooden Lake offers visitors a variety of activities and experiences:
Photography
The contrast of bluish water, beige sandy hills, and green forest islands makes Wooden Lake extraordinarily photogenic. The lake is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows and reflections across the water and sand dunes. Photographers will find endless compositions between the emerging tree trunks, sweeping sand dunes, and the distant mountain backdrop.
Fishing
The lake’s abundant fish population makes it popular for fishing enthusiasts. Common catches include grass carp, bream, perch, and other freshwater species. Visitors should check local regulations regarding fishing permits and seasons.
Swimming and Boating
During warmer months, the lake offers opportunities for swimming and boating. The sandy beaches provide comfortable access to the water, though visitors should exercise caution as there may be submerged obstacles from the lake’s famous wooden features.
Therapeutic Mud
The local population believes the mud of Wooden Lake has healing properties for various illnesses and conditions. While these claims aren’t scientifically verified, the tradition of therapeutic mud treatments continues to attract visitors interested in natural remedies.
Hiking and Exploration
The surrounding sand dunes and Turanga forests provide excellent hiking opportunities. Climbing the dunes offers spectacular panoramic views of the entire landscape, including glimpses of the Aktau Mountains in the distance.
How to Get There
Reaching Wooden Lake requires proper planning as it’s located in a relatively remote area. Here are the primary routes:
From Almaty by Car
Route 1: Take the Kuljinsky tract (A-351) towards the R-21 highway. After reaching the highway, turn right towards the Charyn River. A few kilometers before reaching the village of Tashkarasu, take another right turn. Before reaching the Charyn River, turn right again and continue straight for about 8 kilometers until reaching the lake.
Route 2: Follow the route Almaty – Bayserke village – Shelek village – Nurly village – Wooden Lake (approximately 238-280 km).
Guided Tours
For visitors unfamiliar with the region, guided tours are highly recommended. Local tour operators provide transportation, guides, and often include stops at other attractions in the area. Tours typically depart from Almaty early in the morning and return in the evening.
Tour Information and Packages
Organized tours to Wooden Lake operate primarily from May through September. Here’s what visitors can expect:
Duration and Difficulty
- Average travel time: 8-9 hours by road
- Total duration for a one-day route: 10-12 hours
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Typical departure time: 7:00 AM
- Expected return time: 8:00 PM
Pricing and Inclusions
Tour packages generally cost around:
- 20,000 tenge per person for groups of 5-7 people
- 100,000 tenge for groups of up to 4 people
- Custom pricing for larger groups
Standard tour packages typically include:
- Transportation by off-road vehicle
- Guide services (including English-speaking guides)
- Ecological fees for the State Scientific and Production Enterprise “Ile-Alatau”
Additional expenses not included in most packages:
- Meals and refreshments
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to Wooden Lake can combine their trip with several other remarkable destinations in the Almaty region:
Charyn Canyon
Often called the “Little Grand Canyon,” this spectacular gorge features formations up to 300 meters deep with distinctive red sandstone sculptures and valleys.
Altyn-Emel National Park
This vast protected area includes the famous Singing Dunes, ancient burial mounds, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to rare species including kulan (wild donkeys), gazelles, and argali mountain sheep.
Other Notable Attractions
- Charyn Ash Grove
- Aulie Agash (Sacred Tree)
- Bestobe Reservoir
- Kapchagai Reservoir
- Chunja Hot Springs
- Jarkent Mosque
Conservation and Future Challenges
While Wooden Lake remains a beautiful destination, it faces environmental challenges. The continuing expansion of the Karabaskum desert poses a threat to the lake’s future existence. Climate change and human activities in the region could further impact this fragile ecosystem.
The lake’s location within the broader ecological context of the Altyn-Emel National Park provides some protection, but visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism to help preserve this unique natural wonder for future generations.
Practical Tips for Visitors
What to Bring
- Plenty of drinking water (at least 2 liters per person)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Comfortable walking shoes suitable for sand
- Swimwear (during summer months)
- Camera equipment (wide-angle lenses work best for landscape photography)
- Light jacket or windbreaker (even in summer, temperatures can drop in early morning/evening)
- Insect repellent
Best Photography Times
For photographers seeking the most dramatic lighting, plan to be at the lake during:
- Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) for soft golden light on the sand dunes
- Late afternoon (4:00-7:00 PM) when the setting sun creates dramatic shadows and reflections on the water
Safety Considerations
- The remote location means limited mobile phone coverage
- Summer heat can be extreme, so stay hydrated and avoid midday sun exposure
- Always travel with a guide or inform someone of your itinerary if traveling independently
- Be aware of wildlife, particularly when hiking in surrounding areas
Conclusion
Wooden Lake (Derevyannoye Lake) represents one of Kazakhstan’s most distinctive natural wonders, offering visitors a remarkable contrast of landscapes where water meets desert. Its unique formation, diverse ecosystems, and striking visual appeal make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Almaty region. Whether you’re a photographer, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Wooden Lake delivers an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural diversity of Kazakhstan.
The combination of golden sand dunes, turquoise waters, emerging tree trunks, and distant mountain views creates a landscape that seems almost otherworldly. As you plan your journey through Kazakhstan, consider including this hidden gem in your itinerary to experience one of Central Asia’s most photogenic and ecologically fascinating locations.
