Aktau, Kazakhstan, isn't your typical beach destination. Beyond the Caspian Sea shores lie surreal landscapes that could easily pass for Mars. Tourists are increasingly drawn to the Ustyurt Plateau, a vast desert stretching east of the city, boasting dramatic canyons, otherworldly rock formations, and the famed Bozjyra Valley.

Bozjyra, meaning "Grey Jaws," is a photographer's dream. Towering chalk cliffs, sculpted by wind and water over millennia, rise majestically from the flat desert floor. Recently, local tour operators have expanded offerings, with guided jeep tours and overnight camping experiences providing immersive access to this geological wonder.

"We want visitors to experience the raw beauty of the Ustyurt," says Aigerim Saparova, a local tour guide. "It's a place that inspires awe and offers a unique perspective on our planet's history."

While the stark beauty of Bozjyra is the main draw, visitors are also discovering ancient necropolises and the mysteries of the Ustyurt's diverse flora and fauna. For adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience beyond the beaten path, Aktau's Martian landscapes are calling. Prepare to be amazed.