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‘Legends of Kazakhstan’ Automobile Expedition

The ‘Legends of Kazakhstan’ automobile expedition combined the spirit of thrilling geographical adventures with a deep dive into the spiritual and folkloric past of the country. The KazGeo team, driving specially prepared off-road vehicles, embarked on an expedition route through places safeguarding ancient legends, myths, and key historical secrets of the Kazakh people.

The expedition vehicle kicking up desert dust
A canyon with striking rock formations along the route

Routes Through Legends

The route encompassed the most picturesque, sacred, and inaccessible locations: from the sacred peaks of Ulytau and Aktau to mysterious lakes and canyons shrouded in centuries-old legends. Travelers recorded oral accounts from locals, communicated with tradition keepers (aksakals), and compared oral epics with real archaeological facts and material monuments of the past.

A historic stone structure along the route
Expedition members photographing an endless salt flat

Preserving the Cultural Code

The project played a crucial role in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The documented legends and myths were adapted into media formats, drawing public attention to the preservation of open-air historical monuments and sparking a keen interest among Kazakhstanis in the roots of their culture.