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Port of Kuryk

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

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The Port of Kuryk is one of Kazakhstan's newest and most advanced maritime facilities on the Caspian Sea, located south of Aktau in the Mangistau Region. Commissioned in 2016, the port was developed to expand the country's transport capacity and diversify its international export routes. Kuryk is primarily designed as a specialized ferry terminal, enabling the efficient transfer of railway wagons and heavy trucks onto Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. This specific capability makes the port a vital link in the Middle Corridor, connecting China through Central Asia and the Caspian Sea to the Caucasus and Europe. The port infrastructure features dedicated berths for rail and vehicle ferries, along with a modern logistics center. Unlike older facilities, Kuryk was planned from the ground up to meet contemporary logistical standards, significantly reducing turnaround times for cargo. It is directly linked to the national railway network via a newly constructed line. Its location within a natural bay provides excellent protection from strong winds and ensures ice-free operations year-round, making it a reliable hub for trans-Caspian transit.

Location: Kazakhstan
Nearby: Aktau (68 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	4	4	7	10	17	23	26	26	21	15	9	6
Rain mm	13	10	16	18	11	7	7	7	8	12	19	13

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Port of Kuryk is a modern ferry and cargo port on the Caspian Sea, providing growing export capacities for Kazakhstan. It serves as a key hub for ferry traffic to Azerbaijan and Iran, thereby supporting the region's international trade.

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Visiting

The port is primarily an industrial terminal and thus not open to the general public. From surrounding roads or the nearby beach, you can observe the facilities and ferries coming and going from a distance.

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Where to view it

A suitable viewpoint is the beach section south of the port, from where you can clearly see the cranes and ferry ships. An elevated spot along the coastal road provides a wide view over the entire port area and the steppe landscape beyond.

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Local products

In the Port of Kuryk region, mainly Kazakh export products like oil, grain, and chemicals are handled, though they are not directly available to travelers. Local markets in the nearby city of Aktau offer traditional Kazakh goods such as dried meat and dairy products.

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Active season

Port operations run year-round, with ferry services typically more frequent during the warmer months from spring to autumn. Export activities often increase after the autumn harvest season when grain and other agricultural products are shipped.

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Nearby

A visit to the Port of Kuryk can be well combined with a trip to the nearby city of Aktau, which has cultural sights and beaches. A drive to the Caspian beaches or a boat tour on the sea are also recommended additions.

Geography

Coordinates

43.20000, 51.70000

Facts

The first stage of the port (rail terminal) was launched in December 2016.
Total cargo handling capacity is estimated at 6 million tons annually.
The port is located roughly 100 kilometers from the city of Aktau.
The road ferry terminal was added to the complex in August 2018.
Kuryk handles a significant portion of grain and oil product exports.
The port's bay depth is approximately 7 meters deep near the berths.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Karagiye Depression29 km · NEExplore →

Mangyshlak Peninsula64 km · NEExplore →

Mangystau (Aktau hinterland)65 km · NExplore →

Aktau68 km · SEExplore →

Port of Aktau72 km · SExplore →

Caspian Sea Coast93 km · EExplore →

Shakpak-Ata Cave Mosque105 km · SEExplore →

Zhanaozen123 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Port of Kuryk (1)

Mechet' sela Kuryk📍 landmark

This village mosque serves as a central place of Muslim worship near the industrial operations of the Port of Kuryk.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes Kuryk from Aktau?

Kuryk is a more modern port specifically specialized in ferry handling (RO-RO and rail).

Where is the Port of Kuryk located?

It is located about 70 kilometers south of Aktau on the Caspian coast in a natural bay.

Can travelers use the ferries?

The port primarily serves freight traffic, but there are limited options for travelers with vehicles to Baku.

Why is the location advantageous?

The bay does not freeze in winter and gives sufficient depth for large vessels.

Is there a customs office at the port?

Yes, as an international port, Kuryk has full customs and border control facilities.

Port of Kuryk: where is it located?

Port of Kuryk is located in Kazakhstan.

Port of Kuryk: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

Port of Kuryk: why is it worth visiting?

The Port of Kuryk is one of Kazakhstan's newest and most advanced maritime facilities on the Caspian Sea, located south of Aktau in the Mangistau Region.

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