Atyrau is a city in western Kazakhstan, situated on the banks of the Ural River, which formally marks the boundary between Europe and Asia. It is a major center of the country’s oil industry, hosting the offices of companies such as Tengizchevroil (TCO) and North Caspian Operating Company (NCOC). While the city is primarily known for its commercial activity, it also offers plenty for tourists to see and do.
History at a Glance
The city was founded in 1640 by the Guryev brothers, who built a wooden fort at the mouth of the Yaik River (former name of the Ural River). Initially, it paid tribute to the Nogai Khanate in Saraichik, before coming under the control of the Ural Cossacks. Between 1647 and 1668, the Russian government ordered the construction of a stone town, named Yaitsky Gorodok. Over the years, the settlement was known as Nizhny Yaitsky Gorodok, Ust-Yaitsky Gorodok, Guryev Gorodok, and eventually simply Guryev. In the 17th century, notable figures such as Stepan Razin and Yemelyan Pugachev visited the town. The fortress was abolished and dismantled between 1810 and 1815. In 1885, Guryev was officially recognized as a district town within the Ural Cossack Host. In 1992, the city was renamed Atyrau.
Population and Languages
As of 2025, Atyrau has a population of just over 400,000. The majority are Kazakh, but the city is multi-ethnic, with Russians, Koreans, Ukrainians, Tatars, and many more living there. Many Americans are working in the oil sector. A small American cottage community also exists. The main languages spoken are Kazakh and Russian. Tourists are advised to learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh; our Russian-Kazakh phrasebook can be a helpful guide.
Climate
Atyrau has a sharply continental climate. Summers are hot and dry, with July temperatures often exceeding 25°C (77°F) and occasionally reaching 40°C (104°F) or higher. Winters are moderately cold and windy. Precipitation is very low, giving the city an overall arid climate.