Aktobe is an administrative center of Aktobe region with a population of 451 000. It is located on the left bank of Ilek River in Kazakhstan. The name "Aktobe" comes from Kazakh "ak" (white) and "tobe" (hill), it is a reference to the heights on which the original 19th century settlement was located.

In the first decade after foundation agriculture and ranching played a large role in Aktobe provinces economy and in rural employment. Beef, mutton and dairy products are still major products in this area.

Modern Aktobe is a large economic center of West Kazakhstan with a great number of factories, such as engineering plant, factory of chromic compound and etc. Chemical, light and food industries are particularly developed in Aktobe. There are a lot of exploitable and unexplotable oilfields and gas fields in Aktobe region.

The city is also attractive with its varied historical heritage. Abat-Baytak mausoleum built in 14-15 centuries is a bright example of stone-cutting art and architecture. The meteorite crater Zhmanshyn, Turgay State reserve and Geological museum of Aktobe are also worthy to be seen.

In Turgay State reserve you will enjoy magnificent nature, will see rare species of birds, animals, which are under the protection of International Union of nature protection.