Rivers in Kazakhstan: The Complete List

Kazakhstan’s rivers thread across steppes, mountains and desert basins, shaping settlements, irrigation and regional ecosystems. From seasonal streams to major waterways, they connect inland basins with seas and support local economies and wildlife.

There are 19 Rivers in Kazakhstan, ranging from Arys to Ural. For each entry you’ll find below Length (km),Basin / Mouth,Note (max 15 words) so you can compare size, where each drains, and a short characteristic; check the list you’ll find below.

Which rivers on the list are typically navigable and when?

Only the largest rivers have reliable navigation; sections of the Ural and some stretches of transboundary rivers are used for freight and local transport, especially in higher-water months. Smaller rivers like the Arys are generally too shallow or seasonal for regular navigation, so always verify current water levels and local regulations before planning travel or transport.

How should I interpret the Length, Basin / Mouth, and Note columns?

Length (km) gives the commonly cited river length, Basin / Mouth names where the river drains, and the Note offers a concise trait (up to 15 words). Use the note for quick context, but consult hydrological surveys or local authorities for detailed, up-to-date measurements.

Rivers in Kazakhstan

Images and Descriptions

Irtysh

Major river that rises in the Altai Mountains of China and flows through Kazakhstan into Russia to join the Ob. It forms part of the huge Ob–Irtysh drainage system. Include it because it shapes eastern Kazakhstan and links to Siberia.

Ural

West-flowing river that starts in Russia and runs along and through Kazakhstan into the Caspian Sea. It marks a key Europe–Asia boundary and serves farms and towns in western Kazakhstan. It drains into the Caspian basin.

Syr Darya

Large river that begins in the Tien Shan and flows west across southern Kazakhstan into the Aral Sea basin. It powers irrigation and agriculture in the region. Include it as a main Central Asian river.

Ishim

River that starts in northern Kazakhstan and flows north into Russia, where it meets the Irtysh. It passes through the capital region and supplies cities and farms. It is an important local tributary.

Tobol

Tributary of the Irtysh that flows through northern Kazakhstan and western Siberia. It drains a broad plain and supports agriculture and towns along its course. It is part of the Ob–Irtysh river system.

Ili

Transboundary river that rises in China and flows into Kazakhstan to feed Lake Balkhash. It supplies water for irrigation and cities in eastern Kazakhstan. Include it for its role in the Balkhash basin.

Chu

Mountain river that flows from Kyrgyzstan into northern Kazakhstan and fades into steppe lakes and marshes. It does not reach an ocean. It is vital for irrigation in the Chu Valley.

Nura

River in central Kazakhstan that runs from uplands toward lowland steppe and ends in internal lakes and marshes. It serves towns and mining areas and supports local irrigation. It is a central steppe river.

Turgay

Long, often intermittent river in the Turgay Depression of central Kazakhstan. It drains a large internal basin and feeds seasonal wetlands. Include it as a major endorheic system.

Sarysu

Steppe river that flows across central Kazakhstan into interior sinks and seasonal lakes. It is important for local grazing and small-scale irrigation. It represents central Kazakhstan’s dryland rivers.

Talas

Mountain river that starts in Kyrgyzstan and runs into Kazakhstan, ending in desert sinks. It supports valley agriculture but does not reach the sea. Include it for cross-border watershed context.

Lepsy

River in southeastern Kazakhstan that flows toward Lake Balkhash from the mountains. It drains a smaller basin on the Balkhash shore and supplies local irrigation. It is part of the Balkhash watershed.

Charyn

Mountain river and tributary of the Ili, famous for carving the Charyn Canyon. It brings mountain water into the Ili–Balkhash system. Include it for both natural and hydrological interest.

Karatal

River that flows into the southern end of Lake Balkhash and helps feed its waters. It drains highland slopes and supports local farming. It is a key Balkanash tributary in the south.

Arys

Tributary of the Syr Darya that rises in the Tien Shan and runs through southern Kazakhstan. It supplies irrigation for crops and towns in Turkestan region. Include it as a southern Syr Darya feeder.

Ilek

River that runs in western Kazakhstan and joins the Ural. It serves local industry and agriculture and crosses the Russia–Kazakhstan area. It belongs to the Caspian drainage network.

Irgiz

River in western Kazakhstan that flows across steppe and ends in internal basins or wetlands. It supports grazing lands and seasonal marshes. Include it as part of Kazakhstan’s west-steppe river systems.

Shilik (Chilik)

Mountain river in southeastern Kazakhstan that joins the Ili system. It runs through deep valleys and is popular for local fishing and rafting. Include it for its alpine origin and role in the Ili basin.

Koksu

River in southeastern Kazakhstan that drains mountain slopes into the Balkhash basin. It carries clear mountain water and supports villages and irrigation. Include it as a smaller but important Balkhash tributary.

Rivers in Other Countries