During the descent, the left side offers a scenic view of the Zhezkazgan city grid and the prominent Kengir Reservoir set against the surrounding semi-desert landscape.
The right side is generally superior for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the massive Kapchagay Reservoir and the stunning, turquoise-tinted western reaches of Lake Balkhash.
The right side offers a superior view of the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve's wetland systems and the historic Ulytau mountain range during the descent into Zhezkazgan.