2-Day Adventure to Altyn-Emel

• Morning Departure: Your journey begins at 08:00 with a departure from Almaty, heading toward Altyn-Emel National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning countryside, with views of the majestic mountains surrounding the Ili River.
• Tamgaly Tas Rock Carvings: Upon arrival, explore the fascinating Tamgaly Tas area, known for its ancient rock carvings that date back thousands of years. These carvings, which include images of Buddha and inscriptions in Tibetan, Kalmyk, and other languages, are a testament to the region’s rich spiritual history. Their origins remain a mystery, and scholars have been studying these markings for over 150 years, trying to uncover their meaning. Your guide will share intriguing insights about this enigmatic site as you explore.
• Nomadic Film Set: On the opposite side of the Ili River, you’ll visit a film set built in the style of medieval Kazakhstan. This set was used in the filming of «The Nomad,» a cinematic portrayal of the region’s ancient history.
• Lunch in Baschi Village: After a fascinating morning of exploration, head to the village of Baschi, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local hotel.
• Singing Dune: In the afternoon, journey to the famous Singing Dune, a natural wonder located in one corner of the Altyn-Emel National Park. This enormous dune, which rises 120 meters and stretches 3 kilometers, is made of fine, pure sand that produces a mesmerizing sound when the wind blows—resembling an organ playing or even a drum in stormy weather. From the top of the dune, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding desert, the Ili River, and distant mountain ranges, including the Sogety and Boguty peaks to the south and the Ketmen Ridge to the west. On dry, windy days, the dune’s musical hum can be heard for miles.
• Evening Relaxation: After a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, check in at your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay.

• Breakfast and Morning Departure: After breakfast at your hotel, depart for another exciting day of exploration.
• Aktau Mountains: First, you’ll visit the Aktau Mountains, also known as the «White Mountains,» which are famed for their paleontological significance. The layers of Paleogene lacustrine deposits found in these mountains are rich in fossils, including the remains of ancient animals like giant rhinos, crocodiles, and turtles. These ancient creatures roamed the Earth around 25 to 30 million years ago, and the fossils found here provide important insights into the prehistoric era. The striking white conical peaks resemble Egyptian pyramids, creating a dramatic and otherworldly landscape.
• Katutau Mountains: Next, you’ll visit the Katutau Mountains, also known as the «Harsh Mountains,» which are a surreal sight to behold. These ancient volcanic mountains have been shaped by wind, water, and time, resulting in unique rock formations that resemble intricate sculptures. The fragile sedimentary rock of these mountains tells the story of Earth’s ancient past, with some rocks dating back to the time when the Tethys Ocean existed.
• Lunch in the Field: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the dramatic landscapes of Aktau and Katutau Mountains, taking in the beauty of the surrounding environment.
• Return to Almaty: After a day of exploration and discovery, head back to Almaty, with an estimated arrival time of 22:00, concluding this unforgettable two-day journey through one of Kazakhstan’s most captivating national parks.

This tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal experience for those looking to explore Kazakhstan’s hidden gems. From ancient Buddhist rock carvings to surreal landscapes of sand and stone, the 2-Day Altyn-Emel Exploration Tour promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this unique region of Central Asia.