Are you ready to venture into a world that feels like it belongs to another planet? Our 5-Day Mangystau Tour invites you to explore the surreal landscapes of Western Kazakhstan, where ancient geological wonders and untouched wilderness come together to create a truly unique travel experience. From mysterious stone spheres and towering limestone cliffs to expansive salt marshes and rugged canyons, every turn on this journey offers breathtaking vistas and unforgettable memories.
This tour is not just a getaway—it’s an adventure designed for those who crave exploration and discovery. Covering over 1,100 kilometers, it combines paved roads, dirt tracks, and off-road trails, taking you deep into the heart of Mangystau’s dramatic terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks like the Bozzhyra tract, known for its «Martian» landscape, and the Tuzbair salt marsh, a glistening expanse of white plains bordered by striking cliffs. These natural formations, shaped by millions of years of geological evolution, tell the story of the ancient Tethys Ocean that once covered this region.
What sets this tour apart is the immersive nature of the experience. Forget the hustle of city life—each night, you’ll camp under a blanket of stars or relax in a traditional Kazakh yurt, fully embracing the tranquility of Mangystau’s remote landscapes. Picture yourself dining al fresco in the serene wilderness, the sounds of nature providing the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Whether you’re watching the sun set behind the cliffs of Bozzhyra or waking up to the crisp air of the steppe, every moment promises to reconnect you with the beauty of the natural world.
This tour is designed for adventurers of all kinds, with a focus on comfort and safety. Expert guides will lead you through the region’s most awe-inspiring sites, offering fascinating insights into their history and significance. At the same time, we ensure that every detail is taken care of, from providing comfortable tents and hearty meals to accommodating dietary preferences and special needs.
If you’re looking for opportunities to capture incredible photographs, this tour delivers in spades. The dramatic landscapes of Airakty’s “valley of castles,” the kaleidoscopic layers of Kyzylkup’s “Tiramisu” hills, and the striking formations of Sherkala are a dream for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re snapping pictures of the panoramic views or simply soaking in the scenery, the visual feast of Mangystau will leave you in awe.
Travelers with a love for cultural history will also appreciate stops at sites like the Karaman-ata underground mosque and Beket-ata, where the echoes of ancient traditions and spiritual significance add depth to the journey.
Perfect for adventurous spirits and nature lovers, the 5-Day Mangystau Tour is your chance to explore one of Kazakhstan’s most remote and mesmerizing regions. So pack your sense of wonder, sturdy shoes, and camera—Mangystau awaits, and it’s ready to astonish you.
Embark on this unforgettable 5-day journey to discover the hidden treasures of Mangystau, where adventure, culture, and natural beauty combine for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Your adventure begins bright and early as you meet your expert guide-driver at your hotel or Aktau airport before 10:00 AM. The journey kicks off with a visit to the fascinating Torysh Valley, a site renowned for its peculiar spherical stone formations, remnants of the ancient Tethys Ocean. Here, you’ll have ample time to marvel at these mysterious geological wonders, often referred to as «stone balls,» which have puzzled scientists and captivated visitors for years.
Next, proceed to the iconic Sherkala Mountain. Its unique structure, resembling a lion lying down, is steeped in legend and offers an atmospheric setting for exploration. En route, enjoy a lunch break at a local café, where you’ll savor regional cuisine that fuels you for the day’s adventures.
Afterward, a brief pause at the tranquil Kok-kala Tract allows you to take in its serene beauty before heading to the enchanting Airakty Valley, also called the «Valley of Castles.» This captivating area is adorned with majestic limestone formations that resemble a series of ancient fortresses. As the sun sets, you’ll arrive at your tent camp, where dinner is served under a sky ablaze with stars—a magical end to your first day.
Meals Provided: Lunch, Dinner
Start your morning with a refreshing walk through the Airakty Valley, where the dramatic landscapes take on a golden glow in the early light. After climbing to a viewpoint for a sweeping panorama, return to the camp for a hearty breakfast.
The next leg of your journey brings you to the historical Karaman-ata Necropolis. This ancient burial ground, home to the renowned underground mosque, holds great significance for Kazakh culture and Sufi spirituality. Following a guided tour of the site, enjoy lunch at a pilgrim’s guesthouse, immersing yourself in the local traditions.
The day continues with a visit to the visually stunning Ybykty Canyon, also known as the «Porous Gorge.» Its intricate rock formations and dramatic terrain make it a haven for photography enthusiasts. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Kogez Yurt Camp, a cozy retreat where you can enjoy modern comforts such as a warm shower and a relaxing evening in a traditional yurt.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, the day begins with an expedition to the remarkable Tuzbair Salt Marsh. This sprawling expanse of white salt plains, framed by striking limestone cliffs, offers one of the most surreal and photogenic landscapes of the tour. Spend your time here exploring the area and capturing the stark beauty of the terrain before enjoying a picnic-style lunch in the open field.
The journey continues with a visit to the Arka Formation and nearby geological wonders that further showcase the raw beauty of Mangystau. As the day winds down, travel to the Kyzylkup Tract, an area famous for its layered red and white hills, often likened to a «Tiramisu» dessert for their striking resemblance. Here, you’ll set up camp for the night, surrounded by the natural tranquility of this unique terrain.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Awaken to the serene beauty of the Kyzylkup Tract and begin your day with a walk through the gorge or a climb to a nearby hilltop for a breathtaking view of the landscape. After breakfast and packing up camp, head to the sacred Beket-ata Mosque. Nestled within a secluded canyon, this site is not only a spiritual retreat but also a place of historical and architectural significance. Those who wish may take part in a short pilgrimage to the mosque, gaining deeper insight into its cultural importance.
The day’s highlight is a visit to the iconic Bozzhyra Tract, often described as resembling the surface of Mars. Marvel at its jaw-dropping formations, including the famed «Dragon’s Crest» and otherworldly viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of this alien-like terrain. End the day with a peaceful night at your camp, set against the dramatic backdrop of Bozzhyra’s towering cliffs.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The final morning of your tour begins with a climb to the Fangs Formation viewpoint, where the Bozzhyra landscape unfolds in all its glory. Take your time soaking in the extraordinary scenery and snapping unforgettable photos before enjoying breakfast at camp.
From here, the journey back to Aktau begins. Along the way, stop for a satisfying lunch in the town of Zhanaozen to reflect on your adventure. You’ll arrive in Aktau by late afternoon, around 6:00 PM, marking the end of your incredible journey through Mangystau. For those catching flights, optional airport transfers can be arranged.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
All 4x4 vehicle transfers (max 4 passengers) Guide-driver Tent, sleeping bag, pillow Stay at the Kogez Yurt Camp Entrance fees for tour sites Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, except for breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 5)
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau
I joined this tour hoping for a unique adventure, and it exceeded all my expectations! The landscapes of Mangystau are simply breathtaking, especially Tuzbair’s salt marshes and the dramatic cliffs of Bozzhyra. The yurt camp at Kogez was an authentic experience, with excellent hospitality and delicious meals. The guide ensured everyone was comfortable and kept the group engaged with stories about the local culture. Camping in remote areas was new to me, but everything was well-organized, and I felt safe throughout. If you want to escape city life and immerse yourself in nature, this tour is a must-do!
This was an adventure like no other! The Mangystau tour is a perfect mix of exploration and cultural immersion. I loved the visits to Sherkala and the underground mosque at Karaman-ata, both offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past. Walking through the Valley of Castles in Airakty felt like stepping into a fantasy world. The guide and driver were fantastic, always ensuring our safety and comfort. The views from the «Fangs Formation» at Bozzhyra were absolutely breathtaking. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a truly unique travel experience in Kazakhstan!
The 5-day Mangystau tour was truly mesmerizing! I had never seen landscapes so unique and surreal in my life. Bozzhyra, with its otherworldly formations, was the highlight for me. The combination of yurt stays and camping made it feel adventurous yet comfortable. The guides were knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights about the region’s history and geology. Watching the Milky Way above the vast Kazakh steppe at night was an unforgettable experience. The rugged terrain and long drives were a bit challenging, but the sights made it all worthwhile. A perfect trip for nature and photography lovers!