Embark on an unforgettable 4-day adventure through the heart of Central Asia and explore the captivating landscapes of the Aral Sea region. This eco-tour will take you on an extraordinary journey of over 950 kilometers, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and cultural discovery.
The tour begins in Nukus, where you’ll travel through the Ustyurt Plateau and witness the hauntingly beautiful salt flats of Barsakelmes and the serene Sudochye Lake. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient ruins, including abandoned villages and the eerie remnants of Soviet military camps. At the Aral Sea, experience breathtaking views and the chance to photograph the famous «ship graveyard» of Muynak, once a thriving port now lost to the desert.
Stay in comfortable yurts under the starry skies and enjoy delicious meals showcasing local flavors. Throughout the journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the region’s rich history, from the Great Silk Road to the tragic decline of the Aral Sea.
Whether you’re hiking through canyons, visiting ancient ruins, or soaking in the tranquil beauty of the sea, this tour offers an unparalleled way to connect with the unique history and culture of this extraordinary region.
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Shahina Travel, where adventure and history await you at every turn!
Our adventure begins in the early morning, guided by an experienced driver, as we make our way through the Khodjeli and Kungrad regions, once vibrant centers of trade during the heyday of the Silk Road. The journey leads us past the soda factory and the Uzbek-Korean Akcholak gas chemical plant as we approach the Ustyurt Plateau, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
The first stop is at the majestic Barsakelmes Salt Flat, a vast natural salt lake that has long been a source of salt for the local soda factory. The area resembles Bolivia’s famous Salar de Uyuni, creating a surreal landscape perfect for photography. Next, we head to Lake Sudoche, where we visit the iconic Hill of the Lighthouse, a former maritime landmark. Today, it stands as an oasis in the desert, home to over 200 bird species, including the elegant pink flamingos.
Our next destination is the abandoned village of Urga, a somber reminder of Stalin’s repressions. Among the ruins of the hospital, reed houses, and old fish processing plants, we can still meet local fishermen who continue their seasonal work here. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Kubla Ustyurt village, where we can explore the remnants of an old airport used for emergency landings, complete with a runway. Here, we have the opportunity to photograph camels and horses, and in the right season, try the authentic camel milk known as «Shubat.»
The day concludes with our arrival at the shores of the Aral Sea, where we stay overnight at the Yurt Camp Yeskala. Enjoy a cozy dinner and a peaceful night under the stars, surrounded by the tranquility of the desert.
Meals: Enjoy a well-balanced and quality two-meal regimen throughout the day. If you have any dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance, and our team will ensure your meals are tailored to your needs.
Accommodation: The yurt camp offers all the modern comforts necessary for a restful night. The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, so be sure to keep your shoes inside the tent at night, as local foxes might find them interesting.
We wake up early at 7:30 AM and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off towards Keinchak Cape, located 80 km away, where a former Soviet military base once stood. On the way, we stop at the ancient Nomads’ Cemetery, descending a path to wander through the magnificent canyons. Our next stop is the abandoned military base, where remnants of soldier barracks and a concrete road leading to the sea are visible. This site offers a perfect spot to swim in the Aral Sea and take a walk through the mesmerizing canyons.
After lunch, we return to the Yurt Camp Yeskala for a relaxing evening, followed by dinner and another peaceful night in the camp.
Today begins early as we rise before dawn to witness the stunning sunrise over the Aral Sea. After this breathtaking moment, we enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to Aktumsik Cape, renowned for its Martian-like landscapes and picturesque canyons. This area offers a perfect opportunity to explore the terrain on foot and marvel at its natural beauty.
As we continue, we also search for ancient shark teeth from Megalodons, which roamed the seas millions of years ago. For those who wish, there’s an opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the sea. Afterward, we return to the Yurt Camp Yeskala for lunch.
In the afternoon, we head towards Muynak, making a stop at the Kurganchakala archaeological complex. This site, dating from the 12th to early 13th centuries, includes a fortress, a tower, a kiln, and various structures that served as a caravanserai during the Silk Road era. The complex, located beneath the Ustyurt Plateau, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history.
On our way to Muynak, we pass through the dried seabed of the former Aral Sea, now an area of active gas extraction. After arriving in Muynak, we check into the cozy Dilbar Guesthouse and enjoy a satisfying dinner. In the evening, we have the chance to capture unique photos of the stranded ships under a starlit sky.
Accommodation: Dilbar Guesthouse, Muynak Enjoy a peaceful night in a welcoming guesthouse, where you can unwind after a day of exploration.
After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to the Ship Cemetery, a haunting testament to the environmental devastation caused by human activity. After exploring the cemetery, we head to the local Aral Museum, where a short documentary film tells the poignant story of Muynak’s past.
After the museum visit, we enjoy lunch at the guesthouse. We then make our way back to Nukus, stopping at the Mizdakhan architectural complex, which dates back to the 14th century. Here, we explore the mausoleums of Nazlukhansula (12th-14th centuries), Khalife-Erezhepa (12th century), and Shamunnabi (19th century).
On our way, we also visit the Gaura Kala Fortress, which dates from the 6th century BC to the 9th century AD, a significant site from the Zoroastrian era. After these enlightening stops, we return to Nukus, arriving around 6:00 PM, bringing our unforgettable journey to a close.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist | $800 | $450 | $400 | $350 | $310 |
All transportation throughout the tour (4x4 off-road vehicles) Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation in yurts (shared double/twin room) Full board
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Shubat (camel milk)
The Aral Sea Expedition with Shahina Travel was an incredible journey through one of the most unique landscapes I’ve ever encountered. From the vast Ustyurt Plateau to the mesmerizing Barsakelmes Salt Flat, the sights were breathtaking. The visit to Sudochye Lake, with its oasis and birdlife, was a personal highlight. The tour guides were knowledgeable and made every moment fascinating, and the chance to explore abandoned Soviet military bases added an eerie charm. I was also impressed with the accommodation in traditional yurts – it was surprisingly comfortable! I want to express my gratitude to Shahina Travel for organizing such an unforgettable adventure. This tour is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of history, nature, and local culture.
I had always wanted to visit the Aral Sea and explore its fascinating history, and this tour delivered exactly what I hoped for. The desert landscapes were unlike anything I’ve seen, and the abandoned sites like Keinchak Cape, where former Soviet bases now stand, were hauntingly beautiful. Hiking along the Aktumsik Cape canyons gave us a sense of the raw beauty of this region. What made the experience even more memorable was the excellent service provided by Shahina Travel. They went above and beyond to make sure we had a seamless experience. The food, the guides, and even the overnight stays in yurts were fantastic. I highly recommend this adventure to anyone looking to explore a truly off-the-beaten-path destination!
This tour was everything I imagined and more! The Aral Sea has a haunting beauty, and every stop along the way was more impressive than the last. Visiting the ancient ruins of Kurgancha Kala was like stepping back in time. I also loved the visit to the Mizdahkan complex, full of history and intrigue. Shahina Travel did an exceptional job organizing everything, from the knowledgeable guides to the delicious meals. I was especially touched by their care in ensuring we experienced the region’s culture and natural wonders. The yurts provided a perfect and comfortable experience under the stars. This is a must-do for anyone seeking adventure and a deeper connection with Central Asia’s past