Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Kazakhstan on this 3-day journey through the Altyn-Emel Reserve and Charyn Canyon. This unique tour invites you to explore some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural sites, each offering dramatic and unforgettable scenery.
Begin your adventure with a visit to Tamgaly Tas, a mysterious site on the banks of the Ili River featuring ancient carvings of Buddha and intriguing inscriptions in Tibetan and Kalmyk. After marveling at these historical wonders, continue to the Altyn-Emel National Park, home to the famed Singing Dune. Rising nearly 120 meters high, this dune emits a low, melodic hum on windy days, creating a sound akin to organ music. Take in panoramic views from the top, stretching across the Ili River and the distant mountain ranges, as you let the «song» of the dune enchant you.
On Day 2, venture into the mesmerizing Aktau and Katutau Mountains. These geological wonders showcase colorful rock formations and rare paleontological fields where ancient oceanic sediments have transformed the landscape into a striking blend of white, red, and pink hues. The shapes carved by time, wind, and water make this area feel otherworldly, perfect for photos and exploration.
Conclude your adventure with a day at Charyn Canyon, a natural masterpiece often compared to the Grand Canyon. The highlight here is the Valley of Castles, where towering red cliffs appear as if crafted by giants, stretching over two kilometers. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the canyon floor, where you’ll capture stunning views of this red-rock wonderland.
This tour promises an unforgettable mix of scenic marvels, cultural history, and adventure, offering you the chance to capture some of the most remarkable sights in Kazakhstan while creating lifelong memories.
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Almaty, setting off for the ancient site of Tamgaly Tas on the banks of the Ili River. Here, you’ll discover intricate rock carvings of Buddha images and fascinating inscriptions in Tibetan, Kalmyk, and other languages. These etchings reveal historical mysteries and legends tied to the site’s spiritual importance, offering insights into past cultures. The serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes only enhances the experience, making Tamgaly Tas an ideal introduction to the region’s cultural treasures.
Next, you’ll journey toward the village of Baschi, where you’ll enjoy lunch before continuing into the Altyn-Emel National Park for an afternoon of exploration. This vast natural reserve, one of Kazakhstan’s largest, is famed for the Singing Dune, a sandy marvel that produces a unique, melodic hum during windy conditions. The dune stands nearly 120 meters high and stretches approximately three kilometers along the landscape. Its gentle “song,” which resembles organ music, can even grow into a rhythmic drum-like beat before a sandstorm. From the top, sweeping views of the surrounding terrain—including the Ili River and the distant peaks of Sogety and Boguty mountains—await. After capturing the beauty of this rare phenomenon, you’ll retire to a nearby hotel for the night.
After breakfast, prepare for a day of geological wonders as you venture to the Aktau and Katutau mountains within Altyn-Emel National Park. The Katutau range, also known as the Harsh Mountains, displays dramatic rock formations created by ancient volcanic eruptions and the powerful forces of wind and water over centuries. The unique textures and rugged shapes of Katutau make it a fascinating sight for visitors.
Your journey continues to the striking Aktau Mountains, also referred to as the White Mountains. This area is a globally significant paleontological site where layers of sandstone, red clay, and mineral-rich formations in hues of yellow, pink, and white quartz reveal traces of ancient ocean sediments. These multi-colored landscapes offer a glimpse into the region’s geological history, with rock patterns sculpted by millennia. After an awe-inspiring day in this natural art gallery, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful night.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $1450 | $750 | $570 | $440 | $390 |
All transportation throughout the tour English speaking tour leader to accompany the travellers for the whole period of the tour Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Full board (3 lunches and 2 dinners)
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Accommodation in Almaty
This tour offered three days filled with natural wonders. From the intricate carvings at Tamgaly-Tas to the haunting ‘song’ of the Singing Dune, each stop had something unique to offer. The Aktau Mountains and Charyn Canyon were particularly stunning — like natural works of art. Our guide made the experience even more enriching with stories that connected the landscape to Kazakhstan’s history. The Ash-Tree Grove was a peaceful surprise in the canyon area. The adventure was well-organized and included plenty of time to explore, take photos, and immerse ourselves in the scenery. Would highly recommend for nature lovers!
An unforgettable adventure! Each day brought something new and awe-inspiring. The Singing Dune was a surreal experience; hearing the sand ‘sing’ was unlike anything I’d imagined. The scenery at Aktau and Katutau was breathtaking, with stunning rock formations and vibrant colors. Charyn Canyon’s Valley of Castles was a definite highlight, feeling almost like stepping into another world. Our guide was knowledgeable and shared fascinating stories and history about each spot. Every day was packed with incredible experiences, and the tour pace was just right. A must-do tour in Kazakhstan!