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2 day tour to Altyn Emel Singing Dune and Aktau mountain

4.1(7)2 daysAlmaty✓ Free cancellation
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From $280
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Length

2 days

Itinerary

2 days planned

Group

Max 20

Guides

Russian, English

Overview

2 Days in Altyn-Emel: Following the Wind and Time

Embark on an unforgettable journey to a place where the sand sings and the mountains hold silent secrets of millions of years. This is not just a trip — it's a meeting with the soul of Kazakhstan’s nature.

The tour begins in Almaty. In comfortable SUV vehicles, you'll head to Altyn-Emel National Park — one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural wonders.

On the first day — the Singing Dune. A towering sand dune that truly “sings” as you walk on it. Here, you'll hear what the silence of the desert sounds like.

Second day - the legendary 700-year-old Willow, a living relic wrapped in ancient legends.

After that, a scenic trek through the Martian-like Aktau Mountains. These chalky ridges, as if made for cinema, offer surreal landscapes and unforgettable impressions.

Then on to the volcanic Katutau Mountains, where stone has frozen in waves and curves like sculptures of ancient gods.

Day by day itinerary

  1. 1Altyn Emel: 700 years old Willow, Aktau and Katutau mountains⌄

    Small stop, approximately 10-15 minutes to take photos

    Guests will take part in a guided 7 km trek through the chalk formations of the Aktau Mountains — one of Altyn-Emel’s most iconic landscapes. The route passes through vibrant, layered hills formed millions of years ago. Along the way, you’ll have time to take photographs, observe unique geological patterns, and enjoy the silence and scale of this surreal, desert-like terrain. Comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended.

    At the Katutau Mountains, we’ll take a short break to explore this fascinating area shaped by ancient volcanic activity. The unusual rock formations, carved by wind and time, offer striking photo opportunities and a glimpse into the region’s geological history. This brief stop allows guests to walk among the sculpted stones, stretch their legs, and take in the quiet, otherworldly scenery before continuing the journey.

    Meals: Dinner: At Basshi village

    Overnight: Overnight at local Basshi village

  2. 2Altyn Emel: Singing Dune⌄

    The Singing Dune is one of Altyn-Emel’s most famous natural wonders. Rising up to 150 meters, this massive sand formation emits a low, vibrating hum when the wind moves across its surface or when you walk down its slope — a rare phenomenon found in only a few places on Earth. Guests will have the opportunity to climb the dune, listen to its “song,” and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding steppe and mountains. It’s a peaceful yet fascinating experience, offering both natural beauty and a touch of mystery.

    Meals: Breakfast · Lunch

    Overnight: Departure from the Basshi village.

What's included

  • ✓Lunch
  • ✓Entrance tickets to Altyn Emel National park
  • ✓Dinner
  • ✓Breakfast
  • ✓SUV vehicle of 5-7 people on board
  • ✓Accommodation
  • ✓Guide service

Not included

  • ✕Personal expences
  • ✕Additional foods&drinks

Good to know

Starts: Meeting at 6:30AM at Abay-Zharokov, parking near the Alatau metro station, Zharokova 119 (2gis/Yandex)

Ends: Meeting at 6:30AM at Abay-Zharokov, parking near the Alatau metro station, Zharokova 119 (2gis/Yandex)

Cancellation: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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From

$280

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