2 day tour to Altyn Emel Singing Dune and Aktau mountain

Overview

Available languages

Russian

English

48 hours

Mobile ticket

2 Days in Altyn-Emel: an unforgettable journey to a place where the sand sings and the mountains hold silent secrets of millions of years. 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. First stop — the legendary 700-year-old Willow, a living relic wrapped in ancient legends. Next, 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. In the evening — warmth and coziness in the village of Basshi: a homemade dinner, campfire games, and a sky full of stars. On the second 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. After the walk — return to Basshi, lunch, and the journey back to Almaty.

Additional Info

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

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Lunch

Entrance tickets to Altyn Emel National park

Dinner

Breakfast

SUV vehicle of 5-7 people on board

Accommodation

Guide service

Personal expences

Additional foods&drinks

What To Expect

Day 1

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

Accommodations

Overnight at local Basshi village

Food and Drinks

DINNER

Dinner

At Basshi village

700 Year Old Willow/Kosbastau

Small stop, approximately 10-15 minutes to take photos

15 minutes • Admission Included

Aktau Mountains

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.

2 hours • Admission Included

Katutau Mountain

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.

30 minutes • Admission Included

Day 2

Altyn Emel: Singing Dune

Accommodations

Departure from the Basshi village.

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

LUNCH

Lunch

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.

2 hours • Admission Included

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