3-Day Altyn-Emel Desert Adventure with Singing Dune and Aktau Hike

• From Almaty, a 4-hour jeep ride takes us to the village of Basshi, where we obtain the necessary permits.
• We then continue for about an hour over 50 km of bumpy roads, passing savannah-like landscapes framed by the Dzungarian Mountains and the Ili River, to reach two volcanic hills and a 150-meter dune. This is one of the best places to spot kulans (wild horses) and rare Turanga poplars.
• After a 20-30 minute climb up the Singing Dune, enjoy panoramic views of the Ili Basin and distant mountain ranges, weather permitting.
• After a short coffee break, we return the same way. Dinner and a relaxing evening await at the guest house.

Driving time on this day is 6 hours.
260 km of asphalt and 100 km of off-road.

Hotel accommodation.

• After a good breakfast, we spend about three hours driving off-road through Altyn-Emel's semi-desert, with a stop in the Katutau Mountains.
• This is a small but interesting location, with reddish stones in unbelievable forms and shapes. Half an hour is more than enough for easy climbing and photos.
• At the foot of the Aktau Mountains, we take a break for a quick snack - sandwiches, fruit, tea, and coffee.
• In the afternoon, we hike into the stunning, colorful desert hills, exploring a landscape shaped over 60 million years. These layered mountains are like a geological time capsule, revealing ancient eras, including the time when giant ancestors of hippos roamed here. The hike can last from 2 to 5-6 hours, depending on the group.
• Afterward, a hot dinner will be waiting for us at the campsite.

On this day, we will have 3 hours of off-road driving.

About 4 hours of walking along the paths of the natural park.

Overnight in tents.

• Our morning starts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee with a view of the Aktau Mountains; tea, omelet, cheese, and sandwiches are included.
• After packing our equipment, two hours of off-roading await us.
• Along the way, we visit a desert oasis to greet a 700-year-old willow tree.
• After that, we have about a 5-hour drive back to Almaty.