Known for its vast steppes, rare wildlife, and surreal natural formations, this 2-day journey takes you off the beaten track into the land of singing dunes, colorful chalk mountains, and ancient trees standing still for centuries.
You’ll travel by 4WD vehicle, stay in a cozy local guesthouse, and be guided by experienced drivers who know the land like the back of their hand. This is an all-inclusive, immersive escape into Kazakhstan’s natural heart.
Transportation by off-road vehicle
English-speaking driver-guide
Meals: lunch, dinner, breakfast, second lunch
National park entrance fees and eco-permits
Bottled drinking water
1-night accommodation in a guesthouse
Stay in a warm and welcoming local guesthouse with:
• Shared rooms (2–3 people per room)
• Comfortable beds, heating, and bathroom facilities
• Authentic Kazakh hospitality
Valid passport or ID
Comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers recommended)
Layered clothing suitable for the weather
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Personal hygiene items
• Listen to the surreal “song” of the Singing Dune
• Explore the multicolored chalk mountains of Aktau
• See ancient lava fields and mystical desert wildlife
• Relax in remote guesthouses hosted by local families
• Travel far from paved roads and discover the real Kazakhstan
>Group size: 1–6+ participants (private treks available)
Book your Altyn-Emel National Park tour today into the land of singing dunes and colorful chalk mountains

08:00 – Pickup from Almaty (any location convenient to you).
11:00 - 11.30 - Arrival at the Altyn-Emel National Park checkpoint, entry processing, and a quick visit to the park museum.
11:30 - 12:30 - Lunch at a traditional guesthouse with local hospitality.
12:30 - 14:30 – Scenic drive across vast steppes toward the Aktau and Katutau Mountains. Watch for Przewalski’s horses, gazelles, and desert foxes along the way.
14:30 - 17:30 - Guided walk through the multi-colored Aktau hills, the ancient lava flows of Katutau, and a stop at the legendary 700-year-old Willow Tree.
17:30 - 18:00 – Arrival at your guesthouse, dinner and rest.
08:00 – Breakfast – hearty and homemade.
09:00 - 10:00 – Off-road drive to the iconic Singing Dune.
10:00 - 12:30 – Explore the dune and climb to the top for unforgettable panoramic views. On windy days, the dune "sings" — producing a low humming sound like an organ.
13:30 - 14:30 – Traditional lunch at a local yurt or guesthouse.
14:30 - 18:00 – Scenic drive back to Almaty with optional photo stops along the way.
~19:00 – Return to Almaty.
Note: The route is adjustable to your preferences and weather conditions