Zhetysu Adventure: 4-Day Nature
Almaty region

$
790
$
Explore the Best of Almaty & Zhetysu Region
Embark on a 4-day journey through Kazakhstan’s natural wonders and historical gems. Visit Big Almaty Lake, marvel at the Singing Dune, and hike through the alien-like Aktau Mountains. Walk among Bronze Age petroglyphs, explore the Charyn Canyon, and discover the nail-less mosque of Zharkent. Experience the beauty of Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes, where pristine waters and alpine forests create picture-perfect scenery. This adventure offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and culture, taking you off the beaten path into Kazakhstan’s wild landscapes.
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Zhetysu Adventure...
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Zhetysu Adventure...

Duration

4 days

Activity level

easy

Season

all year round

Detailed tour program

Day 1
Big Almaty Lake, Tamgaly Petroglyphs & Basshi Village
Morning: Meet your guide and depart for Big Almaty Lake, a stunning alpine reservoir at 2,500 meters surrounded by towering peaks. Enjoy breathtaking views and take time for photos.

Midday: Drive to Tamgaly Petroglyphs, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site with over 5,000 ancient rock carvings depicting animals, rituals, and hunting scenes from the Bronze Age.

Afternoon: Continue to Basshi Village, the gateway to Altyn Emel National Park. Free time to relax.

Evening: Traditional Kazakh dinner at a guesthouse. Overnight in Basshi.
Day 2
Singing Dune & Aktau Mountains
Morning: After breakfast, head to the famous Singing Dune, a massive sand dune that produces a unique "singing" sound when walked on. Climb to the top for panoramic desert views.

Midday: Explore the Aktau Mountains, known for their otherworldly white and red rock formations. Walk through this surreal landscape, resembling the surface of Mars.

Afternoon: Return to Basshi Village for dinner and free time. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 3
Zharkent, Charyn Canyon & Saty Village
Morning: Drive to Zharkent City and visit the famous wooden mosque built without nails, a masterpiece of Central Asian and Chinese architecture.

Midday: Continue to Charyn Canyon, often called "Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon." Hike through the Valley of Castles, admire the towering rock formations, and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Afternoon: Drive to Saty Village, a charming mountain settlement near Kolsai Lakes. Free time to relax.

Evening: Dinner at a local café or guesthouse. Overnight stay in Saty.
Day 4
Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes – Return to Almaty
Morning: After breakfast, visit Kolsai Lake, one of Kazakhstan’s most picturesque lakes. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the alpine shores or horse ride through the scenic trails.

Midday: Travel to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest, where tall pine trees rise from the crystal-clear waters. Walk along the lake, take amazing photos, and enjoy nature.

Afternoon: Depart for Almaty, stopping for scenic views along the way.
Evening: Arrive in Almaty, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

During the tour, you will visit

Kolsai Lakes

Kaindy Lake

Charyn Canyon

Altyn Emel NP

Black Canyon

Singing Dune

Altau Mountains

Katu-Tau Mountains

Kapchagay Reservoir

Price includes:

  • Rent an all-wheel drive SUV
  • Fuel
  • English-speaking guide services
  • Standard accommodation (twin room)
  • Meals (full board)
  • Entrance tickets to national parks
  • 1.5 liters of water per person per day
  • Complimentary tasting of "Kurt" and "Kumys"

Package price

What to take with?

Comfortable waterproof shoes

Long pants and a long sleeve shirt

Cap

Sunscreen

Insect spray

Medication

Raincoat

Passport

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