Almaty - Altyn Emel NP - Singing Dune

Qonaev - To see the Dune, we need to enter Altyn Emel NP from Bas’shi village (northern entry).

So, will start moving by a new highway from Almaty in a northern direction, passing by Konaev (local Las Vegas - a city of casinos) and Sary Ozek.

Singing Barkhan - In Bas’shi there will be a short stop for Park’s entry registration, and in few next kilometers the first adventure starts! The roads inside a Park look more ground trails;

we will be driving on a SUV through the endless steppes, surrounded by herds of amazing animals - Persian gazelles, kulans (Turkmenian donkeys), camels. On a way to the Dune, we will stop to discover ancient dolmens Oshaktas – a few thousand years old monument made of stones.
The Dune will appear suddenly, like a mirage in the desert. It definitely worth a visit, so do not miss an opportunity to hike along its sharp ridge.
Singing Dune is located in the valley of Ili River, about 2 kilometres from the river in its right bank. Its overall height is 150m and length about 3 kilometres. The ridge of the unique sand dune is sharp as a blade. The sand crumbles underneath your feet, but the ridge does not get blunt, in windy weather it is capable of making sound resembling low hum of jet aircraft.

Basshi - After a lunch at a Dune’s foot we get back to the Park’s entry and accommodate at a cozy guest house (run by a local family). Take dinner and stay overnight.

• Three nights of tent camping with all gear provided
• Five breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
• Accommodations in Kolsai and Bas’shi guest houses
• Entry to national parks and special areas
• Private transportation for the entire tour
• Services of an English-speaking guide
• Continuous supply of drinking water

• Rent of personal clothes/shoes, hiking gear (like backpacks)
• Personal expenses like souvenirs, calls etc.
• Menu does not include soft and alcohol drinks, snacks

Spring and autumn in Almaty offer a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the varied steppe and foothill landscapes, as well as explore the stunning deserts and canyons. While the highland areas are often snowbound and inaccessible, visitors can still experience the region’s most famous natural attractions: Kolsay and Kaindy lakes, the Singing Dune, and the vibrant Aktau mountains. Arriving in early May allows for the chance to witness the blooming of tulips and poppies, as Kazakhstan is their native land! This period is also ideal for exploring all the canyons of the Charyn River and unwinding in the thermal springs.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.