This short tour in Mangystau promises to be a day you'll never forget. The Bozzhyra tract stands out as the most expansive and visually stunning feature in the entire region. Typically, it's the grand finale of a larger tour, as its magnificence tends to overshadow other landmarks. However, if you find yourself with just one free day in Aktau and are keen to see the best of the best, this tour is tailor-made for you.
The only drawback of this adventure is the substantial time spent traveling – over 9 hours on the road! It takes 4 hours to reach Bozzhyra, an hour to explore the tract, and another 4 hours to return to Aktau. But the reward is well worth it: spectacular, almost fantastical landscapes await at three different viewing points. You'll have the chance to stand on the brink of towering cliffs, embark on an easy hike, and capture countless photos with the unique limestone formations known as the "Fangs" and "Dragon's Crest" serving as a dramatic backdrop.
Total distance: 590 km (asphalt - 530 km, dirt roads and off-road - 60 km)
Tour itinerary:
At 8:00 AM, your guide-driver will meet you at your hotel, and you'll set off from Aktau towards the Bozzhyra tract. The journey there will be on a smooth asphalt road, covering 265 km.
From 12:30 to 1:30 PM, you'll leave the highway for dirt roads, quickly arriving at the first viewing platform, the "Martian Panorama of Bozzhyra". Here, you'll have the opportunity to snap stunning photos and soak in the incredible views of the unique cliffs. Next, a brief drive takes you to the "Dragon's Crest" viewing platform, perched on a high cliff, perfect for even more amazing selfies.
From 1:30 to 2:00 PM, enjoy a short lunch break in the great outdoors.
Between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, you'll transfer to the lower part of the Bozzhyra tract, 15 km away. A 20-minute hike with a moderate elevation gain of about 100 meters leads to the third viewing point, the "Fangs," showcasing awe-inspiring vertical cliffs. It's your last chance for unforgettable photos before heading back to the car.
From 4:00 to 9:00 PM, you'll return to the asphalt road for the long drive back to Aktau, marking the end of your Bozzhyra tract tour.
Optionally, you can stop for dinner at a roadside café in Zhanaozen.
Please note: This tour doesn't require special equipment, but involves steep ascents and descents. Inform us of any past surgeries, life-sustaining implants (like prosthetic heart valves), chronic conditions (such as asthma or high blood pressure), or dietary needs (including vegetarian/vegan preferences).
Essentials for a Comfortable Journey:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or cap;
- Loose, breathable clothing suitable for the season;
- Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good tread for walking on uneven terrain.
- Four-wheel drive transport (maximum 3 passengers);
- English-speaking guide;
- Field lunch;
- Water (1 liter per person).
- Kazakhstan visa;
- Dinner in Zhanaozen;
- Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau;
- Tips, at your discretion.
Prices per person
Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
Tour Request
The tour is private with your personal guide. There will be no other people joining the tour.
Our guides will follow your own pace.
The starting time of the tour is up to you and may vary from 09.00 am to 16.00 pm.
We are happy to offer this tour for air/train passengers too. Our guide will meet you at the arrival station.
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