Experience a vibrant and intensive two-day tour of Mangystau's most stunning locations, just north of Aktau. Covering nearly 500 km, this adventure will take you through nature's finest displays: the Torysh valley of stone balls, the ancient Kok-kala tract with its Jurassic-era rocks, the shape-shifting Sherkala mountain, the valley of castles Airakty where the rocks at sunset mimic the walls of colossal fortresses, and the unique Ybykty canyon, often likened to white porous chocolate due to its distinctive rock formations.
In addition to these natural wonders, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in Kazakh culture. This includes visiting the underground Karaman-ata Mosque and stopping at the ethno village of Kogez, where you'll spend the night in a traditional Kazakh yurt.
Read our detailed tour program and begin planning your unforgettable exploration of Mangystau.
Total distance: 475 km (asphalt - 365 km, dirt roads and off-road - 110 km)
Tour itinerary:
Day 1: Aktau - Torysh - Kok-kala - Sherkala - Airakty - Kogez Yurt Camp (190 km on asphalt + 40 km on dirt roads)
Meet your guide-driver in the morning (before 10:00 AM) at your hotel or Aktau airport. Begin your journey to the Torysh valley of stone balls, a testament to the ancient Tethys Ocean. Enjoy a stroll among these natural marvels before heading to Sherkala Mountain, with a lunch stop at a roadside café amidst the Mangystau expanse. A brief visit to the Kok-kala tract is next, followed by viewing Sherkala from various angles. Then, you'll transfer to the valley of castles Airakty, driving along a dirt road flanked by mountains and limestone cliffs that mimic man-made structures. Post-sunset, you'll arrive at the ethno village "Kogez" for dinner at a local restaurant and an overnight stay in a yurt.
Meals included: lunch, dinner
Meals included: lunch, dinner
After breakfast and some leisure time at the yurt camp, you'll visit the Karaman-ata necropolis with its underground mosque. Lunch will be at a guest house for pilgrims. Then, navigate a challenging dirt road to the Ybykty canyon, known as the "Porous Gorge" for its unique rock formations. Explore the depths of the canyon before beginning the long journey back to Aktau, concluding your tour in the capital of Mangystau.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Essentials for a Comfortable Journey:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or cap
- Loose, breathable clothing appropriate for the season
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes with good tread for varied terrain
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, wet wipes, etc.)
Additional Notes:
- Please respect local customs and religious beliefs; refrain from consuming alcohol during the tour.
- Single accommodation in a yurt is available for an extra charge of $70 USD.
- The walks include some ascents and descents but are generally accessible to most age groups.
- Inform us in advance of any musculoskeletal conditions or specific dietary needs.
- All transfers in a four-wheel drive vehicle (maximum of 4 passengers);
- Accompanying driver-guide;
- Meals as specified (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner);
- Accommodation at the Kogez yurt camp;
- Entrance fees for scheduled tour sites.
- Kazakhstan visa;
- Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau;
- Personal hygiene items;
- Tips, at your discretion.
Prices per person
Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
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