Prepare for an incredible tour to Mangystau, a region in Western Kazakhstan that feels like a different planet. This adventure will take you through some of the most surreal landscapes you've ever seen, and it all starts with a robust off-road vehicle as your trusty steed. You'll spend nights camping under a star-filled sky, traversing hundreds of kilometers over rugged terrain, and experiencing the rustic charm of life outdoors.
The rewards of this journey are immense. You'll encounter Mangystau's unique natural wonders that are simply breathtaking. Picture colossal cliffs, winding canyons, vast stretches of pristine salt marshes, and extraordinary formations from the ancient Tethys Ocean.
Dive into the detailed itinerary of our 5-day Mangystau tour and start gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure! To help you prepare, we've included a list of recommendations and essential items for living comfortably in the Kazakh steppe at the end of the program.
Total Distance: 1105 km, comprising 755 km on asphalt and 350 km on dirt roads and off-road terrain.
Tour itinerary:
Kick off your adventure before 10:00 AM, meeting your guide-driver at your hotel or the Aktau airport. The first stop is the Torysh valley, known for its intriguing stone balls from the Tethys Ocean era. After roaming among these ancient formations, head to Sherkala Mountain, breaking for lunch at a roadside café in the Mangystau region. A brief pause at the Kok-kala tract precedes your journey to the Airakty valley of castles, where you'll traverse a dirt road lined with limestone rock formations. Settle into your tent camp after sunset for dinner under the stars.
Meals: lunch, dinner
Meals: lunch, dinner
An early morning walk through the Airakty valley of castles awaits, complete with a climb for panoramic views. Post-breakfast, pack up and head to the Karaman-ata necropolis and its underground mosque. Lunch is served at a pilgrim's guest house, followed by a tour of the mosque, a historical refuge for Sufi mystics. Then, explore the breathtaking Ybykty Canyon, also known as the "Porous Gorge," with its unique rock formations. The day's journey concludes at the cozy Kogen yurt camp, where dinner, a shower, and a comfortable bed await.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
After breakfast, set off for the Tuzbair salt marsh, a highlight of the tour. The vast salt plain, bordered by towering limestone cliffs, offers stunning photo opportunities. Lunch is served in the field, followed by a visit to the Arka formation and other Tuzbair marvels. The day ends with a drive to the Kyzylkup tract, known for its striking red and white layers, nicknamed "Tiramisu." Set up your tent camp here for the night.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Explore the Kyzylkup tract after breakfast, choosing between a gorge walk or a hilltop view. After packing up camp, visit the nearby Beket-ata Mosque nestled in a canyon. If inclined, you can make a short pilgrimage to the mosque. Post-visit, head to the tour's main attraction, the Bozzhyra tract, stopping for a field lunch en route. Marvel at the "Martian panorama" and "Dragon's Crest" viewpoints before setting up camp for the night at the base of a scenic cliff in Bozzhyra.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Begin with breakfast in camp, followed by a short climb to the "Fangs Formation" viewpoint. Capture unforgettable photos of the stunning cliffs and scenery. This marks the end of the main tour. Drive back to Aktau, with a lunch stop in Zhanaozen, arriving around 6 pm. Optionally, arrange a transfer to the airport.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Essentials for a Comfortable Journey:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap for sun protection;
- Season-appropriate, breathable clothing for both walking and sleeping in a tent;
- Sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on uneven surfaces;
- Personal hygiene essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, wet wipes, etc.;
- Additional outdoor gear: a personal first aid kit, flashlight, and chargers.
*During tent setup, a 220V generator will be available for charging phones and cameras, and the campsite will be lit with floodlights.
Important Notes:
- Respect the local culture and religious beliefs; avoid alcohol consumption during the tour.
- Individual tents, sleeping bags, and pillows are provided. At the Kogez yurt camp, guests will stay in a 4-bed yurt, with a single occupancy option available for an additional $70.
- The tour includes walks over various terrains, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
- If you have any musculoskeletal issues or dietary requirements, please inform us beforehand.
- In case of severe weather, tent camping may be replaced with stays in nearby guesthouses, at an extra cost.
- All transportation in a four-wheel drive vehicle (max 4 passengers);
- An accompanying guide-driver;
- Tent, sleeping bag, and pillow for camping;
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, except for breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 5);
- Stay at the Kogez Yurt Camp;
- Entrance fees to all tour sites.
- Visa for Kazakhstan;
- Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau;
- Personal hygiene products;
- Tips (at your discretion).
Dates & Prices
From:
To:
Deadline:
Status:
Price:
Apr 11, Thu
Apr 15, Mon
Feb 1
Completed
US$ 785
May 2, Thu
May 6, Mon
Feb 22
Sold out
US$ 785
May 7, Tue
May 11, Sat
Feb 27
Sold out
US$ 785
Jun 8, Sat
Jun 12, Wed
Mar 30
Sold out
US$ 785
100% guaranteed departures – even if there is only 1 traveler.
Group size: 1-15 persons
Please note that itinerary and prices are subject to change due to airline and train schedule changes, currency fluctuations and other unforeseeable events.
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