If you find yourself with a free day in Aktau and are keen to delve into the natural wonders and historical richness of Mangystau, this tour is an ideal choice. In just one day, you'll visit two extraordinary sites: the Torysh valley, where hundreds of massive two-meter stone spheres are strewn across a vast area, and the Shakpak-ata underground mosque, a testament to the devotion of believers who carved it into the rock centuries ago.
Your journey will be in a comfortable off-road vehicle, adept at navigating both the smooth asphalt and the rugged dirt roads of the Kazakh steppe. There's no need for climbing or any special physical requirements, making this tour accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Total distance: 300 km (asphalt - 265 km, dirt roads - 35 km)
Tour itinerary:
09:00 - 11:00 AM: Meet your guide-driver at your hotel in Aktau and set off for the Torysh valley of stone balls. The journey includes 105 km on smooth asphalt roads followed by an 8 km stretch on a dirt road.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the Torysh valley, walking among the stone balls, which are mineral nodules from the era of the ancient Tethys Ocean. It's a great opportunity for some memorable photographs.
12:30 - 1:30 PM: Head back to the main road for lunch at a local roadside café.
1:30 - 3:30 PM: Transfer to the underground mosque Shakpak-ata, 30 km on asphalt transitioning into an 8 km dirt track. Tour the mosque, marveling at the hall carved into the rock, and climb to the top of the rock for panoramic views.
3:30 - 6:00 PM: Return to Aktau via the same route – 8 km on dirt and 130 km on asphalt. The tour concludes upon arrival in Aktau.
Important Notes:
No special equipment is needed, but the tour involves some walking with ascents and descents. Please inform us of any past surgeries, life-sustaining implants (like prosthetic heart valves), chronic conditions (such as asthma, high blood pressure), or dietary preferences (including vegetarian/vegan).
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.
- Transfer by four-wheel drive vehicle (maximum 4 passengers).
- Accompanying guide-driver.
- Roadside café lunch.
- Water (1 liter per person).
- Kazakhstan visa;
- 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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