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.
Read our detailed tour program and begin planning your unforgettable exploration of Mangystau.
Total distance: 461 km (asphalt - 355 km, dirt roads and off-road - 106 km)
Tour itinerary:
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, camp style dinner and overnight at a tent.
Meals included: lunch, dinner
Meals included: lunch, dinner
After breakfast and some leisure time, 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 $70 USD.
- The walks include some ascents and descents but are generally accessible to most age groups.
- Inform us in advance of any musculoskeletal conditions or specific dietary needs.
Price includes:
- All transfers in a four-wheel drive vehicle (maximum of 4 passengers);
- Accompanying driver-guide who does not speak English;
- Meals as specified (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner);
- Accommodation in Airakty: a tent, sleeping bags;
- Entrance fees for scheduled tour sites.
Price doesn't include:
- Kazakhstan visa;
- Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau;
- Personal hygiene items;
- English-speaking guide - 170 USD;
- Tips, at your discretion.
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
Tour Request
Tour to the North of Aktau Reviews
Author: Warwick | Rating: 511 October 2024
The itinerary was great, I thoroughly enjoyed everywhere we visited, didn’t feel rushed and he had nice touches like bringing watermelon and tea to eat and drink with a view in the Valley of the Balls. When the yurt restaurant was closed, Assylbek quickly organised and found an alternative option in Shetpe which was nice. I have nothing but positive things to say about the guide.
The vehicle was clean and in good condition and he drove well in all conditions.
I loved my time in Mangystau and would recommend tours like this, probably a bit longer in time to take more advantage of the distances driven.
Visited October 2024
The vehicle was clean and in good condition and he drove well in all conditions.
I loved my time in Mangystau and would recommend tours like this, probably a bit longer in time to take more advantage of the distances driven.
Visited October 2024
