2 Days Tour: Altyn Emel National Park – Singing Dunes & Aktau Mountains

Nestled within the serene landscapes of Kazakhstan, Altyn Emel National Park beckons adventurers to uncover its natural wonders. Over the course of two captivating days, visitors can embark on a journey that blends the captivating Singing Dunes with the geological marvels of the Aktau Mountains. From multi-colored dome rocks to the unique phenomenon of the Singing Barkhan, this private tour promises an immersive experience, where travelers can savor traditional Kazakh cuisine and bask in the park’s breathtaking vistas. The stage is set for an unforgettable adventure, one that unveils the park’s rich natural history and the essence of its captivating allure.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best 2 Day Tours In Almaty.

Key Points

• Explore the geological marvels of Aktau Mountains, including an open-air museum with unique formations and the volcanic Katutau Mountain.
• Experience the captivating phenomenon of the Singing Barkhan dune, which produces haunting, organ-like sounds due to wind interaction.
• Immerse in the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of Altyn Emel National Park over a two-day tour.
• Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine and a stay in a local guesthouse as part of the comprehensive tour experience.
• Comprehensive tour includes pickup, transportation, admission tickets, and a focus on the breathtaking geology and natural features of the region.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This two-day tour of Altyn Emel National Park promises to immerse visitors in Kazakhstan’s stunning natural wonders.

Travelers will explore the geological museum under the sky, marvel at the limestone mountains of Aktau, and experience the unique phenomenon of the Singing Dunes.

They’ll also have the chance to savor traditional Kazakh cuisine and stay in a cozy guesthouse with a local family.

With a focus on highlights like the volcanic Katutau Mountain and the historical beliefs surrounding the Singing Barkhan, this tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience in one of Kazakhstan’s most captivating natural landscapes.

Day 1: Aktau Mountains Exploration

On the first day, visitors explore the Aktau Mountains, a geological marvel showcasing the region’s captivating natural history.

The tour takes them through a geological museum under the open sky, where they’ll witness:

• Multi-colored dome rocks
• Towers of colored layers
• Dry canyons filled with calcite crystals
• Volcanic mountains reaching up to 1630 meters
• A unique natural monument formed from intense volcanic activity

The total travel time for this part of the tour is 5 hours, with admission tickets included.

Visitors are sure to be awed by the breathtaking landscapes and the remarkable geological formations of the Aktau Mountains.

Aktau Mountains

The Aktau Mountains are a geological marvel, showcasing the region’s captivating natural history.

This breathtaking landscape features a unique "open-air museum", where visitors can explore multi-colored dome rocks, towers of colored layers, and dry canyons filled with calcite crystals.

The mountains’ diversity is a testament to the area’s intense volcanic activity, as evidenced by the striking Katutau Mountain, which reaches an impressive height of 1,630 meters.

Exploring the Aktau Mountains is a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the area’s rich geological past and appreciate the stunning natural wonders that have shaped this remarkable destination.

Katutau Mountain

Nestled within the Aktau Mountains, Katutau Mountain stands as a striking natural monument, formed from intense volcanic activity in the region. Rising to an impressive height of 1,630 meters, this unique geological formation offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich natural history.

Some of the highlights of Katutau Mountain include:

• Volcanic peaks and ridges that create a dramatic, otherworldly landscape
• Intricate rock formations sculpted by wind and erosion over millennia
• Stunning views across the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Opportunities for hiking and exploration amid the rugged terrain
• A chance to witness the powerful natural forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape.

Day 2: Singing Dunes Experience

After a captivating exploration of the Aktau Mountains, the second day of the tour takes visitors to the renowned Singing Barkhan, located within the vast expanse of Altyn-Emel National Park.

This unique natural phenomenon is known for emitting a rumbling sound, akin to the sound of an organ, as the wind interacts with the sand dunes. The historical belief that these singing dunes were the howling of the devil only adds to the mystique of this incredible natural wonder.

With a total travel time of 4 hours, guests have the opportunity to fully enjoy this captivating experience, with the admission ticket included in the tour.

Singing Barkhan

Situated within the vast expanse of Altyn-Emel National Park, the Singing Barkhan captivates visitors with its unique natural phenomenon. This giant dune, known as a "barkhan," emits a mesmerizing sound that resembles the deep, resonant tones of an organ.

The Singing Barkhan’s sonic wonders are caused by the interaction between the wind and the sand, creating a rumbling, humming vibration that can be heard from a distance.

The Singing Barkhan is renowned for:

• Its massive size, reaching up to 150 meters in height
• The haunting, organ-like sounds it produces
• Its historical significance, with beliefs that it was the "howling devil" in the Middle Ages
• The captivating experience of climbing the dune and feeling the sand vibrate beneath one’s feet
• The breathtaking views from the top, overlooking the vast desert landscape.

Tour Logistics

The tour’s logistics are straightforward, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors. Pickup is available from any hotel in Almaty at 8:30 AM, and transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and flexible experience.

Feature	Details
Pickup	Any hotel in Almaty at 8:30 AM
Transportation	Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour Type	Private, your group only
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats available

With clear logistics and transportation arrangements, visitors can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park and the Aktau Mountains without worrying about the details.

Additional Information and Pricing

What else is there to know about the Altyn Emel National Park tour?

Booking confirmation is guaranteed, although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, stroller and infant seats are available.

The price varies based on group size, starting from $742.00. Customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Here’s a quick summary of the additional tour information:

• Confirmation received at booking
• Not wheelchair accessible; stroller and infant seats available
• Price: From $742.00, varies by group size
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience starts
• 5.0 rating from 4 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Altyn Emel National Park?

The best time to visit Altyn Emel National Park is during the spring and autumn months. The weather is mild, with clear skies and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the park’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Hiking Activities?

Though no special requirements are mentioned, visitors should wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes and bring sun protection, water, and snacks for the excursions to the Aktau Mountains and Singing Dunes. The terrain can be rugged, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator, who’ll tailor the itinerary to ensure a personalized experience that meets their needs and expectations.

What Type of Food Is Typically Served During the Local Family Stay?

The local family stay typically features traditional Kazakh cuisine, which may include dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat and noodles), plov (rice dish with meat and vegetables), and kumys (fermented mare’s milk), providing an authentic cultural dining experience.

Are There Any Additional Activities or Sightseeing Options Available?

The tour also offers additional activities and sightseeing options, such as exploring the geological museum under the sky, experiencing the unique natural phenomenon of the Singing Dunes, and learning about Kazakh culture and cuisine.

Recap

Embark on an unforgettable two-day adventure in Altyn Emel National Park. Witness the captivating Singing Dunes, explore the geological wonders of the Aktau Mountains, and learn about the park’s rich natural history. This private tour offers breathtaking views, traditional Kazakh cuisine, and personalized attention, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.