7 Days Mangystau Ustyurt
About this tour
This tour offers a unique journey through Kazakhstan, showcasing the country's stunning natural and historical beauty. You'll explore ancient burial sites, underground mosques, geological formations, and breathtaking canyons, mountains, and lakes.
Key Highlights:
Hikes to ancient animal tracks and visits to historical landmarks such as the underground mosques of Sultan-Epe and Shakpak-Ata.
Exploration of the Valley of Balls Torysh and Kokkala Canyon, where you can see fossilized fern leaves from the Jurassic period.
Ascents of Mount Sherkala and Mount Bokty, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Travel across the Ustyurt Plateau and the striking geological formations of Bozzhira, often compared to Arizona’s desert scenery.
An adventurous trek through the Senek dunes and a visit to the Karagiye Depression, Kazakhstan's lowest point.
Camping under the stars in picturesque locations surrounded by mountains and canyons.
This tour combines active exploration with cultural discovery, offering a unique perspective on Kazakhstan’s history and nature.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Aktau Airport, Aktau, Kazakhstan to Zhygylgan Hollow, Dzhigalgan, Kazakhstan
Day 1: Zhygylgan: Hike to ancient animal tracks left on the rocks. Sultan-Epe: Visit an underground mosque that serves as a spiritual center in the region. Kenty-Baba: An ancient burial site that tells of past cultures. Shakpak-Tasay: Walk through a canyon known for its natural forms and ancient images. Shakpak-Ata: Another underground mosque that is an important shrine. Kapamsay: Camping in a canyon where you can enjoy the outdoors.
Day 2: Zhygylgan Hollow, Dzhigalgan, Kazakhstan to Ayrakty Tyk, Aktau, Kazakhstan
Day 2: Kapamsay: Morning hike in the canyon, with the opportunity to see rare species of flora and fauna. Tauchik: Stop at a local store to replenish supplies. Torysh Ball Valley: Hike through a valley known for its unique geological formations. Kokkala: Canon, where you can see fossilized fern leaves left over from the Jurassic period. Sherkala: Climbing a mountain with magnificent views. Ayrakty: Camping in Airakty, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
Day 3: Ayrakty Tyk, Aktau, Kazakhstan to Tuzbair, Smotrovaya Ploshchadka 1, Kizyl-Bas, Kazakhstan
Day 3: Ayrakty Mountains: Hiking in the mountains. Shetpe: Stop at a shop. Zharmysh Village: Lunch and optional shower. Lake Tuzbair: Walk around the lake. Camp overnight.Day 4: Off-road Transfer: Travel 120 km across the Ustyurt Plateau to Bozzhira. Bozzhira: Experience stunning views of the area (referred to as Kazakhstan’s Arizona). Camp overnight.
Day 4: Tuzbair, Smotrovaya Ploshchadka 1, Kizyl-Bas, Kazakhstan to Bozhira, Kazakhstan
Day 4: Off-road Transfer: Travel 120 km across the Ustyurt Plateau to Bozzhira. Bozzhira: Experience stunning views of the area (referred to as Kazakhstan’s Arizona). Camp overnight.
Day 5: Bozhira, Kazakhstan to Bozjyra, Aktau, Kazakhstan
Day 5: Bozzhira: Hike through the middle and lower parts of Bozzhira. Camp overnight.
Day 6: Bozjyra, Aktau, Kazakhstan to Gora Bokty (Mount Bokty), Kazakhstan
Day 6: Mount Bokty: Hike to the mountain (featured on Kazakhstan's currency). Kyzylkup Mountains (Tiramisu): Explore the area and camp.
Day 7: Gora Bokty (Mount Bokty), Kazakhstan to Aktau, Kazakhstan
Day 7: Senek Village Dunes: Walk through the dunes. Zhanauzen Village: Visit oil pumps. Karagiye Depression: Visit the lowest point in Kazakhstan, 132 meters below sea level. Return to Aktau: Arrive back at the hotel by 16:30.
What's included
What to know
We are recruiting for a group for a trip from April 18 to 24, the best price. Write to me to find out more
Route & locations
Aktau Airport, Aktau, Kazakhstan to Zhygylgan Hollow, Dzhigalgan, Kazakhstan