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.
HIGHLIGHTS
Torysh
Kokala
Sherkala
Airakty
Tuzbayyr
Kogez Yurt Camp
Karaman Ata
Ybykty
Kyzylkup
Bokty
Bozzhyra
Senek Dunes
Karagie Hollow
*
Total distance: 1244 km (asphalt - 923 km, dirt roads and off-road - 321 km)
ITINERARY
Start your day by meeting your guide at your Aktau hotel at 09:00-09:30 am. Driving to the first destination - the Torysh Valley, renowned for its stone spheres formed from the ancient Tethys Ocean. After exploring, you'll proceed to Kokala - Jurassic Clays with the colorful purple gorge and ancient geological formation, and to Sherkala Mountain is a “Sphinx of Mangystau,”which has a unique yurt-shaped appearance. Continue to the valley of Castles Airakty. Enjoy a scenic drive on a dirt road through mountainous terrain dotted with limestone formations. As the sun sets, set up your tent camp for the night. Enjoy dinner under a starlit sky. 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 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's journey concludes at the cozy Kogen ethno-yurt camp, where dinner, a shower, and a comfortable bed await. Here you have an opportunity to experiencing the nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakh people. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
After breakfast, set off to the Karaman-ata necropolis and its underground mosque. Then, explore the breathtaking Ybykty Canyon, also known as the "Porous Gorge," with its unique rock formations. 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
Explore the Kyzylkup tract after breakfast, choosing between a gorge walk or a hilltop view. After packing up camp, visit the nearby colorful natural wonder – Bokty Mountain, 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
Begin with breakfast in camp, followed by a short climb to the "Fangs Formation" viewpoint. Capture unforgettable photos of the stunning cliffs and scenery. Drive to Senek Sands, also known as Tuyesu Sands, to walk on and take pictures. Continue to a Camel farm, where you can taste a fresh camel milk and traditional products like shubat, interact with the camels by learning about their significance in Kazakh culture. Our next stop should be the Karagiye Hollow (“Black Jaw”) is the lowest point in Kazakhstan, reaching 132 meters below sea level. The tour concludes upon arrival at your hotel in Aktau at about 18:00. End of 5-Day Mangystau Group Tour. Meals: breakfast, lunch
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Essentials for a Comfortable Journey:
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat or cap;
Season-appropriate, breathable, loose-fitting clothing for walking and tent sleeping;
Sturdy, treaded shoes for walking on uneven terrain;
Personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, wet wipes, etc.);
Additional field accessories (personal first aid kit, flashlight, chargers).
*During tent setup, a 220V generator will be available for phone and camera charging, and the campsite will be lit with floodlights. Important Notes:
As this tour includes our own camping and kitchen facilities, space in the vehicle is limited. Therefore, we kindly ask that you bring only small to medium-sized bags or backpacks (up to 40L) as carry-on luggage. If you have larger items, we recommend leaving them at your hotel, or we can store them at our office free of charge until your return to Aktau.
Respect local customs and religious beliefs; avoid alcohol consumption during the tour.
Walks include manageable ascents and descents, suitable for most ages.
Please inform us of any musculoskeletal conditions or dietary needs in advance.
In severe weather, tent camping may be replaced with a guesthouse stay at an additional cost.
Price includes:
All 4x4 vehicle transfers (max. 4 passengers);
Individual tent, sleeping bag, pillow;
Full board meals (except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 5);
Entrance fees for tour sites;
Compulsory local insurance.
Price doesn't include:
Visa to Kazakhstan;
English speaking guide;
Domestic and International flight tickets to/from Aktau;