Mangystau is an incredible treasure chest filled with natural wonders. To fully explore its iconic sites, you'd need a week and a journey of about 1,500 kilometers. However, for those with limited time or who prefer not to spend multiple nights in a tent, we offer a condensed tour showcasing Mangystau's finest natural monuments. Your adventure begins in Aktau. Within a few hours, you'll arrive at the Torysh valley, famed for its stone spheres, where you'll feel like a modern-day Sisyphus. Next, you'll visit the Kok-kala region, home to Jurassic-era rock formations, followed by a visit to the enigmatic Sherkala mountain, known for its mysterious allure. The day concludes with a tent stay at the base of the island mountains in the Airakty valley of castles. Read more
HIGHLIGHTS
Zhygylgan (fallen land)
Kozdykara (lake of the heart)
Kapamsai (gorge)
Shakpak-Ata (underground mosque)
Shakpakty-Sai
Torysh (valley of balls)
Kokala
Sherkala
Airakty-Shomanai (valley of castles)
Shetpe
Karatau Baykisi (black gorge)
Zharmysh
Tuzbayyr (salt marsh and panoramas)
Kyzylsai
Senek (sand dunes)
Bokty (mountain)
Kyzylkup (Tiramisu)
Bozzhyra (panoramas and fangs)
Ybykty-Sai (openwork canyon)
ITINERARY
On this day, mysterious natural locations and ancient underground mosques await you, starting from Zhygylgan and ending with Shakpak-Ata. The end of the day will be marked by a dinner in nature with a spectacular sunset
You will start the day with an early walk and breakfast, then head to fascinating locations such as Shakpakty-Sai and Torysh. A night in an ethnic village or tent under the starry sky will be the final chord of the day
Today you will explore ancient gorges and salt flats such as Karatau Baykisi and Tuzbayyr. A dinner in nature and a night in a tent will complement the impressions of the day
The day will be dedicated to amazing Cretaceous formations and dunes. After lunch in Kyzylsai, you will continue on your way to Senek and other interesting locations. You will spend the night in an open-air tent
We will devote this day to exploring the majestic Bozzhyr with its diverse panoramas and natural wonders. A sunset dinner and a night in a tent among these unique landscapes will leave an unforgettable impression
The final day will start with an early sunrise and breakfast, after which you will go to the last points of the route, including Zhanaozen and Ybykty-Sai. Returning to Aktau completes your amazing 6-day journey
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. 3 passengers);
English speaking guide;
Individual tent, sleeping bag, pillow;
Full board meals (except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 6);
Entrance fees for tour sites;
Compulsory local insurance.
Price doesn't include:
Visa to Kazakhstan;
Domestic and International flight tickets to/from Aktau;
Personal hygiene items;
Tips are not included but would be appreciated.
*
100% guaranteed departures – even if there is only 1 traveler. Group size: 1-15 persons. This tour is per car, starting at $450/day.