Itinerary

1. Day 1.

   • From Almaty, a 4-hour jeep ride takes us to the village of Basshi, where we get permits. 
   • We’ll then drive an hour over 50 km of bumpy roads, passing savannah-like landscapes framed by the Dzungarian Mountains and Ili River, to reach two volcanic hills and a 150-meter dune. This is the best spot to see kulans (wild horses) and rare Turanga poplars. 
   • After a 20-30 minute climb up the Singing dune, enjoy panoramic views of the Ili Basin and distant mountain ranges (of course, if we-re lucky with the weather). 
   • After a short coffee break, we return the same way. Dinner and a relaxing evening await at the guest house.

   Driving time on this day is 6 hours.
   260 km of asphalt and 100 km of off-road

   Hotel accommodation.

2. Day 2.

   • After a good breakfast, we’ll spend about three hours driving off-road through Altyn-Emel’s semi-desert, with a stop in the Katutau Mountains. 
   • Small, but interesting location; reddish stones of unbelievable forms and shapes. Half an hour is more than enough for simple climbing and photos.
   • At the foot of the Aktau Mountains, we’ll take a break for a quick snack—sandwiches, fruit, tea, and coffee. 
   • In the afternoon, we’ll hike into the stunning, colorful desert hills, exploring a landscape shaped over 60 million years. These layered mountains are like a geological time capsule, revealing ancient eras, including the time when giant ancestors of hippos roamed here. The hike can last 2 to 5-6 hours, depending on the group. 
   • Afterward, a hot dinner will be waiting for us at the campsite.

   On this day we will have 3 hours of off-road driving.

   About 4 hours of walking along the paths of the natural park.

   Overnight in tents.

3. Day 3.

   • Our morning starts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee with a view of the Aktau mountains; tea, omelet, cheese and sandwiches are included.
   • After packing our equipment, two hours of off-roading are waiting for us. 
   • Along the way we will visit a desert oasis to greet a 700-year-old willow tree. 
   • After that we will have about a 5-hour drive to Almaty.