When does the US$1,350 per-person price apply?
This starting price is for a private party of four, with two guests sharing each room. It includes seven nights, all meals, programme entry fees, the eagle demonstration, the local UAZ transfer at Kaindy and the taxi inside Charyn Canyon. Other party sizes and accommodation upgrades are quoted separately.
Does this eight-day tour visit Song-Kol?
No. This itinerary combines Altyn-Emel with Kazakhstan’s lakes and canyons and the Kyrgyzstan section of our six-day tour. The first two days cover Aktau, Katutau, the Singing Dune and the drive through Zharkent to Saty. Song-Kol and Kochkor are outside this programme.
Which activities cost extra?
Horse riding, boat rental, personal purchases and accommodation upgrades cost extra. The local UAZ transfer to Kaindy’s nearer parking area and the taxi inside Charyn Canyon are included. You may need to wait for the canyon taxi.
Is the tour suitable for children and older travellers?
Walks can be shortened and adapted to the guests while keeping scenic stops. However, the trip includes long drives, and the road to Aktau in Altyn-Emel crosses rough off-road terrain. Tell us how much walking and driving you are comfortable with when booking.
Do the overnight stays have private showers and toilets?
Yes, every hotel and guesthouse room on the route has its own shower and toilet. Yurts are the exception: their facilities may be shared. We agree your accommodation preferences before booking.
How does winter or bad weather change the route?
Arabel is omitted in winter. Heavy rain, road conditions and shorter daylight can also affect other stops. We agree a seasonal version for your dates in advance, and your guide adjusts the time spent at accessible locations.
Will we have the same guide throughout?
Usually one guide accompanies you for the entire journey. Sometimes different Silk Travel team members lead the Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan sections. The private format and the opportunity to discuss your preferred walking pace apply in both countries.
Can we finish in Bishkek, and when does the tour end in Almaty?
By arrangement, finish in Bishkek and use day eight for a fuller city tour. If returning to Almaty, the usual finish is around 18:00 with hotel or airport drop-off. Border procedures and traffic can affect the time. Agree your finish city when booking.
How do I book?
Choose a tour and send your dates and group size. Once the itinerary and price are agreed, pay a 20% deposit. The remaining 80% is payable on the first day of the tour. Cancellation 30 days or more before the start receives a full deposit refund; cancellation 15–29 days before the start receives a 50% deposit refund; the deposit is non-refundable 14 days or fewer before the start.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is private, with no large groups, and the itinerary can be adjusted.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
