Which places are included in the three-day route?
Day one covers Altyn-Emel’s Aktau and Katutau Mountains, with a night in Basshi. Day two includes the Singing Dune and Charyn Canyon before staying in Saty. Day three visits Kaindy, returns to Saty for lunch, then continues to Lower Kolsai and Almaty.
Where do we sleep?
There are two guesthouse nights: one in Basshi after Aktau and Katutau, and one in Saty after Charyn Canyon. Accommodation is included in the tour price.
Where is lunch on the second and third days?
On day two, lunch is in Basshi or Zharkent, depending on the day’s arrangements. On day three, lunch is in Saty between the morning visit to Kaindy and the afternoon visit to Kolsai.
Does the tour include the second Kolsai lake?
No. This three-day itinerary visits Lower Kolsai, the first lake. A longer trek to the second lake would require a different programme.
Is this a private tour and can the walks be adjusted?
Yes, the vehicle and guide-driver are for your group. The guide can shorten walks or allow more time at selected viewpoints, while accounting for weather, daylight and the long transfers. Please discuss mobility needs and travelling with children before booking.
What should I expect from the driving?
This is a compact and busy three-day journey, with long drives between Altyn-Emel, Charyn, Saty and Almaty. Roads inside Altyn-Emel include rough tracks. The guide chooses the daily pace according to conditions, so exact return times cannot be promised.
What costs extra?
International flights, travel insurance, personal purchases, optional horse riding, boat hire and tips are not included. Confirm any additional activities when arranging the tour.
Can I book a flight immediately after the tour?
Discuss the flight time with us before booking. Day three includes Kaindy, lunch in Saty, Kolsai and the drive to Almaty; road conditions and city traffic can affect the return. A tight onward connection may require changes to the sightseeing plan.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
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.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
