What is the four-day Zhetysu route?
Almaty — Basshi and Aktau Mountains — Singing Dune — Zharkent — Tekes Waterfall — Tuzkol — Lunar Canyon — Charyn — Saty — Kaindy — lunch in Saty — Lower Kolsai — Almaty. Kegen replaces the Tuzkol overnight in winter and cold weather.
Is the tour available year-round, and when can we camp at Tuzkol?
Yes, the tour is available year-round, subject to weather and roads. Tent camping at Tuzkol is offered only from May to September when conditions permit. Outside those months or in cold weather, the overnight stay is in Kegen instead.
How many nights are included?
Three: one in a Basshi guesthouse, one in a tent at Tuzkol or accommodation in Kegen in cold weather, and one in a Saty guesthouse.
Is Tekes Waterfall included?
Yes. The visit is planned on the Tuzkol section of the journey, normally on day two after lunch in Zharkent. The guide may adjust its position according to the road, weather and daily timing.
Where is lunch on day three?
Lunch is at Charyn Canyon after the Lunar Canyon stop. After the canyon visit, continue to Saty for the night. Kolsai is visited on the following day.
Do we visit Kolsai and Kaindy on the same day?
Yes, both are visited on day four: Kaindy in the morning, lunch in Saty and Lower Kolsai in the afternoon. Then return to Almaty.
How strenuous is the programme?
Walks can be adapted from easy to moderate, but the itinerary also includes long drives, rough tracks and an outdoor overnight in the camping version. The final day includes both lakes and the return to Almaty. Discuss any mobility needs before booking so the guide can plan suitable walking sections.
What does the price include?
Private vehicle, fuel, guide-driver, three nights, meals, national park entrance fees and Almaty hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. Flights, insurance, optional horse riding, boat rental, personal expenses and tips are separate. Confirm camping equipment and facilities before departure.
How much is the tour per person?
The rates are $650 for a group of four, $790 for three, $1,025 for two and $1,920 for one traveller. Share your dates and group details to confirm the accommodation and seasonal arrangements.
Can we see Khan Tengri from Lake Tuzkol?
In clear weather, there is an opportunity to see Khan Tengri from Tuzkol at sunrise or sunset. It is a seven-thousander with an elevation of 7,010 m including its ice cap. Visibility depends on cloud cover and atmospheric conditions.
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.
