What is the two-day Altyn-Emel itinerary?
Day one: leave Almaty, have lunch in Basshi, explore the Aktau Mountains and return to Basshi for dinner and a guesthouse night. Day two: visit the Singing Dune in the morning, have lunch in Basshi and return to Almaty.
How long are the drives?
Allow roughly four hours from Almaty to Basshi. Aktau is about 80 km from the village along park roads with rough sections. The Singing Dune is approximately 50–60 km away, usually around an hour. Actual times depend on roads and stops.
Do I have to climb the Singing Dune?
No. Climb the sandy ridge at your own pace or explore the base. Your guide helps select an option that suits your age, preferences and how you feel on the day.
Where do we stay overnight?
At a guesthouse in Basshi village. Return there after Aktau for dinner, then set off for the dune after breakfast the following morning.
Can we see wildlife?
There is a chance of seeing kulans or goitered gazelles on the drive to the Singing Dune, particularly in the morning. These are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is the tour suitable for children and older travellers?
Walks can be made shorter and gentler, but bumpy park drives remain part of the itinerary. Tell us about the travellers’ ages and any limitations in advance so we can plan a suitable level of activity.
What is the per-person price?
The rate is $270 with four guests, $350 with three, $460 with two and $890 for a solo traveller. Send your dates and group size to confirm the trip details.
When do we return to Almaty?
After the Singing Dune on day two, have lunch in Basshi and start the return drive. Arrival time depends on stops and traffic. Discuss any onward flight before booking rather than relying on a fixed return hour.
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.
