ALTYN-EMEL

If you’re seeking to immerse yourself in nature's extraordinary beauty, Altyn Emel National Park deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, this park attracts visitors from all over the world with its breathtaking scenery. Iconic landmarks like the Chalk Mountains of Aktau and the famous Singing Dune serve as symbols of this remarkable region.

Altyn Emel National Park is a true natural gem located in southeastern Kazakhstan, within the Zhetysu region. Nestled between the Ili River and the majestic Dzungarian Alatau mountains, the park is easily accessible from Almaty, with group tours taking approximately three hours. Covering over 300,000 hectares, it stands as Kazakhstan's third-largest national park.

The park's diverse landscape showcases a striking combination of mountainous terrain and desert-like expanses. On one side, you’ll find plains bordering the right bank of the Ili River, while the other side features the rugged foothills of the Dzungarian Alatau and the distinctive slopes of the Altyn Emel ridge.

The park's crown jewel is undoubtedly the "Singing Dune," known as Barkhan Aigaikum in Kazakh. This towering dune of pure quartz sand is devoid of vegetation, creating a unique environment. As the dry sand shifts, the friction between the fine grains produces a low, resonant sound reminiscent of a gentle song. This rare phenomenon is one of the few of its kind globally. The Singing Dune was even nominated as one of the "7 New Wonders of the World" and holds the esteemed designation of a natural monument of national significance.

Another breathtaking sight within Altyn Emel is the Chalk Mountains of Aktau. These striking white slopes are a fascinating result of ancient geological processes, formed when a prehistoric ocean receded, leaving behind distinctive rock formations. The pale coloration of the rocks gives the Chalk Mountains their name, making them one of the park's most remarkable features.

The Katutau Lava Mountains, another awe-inspiring natural wonder, were formed by intense volcanic activity in the region. Nearby, you can discover the Kosbastau oasis, celebrated for its warm springs that support a variety of resilient plant species.

Spring and autumn are considered the best times to explore Altyn Emel National Park. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, enhancing the park's natural beauty and making your visit even more enjoyable.

The Singing Dune produces its melodious sounds primarily during dry weather, with the sound traveling several kilometers. This enchanting noise is generated by the friction of tiny sand grains as they move against each other.