SilkTravel - We organize individual excursions and tours in Kazakhstan
ALTYN-EMEL
Altyn Emel National Park: A Natural Treasure
Why You Should Visit Altyn Emel National Park
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.
Geographical Features
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 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 Singing Dune
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.
Chalk Mountains of Aktau
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.
Katutau Lava Mountains
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.
Best Time to Visit
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.
Interesting Facts
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.
Plan Your Trip
For more information about Altyn Emel National Park tours, feel free to reach out to us. Our travel agency specializes in unforgettable trips designed to enrich your vacation experience. We’re committed to ensuring your journey through Kazakhstan is nothing short of exceptional.
multi-day tours to ALTYN-EMEL
If you are interested in ONE-day tours to Altyn-Emel
Leave a request
And our manager will contact you
Pick up a tour
Click on the button and we will select a tour according to your wishes
WHAT TO TAKE ON TOUR
-
Comfortable walking shoesTrekking boots, sneakers or comfortable hiking shoes are the best solutions. -
Sunscreens and repellentsCosmetics with a UV filter, repellent creams, a hat and sunglasses will definitely come in handy while walking. -
Comfortable and warm clothesDuring a holiday in the mountains of Almaty, the temperature can fluctuate significantly, and it is better to grab warm clothes that do not hinder movement. -
Food and drinksIf you have chosen the economy format of a weekend tour in Kazakhstan, you can take water beverages, and food with you to have a snack or have a picnic in one of the picturesque locations along the route.
WHY SILKTRAVEL?
-
Individual approachTravel comfortably without noisy groups. -
ExperienceExplore hidden gems and capture stunning moments in secret locations for the best pictures. -
Safety firstAfter every tour, we diligently conduct technical inspections on our vehicles. -
PresentsThat’s a good tradition in Silk Travel. We try our best to make every visit to Kazakhstan memorable. It can be horse riding, drone videos or sweet gifts. -
FlexibilityOur guides can choose the difficulty level of the tour for you. -
AttainmentsOur expertise extends to tire repair even in the heart of the steppe.
Talgat Zhangaziyev
Professional tour guide, founder of Silktravel and videographer
Hi, dear traveler! My name is Tau.
After I started traveling the world and seeing the beauty of different countries, which inspired me to share the beauty of my home country with avid travelers and beauty seekers.
We offer private tours by comfortable SUV
with all-inclusive service.
After I started traveling the world and seeing the beauty of different countries, which inspired me to share the beauty of my home country with avid travelers and beauty seekers.
We offer private tours by comfortable SUV
with all-inclusive service.
our guides
WHAT CLIENTS SAY ABOUT SILKTRAVEL?
The most spectacular Almaty tourist places
Lake Kolsai is one of the most famous sights of Almaty, located in the mountains of Kungei-Alatau.
Lake Kaindy is a mystical place for pilgrimage tours in Kazakhstan, mysterious and picturesque.
Charyn Canyon is a unique rock complex that boggles the imagination.
The Singing Dune is the most interesting natural attraction that can be seen during our bus tour of Kazakhstan.
Asy Plateau is picturesque meadows and proximity to the stars in the most beautiful location near Almaty.
Tekes waterfall is a great option for outdoor activities in Kazakhstan. Beauty and extreme in one location.
Lake Issyk is a high-mountain landmark of Kazakhstan.
Tamgaly Tas tract—mysterious petroglyph sites and secrets of the past in a beautiful natural location north of Almaty.
Tour booking
Within an hour after fillin out the form, we will confirm booking
Fill out the form and we will contact you within a day