A one-day tour from Aktau to Kyzylkup and Bozzhyra is an unforgettable journey to two of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Mangystau. Bozzhyra is often saved for the finale of longer multi-day tours, as few places can rival the grandeur of this epic natural wonder. Alongside Bozzhyra, you’ll also visit the scenic Kyzylkup Tract, located 20 kilometers to the west. Nicknamed “Tiramisu” for its striking red and white layered hills, this location is a visual delight.
If you don’t have time for an extended trip across Mangystau or prefer exploring the region through day trips from Aktau, this tour is an excellent choice – and promises an unforgettable experience.
If you don’t have time for an extended trip across Mangystau or prefer exploring the region through day trips from Aktau, this tour is an excellent choice – and promises an unforgettable experience.
Total distance: 570 km (530 km on asphalt, 40 km on dirt and off-road terrain)
Tour Itinerary
08:00 – 12:30 Meet your guide-driver at your hotel. Depart from Aktau toward Bozzhyra Valley. The route follows a quality asphalt road – 265 km in total. About half an hour into the journey, you’ll stop briefly at the Karagie Hollow, located 132 meters below sea level.
12:30 – 13:30 Turn off the highway onto a dirt road leading to the Kyzylkup Tract (5 km). Walk through a gorge of vivid red and white layers that resemble a Tiramisu dessert. You can climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the surrounding formations and see the layered gorge from a fresh angle. Then return to the road toward Bozzhyra Valley.
13:30 – 14:30 Drive to the first observation point at Bozzhyra Valley. Stop for lunch in the field.
14:30 – 16:00 Visit the upper observation platforms. Enjoy time walking along the hundred-meter cliffs, admiring Bozzhyra’s panoramas, and capturing breathtaking photographs.
16:00 – 21:00 Return to the asphalt road and begin the long drive back to Aktau. If time allows, the underground mosque Shopan-ata may be visited along the way. Arrival in Aktau. End of the tour to the Kyzylkup Tract and Bozzhyra Valley.
Important Note! No special equipment is required for this tour, but please be aware that the hiking portions include some ascents and descents. If you have a history of surgeries, use life-sustaining implants (e.g., a prosthetic heart valve), or suffer from chronic conditions such as asthma or high blood pressure, kindly inform us in advance. Please also let us know about any dietary restrictions or preferences, including vegetarian or vegan diets.
What to Bring for a Comfortable Trip:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, cap, or panama;
- Loose, breathable clothing appropriate for the season;
- Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good tread for walking on uneven and loose surfaces.
Price includes:
- Transfer by four-wheel drive vehicle (maximum 4 passengers);
- Accompanying guide-driver;
- English-speaking guide;
- Lunch in lunch boxes;
- Bottled water (1 liter per person).
Price doesn't include:
- Visa to Kazakhstan;
- Domestic and international airfare to/from Aktau;
- Tips (optional and at your discretion).
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2025 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
Tour Enquiry
The tour is private with your personal guide. There will be no other people joining the tour.
Our guides will follow your own pace.
The starting time of the tour is up to you and may vary from 09.00 am to 16.00 pm.
We are happy to offer this tour for air/train passengers too. Our guide will meet you at the arrival station.
Bozzhyra and Kyzylkup Reviews
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