Embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Kazakhstan's most stunning and diverse regions - Mangystau. Perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts, this 7-day Extended Mangystau Group Tour offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant local traditions. From the mesmerizing beauty of the Caspian Sea to the dramatic cliffs of the Ustyurt Plateau, each day promises new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
Join a group of like-minded travelers to visit historical sites and immerse yourself in the traditions of the local nomadic tribes. Our expert guides will lead you through this captivating terrain, sharing fascinating insights into the region's geological wonders and cultural heritage. Prepare for an adventure of exploration, camaraderie, and lasting memories in the heart of Mangystau!
Tour itinerary:
83 km on-road & 138 km off-road (4 hours 30 minutes).
9:00 AM: Start your Extended Mangystau Group Tour.
First Stop: Zhygylgan (Fallen Earth).
- Explore this geological marvel, known for the land collapse and the footprints of ancient animals, including sabre-toothed tigers.
Second Stop: Kapamsay Canyon
- Marvel at the stunning views and unique rock formations in this beautiful canyon. Third Stop: Shakpak-ata Cave Mosque.
- Visit the ancient Shakpak-ata Mosque, carved into the rock, holding spiritual and historical significance.
Accommodation: tent camping
First Stop: Torysh - Valley of Balls:
- Explore the mysterious ball-shaped rock formations, a geological wonder that sparks curiosity and amazement.
Second Stop: Kok-kala - Jurassic Clays.
- Marvel at the colorful purple gorge and ancient geological formations at Kok-kala.
Third Stop: Mount Sherkala.
- Visit Sherkala, known as the “Sphinx of Mangystau,” with its unique yurt-shaped appearance.
Fourth Stop: Airakty - Valley of Castle-Shaped Mounts
- Walk through the castle-shaped mountains of Airakty and camp overnight under the stars in the dramatic desert landscape.
Accommodation: tent camping
First Stop: Tuzbair (Upper, Lower, and White Arch).
- Explore the stunning salt flats and chalk formations at Tuzbair, including the famous White Arch, a naturally formed wonder.
- Stay at a traditional Kogez Yurt Camp, experiencing the nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakh people.
Accommodation: Kogez Yurt Camp
First Stop: Karaman-ata Necropolis:
- Visit the largest underground mosque in Mangystau, an important spiritual and historical site from the 11th century.
Second Stop: Ybykty - Porous Gorge.
- Explore the unique porous gorge, known for its unusual rock formations and scenic views.
Third Stop: Zhanaozen (Refuel and Market Visit).
- Stop in Zhanaozen to refuel and explore the local market, where you can enjoy authentic Kazakh products and a cup of tea.
Fourth Stop: Kyzylkup Tract (Tent Camping).
- Set up camp in the stunning Kyzylkup Tract, known for its colorful, layered mountains that resemble the popular dessert. End the day with stargazing after dinner.
Accommodation: tent camping
First Stop: Bokty Mountain.
- Visit the isolated Bokty Mountain, with its fortress-like shape, standing alone in the vast steppe.
- Explore the Martian-like landscape of Bozzhyra Valley, including the famous Dragon’s Crest, a rock formation resembling a dragon’s back.
- Walk to the camping site near the Bozzhyra Canyon and set up camp with a stunning view of the rock formation featured on the KZT 1000 currency note. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and spend the night under the stars.
Accommodation: tent camping
First Stop: Bozzhyra Fangs Formation (Morning Climb).
- Climb the famous Bozzhyra Fangs Formation, one of the most iconic landmarks in Mangystau. Enjoy breathtaking views as the morning sun rises over the desert.
- Take a scenic drive through the Bozzhyra Cliffs, admiring the dramatic rock formations and expansive views.
- Set up camp under the towering Bozzhyra Fangs Formation and enjoy a peaceful evening camping in this iconic location.
First Stop: Senek Dunes.
- Start your day at the Senek Dunes, where you can experience walking on the Sahara-like sand dunes in Kazakhstan. The serene desert environment provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the vast expanse of sand and take photos. Unlike other desert dunes, Senek Dunes are not for car safari driving but instead offer a tranquil experience for walking on the sand. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and connect with the raw beauty of the desert, with an optional opportunity to try activities like sandboarding.
- Visit a Camel Farm, where you can observe and interact with the camels, learning about their significance in Kazakh culture. Experience sample fresh camel milk and traditional products like shubat. This visit gives insight into the nomadic traditions of the region.
- Head to the Karagiye Hollow, the third deepest depression in the world, located 132 meters below sea level. This dramatic natural feature offers stunning views of the vast, flat landscape stretching into the horizon. It’s a great spot to take in the unique geological phenomena of the Mangystau region.
- After exploring Karagiye Hollow, drive back to Aktau.
- Participants will be dropped off at their respective hotels in Aktau. End of the Extended Mangystau Group Tour.
Price includes:
- All 4x4 vehicle transfers (max. 4 passengers);
- English speaking guide;
- 1 night accommodation at a shared yurt at ethno-village Kogez;
- Individual tent, sleeping bag, pillow;
- Full board meals (except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 7);
- Entrance fees for tour sites;
- Compulsory local insurance.
Price doesn't include:
- Visa for Kazakhstan;
- Domestic and international flight tickets to/from Aktau;
- Personal hygiene products;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated.
Essentials for a Comfortable Journey:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap for sun protection;
- Season-appropriate, breathable clothing for both walking and sleeping in a tent;
- Sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on uneven surfaces;
- Personal hygiene essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, wet wipes, etc.;
- Additional outdoor gear: a personal first aid kit, flashlight, and chargers.
*During tent setup, a 220V generator will be available for charging phones and cameras, and the campsite will be lit with floodlights.
Important Notes:
- As this tour includes our own camping and kitchen facilities, space in the vehicle is limited. Therefore, we kindly ask that you bring only small to medium-sized bags or backpacks (up to 40L) as carry-on luggage. If you have larger items, we recommend leaving them at your hotel, or we can store them at our office free of charge until your return to Aktau.
- Respect the local culture and religious beliefs; avoid alcohol consumption during the tour.
- Individual tents, sleeping bags, and pillows are provided. At the Kogez yurt camp, guests will stay in a 4-bed yurt, with a single occupancy option available for an additional $70.
- The tour includes walks over various terrains, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
- If you have any musculoskeletal issues or dietary requirements, please inform us beforehand.
- In case of severe weather, tent camping may be replaced with stays in nearby guesthouses, at an extra cost.
Dates & Prices, per person
100% guaranteed departures – even if there is only 1 traveler.
Group size: 1-15 persons
Please note that itinerary and prices are subject to change due to airline and train schedule changes, currency fluctuations and other unforeseeable events.
We strongly recommend NOT to purchase airline tickets for 2026 tours without discussing it with your travel consultant.