An active one-day tour from Aktau to Saura Gorge and the Zhygylgan Fault is a perfect way to spend a weekend hiking through the scenic landscapes of northwestern Mangystau. If you enjoy hiking and trekking, this tour offers 6 kilometers of trails with minimal elevation changes.
You’ll travel by off-road vehicle, as both Saura Gorge and the Zhygylgan Fault are located far from paved roads. At the sites, unequipped trails lead to picturesque lakes and dramatic natural formations. Our one-day tour to Saura and Zhygylgan is one of the best options for outdoor adventure in Aktau and the Mangystau region. Check out the detailed itinerary and notes to begin planning a memorable day of adventure.
You’ll travel by off-road vehicle, as both Saura Gorge and the Zhygylgan Fault are located far from paved roads. At the sites, unequipped trails lead to picturesque lakes and dramatic natural formations. Our one-day tour to Saura and Zhygylgan is one of the best options for outdoor adventure in Aktau and the Mangystau region. Check out the detailed itinerary and notes to begin planning a memorable day of adventure.
Total distance: 260 km (166 km asphalt, 94 km dirt roads) + 6 km of hiking.
Tour Itinerary
09:00 – 10:30 Meet your guide-driver at your hotel. Depart from Aktau heading north to the Saura Tract, where the beautiful Turtle Lake is located. The route includes 83 km on a good asphalt road and another 7 km on a dirt road.
10:30 – 11:30 Walk along the gorge to the lake. The area is especially beautiful in spring and winter.
11:30 – 12:30 Transfer to the Zhygylgan Fault – 47 km along a dirt road.
12:30 – 13:30 Upon arrival, you will be able to appreciate the scale of this natural formation from the top of the cliff. Afterward, take a short 2-kilometer hike to Lake Kuzdykary, romantically nicknamed “Heart”. Along the way, you may see traces of ancient animals embedded in the rocks – remnants of creatures that lived millions of years ago.
13:30 – 15:00 Lunch and rest by the lake.
15:00 – 16:00 Hike back to the vehicle, which will be waiting above the Zhygylgan cliff.
16:00 – 18:00 Return to Aktau. The route includes 40 km of dirt road and 83 km of asphalt. Arrival in Aktau. End of the one-day tour to Saura Gorge and the Zhygylgan Fault.
Important Note! No special equipment is required for this tour, but please be aware that the itinerary includes ascents and descents on foot. If you have undergone surgery in the past, have life-sustaining implants (such as a prosthetic heart valve), or suffer from chronic conditions (such as asthma or high blood pressure), please inform us in advance. Likewise, if you have any special dietary needs or restrictions, including vegetarian or vegan diets, be sure to let us know when booking.
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.
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