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Discover the magic of the Singing Dune in Altyn-Emel on a day trip from Almaty. Experience the desert’s shifting sands that “sing” in the wind and enjoy breathtaking mountain and steppe views.

Highlights

• Discover the natural beauty of Altyn-Emel National Park on a day trip
• Experience the world-famous Singing Dune, a natural phenomenon that “sings”
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Ili River and surrounding mountains
• Learn local legends and stories about this ancient landscape
• Travel comfortably from Almaty with an expert local guide

Description

Embark on a full-day journey into one of Kazakhstan’s most remarkable natural wonders - the Singing Dune of Altyn-Emel National Park. This adventure reveals the magic of the desert, the mystery of the “singing” sands, and the incredible landscapes of the Ili River valley - a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and explorers. Your day begins with an early pick-up from Almaty and a scenic drive across the vast steppe of southeastern Kazakhstan. As you leave the city behind, the scenery transforms into endless grasslands dotted with wild horses, camels, and gazelles. Along the way, you’ll pass small rural villages where traditional Kazakh life continues much as it has for centuries. After about three hours of travel, you’ll arrive at Altyn-Emel National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering more than 4,600 square kilometers. The park is famous for its unique blend of desert, steppe, and mountain ecosystems, as well as its rare wildlife - including wild donkeys (*kulan*), goitered gazelles, and golden eagles soaring high above the cliffs. The highlight of your journey is the legendary Singing Dune, a massive sand dune rising about 150 meters high and stretching for nearly 3 kilometers along the Ili River. Despite being surrounded by rocky mountains and dry steppe, this isolated dune mysteriously formed from wind-blown sand trapped between two ridges. What makes it truly special is its “voice.” When the sand is dry and the wind blows, it emits a deep, resonant hum - a sound often compared to an organ, a drum, or even the distant roar of an airplane. Local legends say it is the voice of ancient spirits or even Genghis Khan’s army, forever echoing through the desert. Climb to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view: the Ili River shimmering in the distance, the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains on the horizon, and the shifting patterns of the dune beneath your feet. The sound of the singing sands is most distinct when you slide down the slope - an unforgettable moment that connects you directly with the spirit of the land. After exploring the dune, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by silence and open space - the perfect setting to relax and reflect on the vastness of the Kazakh landscape. Your guide will share stories about the park’s unique geology, history, and ecology, helping you understand how this desert miracle has survived for millennia. If time allows, you may also visit nearby scenic points along the Ili River valley, where the contrasting colors of the earth and sky create mesmerizing views. As the afternoon sun begins to fade, you’ll start your return journey to Almaty, arriving in the evening with lasting memories and incredible photos of this rare and mysterious landscape.

Includes

Comfortable 4WD transportation from Almaty & back English-speaking guide National Park entrance fees

Important Information

• Early departure required (~6:30 AM - 7AM) to maximize your time in the park. Wear comfortable shoes – some light hiking involved. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat – the sun can be strong in the steppe.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund