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Explore the Aral Sea in 2 days: museum, boat ride, Butakov Bay, Kokaral Dam, dunes, healing spring, local meals, and authentic village life. Nature, history, and adventure await!

Highlights

• Learn about the dramatic history of the Aral Sea at the Fishermen’s Museum
• Explore the abandoned village of Akespe and climb the nearby sand dunes
• Savor a traditional lunch in a guesthouse and taste shubat, a camel milk drink
• Discover the beauty of the Aral Sea on a boat ride across the Small Aral Sea
• Enjoy a photo walk around the Kokaral Dam and swim in Kambash Lake

Description

Discover the dramatic story of the Aral Sea and the beauty of western Kazakhstan on this immersive two-day tour. Explore the Fishermen’s Museum, the remote village of Tustubek, the abandoned settlement of Akespe, and the village of Aqbasty. Visit the Kokaral Dam, the Kambash Lake, and the Chink cliffs. Begin your journey at 9:00 in Aralsk with a visit to the Fishermen’s Museum, where you’ll learn about the rich history of the region and the impact of the sea’s decline. By 10:30, set off to the remote village of Tustubek. Upon arrival at 11:30, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore, take stunning photos, and optionally embark on a boat ride across the Small Aral Sea. At 13:00, savor a traditional lunch in a guesthouse, including a tasting of shubat, a fermented camel milk drink. The day continues with a scenic drive along Butakov Bay, leading to Akespe village. On arrival, you’ll explore the abandoned settlement and climb nearby sand dunes. At 19:00, dinner is served in a local guesthouse, followed by evening rest and stories shared by locals. On Day 2, after breakfast at 07:30, depart for the village of Aqbasty. Explore its surroundings before heading to the Kokaral Dam at 11:00. Enjoy a photo walk around this significant hydrological site. Lunch follows in Karashalang village at 13:30. At 14:30, journey to the beautiful Kambash Lake for swimming and a relaxing nature walk. On the way back, stop at the foot of the majestic Chink cliffs—“Qus Tumsik” and “Kara Sandyk”—ideal for photos. Visit a local thermal spring at 16:30, known for its healing properties, before returning to Aralsk by 17:00, with drop-off at your hotel or train station.

Includes

Guided tour with local expert All transfers by comfortable vehicle 1-night guesthouse accommodation 2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast Entrance fees and museum visit Optional boat trip (extra cost) Shubat tasting, swimming, and photo stops

Important Information

• Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the sites. Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Carry sunscreen for outdoor activities. Camera is recommended for capturing the scenic views. Hat and sunglasses are advisable for sun protection.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund