From Aralsk: 2-Day Aral Sea, Akespe and Kokaral dam Tour
Kazakhstan
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!
This two-day guided tour explores the history and natural landscapes of the Aral Sea region in western Kazakhstan, suitable for history and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Learn about the dramatic history of the Aral Sea at the Fishermen’s Museum
- Explore the abandoned village of Akespe and climb nearby sand dunes
- Savor a traditional lunch in a guesthouse and taste shubat, a fermented camel milk drink
- Enjoy a photo walk around Kokaral Dam and swim in Kambash Lake
Description
Discover the story of the Aral Sea and the natural beauty of western Kazakhstan on this immersive two-day tour. Visit the Fishermen’s Museum, the remote villages of Tustubek and Aqbasty, the abandoned settlement of Akespe, Kokaral Dam, Kambash Lake, and the Chink cliffs.
Your journey starts at 9:00 AM in Aralsk with a visit to the Fishermen’s Museum to learn about the region's history and the sea’s decline. At 10:30 AM, travel to the remote village of Tustubek. Arrive by 11:30 AM for a walk along the shore, photography, and an optional boat ride on the Small Aral Sea.
At 1:00 PM, enjoy a traditional lunch at a guesthouse including a tasting of shubat, a fermented camel milk drink. The afternoon continues with a drive along Butakov Bay to Akespe village. Explore the abandoned settlement and climb sand dunes before having dinner at 7:00 PM in a local guesthouse. Spend the evening resting and listening to stories shared by locals.
On Day 2, after breakfast at 7:30 AM, depart for Aqbasty village to explore the area. At 11:00 AM, visit Kokaral Dam for a photo walk. Lunch is served at 1:30 PM in Karashalang village. At 2:30 PM, head to Kambash Lake for swimming and a nature walk.
On the return journey, stop at the foot of the Chink cliffs, Qus Tumsik and Kara Sandyk, for photography. Visit a nearby thermal spring with reputed healing properties at 4:30 PM before returning to Aralsk by 5:00 PM with drop-off at your hotel or train station.
Includes
- Guided tour with local expert
- All transfers by comfortable vehicle
- One-night guesthouse accommodation
- Two lunches, one dinner, one breakfast
- Entrance fees and museum visit
- Optional boat trip (extra cost)
- Shubat tasting, swimming, and photo stops
Excludes
- Boat trip costs (if opted)
- Mini-concert by local musicians featuring traditional Kazakh songs and instruments
Important Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions
- Carry sunscreen for outdoor activities
- Camera recommended for photos
- Hat and sunglasses advised for sun protection
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your spot. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn. Bring sun protection and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities.
