Unforgettable 3 days in Mangystau - Group Tour
Mangistau Province, Kazakhstan
Explore Mangystau, Kazakhstan's wonders. Delve into canyons, uncover remnants of Tethys Ocean for an unforgettable adventure.
3-Day Mangystau Nature and Cultural Tour from Aktau
This guided 3-day tour from Aktau suits nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking off-road adventure across Mangystau’s unique landscapes.
Tour Itinerary Highlights
- Day 1: Shakpak Ata → Torysh (Valley of Balls) → Kokala (Jurassic Clays) → Sherkala Mountain → Airakty (Valley of Castles)
- Day 2: Airakty → Zhanaozen → Kyzylkup (Tiramisu Canyon) → Bokty Mountain → Bozjyra Fangs (Camping)
- Day 3: Bozjyra Upper Fangs → Mars Panorama → Dragon Crest → Return to Aktau
Day 1 Details
Distance: 210 km on-road, 90 km off-road (approx. 5 hours 40 minutes driving)
Schedule: 08:00 Airport pickup, 08:30 Hotel pickup, 09:00 Departure
Begin with pickup from Aktau Airport or hotel and transfer to Redmaya Office for payment and briefing. Visit the Shakpak Ata Underground Mosque, an ancient pilgrimage site carved into cliffs. In summer, enjoy lunch and a 1-hour rest at Sartas Visitor Center with seaside views and Wi-Fi to avoid midday heat reaching up to 45°C.
Next, explore Torysh, the Valley of Balls, known for mysterious spherical rock formations. Continue to Kokala, a colorful gorge with distinctive Jurassic-era clay layers. Visit Sherkala Mountain, often called Mangystau’s “Sphinx” for its yurt-shaped silhouette. End the day at Airakty, the Valley of Castles, where you will camp overnight under the stars.
Meals: Lunch and dinner provided. Accommodation in tent camping.
Day 2 Details
Distance: 210 km on-road, 110 km off-road (approx. 5 hours 30 minutes driving)
Travel to Zhanaozen city for lunch at Adal Café with an option to visit the local market and refuel. In summer, take an additional 1-hour rest here with cold drinks and Wi-Fi to avoid extreme heat.
Proceed to Kyzylkup (Tiramisu Canyon), noted for its layered red, yellow, and orange rock formations resembling tiramisu dessert. Then visit Bokty Mountain, a solitary fortress-like landmark ideal for photography.
Camp overnight beneath the towering white limestone Bozjyra Fangs, surrounded by silence and clear night skies.
Meals include breakfast, a snack lunch, and dinner. Accommodation in tent camping.
Day 3 Details
Distance: 210 km on-road, 40 km off-road (approx. 4 hours 15 minutes driving)
Explore the Bozjyra Middle and Upper Fangs, massive limestone towers dominating the plateau. Continue to Mars Panorama for views of cliffs resembling a Martian landscape. Visit Dragon Crest Ridge, a sharp limestone spine shaped like a dragon’s back, as the final viewpoint.
Return to Aktau city in the afternoon for drop-off and conclude the tour.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch provided. No accommodation on this day.
Included
- 4x4 jeep or 4x4 minivan (3-4 people per vehicle)
- Hotel and airport pickup
- English-speaking local tour leader
- Three meals daily featuring local cuisine
- Two nights tent camping with all necessary equipment
- Airport transfer available on request
- Accident insurance coverage
- All entrance fees included
Not Included
- First day breakfast and last day dinner
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Costs due to unexpected weather conditions
- Visa fees (arranged on request)
- Guidebook in your preferred language (optional for 20 USD)
Important Information
- Suitable for most ages and physically fit individuals as no strenuous trekking is required. Certain restrictions may apply.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance.
For the best experience, bring sun protection, sturdy footwear, and layered clothing. Summer visits benefit from midday rest stops to avoid heat. Book in advance to secure your preferred dates.
