Almaty City is a fantastic base for exploring some of Kazakhstan’s most striking natural wonders. Its proximity to rugged mountains, colorful canyons, and unique landscapes makes it a perfect starting point for National Park Tours that range from quick day trips to comprehensive overnight adventures. We especially like tours that combine exceptional scenery with insightful guides, like the Altyn Emel National Park Two-Day Trip, which offers a deep dive into the park’s most iconic sights—including the mesmerizing Singing Sand Dune and the vibrant Aktau Mountains. This trip highlights Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain and is perfect for travelers eager to see a landscape that looks almost extraterrestrial.
If you’re short on time but still want an authentic experience, the Altyn-Emel National Park Day Trip with Guide offers a guided exploration of the park’s highlights in just one day, including the Singing Dune and the legendary 700-year-old willow tree. For those seeking more comfort and a taste of local hospitality, the 2-Day Altyn-Emel National Park Tour with Meals combines outdoor adventure with relaxing stays in Basshi, complete with meals and scenic drives. For the full experience, the Private Tour UNESCO ensures personalized insights and smooth logistics for a memorable two-day journey.
1. Almaty: Altyn Emel National Park Two-Day Trip
At number 1, this two-day trip takes you into the heart of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking landscapes. It’s a comprehensive experience designed for travelers who want more than just a glimpse. The tour features guided walks through the Aktau Mountains’ vibrant hues of red, orange, and green, and a special moment at the Singing Sand Dune, where you can hear the natural melody of shifting sands. This phenomenon is unlike anything you’ve encountered before.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the diversity of the park’s terrain, from the eroded rocky formations to open steppe. The guide has a wealth of knowledge about the area, explaining how these landscapes formed and sharing stories that deepen your appreciation. The trip includes all necessary logistics, making it hassle-free to enjoy the outdoors. The best part? The chance to spend a night in a local guesthouse, feeling immersed in Kazakhstani culture.
Bottom Line: The Altyn Emel Two-Day Trip offers a rich, in-depth exploration perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see the full range of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort.
$500 per person
2. Almaty: 2-Day Altyn-Emel National Park Tour with Meals
For around $214, this 2-day guided tour combines the wilderness sights of Altyn Emel with the convenience of included meals and a comfortable stay in Basshi. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a full experience without the hassle of planning every detail. As you travel through the colorful Martian-like landscapes of the Aktau Mountains, your guide shares stories about the geological forces that created these extraordinary rock formations.
The tour also takes you to the Katuatau Mountains, known for their ancient volcanic formations, alongside a special visit to the 700-year-old willow tree, which looks like a living monument. The tour’s highlight is definitely the Singing Dune, where the wind creates musical sounds that enchant visitors. The included meals and accommodation make this an excellent value, especially for those who prefer a relaxed pace.
Guests say the trip’s relaxed schedule and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable experience. The comfort and cultural touches add to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and local charm, this tour delivers high value at an accessible price.
$214 per person
3. Almaty: Altyn-Emel National Park Day Trip with Guide
If you’re pressed for time but still crave an authentic Kazakh adventure, this guided day trip fits the bill. It’s a well-organized option for exploring the Singing Dune, Aktau, and Katutau mountains—all within a single day. The tour emphasizes the natural marvels that make the park so unique, with a relaxing picnic lunch overlooking the Ili River, an ideal spot to soak in the scenery.
The guide’s insights make this shorter trip feel more personal, especially when explaining the spiritual significance of the 700-year-old willow tree. While the price is a bit higher per person (up to $600 for a group of four), the guided nature means you get expert commentary and a structured schedule that maximizes your time.
This option is best suited for travelers with limited time but who don’t want to miss the essential sights. It’s a good introduction to Kazakhstan’s landscapes without the need to worry about logistics.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for a full day’s adventure, ideal for travelers who want expert guidance and a taste of Kazakhstan’s wild beauty.
$600 per group up to 4
4. Altyn-Emel National Park: 1-Day Adventure
This single-day adventure is designed for those eager to explore the highlights of Altyn Emel without multiple nights away. For $560 per person, you’ll enjoy a comfortable 4WD ride through the park’s diverse terrains, from the Singing Dune to the Aktau Mountains. It’s a whirlwind tour that packs in a lot, so expect an active day filled with discovery.
What sets this adventure apart is its focus on wildlife and natural history. You might spot wild donkeys, gazelles, and eagles, adding a layer of excitement for nature lovers. The guide provides in-depth explanations of the park’s ecological importance, making it not just a sightseeing trip but an educational one as well.
It’s suited for travelers who want an intense, all-in-one experience with a focus on wildlife and geology. The downside? The quick pace might leave some wishing for more time at each stop.
Bottom Line: An energetic option for those who want to see the park’s top sights and learn about its ecosystems in a single day.
$560 per person
5. PRIVATE TOUR Altyn-Emel National Park UNESCO
For travelers who prefer a personalized experience, this private 2-day tour offers tailored insights into Kazakhstan’s natural wonders. Led by the Nomad Outfitters team, you’ll visit Aktau and Katutau mountains with expert commentary, ensuring you get the most out of every stop. The trip includes comfortable accommodations and scenic drives suited for all fitness levels.
This tour is ideal for those who want flexibility, perhaps combining photography, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the scenery at their own pace. The private guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making the landscapes come alive with stories and facts. The focus on scenic drives and natural beauty makes it perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed but comprehensive adventure.
While the price ($500 per person) is comparable to other two-day tours, the personalized approach and attention to detail make it stand out. The main drawback might be the cost for budget travelers, but the quality of the experience justifies it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a customized, intimate journey with expert guidance and no compromises on comfort.
$500 per person
How to Choose Your Kazakh Mountain Adventure
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time, and what kind of experience excites you most. For a deep dive into the park’s geology and culture, the Altyn Emel Two-Day Trip is a top pick. If you prefer a balanced approach with comfort and local hospitality, the 2-Day Tour with Meals offers excellent value.
Short on time? The Day Trip with Guide provides a well-organized overview. Want the most personalized experience? The Private UNESCO Tour is your best option, especially if you want flexibility and tailored insights.
Keep in mind that booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall. Consider your fitness level and interest in wildlife or geology when selecting the right tour—some focus more on hiking, while others emphasize scenic drives and cultural stories.
Almaty offers a fantastic variety of National Park Tours that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after a quick glimpse or a deep immersion, you’ll find options that showcase Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes. For a memorable adventure, we recommend booking at least one of these experiences early, and don’t hesitate to ask your tour provider about customizing your trip to suit your interests. With the right choice, you’ll leave with stories as vivid as the landscapes themselves.