Mangistau – Karynzharyk Tour
Accommodation, guides, transport included. $81 deposit, balance 30 days before tour starting date.
Mangistau – Karynzharyk Tour Highlights
An 8-day 4×4 camping expedition from Aktau through the deserts and canyons of Mangystau. The first days lead past the Hanga-Baba and Kenty-Baba necropolises and the Fallen Land of Zhygylgan to Kapamsay Canyon and the rock-cut Shakpak-Ata mosque, then on through Akespe Gorge, the round boulders of Torysh, the purple Jurassic clays of Kokala, the yurt-shaped Sherkala and the castle-like cliffs of Airakty, with dinner in a Kazakh yurt at Kogez Ethno Village.
After the white salt flats, canyons and White Arch of Tuzbair and a rest day in a yurt camp at Zharmysh, an off-road crossing of the Ustyurt Plateau reaches the remote Karynzharyk Depression, the Three Brothers peaks and the Kendirli salt flat. The last days bring Bokty Mount, Kyzylkup (Tiramisu) Canyon, a night beneath the Bozjyra Fangs, and the underground mosque of Karaman-Ata and Ybyk Gorge on the way back to Aktau. Six nights are spent in tents at these scenic spots and one in a shared yurt.
Difficulty: Moderate No altitude or technical sections, but long 4×4 days (about 3.5–6.5 hours of driving daily, much of it off-road), short walks and hikes at the sights (optional 3-hour evening walk on the Kendirli salt flat) and six nights of basic camping in the desert. Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women or people with disabilities.
Tour Itinerary
185 km on road & 95 km off-road, about 5h drive The day begins with a visit to the Hanga-Baba Necropolis, a historic site steeped in centuries of cultural and spiritual significance. Wandering among the ancient tombs, you can feel the depth of history that this sacred place holds. Next, the journey continues to Zhygylgan, also known as the Fallen Land, a remarkable geological formation shaped over millennia. Here, natural patterns and ancient markings create a landscape that hints at the presence of prehistoric creatures. From there, explore the Kenty-Baba Necropolis, another fascinating burial site in the region. Its unique architecture and atmosphere offer a deeper insight into the area’s rich historical and cultural heritage. The adventure then leads to Kapamsai Canyon, where you can take in sweeping views of steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations. The panoramic vistas highlight the region’s rugged natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection. The final stop of the day is the Shakpak-Ata Underground Mosque, an ancient mosque carved directly into the rock. Its architecture and historical significance make it a truly unique site to explore. The day concludes with camping at Kapamsai Canyon, where you can enjoy a hot dinner and spend the night under a canopy of stars, surrounded by the serene desert landscape. Meals include a picnic lunch during the day and a warm dinner in the evening, with accommodation in comfortable tents at the campsite.
Khanga Baba Necropolis, Zhygylgan – Fallen Earth, Kenty Baba Necropolis, Kapamsay Canyon, Shakpak Ata Underground Mosque
- Aktau → Kapamsay Canyon (280 km)
Overnight: Kapamsay Canyon (Tent camping)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
180 km on road & 41 km off-road, 5h 30 min drive The day begins with a journey to Akespe Gorge, where sheer limestone cliffs rise dramatically above a winding path. Each turn reveals new rock formations, offering a sense of wonder at the canyon’s rugged beauty. Next, explore Torysh, also known as the Valley of Balls. This area is famous for its mysterious spherical rock formations, a unique geological phenomenon that captures the imagination of all who visit. The route continues to Kokala, home to the Jurassic Clays. Here, vibrant purple hues and ancient rock layers create a striking landscape, showcasing millions of years of geological history. A short drive brings you to Sherkala Mount, often called the “Sphinx of Mangystau.” Its distinctive shape, reminiscent of a yurt, makes it one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the region. The final stop is Airakty, the Valley of Castle-Shaped Mountains. Walk among towering rock formations that resemble fortresses, and soak in the dramatic desert scenery. Dinner is served in a traditional Kazakh yurt at Kogez Ethno Village, allowing you to experience local culture and cuisine before returning to your tented camp for the night. Overnight at Airakty in tents, surrounded by the otherworldly landscape. Outdoor breakfast, picnic lunch, hot dinner. Camping in tents.
Akespe, Torysh – Valley of Balls, Kokala – Jurassic Clays, Sherkala Mountain, Airakty – Valley of Castles, Kogez Ethno Village
- Kapamsay Canyon → Airakty – Valley of Castles (221 km)
Overnight: Airakty – Valley of Castles (Tent camping)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s journey covers 163 km on paved roads and 116 km off-road, with an approximate driving time of 5 hours 30 minutes. The day begins in Zharmysh Village, where you pause for a hearty homemade lunch at a local guesthouse. This is a chance to experience the simple flavors of rural Mangystau life. After lunch, drive to Tuzbair Syndy Upper Viewpoint to take in the breathtaking panorama of the dazzling white salt flats and cliffs. Continue to the Lower Tuzbair Salt Flat to take in its expansive, tranquil landscape. In the afternoon, explore the White Arch, a striking natural rock formation offering dramatic desert views, and then walk through the Lower Tuzbair Canyons, where narrow passages and colorful rock walls reveal the power and history of the landscape. Set up camp at Tuzbair, enjoy a hot dinner, and spend the night under the stars. Outdoor breakfast, homemade lunch, hot dinner. Camping in tents.
Zharmysh Village, Tuzbair Salt Flat, White Arch (Tuzbair)
- Airakty – Valley of Castles → Tuzbair Salt Flat (279 km)
Overnight: Tuzbair Salt Flat (Tent camping)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a rest day designed to help you relax and recharge in preparation for the challenging off-road ride to the Karynzharyk Depression tomorrow. Travel from Tuzbair to the yurt camp, stopping for lunch at a local café along the way, and arrive at the camp around 3:00 PM. Spend the afternoon unwinding and enjoying the tranquil desert surroundings. This is a perfect opportunity to rest after several days of driving and exploration, and to prepare mentally and physically for the remote and dramatic landscapes ahead. Meals: Outdoor breakfast, lunch at a local café, dinner at a local café. Accommodation: Shared yurt at the camp.
Zharmysh Village
- Tuzbair Salt Flat → Zharmysh Village
Overnight: Zharmysh Village (Yurt camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s journey covers 160 km on paved roads and 95 km off-road, with an approximate driving time of 5 hours 30 minutes. Travel across the Ustyurt Plateau, an exciting off-road route through endless plains that showcase the region’s unique flora and tranquil desert landscapes. The first stop is Onere Spring, where you can refresh and enjoy a light lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. From there, continue to the Karynzharyk Depression, a dramatic landscape with breathtaking elevation changes and striking geological formations. Take in panoramic views of the Three Brothers Mountain Range, whose three majestic peaks rise above vast salt flats, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Nearby lies the Kendirli Salt Flat, a dazzling white expanse that feels otherworldly. Guests may choose to take an evening walk across the salt flat, a round trip of about three hours, to experience its beauty up close. The day concludes with camping in the Karynzharyk Depression, where you can relax after an adventurous day and enjoy the mesmerizing desert night sky. Meals: Field breakfast, picnic lunch, hot dinner Accommodation: Camping in tents
Ustyurt National Preserve, Onere Spring, Karynzharyk Depression, Kendirli Salt Flat
- Zharmysh Village → Karynzharyk Depression (255 km)
Overnight: Karynzharyk Depression (Tent camping)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s journey covers 265 km on paved roads and 110 km off-road, with an approximate driving time of 6 hours 40 minutes. Begin with a stop in Zhanaozen City for lunch, a chance to rest and experience a local town along the route. The journey continues to Bokty Mount, a striking pyramid-shaped peak that rises dramatically from the desert, resembling a natural monument carved by time and wind. The day concludes at Kyzylkup, also known as Tiramisu Canyon due to its layered rock formations that resemble the famous dessert. Here, you can explore the canyon and enjoy a peaceful evening camping amidst this iconic landscape, surrounded by stunning desert scenery. Meals: Field breakfast, picnic lunch, hot dinner Accommodation: Camping in tents
Zhanaozen, Bokty Mountain, Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon
- Karynzharyk Depression → Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon (375 km)
Overnight: Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon (Tent camping)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s journey covers 5 km on paved roads and 90 km off-road, with an approximate driving time of 3 hours 40 minutes. Begin your day at Bozjyra National Park with a visit to the Mars Panorama viewpoint. From here, the cliffs and ridges stretch out in surreal formations, creating a landscape that feels almost extraterrestrial. Next, hike to Dragon Crest, a jagged ridge whose spine-like formations resemble the mythical dragon it is named after. Continue to the Bozjyra Fangs, the iconic twin limestone peaks that are among the most photographed landmarks in Mangystau. The adventure culminates with a visit to Bozzhira, venturing beneath the Fangs into an underground world of unusual rock formations. This area evokes a mysterious and magical atmosphere, perfect for exploration and photography. Camping: End the day camping beneath the majestic Fangs. Enjoy a hot dinner at the camp and spend the evening stargazing, reflecting on the day’s adventures, and soaking in the serene desert surroundings. Meals: Field breakfast, picnic lunch, hot dinner Accommodation: Camping in tents
Bozjyra (Boszhira)
- Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon → Bozjyra (Boszhira) (95 km)
Overnight: Bozjyra (Boszhira) (Tent camping)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s journey covers 310 km on paved roads and 80 km off-road, with an approximate driving time of 6 hours 35 minutes. Begin the day at Karaman Ata, one of Mangystau’s remarkable underground mosques. This revered site, carved directly into rock, offers insight into the region’s spiritual history and is a fascinating place to explore. Next, visit Ybyk (Porous Gorge), where unusual rock formations and deep fissures create an awe-inspiring landscape. The gorge’s dramatic geology evokes a sense of antiquity and highlights the raw power of nature, making it a perfect final exploration stop before concluding the journey. Afterward, return to Aktau, where the tour concludes. Upon arrival, participants are transferred to their hotel or the airport, depending on onward travel plans. Meals: Field breakfast, picnic lunch Accommodation: None (end of journey)
Karaman-Ata Underground Mosque, Ybykty Sai, Aktau
- Bozjyra (Boszhira) → Aktau (390 km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Download the itinerary
Tour Price
Group Tour Price
Share this tour privately
Travelling alone or as a couple? Join other travellers who want to take this tour privately, or post your own request. The private price per person drops as the group grows.
No open requests for this tour yet. Post the first one and we'll show it here and on the group requests page.
What's included
Included
- Transportation through the tour. Arrival pickup from the hotel or airport, and transfer to the tour start point.
- Guide: English-speaking local tour leader throughout the journey.
- Meals: Three meals per day featuring local cuisine, from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day. Complimentary camel milk products are also provided.
- Accommodation: 6 nights of tent camping with all camping equipment provided, plus 1 night in a shared traditional yurt.
- Activities & Access: All entrance fees to sites are included. Additional amenities include wet towels for refreshing the body.
- Insurance & Safety: Accident insurance coverage is included.
Not included
- Flights & Visas: International and domestic airfare and visa fees.
- Expenses: Tips for guides and drivers, personal shopping, and optional extras.
- Additional Accommodation: Hotels beyond what is included in the itinerary.
- Other Activities: Optional activities outside the planned program (riding, trekking, or plane rides not included).
- Note: In case of unexpected weather conditions such as storms, heavy rain, or strong winds, the group may be required to leave the campsite and move to the nearest guesthouse for safety. Please note that this alternative accommodation will be at an additional cost.
Nargiza is the office manager of Central Asia Guide and mostly responsible for multi country "Stan" tours.
Where you'll stay
-
Night 1
Kapamsay Canyon
Camping in tents at Kapamsai Canyon or similar
-
Night 2
Airakty – Valley of Castles
Camping in tents at Airakty or similar
-
Night 3
Tuzbair Salt Flat
Camping in tents at Tuzbair or similar
-
Night 4
Zharmysh Village
Shared yurt at the camp or similar
-
Night 5
Karynzharyk Depression
Camping in tents in the Karynzharyk Depression or similar
-
Night 6
Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon
Camping in tents at Kyzylkup or similar
-
Night 7
Bozjyra (Boszhira)
Camping in tents beneath the Bozjyra Fangs or similar
Good to know
- Each day starts at about 9:00 and ends at about 19:00.
- Please leave large luggage in Aktau – luggage storage is included.
- Alcohol is not allowed during the tour.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women or people with disabilities.
What to bring
- Sunglasses
- Hiking shoes
- Towel
- Hygiene supplies
Toilets, showers and electricity
Because of the remote desert environment, permanent shower facilities are limited in Mangystau. These options help you stay refreshed during the tour.
- Wet towels (included): disposable wet towels for basic body hygiene – up to 5 per person per night (200 × 280 mm), at no extra cost.
- Mobile camping shower (optional): a shower tent with a manual pump and watering can and 5 liters of water per person per day; one shower tent and one pump per group (1–9 people share one setup). Recommended for cycling, hiking, trekking and multi-day adventure tours. Price: 30 USD per car / per group (up to 3 people).
- Shower stops (optional): on the way you can take a shower at selected places – the Kogez Yurt Ethno Village, the Tuzbair lunch stop, Zhanaozen town and Kyzylsay village – for about 2–3 USD per person, subject to availability.
- Toilets: on the road and at the camps, toilets are in nature; a camping toilet can be provided for an extra charge.
- Electricity: a 12 V socket in the vehicle (charging may be slow) and, depending on the package, a 220 V generator at the camping stops. Please bring your own power bank.
Water is scarce in the region, so please use it responsibly. Availability may vary with the route, season and local conditions.
Kazakhstan travel information
Practical essentials for travelling in Kazakhstan. Open a topic to read more.
Visa policy
Find your country from the list and check possible visa requirements for Kazakhstan before booking.
The official currency is the tenge (KZT), and Kazakhstan has the most advanced banking system in the region.
ATMs and exchange
ATMs are widespread in the major cities, in banks, hotels and shopping centres, but most dispense only tenge. Every city has exchange offices for US dollars, euros, roubles, pounds, Chinese yuan and Kyrgyz som, and changing dollars or euros into tenge is easy at banks and exchange offices.
Paying by card
International cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and large supermarkets. Smaller shops usually take cash only and often have little change, so carry smaller notes.
The security situation is stable, but it can change. A few precautions go a long way.
Documents
Always carry original identification such as your passport, as police patrols may ask for it. When approached by a police officer, driver or official, ask to see their identification.
Crime and scams
- Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag theft and car break-ins is common. Keep valuables out of sight and be vigilant, especially at night.
- Never leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers.
- Be careful of online scams.
- Stay away from demonstrations and political gatherings, and leave the area if there is unrest nearby.
Getting around
- Avoid walking alone and arrange transport in advance. Do not use unofficial taxis.
- On trains, keep your passport and travel documents safe and lock the compartment, especially on night trains.
- Roads are well maintained in and around the major cities, but rural roads may be in poor condition.
Laws and customs
- Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is banned near schools, playgrounds and medical facilities, in public places such as museums, public transport, airports, stations and underpasses, and in cars carrying children.
- Possessing or using illegal drugs can lead to a long prison sentence.
- Photography is restricted near military sites, border areas, airports and some official buildings. Avoid sharing images that could be seen as disrespectful to religion, culture or national symbols.
- Same-sex relationships are not illegal, but tolerance varies, especially outside the major cities.
Kazakhstan's visa rules depend on your passport. Check whether you need a visa for your visit.
Passport
If you enter visa-free, your passport only needs to be valid for the length of your stay. With a visa, it must be valid for six months beyond the end of your stay.
Visas and registration
For a tourist visa from an embassy or an electronic visa, you first need a letter of invitation (LOI). You may need to register after arriving in the country.
The best times to visit Kazakhstan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), avoiding the hot summers and snowy winters.
Summer and winter
Kazakhstan has a harsh continental climate, at its most extreme in the central steppe and around the capital, Astana. Temperatures can rise above 40°C in June to August and drop to −20°C in December to February.
Before you travel, make sure the places you are going can provide any medical help you might need, and that your travel insurance covers treatment and unexpected medical evacuation.
Medical care
Medical staff often speak little English.
Medicines
Non-prescription medicines are easy to buy. For prescription medicines you need a prescription from a local doctor, or a foreign prescription translated into Kazakh or Russian.
Similar tours
More tours in Kazakhstan you may like.
Four Stan Tour through Central Asia
Discover the legendary Silk Road on this 18-day small-group tour through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and…
The Best of the Five Stan Tour
Embark on a 22-day journey through all five countries of Central Asia, beginning in Bishkek and ending in Ashgabat. In…
Five Stans of Central Asia Tour
Start on an extraordinary adventure across the heart of Central Asia with our Five Stan Tour, exploring the unique…
Tour updated