Mangistau – Karynzharyk Tour

8 days Aktau → Aktau

Best Time Apr–Oct

Tour Style Group Tour

Tour Type Hiking, Jeep (4x4), Nature

Difficulty Moderate

Group Size Max 9 travellers

Choose dates From $1,350 per person, group tour≈ $169 / day

Accommodation, guides, transport included. $81 deposit, balance one month 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.

Karynzharyk Depression – a deep desert hollow with the Kendirli salt flat and the Three Brothers peaks
Bozjyra – Mars Panorama, Dragon Crest and the iconic twin limestone Fangs, with a night camping beneath them
Tuzbair Salt Flat – sparkling white salt plains, the White Arch and colourful canyons
Torysh – Valley of Balls – a desert valley scattered with thousands of round boulders
Sherkala and Airakty – the yurt-shaped mountain and the Valley of Castles
Kyzylkup – Tiramisu Canyon – layered red and orange slopes resembling the famous cake
Shakpak-Ata and Karaman-Ata – ancient mosques carved into the rock

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.

Mangustay Valley of balls or the devil's balls

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)