Unforgettable 3 days in Mangystau Tour

Total distance: 185 km on-road & 40 km off-road | Approx. duration: 5 hours driving. The day begins with a pickup at 8:00 AM from Aktau Airport for arriving travelers, while guests staying in hotels will be picked up at 8:30 AM. All participants are transferred to the local office, where payments are completed and a short tour briefing takes place. This is also a chance to rest and prepare before departure. At 9:00 AM, the journey officially starts from the local office. The first destination is Akespe Chalk Canyon, famous for its striking white cliffs and dramatic chalk formations, creating one of the most unique landscapes in the Mangystau region. Next, the route continues to Torysh - the Valley of Balls, where visitors can explore the mysterious spherical rock formations that remain one of the area’s most fascinating geological features. The third stop is Kokala - the Jurassic Clays, known for its colorful purple gorge and ancient rock layers that showcase millions of years of geological history. Afterwards, the tour proceeds to Sherkala Mountain, often called the “Sphinx of Mangystau,” admired for its distinctive yurt-like shape and panoramic views. The final destination of the day is Airakty - Valley of Castle-Shaped Mountains, where travelers can walk among unique rock formations resembling ancient fortresses. The day ends with an overnight stay in tent camping under the open desert sky.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Total distance: 210 km on-road & 110 km off-road | Approx. duration: 5.5 hours driving. The day begins with departure from Airakty and continues towards Zhanaozen City, where there is a planned stop for lunch at the Adal café. Here, guests can also refuel and visit a local market if needed. During the summer season, an additional one-hour rest is included at the café, allowing time to relax with cold drinks and Wi-Fi before continuing the journey in the cooler part of the day, as midday temperatures can reach up to 45°C. After the break, the route continues to Kyzylkup (Tiramisu) Canyon, a spectacular natural site known for its layered, dessert-like formations. The canyon’s vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange create a striking landscape that is ideal for exploration and photography. The journey then proceeds to Bokty Mountain, a dramatic and isolated rock formation rising sharply from the surrounding steppe. Its unique, fortress-like shape and changing colors make it one of the most impressive natural landmarks in the region. In the evening, the group arrives at Bozjyra – Under the Fang Formations, where camp is set up beneath the towering limestone cliffs. This remote location offers a peaceful atmosphere and unforgettable stargazing opportunities in the desert silence.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Total distance: 210 km on road & 40 km off-road | Approx. duration: 4 hours driving. Begin the day in the Bozjyra area (Upper viewpoint / Fang formations), where you’ll explore the iconic limestone spires that rise dramatically from the desert landscape—one of the most striking natural sights in the Mangystau region. Next, continue to the Mars Panorama viewpoint, where you can take in sweeping views of Bozjyra’s cliffs and terrain, resembling an alien or Martian surface when seen from above. After that, head to Dragon Crest, a rugged limestone ridge shaped like a dragon’s spine. This spot offers a memorable final viewpoint over the unique rock formations. At the end of the tour, return to Aktau City.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch