Altyn-Emel Park: Kazakhstan's natural treasure

Nestled in the heart of Kazakhstan, in the Almaty region, Altyn-Emel National Park is a true gem for nature lovers, adventurers, and culture enthusiasts.

With its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, this park deserves a prime spot on your itinerary.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

The must-see highlights of Altyn-Emel National Park

Aktau Mountains

The Aktau Mountains give the impression of walking on the surface of Mars. They were formed from sediments that accumulated over tens of millions of years, first at the bottom of the ancient Tethys Ocean, then in a vast lake.

Despite their Kazakh name, which means “white mountains,” these layers of clay and chalk now form red, ochre, green, and bluish strata. Gorges and canyons cut through them for about thirty kilometers.

A veritable open-air museum, the site offers a glimpse into the region’s history, from the retreat of the waters to the emergence of this desert landscape. Paleontologists have also unearthed fossils of rhinoceroses, crocodiles, and turtles dating back some 30 million years.

Excavations in the Aktau Mountains have uncovered remains of Cenozoic-era fauna, including rhinoceroses, crocodiles, and the fossil of Brontotherium, an ancestor of the hippopotamus. Plant fossils, such as poplars and willows, show the evolution of the local climate.

The unique and spectacular landscapes attract hiking, photography, and geology enthusiasts, providing an ideal setting for excursions and camping. The mountains are also popular for cycling, although motorcycles are prohibited in the canyons due to rock erosion.

The singing dune

The singing dune, or singing barkhan, the main attraction of Altyn-Emel National Park, is a quartz sand dune with no vegetation, famous for its unique sound resembling a deep hum.

This rare phenomenon is produced by the friction of the sand grains, emitting an audible noise over several kilometers. It is considered one of the seven natural wonders of Kazakhstan.

Located in the southern part of the park, the singing dune, which is 3 km long and 150 meters high, was formed around 200,000 years ago due to geological changes in the region.

It is easy to climb the dune, which offers a breathtaking view of the park.

Tamgaly-Tas petroglyphs

On the way from Almaty to Altyn-Emel National Park, about 120 km north of the city, the cliffs of Tamgaly-Tas rise along the right bank of the Ili River. This open-air Buddhist sanctuary features large carvings of Buddhist deities, including the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, alongside Tibetan inscriptions such as the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”.

Most were carved in the 17th century, when the Buddhist Oirat-Dzungars controlled the region, although legend traces the site back to a Buddhist mission in the 10th century. Older petroglyphs of animals and human figures can also be found on the surrounding rocks.

🧭 The Altyn-Emel National Park is part of our 3 to 5 day 4x4 road trips in the Almaty region. If you're interested in this idea, feel free to contact us via Instagram, Whatsapp, email (info@easternpaths.com) or book a call for any other travel project!

Practical tips

What to take for your visit to Altyn-Emel National Park?

• Clothing suitable for the climate: Summers are very dry and hot (be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen), and winters are cold (thermal clothing is recommended).
• Good hiking shoes.
• Bring enough water: there are no water sources.

Environmental protection

The park is a protected area. Be sure to respect the wildlife and flora by staying on marked trails and bringing bags to carry your waste with you.

Accommodation

Several accommodation options are available near the park, mainly in the village of Basshi, ranging from designated camping areas to hotels, yurts, and guesthouses.

Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak season.

🛌 You can also contact us so we can help you organize a weekend with a night staying with locals!

Access to the park

From Almaty:

• By car: The park is located about 250 km northeast of Almaty, a 4- to 5-hour drive. You can rent a car or hire a driver. Take the A3 highway (toll road until Konaev, formerly Kapchagai), then continue through Shengeldy and Saryozek. Then turn off toward Jarkent and cross the Altyn-Emel Pass to the village of Basshi, where the park’s main office is located. This is where you’ll purchase your entry permit. Inside the park, the sites are spread out and connected by dirt roads: a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended.
• By bus: Buses regularly depart from Almaty to the village of Basshi. Once in Basshi, you will need to take a taxi or rent a vehicle to reach the park.

Entrance fees to Altyn-Emel National Park vary depending on the season and type of visit. Generally, the entrance fees for foreigners are around 2000 to 4000 KZT (approximately 4 to 8 EUR) per person. Additional fees may apply if you wish to visit specific areas or hire a guide. It is recommended to check the updated fees on the park's official website before your visit.

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