Almaty - Altyn Emel NP - Singing Dune

Qonaev - To see the Dune, we need to enter Altyn Emel NP from Bas’shi village (northern entry).

So, will start moving by a new highway from Almaty in a northern direction, passing by Konaev (local Las Vegas - a city of casinos) and Sary Ozek.

Singing Barkhan - In Bas’shi there will be a short stop for Park’s entry registration, and in few next kilometers the first adventure starts! The roads inside a Park look more ground trails;

we will be driving on a SUV through the endless steppes, surrounded by herds of amazing animals - Persian gazelles, kulans (Turkmenian donkeys), camels. On a way to the Dune, we will stop to discover ancient dolmens Oshaktas – a few thousand years old monument made of stones.
The Dune will appear suddenly, like a mirage in the desert. It definitely worth a visit, so do not miss an opportunity to hike along its sharp ridge.
Singing Dune is located in the valley of Ili River, about 2 kilometres from the river in its right bank. Its overall height is 150m and length about 3 kilometres. The ridge of the unique sand dune is sharp as a blade. The sand crumbles underneath your feet, but the ridge does not get blunt, in windy weather it is capable of making sound resembling low hum of jet aircraft.

Basshi - After a lunch at a Dune’s foot we get back to the Park’s entry and accommodate at a cozy guest house (run by a local family). Take dinner and stay overnight.

• Three nights of tent camping with all gear provided
• Five breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
• Accommodations in Kolsai and Bas’shi guest houses
• Entry to national parks and special areas
• Private transportation for the entire tour
• Services of an English-speaking guide
• Continuous supply of drinking water

• Rent of personal clothes/shoes, hiking gear (like backpacks)
• Personal expenses like souvenirs, calls etc.
• Menu does not include soft and alcohol drinks, snacks