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Altyn Emel National Park

Kazakhstan, Asia

Altyn Emel National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the striking Singing Dunes and vivid colored mountains. Visitors can experience unique geological formations, rich biodiversity, and the chance to spot rare wildlife such as the Altai argali. The park offers a blend of adventure and tranquility, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike. Its remote beauty and cultural significance add to its allure, inviting travelers off the beaten path for an unforgettable exploration of Kazakhstan's natural heritage.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Almaty

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Altyn Emel National Park

1. Explore the Singing Dunes

Witness the unique sound of moving sands; a natural wonder.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Visit the Aktau Mountains

Marvel at colorful rock formations and stunning landscapes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

3. Discover the Tamgaly Petroglyphs

See ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Hike in the Altyn Emel National Park

Experience diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery on foot.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

5. Explore the Ili River

Kayak or raft on the scenic Ili River.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

6. Visit the Kolsai Lakes

Explore stunning glacial lakes surrounded by mountains.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

5 hrs

7. Experience the local wildlife

Spot unique species in their natural habitats.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Visit the Charyn Canyon

Explore breathtaking landscapes and stunning rock formations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

9. Camp under the stars

Enjoy a night of camping amidst breathtaking nature.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

12 hrs

10. Visit the local villages

Experience the culture and hospitality of local communities.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Tenge

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Kazakh

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Besbarmak

Noodle dish with meat and broth (National dish)

Kazy

Horse meat sausage, a local delicacy

Plov

Rice dish with meat and vegetables

Kurt

VE

Dried curds, a traditional snack

Baursak

VE

Fried dough balls, sweet and fluffy

Phrases to learn

English

Kazakh

Hello

Salamatsyz

(Sah-lah-maht-siz)

Yes/No

Ia / Zhok

(Ee-ah / Zhok)

Thank you

Rahmet

(Rah-met)

Excuse me

KeshiriƱiz

(Ke-she-reen-iz)

How much?

Qansha?

(Kahn-sha)