We leave Almaty in the morning and travel east toward the wide open landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan. As the city fades behind us, the road passes through small towns, steppe scenery, and dry mountain foothills before reaching Bas'shi, the northern gateway to Altyn-Emel National Park.

After completing the park entrance formalities, we continue into the protected area, where the landscape becomes quieter, wider, and more remote. On the way to the Singing Dune, we stop at the ancient Oshaktas stone monuments, a small but atmospheric site set in the open steppe.

The highlight of the day is the legendary Singing Dune, rising alone from the flat desert plain near the Ili River valley. Its long golden ridge stretches between the Greater and Lesser Kalkan Mountains, creating one of the most memorable natural scenes in Kazakhstan. Under dry and windy conditions, the shifting sand produces a deep humming sound, giving the dune its famous name.

Weather permitting, we walk along the dune's sharp ridge, enjoying open views across the desert, mountains, and distant river valley. The landscape feels simple, powerful, and beautifully untouched - a first glimpse of the wild character of Altyn-Emel. Later, we continue to our overnight location. Depending on the selected option, we stay in a local guesthouse in Bas'shi or camp near the Aktau Hills, surrounded by the silence of the national park.

Highlights of the Day:

• Enter Altyn-Emel National Park through Bas'shi, the park's northern gateway, and visit the Oshaktas stone monuments, set in the open steppe landscape.
• Walk the Singing Dune, one of Kazakhstan's most iconic natural landmarks.

Travel Details: Driving: Expected travel distance: ~355 km / Time ~7 hours; Walking: ~2 hours, ~2.5 km, +140 m / -140 m, from 515 m to 655 m; Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Bas'shi village or tent camping in Aktau Hills.

The morning begins in the quiet heart of Altyn-Emel National Park. After breakfast, we set out to explore the Aktau Mountains, a landscape of gentle hills, open ridges, and natural corridors shaped by time. The walking route is adjusted to the overnight location, but the experience remains the same - a slow journey through one of the park's most striking corners.

Aktau is a place of color and silence. Pale slopes, warm red bands, yellow clay, and soft pink layers rise from the desert floor, creating a scene that feels both ancient and delicate. We walk among the formations, following natural lines through the hills and frequently pausing to take in the expansive views across the surrounding steppe.

Later, the landscape changes again as we continue to Katutau. Here, the scenery becomes darker and more rugged, with volcanic rocks shaped into unusual forms by the desert climate. This stark contrast to the softer beauty of Aktau serves as another reminder of the diverse landscapes hidden within Altyn-Emel.

After lunch, we begin the return journey to Almaty. Along the way, we stop at a small oasis and an old willow tree - a quiet, green place in the dry steppe. We arrive back in Almaty in the evening, ending this short but memorable journey through the wild landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan.

Highlights of the Day:

• Explore the Aktau Mountains, walking among colorful hills, ridges, and natural desert corridors.
• Experience the contrast of Katutau, with its darker volcanic scenery and unusual rock shapes.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~380 km / Time ~6 hours; Walking: ~2–3 hours, ~7–9 km, +160 m / -160 m, from 555 m to 716 m.