Altyn Emel National Park
Home of the Singing Dunes and Kazakhstan's Wild Beauty
Altyn Emel National Park is a vast protected wilderness covering 4,600 square kilometers of otherworldly landscapes in southeastern Kazakhstan. Established in 1996, this remarkable park is home to the famous Singing Dunes, the multi-colored Aktau and Katutau mountains, ancient burial mounds, and rare wildlife including the endangered Przewalski's horse.
The park's name, meaning "Golden Saddle" in Kazakh, refers to the yellow-brown mountains that glow golden at sunset. Located 250 kilometers from Almaty in the Ili River valley, Altyn Emel offers visitors an extraordinary journey through geological formations spanning millions of years, from the Cretaceous period to the present day. This UNESCO-nominated site represents one of Central Asia's most unique and pristine natural environments.
Location
Must-See Attractions
Singing Dunes (Aynkum)
The park's most famous feature: a 3km-long, 150m-high sand dune that produces mysterious humming sounds when sand cascades down its slopes. Best experienced in dry, windy conditions. The phenomenon occurs when sand grains vibrate at specific frequencies. Climb to the top for spectacular 360-degree desert views.
Aktau Mountains
Breathtaking multi-colored mountains displaying layers of white, red, pink, and yellow sediments from the ancient Tethys Ocean. These Cretaceous-period formations (65-70 million years old) contain fossils and create Mars-like landscapes perfect for photography. Best light during golden hour.
Katutau Mountains
Volcanic rock formations creating a dramatic moonscape of red and black stones. Unlike the sedimentary Aktau, these are ancient lava flows. The weathered rocks form unusual shapes and patterns. Less crowded than Aktau but equally impressive.
Bes-Shatyr Burial Mounds
Ancient Saka royal burial mounds (kurgans) dating from 6th-4th century BCE. The largest mound is 17 meters high and 104 meters in diameter. Archaeological excavations have revealed gold artifacts and evidence of nomadic culture. UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate.
700-Year-Old Willow
A massive ancient willow tree with a trunk circumference of over 12 meters, estimated to be 700+ years old. Local legend says it grants wishes. Located near a spring in the desert, this tree has survived centuries and is considered sacred.
Kokbastau Petroglyphs
Bronze Age rock carvings (4,000-5,000 years old) depicting animals, hunting scenes, and shamanic rituals. Over 1,000 petroglyphs across several sites. Provides insight into ancient nomadic life and spiritual practices.
Wildlife & Nature
Przewalski's Horses
See the world's only truly wild horse species, successfully reintroduced to Kazakhstan. Small herds roam the park. These stocky, short-maned horses were extinct in the wild until conservation efforts brought them back.
Desert Wildlife
Home to over 200 vertebrate species: Persian gazelles, kulans (Asiatic wild ass), goitered gazelles, corsac foxes, wolves, and golden eagles. Spring and fall are best for wildlife viewing. Bring binoculars.
Desert Flora
Unique desert ecosystem with saxaul forests, tamarisk shrubs, and ephemeral spring wildflowers. Over 600 plant species adapted to harsh conditions. Spring (March-May) brings colorful blooms to the desert.
Photography Paradise
Unparalleled landscape photography opportunities with colorful mountains, vast deserts, and dramatic lighting. Sunrise and sunset provide the most stunning colors. Milky Way photography at night is spectacular.
Overnight Camping
Stay in guesthouses at Basshi village or camp under the stars. Multi-day trips allow deeper exploration. Experience desert night skies with minimal light pollution. Camping permits required and available through park office.
4WD Adventures
Explore remote areas via unpaved desert roads. Most attractions require off-road capable vehicles. Organized tours provide drivers, guides, and all logistics. Self-driving possible but challenging navigation.
Practical Information
Getting There & Access
- From Almaty: 250km, approximately 4-5 hours drive
- Park entrance: Near Basshi village (220km from Almaty)
- Transportation: Organized tours recommended (most common)
- Self-driving: Possible with 4WD vehicle, GPS essential
- No public transport: Must arrange private transport
- Park permit: Required, obtain at park office in Basshi
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temperatures (15-25°C)
- Fall (September-October): Ideal weather, clear skies, comfortable hiking
- Summer (June-August): Very hot (35-45°C), early morning visits essential
- Winter (Nov-March): Cold (-10 to 5°C), snow possible, fewer tourists
- Singing Dunes: Best in dry, windy conditions (late spring/summer)
Costs & Permits
- Park entry: ~700 KZT per person
- Vehicle fee: Additional charge for cars
- Guide fee: Recommended and sometimes required
- Organized tours: 25,000-40,000 KZT per person (1-2 days)
- Accommodation: Guesthouses in Basshi ~5,000-10,000 KZT/night
- Camping: Permit required, minimal fee
Essential Tips
- Water: Bring 3-4 liters per person (no sources in park)
- Sun protection: Intense desert sun, SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses
- Fuel: Fill up in Almaty or Saryozek, no stations in park
- Food: Pack all meals and snacks, limited options in Basshi
- Navigation: Download offline maps, GPS recommended
- Phone signal: Limited or absent, inform someone of plans
- Multi-day trips: Allow 2-3 days to see main attractions
- Respect wildlife: View from distance, no feeding
