The Land of White Giants
Tour Itinerary:
Duration: 4 nights / 5 days
Day 1
- Meeting at Aktau Airport with a sign “MLTour” and transfer to the city.
- Stop at Zhygylgan Sinkhole.
- Transfer to Shakpak-Ata area.
- Visit to the Shakpak-Ata Complex.
- Overnight stay at the Sartas Visitor Center.
The name “Zhygylgan”, meaning “Fallen Earth” in Kazakh, perfectly describes this massive natural formation — a 50-meter-deep sinkhole covering nearly 9 square kilometers. This dramatic landscape of collapsed limestone slabs and rocky debris tells the story of geological upheavals that occurred thousands of years ago.
Shakpak-Ata is an ancient underground mosque and necropolis carved directly into the rock. Learn about the history of this sacred site and its spiritual significance for local people. Feel the connection between past and present as you step into this centuries-old place of worship.
Day 2
- Departure from Shakpak-Ata.
- Visit to the Torysh Valley of Balls.
- Visit to Kok-Kala Gorge.
- Sightseeing of Mount Sherkala.
- Visit to the Valley of Castles – Airakty.
- Transfer and overnight stay in the Kogez Ethno Village.
Start your day in Torysh, the mysterious Valley of Balls — a unique natural phenomenon where thousands of perfectly round stone spheres are scattered across the steppe. According to legend, these are petrified enemies who once tried to conquer this land.
Continue to Kok-Kala, the “Blue Fortress” — a striped mountain that stands out vividly against the surrounding plains. Climb to the top to admire panoramic views of Mangystau’s wild landscapes.
Next, explore Mount Sherkala, one of the main symbols of Mangystau. Its name means “Lion’s Fortress” in Persian. This solitary limestone mountain resembles a Kazakh yurt, an inverted bowl, or a sleeping lion — depending on your viewpoint.
Then visit Airakty, known as the Valley of Castles. Its fortress-like cliffs and towers were shaped by wind and water over millions of years. The name was coined by the Ukrainian poet and artist Taras Shevchenko, who was exiled to Mangystau in the 19th century and made the first sketches of these mountains.
Day 3
- Early departure to Tuzbair Salt Flat.
- Exploration of Tuzbair’s chalk cliffs and canyons.
- Return to Kogez Yurt Camp.
The white chalk cliffs of Tuzbair create surreal, moon-like landscapes. This vast salt flat is one of the most photogenic spots in Mangystau — endless white plains reflecting the sky above. Mirages often shimmer on the horizon, giving the illusion of distant water. After rain, the surface turns into a giant mirror where the sky and earth merge into one breathtaking reflection.
Day 4
- Transfer to Bozzhira Canyon.
- Exploration of the canyon.
- Overnight stay in tents.
A true gem of Mangystau, Bozzhira stuns visitors with its grandeur and beauty. The famous “Bozzhira Fangs” — two sharp white limestone peaks — rise dramatically above the desert.
Climb to the panoramic viewpoint for an unforgettable vista of the canyon, then descend to its base to experience the sheer scale and silence of this ancient landscape.
Day 5
- Early wake-up to witness sunrise over Bozzhira.
- Transfer to Mount Bokty (featured on the 1000 tenge banknote).
- Visit to Kyzylkup (Tiramisu Hills).
- Return to Aktau and transfer to the airport for departure.
The Kyzylkup area, nicknamed “Tiramisu”, features striking red-and-white striped hills formed by layers of ancient chalk and clay. The name was given by local guides — the colorful slopes resemble the famous Italian dessert. It’s one of the most picturesque and photogenic locations in western Kazakhstan.
Included:
- All transfers by 4WD vehicle (max. 4 passengers)
- Professional guide throughout the route
- Accommodation at Sartas Visitor Center, Kogez Yurt Camp, and Zhanozen Hotel (twin rooms and 4-bed yurts)
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner; except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 5)
- Mandatory travel insurance
- Entrance fees to all sites listed in the program
Not included:
- Kazakhstan visa (if applicable)
- Domestic and international flights to/from Aktau
- Personal hygiene items
- Tips and personal expenses
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