Day 1 · Arrival in Aktau

Khush keldiniz means welcome! Arrive at Aktau Airport, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel for check-in. Rest at the hotel. Overnight in Aktau.

Day 2 · Aktau, Torysh, Sherkala and Kogez

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the Jeep tour of the Mangystau region. The first stop is Torysh, famous for its many ball-shaped rock formations scattered across the valley. Continue to Sherkala, an unusually shaped mountain crowned by the remains of a fortress once used as a watchtower on the Silk Road. Visit the Ayrakty Shomanay Mountains, known as the Valley of Castles, then accommodation in a yurt camp in Kogez. Dinner and overnight in Kogez.

Day 3 · Boszhira, Kyzylkup and Janaozen

Early breakfast and departure to Boszhira, one of the most visited places in Mangystau thanks to its unique rock formations and wide desert views. Continue to Kyzylkup Valley, also known as Tiramisu Canyon, with colorful layers of orange, yellow, red, brown and white. Check in at the hotel in Janaozen and dinner. Overnight in Janaozen.

Day 4 · Ybykty Canyon, Karaman Ata and Aktau

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Ybykty Canyon in the Kabyrga tract, a place often called Openwork Canyon or porous chocolate because of its unusual textures. Continue to Karaman Ata Necropolis and Underground Mosque, dating from the 13th to 19th centuries. Return by 4x4 Jeep to Aktau, accommodation and dinner at a restaurant. Overnight in Aktau.

Day 5 · Aktau Departure

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 11:59. Transfer to the international airport for the flight home. Khayir sogh buliniz — Kazakh traditional farewell and good wishes. End of tour.

Cost of the Tour Includes

• Hotel accommodation in double or twin room sharing.
• All transfers and full transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• English-speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to sights, museums and mausoleums.
• Halal meals at local restaurants and national cafés.
• 0.5L mineral water per person per day.

Cost of the Tour Does Not Include

• International airfare to and from Kazakhstan.
• Dinners in Aktau.
• Fees for photo and video cameras at monuments.
• Tips for local staff.
• Personal expenses and any services not included in the itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mangystau is spring, especially April and May, or autumn, especially September and October, when temperatures are milder and sightseeing is more comfortable.

Climate

Mangystau has an arid desert climate with minimal rainfall. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cold and windy. Dust storms may occur during the year.

Visa and Registration

Citizens of many countries can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days. Visitors staying longer than 5 days may need registration, usually handled by the hotel or host.