The Enchanting Singing Dune of Kazakhstan
Discover the mystical Singing Dune in Kazakhstan, where the sands sing and adventure awaits amidst stunning desert landscapes.
The Singing Dune, located in the picturesque region of Kazakhstan, is a remarkable natural attraction that draws visitors from around the globe. This towering sand formation, often reaching heights of over 120 meters, is famous not just for its height, but for the enchanting sounds it produces. When the winds shift and the sands are disturbed, the dune emits a low, melodious sound, often described as singing or humming, which has intrigued scientists and tourists alike. The dune is surrounded by a stunning desert landscape, providing a perfect backdrop for photos and exploration. Adventurous tourists can hike up its slopes and, upon reaching the top, are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The experience of standing atop the dune, feeling the winds and hearing its unique song, is one that many describe as spiritual and awe-inspiring. Visitors should plan their trip to the Singing Dune during the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are more pleasant, and the light casts a beautiful glow over the sands. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and if you're lucky, you might just catch the dune singing a tune of its own. This natural wonder is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the beauty and mystery of Kazakhstan's landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the dune, as the sand can be challenging to walk on.
- Listen carefully to the sounds of the dune; the singing is most pronounced when the winds are just right.
A brief summary to Singing dune
- VH6C+M25, KZ
- Monday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving, navigate to the Charyn Canyon National Park entrance. From there, follow the main road towards the canyon for about 30 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Singing Dune, which is located approximately 10 kilometers from the main canyon viewpoint. The coordinates for Singing Dune are approximately 43.8616417 latitude and 78.570115 longitude. Once you arrive at the parking area, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the dune itself, so wear comfortable shoes.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Singing Dune via public transportation, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Almaty to Charyn Canyon. The journey takes about 4-5 hours. Upon arrival at the Charyn Canyon entrance, you may need to hire a taxi or look for local transport options to get closer to Singing Dune, as public transport does not reach the dune directly. Expect to pay around 1,500 to 3,000 Tenge for the taxi ride. After reaching the parking area, it is a 15-20 minute walk to the dune.
-
Hiking
For the adventurous traveler, you can hike to Singing Dune from the canyon area. Start at the main viewpoint and follow the trails that lead towards the dune, which is about 5 kilometers away. This hike will take approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on your pace. Ensure you have enough water and wear suitable hiking gear.
Attractions Nearby to Singing dune
-
Poyushchiy Barkhan
-
Rodnik Shokana Ualikhanova
-
Oshaktas Steles / Стелы Ошактас
-
Мыңбұлақ
-
700 year old willow. House of the park ranger.
-
Altyn Emel National Park
-
Sakskiye Kurgany Besshatyr
-
Bala Boguty
-
Shygan post and lodge
-
Viewpoint of Infinity Road
-
NP Altyn-Emel' Visit center
-
Post #2
-
Bugyty mountain - Красные горы
-
Karabulak (Shoqan camp) gorge
-
Zhogargy Baz
