Discover the Wonders of Altyn Emel National Park

Explore the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history of Altyn Emel National Park in Kazakhstan, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

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Kazakhstan
Semirechye Seven Rivers
Altyn Emel National Park

Altyn Emel National Park, a breathtaking natural sanctuary in Kazakhstan, beckons tourists with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Spanning vast terrains, this national park offers an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and tranquility. From the mesmerizing singing sand dunes to ancient petroglyphs, every corner reveals a new treasure waiting to be explored.

A brief summary to Altyn Emel National Park

Науаи көшесі 208/2, Алматы, KZ
+77056102511

Local tips

Visit the Singing Sand Dunes early in the morning to hear the unique sounds without the crowds.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and deeper understanding of the park's history and ecology.
Check the weather forecast ahead of your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the region.
Plan to stay overnight to fully appreciate the stargazing opportunities and the park's tranquil beauty.

Getting There

Car

If you are starting from Almaty, take the A2 highway towards Taldykorgan. After approximately 130 km, you will see signs for Altyn Emel National Park. Exit onto the road leading to the park entrance at the village of Basshi. The total drive will take about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Ensure you have a reliable GPS or a map, as the roads may not always be well-marked. There may be a small entrance fee to the park, which is collected at the entrance.
Public Transportation

From Almaty, you can take a bus from the Sayakhat Bus Station to the town of Qapshaghai. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once in Qapshaghai, you can hire a taxi or find a local minibus heading towards Basshi. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your ride. The total cost for this leg of the journey should be around 1500-2000 KZT for the bus and another 2000-3000 KZT for the taxi or minibus. Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee at the park.
Tour Service

For a more comfortable experience, consider booking a guided tour from Almaty that includes transportation to Altyn Emel National Park. Many tour companies offer packages that include a guide, transport, and sometimes meals. The cost for a full-day tour typically starts at around 15,000 KZT per person. This option is great for those who prefer not to drive or navigate public transport, as the guide will handle all logistics.

Discover more about Altyn Emel National Park

Altyn Emel National Park is a magnificent expanse of pristine nature located in Kazakhstan, renowned for its diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery. Covering over 460,000 hectares, the park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique blend of mountains, deserts, and rivers. One of the park's most iconic features is the Singing Sand Dunes, which produce a resonant sound when the wind passes over them, creating a mystical atmosphere that captivates visitors. As you traverse through the park, you will also encounter the majestic Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its awe-inspiring vistas and geological formations. The park is not just a feast for the eyes; it is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot rare species such as the snow leopard, the golden eagle, and the wild goat. Birdwatchers can take advantage of the diverse bird population, including migratory species that visit the park throughout the year. Altyn Emel National Park also holds historical significance, with ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks, providing a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants. Visitors can engage in a multitude of activities, from hiking and horseback riding to stargazing under the clear night sky. The park's natural beauty is complemented by its tranquility, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and connection with nature. With well-maintained paths and informative guides, navigating through this national treasure is both accessible and enriching.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Gostinitsa Altyn Yemel'

18.2 km

Discover comfort and natural beauty at Gostinitsa Altyn Yemel' in Kalinino, your ideal base for exploring Kazakhstan's stunning landscapes.

Sharyn River

52.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of the Sharyn River, a stunning natural gem in Kazakhstan, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Cherepash'i Gory

57.4 km

Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Cherepash'i Gory, a serene and picturesque attraction in Sarytobe, Kazakhstan.

Charyn

68.2 km

Explore the breathtaking Charyn River Canyon, a natural wonder in Kazakhstan with stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures awaiting every traveler.

Бекбау төбе

68.3 km

Explore the Bekbau Tower in Kayrat, a historical landmark that showcases architectural brilliance and offers a glimpse into Kazakhstan's rich cultural heritage.

Doroga V Storonu Charynskogo Kan'ona

72.6 km

Explore Charyn Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder in Kazakhstan, featuring stunning rock formations and exciting hiking adventures amidst vibrant landscapes.

Charyn Canyon Campground

75.2 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Charyn Canyon Campground, a natural wonder in Kazakhstan perfect for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

Визит-центр Altynemel

78.8 km

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Altynemel State Park, a natural gem in Kazakhstan offering unforgettable adventures and serene escapes.

Auliye Agash, 700 Letneye Derevo

84.4 km

Discover the serene beauty of Auliye Agash, a hidden tourist attraction in Auliyeagash, Kazakhstan, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.

Unmissable attractions to see

700 year old willow. House of the park ranger.

9.8 km

Explore the 700-year-old willow in Aktobe, a breathtaking natural attraction showcasing resilience, beauty, and the rich history of Kazakhstan's landscapes.

700 year old willow. House of the park ranger.

Shygan post and lodge

16.5 km

Discover the beauty of Kazakhstan's Altyn-Emel National Park at Shygan Post and Lodge, where adventure meets tranquility in nature's embrace.

NP Altyn-Emel' Visit center

18.3 km

Explore NP Altyn-Emel: A National Park of Breathtaking Landscapes, Unique Wildlife, and Rich History in Kazakhstan.

Rodnik Shokana Ualikhanova

25.5 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rodnik Shokana Ualikhanova, a national reserve in Kazakhstan ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.

Poyushchiy Barkhan

26.2 km

Explore the breathtaking sand dunes of Poyushchiy Barkhan, a must-visit natural wonder in Kazakhstan for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Viewpoint of Infinity Road

26.4 km

Discover the stunning views and serene beauty at the Viewpoint of Infinity Road, a must-visit tourist attraction in Kalinino, Kazakhstan.

Singing dune

26.6 km

Experience the magical sounds of nature at Singing Dune, a stunning natural attraction in Kazakhstan that captivates every traveler.

Oshaktas Steles / Стелы Ошактас

29.4 km

Explore the Oshaktas Steles, an archaeological wonder in Kazakhstan that reveals the ancient nomadic culture through stunning stone carvings.

Мыңбұлақ

29.4 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Mynbalaq, a serene tourist attraction in Kurchilik, Kazakhstan.

Aktau mountains

31.4 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty and unique geological formations of the Aktau Mountains, a natural paradise in Kazakhstan for adventure and serenity.

Gory Aktau

32.2 km

Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Gory Aktau, a hiking area in Kazakhstan known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.

Gory Katutau

32.4 km

Explore the majestic Gory Katutau, a stunning mountain peak in Kazakhstan, perfect for hiking and experiencing the beauty of untouched nature.

Gory Aktau - Panoramnaya Tochka

35.0 km

Explore the stunning panoramic views of Gory Aktau, a must-visit natural wonder in Kazakhstan showcasing unique geological formations.

Nayzatapqan / Найзатапқан

38.0 km

Explore Nayzatapqan, a scenic tourist attraction in Yntaly, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience.

Bala Boguty

38.2 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Bala Boguty, a must-visit tourist attraction in Kazakhstan.

Essential places to dine

Жібек жолы комплекс

61.3 km

Experience authentic Asian flavors at Жібек жолы комплекс in Masaq - where every dish tells a story.

Tary restaurant

74.0 km

Discover exquisite Western cuisine at Tary Restaurant in Tamerlik - where local flavors meet international culinary artistry.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Радуга дүкені

53.9 km

Discover the vibrant essence of Kazakhstan at Радуга дүкені, where local crafts and culture come together in a unique shopping experience.

Mini Market Zhibek Zholy

60.1 km

Explore the rich flavors of Kazakhstan at Mini Market Zhibek Zholy, your one-stop shop for local delicacies and unique souvenirs in Masaq.

Duken Magazin (Duken Supermarkt)

61.3 km

Discover the taste of Masaq at Duken Magazin, a grocery store filled with local flavors and international finds that enrich your travel experience.

Жетiсу Сауда

61.9 km

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Жетiсу Сауда, where local flavors and international products meet in the heart of Байсейіт.

Optovka

62.0 km

Explore Optovka in Байсейіт, a charming general store offering local crafts and unique souvenirs that reflect the culture of the region.

Luchshaya Tochka Na Rynke

62.0 km

Explore the vibrant flavors of Kazakhstan at Luchshaya Tochka Na Rynke, your go-to grocery store in Байсейіт for local delights and essentials.

Magazin

62.1 km

Discover the charm of local shopping at Magazin, a unique store in Байсейіт offering handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies.

Dino Milashka

62.2 km

Discover unique local treasures and immerse yourself in the culture at Dino Milashka in Байсейіт, a delightful shopping experience.

Magazinchik I Perekus

63.2 km

Explore local flavors and community spirit at Magazinchik I Perekus, your go-to grocery store in Kokpek, Kazakhstan.

Sultan Magazin

63.5 km

Experience local culture and charm at Sultan Magazin in Kh.bizhanov, offering unique souvenirs and a warm shopping atmosphere.

Tamirlan

63.8 km

Discover the vibrant culture of Kh.bizhanov at Tamirlan, where local craftsmanship meets authentic shopping experiences.

Pchelka

63.9 km

Explore Pchelka in Kh.bizhanov for a unique shopping experience showcasing local crafts and delicacies, reflecting the rich culture of the region.

Магазин Іңкәр

64.5 km

Explore Магазин Іңкәр in Shelek for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts, cultural treasures, and authentic Kazakhstan products.

Market

64.6 km

Discover the vibrant Market in Shelek, a cultural hub where local flavors and crafts come alive amidst a lively shopping atmosphere.

Magazin Salamandr I Dimash

64.8 km

Explore the vibrant local flavors at Magazin Salamandr I Dimash, a premier grocery store in Shelek, Kazakhstan, offering fresh produce and unique delicacies.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Kvest Dlya Zheludka

55.2 km

Discover Kvest Dlya Zheludka in Tashkarasu, a vibrant bar offering a unique blend of local and international flavors in an inviting atmosphere.

Domashneye Pivo I Ryba

64.2 km

Discover the charm of Shelek at Domashneye Pivo I Ryba, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await you.

Solovey

64.3 km

Discover Solovey in Shelek, a charming bar offering a unique selection of drinks in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Staraya

64.6 km

Experience the charm of Staraya in Shelek, a cozy bar offering local drinks and a warm atmosphere for travelers seeking authentic Kazakh hospitality.

Quadrat Bar

64.8 km

Discover Quadrat Bar in Shelek: a lively venue for signature drinks, friendly atmosphere, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.

Mazhor-Bar

64.9 km

Experience the lively atmosphere of Mazhor-Bar in Shelek, Kazakhstan, where local nightlife comes alive with drinks and camaraderie.

Uvazhayemyy Chelovek Perestan'te Kurit' Elektronnuyu Sigaretu

64.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Uvazhayemyy Chelovek Perestan'te Kurit' Elektronnuyu Sigaretu, where local culture meets delicious beverages in Shelek.

Bayterek

65.4 km

Discover Bayterek, a vibrant bar in Shelek offering a unique drink selection and an inviting atmosphere for all travelers.

Glebas Loshpek

74.3 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique local drinks at Glebas Loshpek, a top bar in Shonzhy, Kazakhstan.

Aynura

83.7 km

Discover the charm of Aynura, a cozy bar in Karaturyk, perfect for relaxing with friends and enjoying local beverages.

Pitak

91.0 km

Experience the vibrant local culture and delightful drinks at Pitak, a must-visit bar in Қырғызсай, Kazakhstan.

Khaknazardyn Tuylatyn Orny

91.4 km

Experience the vibrant culture of Yenbekshi at Khaknazardyn Tuylatyn Orny, where drinks and socializing come together in a lively bar atmosphere.

Studiya

93.0 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Studiya, the perfect bar for tourists in Bol. Aksu.

FlashBar

95.8 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful menu at FlashBar, a cozy cafe in Tekeli that welcomes you with open arms.

Flesh Bar

95.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tekeli at Flesh Bar, where local flavors meet international drinks in a lively atmosphere.

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