Golden Ring of Zhetysu (5 Days) (Group Tour)

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Hidden Gems: A 5-Day Adventure Through Zhetysu

Travelers looking for a balanced mix of natural wonders, light trekking, and culture will find the Golden Ring of Zhetysu (5 Days) group tour from OutfittersKZ an appealing option. It’s designed to showcase some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes within a manageable timeframe, making it perfect for those new to the region or with limited time.

What excites us most are the diverse landscapes packed into a short trip — from the otherworldly Aktau Mountains to the striking Charyn Canyons, and the tranquil Kolsay Lakes. We also appreciate the thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances sightseeing, physical activity, and time to relax.

One thing to keep in mind is the travel distance — covering 1410 km by SUV over five days might be a bit taxing, especially if you’re not used to long drives. Still, the comfortable vehicle and expert guide help make the journey enjoyable and informative. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural exploration without the hassle of planning every detail.

Good To Know

• Diverse Natural Sites: Includes three national parks, showcasing Kazakhstan’s varied landscapes.
• Light Trekking & Scenic Views: Combines 36 km of easy trekking with breathtaking viewpoints.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a well-equipped SUV with a knowledgeable guide.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Visits iconic sites like Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes for both photo ops and relaxing moments.
• Value for Money: At $1,388, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with accommodations, meals, and environmental fees included.
• Flexible Booking: Keep your plans flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, plus cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Unpacking the Experience: An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Almaty to Altyn-Emel and Aktau Mountains

The adventure kicks off early with a prompt pickup from your Almaty accommodation. The drive to Basshi village, the headquarters of Altyn-Emel National Park, takes roughly 4 hours, giving you time to settle in and get your bearings. Expect scenic views as the SUV winds through the Kazakh countryside, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Once at the park, you’ll visit the Visitor Center, an essential stop to understand the park’s significance and a good place to pick up tips from the guide. Then, it’s time for trekking — around 7 km inside the Aktau Mountains. This section promises striking vistas, with the chance to explore the main canyon, a smaller canyon, and even reach the top of one of the mountains for panoramic views. The terrain is manageable for most, but be prepared for some uneven paths.

A highlight of the day is a stop at the 700-year-old willow tree, perfect for photos and soaking in the tranquility. The day ends with an overnight stay at a guesthouse, where comfort is prioritized with private showers, toilets, and hearty local dinner options.

Day 2: Singing Dune and Sculpture Valley

Day two takes you to the Singing Dune at Aygaykum. The name hints at the unique experience — as wind moves across the dune, it produces a humming sound. It’s a surreal experience and a must-see for anyone interested in natural phenomena.

After a morning of exploring this alien-looking landscape, you’ll head back to the guesthouse for lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to Sculpture Valley, an area renowned for intricate natural rock formations and sculptures. The 2 km trek offers fantastic photo opportunities, making it a favorite among travelers for its photogenic scenery.

The day wraps up with a drive to Zharkent town, where you’ll settle into a local hotel. Expect a relaxed evening and more opportunities to mingle with local culture.

Day 3: Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes

Day three is a highlight reel of natural marvels. After breakfast, you’ll depart for Charyn National Park — about 180 km away — home to the Valley of the Castles, famous for its towering rock formations resembling a medieval fortress. The descent into the canyon is breathtaking and offers a perfect setting for photography.

A packed lunch allows you to maximize sightseeing time before heading to panoramic spots like the Lunar Canyon, Stone Shelf, and Napoleon Viewpoint. Each offers unique perspectives of the landscape, with dramatic cliffs and sweeping vistas.

By late afternoon, the group travels to Saty village, where the Kolsay Lakes area awaits. Here, you’ll settle into a guesthouse, enjoying a warm dinner amid stunning mountain scenery.

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Day 4: Kolsay Lakes and Trekking to Mynzhylky Lake

The day begins with breakfast before heading to Saty Lake — the first of the three Kolsay Lakes. The lakes are a favorite for their crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance. The key activity is trekking to Mynzhylky Lake, an 8 km route that takes about three hours but rewards hikers with pristine natural beauty and serene surroundings.

After lunch, you’ll retrace your steps back to Saty Lake for a relaxing afternoon. These lakes are known for their tranquility, making them a perfect spot for reflection and photography.

The night is spent in the guesthouse, with simple yet comfortable accommodations providing a restful break from the day’s activities.

Day 5: Kaindy Lake and Return to Almaty

The final day starts early with a visit to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and surreal waters. You’ll explore the lake’s shore, climb to the panoramic viewpoint, and see the inflow of the Kaindy River into the lake — all fantastic spots for photos. The lake’s cool, clear waters and ghostly trees are unforgettable.

Afterward, it’s time to head back to Almaty — a roughly 4.5-hour drive that gives you the chance to reflect on your trip. The journey ends with an arrival in the city in the early evening, leaving you with plenty of memories and images to take home.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Comfort

Traveling in a comfortable SUV, the group enjoys a smooth ride, even over long distances and rougher roads. The guides, fluent in both Russian and English, are well-versed in local history and geography, making the journey informative and engaging.

Accommodation & Meals

Your stays are in guesthouses with private showers and toilets, ensuring a comfortable retreat after days of exploration. The tour includes two nights at Altyn-Emel, and two nights near Kolsay Lakes, with meals provided — breakfast, lunch, and dinner, except the first breakfast and the last dinner, allowing some flexibility.

Duration & Structure

Over five days, you’ll cover 1410 km primarily by vehicle, with 36 km of light trekking. The itinerary is well-paced, balancing busy sightseeing days with time to relax and soak in the scenery.

Cost & Value

At $1,388 per person, the tour offers strong value, covering transportation, guides, accommodations, meals, and entry fees. This all-inclusive approach means travelers avoid surprise expenses, though optional extras like souvenirs aren’t included.

Booking & Cancellation

The booking process is flexible with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers unsure of their plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers who want to see a variety of Kazakhstan’s landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who appreciate light trekking, stunning natural scenery, and comfortable group travel. It’s also a good choice for travelers interested in cultural sites mixed with outdoor adventures.

Travelers should be comfortable with long drives and expect some uneven terrain during treks, though most routes are manageable. The focus on natural beauty over intense physical activity makes this a balanced option for a broad audience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, since the trekking is described as “easy,” and the distances are manageable, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in a comfortable SUV, English/Russian-speaking guides, accommodations, meals (except breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day), and environmental fees.

Are accommodations private?
Yes, each room in the guesthouses has a separate shower and toilet, providing privacy and comfort after busy days of exploration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund, giving you flexible booking options.

How much time is spent on driving?
Most days involve several hours of driving—up to 255 km on Day 1 and around 295 km on Day 5—so be prepared for some long but scenic journeys.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect a variety of landscapes—desert dunes, canyons, alpine lakes, and mountain valleys—each offering unique photo opportunities and a sense of Kazakhstan’s natural diversity.

Is food included?
Yes, three meals a day are provided, with the exception of breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day, giving you flexibility and local flavors.

In essence, the Golden Ring of Zhetysu tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, combining light adventure, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the country’s most striking sights without the complexity of independent planning. Whether you’re into photography, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in stunning vistas, this trip makes it all accessible and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby