Altyn-Emel National Park Singing Dune
Explore otherworldly landscapes, from the vibrant Aktau Mountains to the resonant Singing Dune, in this vast Kazakh desert park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Altyn-Emel National Park Singing Dune
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore otherworldly landscapes, from the vibrant Aktau Mountains to the resonant Singing Dune, in this vast Kazakh desert park.
"Spectacular view of Aktau mountains and Singing Dunes as the landscapes remind me the planets from the Star wars movie."
🚗 Hire a 4x4 or Guide
Essential for navigating park roads. Public transport is non-existent.
🎟️ Get Your Park Pass Early
Purchase passes at Basshi village office before 7 PM.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Singing Dune
Singing Dune
Experience the unique phenomenon of this desert dune that 'sings' when the wind blows. A truly otherworldly soundscape.
Aktau Mountains
Aktau Mountains
Marvel at the colorful, otherworldly landscapes of these painted hills, reminiscent of alien planets.
700-Year-Old Willow Tree
Near Basshi Village
A surprisingly resilient ancient tree, offering a stark contrast to the desert environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Journey to the Singing Dunes
Navigating Altyn-Emel National Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Hire a 4x4 or Guide
Essential for navigating park roads. Public transport is non-existent.
🎟️ Get Your Park Pass Early
Purchase passes at Basshi village office before 7 PM.
Altyn Emel Tour
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. ☀️
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Hire a 4x4 or Guide
Essential for navigating park roads. Public transport is non-existent.
🎟️ Get Your Park Pass Early
Purchase passes at Basshi village office before 7 PM.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. ☀️
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The landscapes are stunning, especially the Aktau Mountains. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Altyn-Emel National Park offers breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes like the Aktau Mountains and the unique Singing Dune. Visitors praise the geological wonders and vastness of the park. However, the significant driving distances from Almaty and the need for a 4x4 or guide are frequently cited challenges, with some feeling the park's main attractions are not worth the extensive travel for a single day visit.
"Beautiful national park. Make sure to get the pass from the office in basshi village before attempting to enter the park. Shuts at 7 pm."
Michele Formica
"Drove 4 hours from Almaty to the park, then did a 4 hours off-road tour in the park, only to see two sites which are not worth it. On top of that, the 700 years old tree is not true story, it was made up to attract tourists. Diffidently, I won’t recommend it"
ayham Muhrez
"If you like geology you'll love this place, with its incredible vistas of colourful painted hills, interesting dunes and fascinating rocks. It's a long and dusty drive to get here but worth every bumpy mile of it.
There's no public transport so hire a car, preferably 4x4, or better still, get a local guide to drive you. Aim to spend at least two or three days here otherwise you'll not have time to see all the splendours.
Take your time to amble around and enjoy the sights, the sounds and even the smells and the touch sensations of the desert."
Warren Photographic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, which takes about 5-6 hours one way. Hiring a 4x4 or a local guide is highly recommended due to the park's off-road conditions. There are no public transport options available.
While some tour companies might offer day tours, it's a very long drive (5+ hours each way) for a short visit. Many travelers suggest it's not worth the extensive travel time for just one site.
Yes, but a 4x4 vehicle is strongly advised, especially if there has been recent rain, as roads can become challenging.
Hiring a local guide with a suitable vehicle is often the best option for navigating the park efficiently and safely, allowing you to see multiple sites.
The drive from Almaty to the Singing Dune is approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it a very long day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You must purchase your park pass from the official office located in Basshi village before entering the park. The office closes at 7 PM.
While the park itself is vast, the ticket office in Basshi village operates until 7 PM. It's advisable to plan your entry accordingly.
Information on specific entrance fees can be obtained at the Basshi village office. It's recommended to inquire directly upon arrival.
Yes, an entrance pass is required for Altyn-Emel National Park, which you can obtain at the Basshi village office.
The ticket office closes at 7 PM, so it's best to enter the park before then. Driving in the park after dark can be challenging and potentially unsafe due to unlit roads.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Singing Dune and the colorful Aktau Mountains are the most popular attractions. The 700-year-old willow tree is also a notable sight.
To truly explore the park's splendors, it's recommended to spend at least two to three days. A single day trip is often rushed and only allows for a brief visit to one or two sites.
When the wind blows across the dry sand of the Singing Dune, it creates a low humming or 'singing' sound due to the friction of the sand grains.
Facilities are minimal. It's advisable to bring your own food, water, and any other necessities. Restrooms might be available at designated stops or near the park office.
The park is home to varied flora and fauna, including gazelles, wild donkeys, and various bird species. Keep an eye out during your exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The Aktau Mountains offer incredible photographic opportunities with their vibrant colors and unique geological formations. The Singing Dune at sunrise or sunset also provides dramatic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, creating long shadows and highlighting the dune's textures.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes of the Aktau Mountains. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the park. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any local customs.
While photos capture the visual, consider recording audio to accompany your images or videos to convey the unique sound of the Singing Dune. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the long driving distances and rugged terrain can be challenging for younger children. It's highly recommended to bring plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for the car rides. Consider an overnight stay to break up the journey and allow for more relaxed exploration. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand and uneven ground.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Accommodation options are limited. Camping might be the most budget-friendly option if you are equipped. Otherwise, look for guesthouses in Basshi village. Pack your own food and drinks to avoid inflated prices within or near the park. The main cost will be the park entrance fee and transportation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To maximize your photographic opportunities, plan to visit during sunrise and sunset for the best light. Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for sweeping vistas to telephoto for potential wildlife shots. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll be taking a lot of photos!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Aktau Mountains
These landscapes are often compared to those on other planets, a testament to their unique and striking appearance. The erosion patterns create dramatic formations, making it a photographer's paradise. Exploring these mountains feels like stepping onto an alien world, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
When visiting, be prepared for dusty conditions and uneven terrain. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light accentuates the colors and textures of the mountains.
Understanding the Singing Dune
The sound can range from a low rumble to a high-pitched whistle, and it's most noticeable when the air is dry and the sand is undisturbed. Travelers often describe the experience as eerie and mesmerizing, a truly unique auditory sensation in the quiet desert.
To experience the singing, it's best to visit when it's windy. While the dune is a major attraction, some reviews suggest that the 'singing' might not always be audible, depending on the weather conditions.
Planning an Extended Stay
An overnight or multi-day visit enables you to experience the park at different times of day, witnessing the changing light on the landscapes and potentially hearing the Singing Dune more clearly. It also reduces the fatigue associated with the long drives from Almaty. Consider camping or staying in local guesthouses if available for a more immersive experience.
When planning an extended trip, ensure you have sufficient supplies, including food, water, and fuel, as amenities within the park are scarce. A reliable 4x4 vehicle or a local guide is even more crucial for multi-day explorations to cover more ground safely.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit