Altyn-Emel National Park

Altyn-Emel National Park

Home to the famous Singing Dune, colorful Aktau Mountains, and ancient Besshatyr burial mounds.

Almaty Region
Best: April–June, September–October
2–3 days
Moderate

Altyn-Emel National Park spans over 4,600 square kilometers of diverse terrain.

The park's most famous attraction is the Singing Dune — a 150-meter-high sand dune that produces an eerie, resonant sound.

The Aktau Mountains offer surreal multicolored sedimentary hills. Nearby, the Besshatyr burial mounds date to the 1st millennium BC.

Highlights

  • Singing Dune — rare acoustic phenomenon
  • Colorful Aktau Mountains with fossils
  • Besshatyr royal burial mounds
  • Przewalski's horses
  • Vast landscapes

Travel Tips

Located 250 km from Almaty. 4WD essential. Park guide mandatory.

Quick Facts

Region
Almaty Region
Best Season
April–June, September–October
Duration
2–3 days
Difficulty
Moderate