Canyon and Desert Bike Tour

This five-day tour rides out from Almaty along the Chilik River before climbing dry riverbeds and willow groves to a 1,520m mountain pass in the Bogetty Mountains, with panoramic views over the Ile River and Sogetty Valley. A steep descent leads into Charyn Canyon's Valley of Castles, camping among giant rocky pillars at sunset.

From there, a transfer crosses the Ile River to Altyn Emel National Park, a hot desert region where riders overnight in hotel accommodation. Riding continues by dirt road to the multicoloured Ak Tau Mountains and on to the Singing Sand Dune, with a final transfer back to Almaty.

They pair canyon and mountain-pass scenery with desert riding, camping and hotel stays, and vehicle support throughout, making this a varied, moderately tough introduction to Kazakhstan's landscapes.

Highlights:

• Charyn Canyon's Valley of Castles and camping among its rock pillars
• Mountain pass views over the Ile River and Sogetty Valley
• The Golden Man Museum near the Talgar River
• Multicoloured Ak Tau Mountains in Altyn Emel National Park
• Riding to the Singing Sand Dune
• Mix of tarmac, dirt road and desert track riding

**Surface and terrain: **
Mix of tarmac (Day 1), dirt tracks and dry riverbeds over a mountain pass (1,520m), a steep canyon descent, and desert dirt roads to the sand dune. Daily distances 20-70km.

Likely weather:
Altyn Emel is described as a hot desert area. Season runs May-October, so expect warm to hot conditions, particularly in the desert stages.

Suitable for:
Moderately fit riders comfortable with mixed tarmac and dirt-road riding, one mountain pass, desert heat and a mix of camping and hotel stays.