Kazakh Altai Trek
Kazakh Altai Trek
Kazakh Altai (part of Altai-Sayan Ecoregion) is the frontier mountain system of South Siberia extruded by the foothills into the dry steppes and semi-deserts of Kazakhstan. Its feature is in the unique landscapes: from deserts and semi-deserts of the foothills of Altai to the woodlands and mountain taiga forests in the middle hills and to the mountain meadows and nivals of the highlands.
Within the Kazakh Altai there are ranges of rare animal species – the snow leopard and mountain sheep argali. Besides there are woodlands of valuable coniferous species – fir trees, cedars, larch trees. The outstanding natural monuments among which are the Belukha Mountain, the Kokkol’ waterfall, the Markakol’ Lake and important cultural and historical places like Berel’skie old tombs and Northern Golden Branch of the Great Silk Road are the starting points for the future sustainable development of the region.
Day 1 Come to Oskemen and drive to Buhtarma
Arrive Oskemen airport.Meet by our team and drive to Buhtarma water basin.Driving by small hills with some forest areas, so slowly we come out from civilization. When we reach the shore of Buhtarma water basin, turn to left and continue our driving along water basin. First overnight we will do in tent just near “Vasilevskii ferry”.
Day 2 To sanatorium “Rahmanov springs”
Today Russian big old boat will take us with our cars to bring other side of water basin.It is grade opportunity to enjoy with beautyfull views.After 30 min traveling with big boat,we drive to west. Reach the sanatorium.Overnight in tent.
Days 3-5 Across rivers Black and White Berels
Today we pack our luggage on horses and start our trekking towards north. On the way we shall rise on two passes from which the majestic Belukha peaks open, we overcome two fords through Black and White Berel rivers. Walking by south-sibirian taiga area,we enjoy wild remote high mountains.Second day,we come to winter spending place “Sarsenbay”.Overnights in tent.(B,L,D)
Day 6 To Berel glaciers
First the track goes on slopes with ceder trees. After crossing small fords through streams,we come to open area with nice view to Belukha Peaks(4506m)-highest peak of Altai and Sibiria. Pitch a tent just near river Big Kokkol. Overnight in tent.(B,L,D)
Day 7 Day Hike to Belief mountian
Staying in same campside 2 overnights, we will do day hikes. First day, hiking to a lake of Balance and top of mountain Belief. It is one of three tops which tower directly above our camp. The name of these tops Belief, Hope, Love. All three mountains and lake form as though a huge throne: Belief and Love its armrests, Hope - a back, and lake of Balance a soft seat. On a legend the Founder sat on this throne and modeled those magnificent landscapes which now surround us. In mirror waters of lake the two-headed White whale is reflected.(B,L,D)
Day 8 Day Hike to Kokkol mine.
The mine Kokkol was superb kept.Due to cold climate, all constructions and the equipments like steamtrain,the diesel engine, concentrating factory are in a satisfactory condition and represent a fine museum open-air. It will take a full day to explore.The imagination draws a heavy life and work of the people after second world war.
Days 9-10 To lake Yazovoe
Now we have 2 days to reach a lake Yazovoe. And we hike down, following by trail on the right side of river White Berel. . Waters of the river really white - are painted glacial clay. In difference from Black Берели where water transparent and from afar seems black. Along a trail, bushes like red currant and honeysuckles. Sourish-bitterish taste of ripe berries pleasantly freshens. In the end of June - the beginning of July often there is an Altay rhubard.Overnights in tent.(B,L,D)
Day 11 Drive to Maimyr camp
On the way, we visit world famous and wellknown Berel excavation. After site explore,we come to Majmyr camp,where you can have a hot shower and stay in comfortable wooden cabin. There are many interesting places,where can be organized horse riding tours. (B,L,D)
Day 12 Drive to Oskemen
Full day drive to Oskemen (6-7hrs).Traditional dinner in Kazakh restaurant.Overnight in hotel. (B,L,D)
Day 13 Fly out
Early breakfast and transfer to airport.
Some recommendations:
Summer months in Kazakhstan are from late May to mid September.Although the Kazakhstan summers are hot and dry with occasional rain, the temperature can fluctuate as much 20 degrees centigrade between day and night.So be prepared for all weather conditions.
What to bring:
Binoculars,sunscreen,a hat,gloves,long underware for travel in the high mountains,comfortable footware,lip balm,sanitary hand wipes,sunglasses,prescription medications,(if needed),rain gear,flashlight.
Staff:
A local guide who speaks English, Kazakh and Russian will accompany the group at all times.A cook will follow, with an assistant.In addition, the services of the local herdsmen will be hired along with their animals.The horsemen follow a traditional lifestyle in the areas where we will be riding.
Meals:
Our cook will prepare the meals.We pride ourselves in having cooks adapt to both western and local cooking on our trips.There are always vegetables available, and we have no problem accommodating vegetarians on our trips.For breakfast we can usually buy fresh yogurt from the herdsmen in the local area.
Price: from
Includes: English speaking guide and all meals outside of Oskemen . All overnights in hotels and tents, camping equipments, packing horses, all Border and National park permits.
Excludes: Alchogol drinks, lunch and dinner in Oskemen, laundry and horse ride.Visa fee.
Single tent/ger supplement is USD 20 per night.
