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Horseback Tour to the Altai Mountains at the Foot of Belukha

Expedition to Mangystau

Motorbike Tour to Ladakh, Little Tibet

An Unforgettable Adventure

This journey is not about luxury—it’s an authentic adventure to remote and unique corners accessible only on foot, horseback, or by helicopter. Accommodations and meals will be simple and genuine, and that’s precisely where their unique charm lies. Embrace the simplicity: gathering firewood for the sauna, organizing fresh water, and sleeping in sleeping bags in tents right in front of the sacred mountain.

This trip is about connecting with nature and yourself, an authentic adventure that will leave you with extraordinary memories.

We will meet calm and friendly horses, learn the basics of horseback riding, and set off on a breathtaking adventure through Altai. Along the way, we'll enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature, immerse ourselves in the culture of the local people, and gain hands-on experience in horse care, all while learning about the traditions of nomadic life.

In the evenings, gathered around a campfire, we will share our impressions and listen to fascinating stories about life in this remarkable region.

72 kilometers on horseback

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Three mountain hikes ranging from 2 to 18 kilometers

Our journey begins in a cozy village, where we set out along local trails and routes. Ascending mountain peaks rewards us with fresh air and panoramic views, while evening stops by picturesque lakes offer moments of solitude and connection with nature. We'll explore the region's flora and fauna, learn to appreciate the beauty of untouched landscapes, and discover the traditions of indigenous peoples.

Overnight stays in unique alpine camps

Each night, our camps are set up in scenic locations surrounded by majestic peaks and crystal-clear rivers. The camps are equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay

Nighttime is not only a chance to relax physically after a day of hiking but also an opportunity to form new friendships with like-minded adventurers. Every evening becomes a ritual of connection with nature, leaving warm memories and unforgettable moments of time spent in this extraordinary corner of the earth.

Waterfalls cascading from great heights create a powerful roar and stunning rainbows, surrounded by lush green forests that are home to many animals. These natural wonders fill the soul with inspiration and leave lasting memories of the beauty and majesty of Altai.

Refreshing mountain rivers, lakes, and waterfalls of Altai

Stunning landscapes with mountain peaks and lush green meadows

Along mountain rivers and streams, whose echoes blend with birdsong, grow unique plants that captivate and inspire travelers. Altai is a true treasure for nature enthusiasts, offering unforgettable moments and experiences that will remain etched in memory forever.

72 kilometers on horseback

Three mountain hikes ranging from 2 to 18 kilometers

Overnight stays in unique alpine camps

Stunning landscapes with mountain peaks and lush green meadows

Refreshing mountain rivers, lakes, and waterfalls of Altai

ОчищЛокация турающие горные реки, озёра, водопады Алтая

Untouched, pristine wilderness that rejuvenates and inspires

ДикЛокация турая, девственная, чистая природа, наполняющая своей силой

The sacred Mount Belukha

Tour Program

Tour Organization

Tourist Comfort

7 days

6 nights

14 to 60 years

Up to 9 people

Difficulty Level: Medium

Transfer from Ust-Kamenogorsk

Official Tour Operator

Satellite internet

Hot shower and sauna

Meals prepared by a chef

Trekking equipment

Tent camp accommodations

Charging stations

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

Next Tour

June 2025

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Altai

Horseback Tour

Seven unforgettable days in the mystical Altai Shambhala, where you will experience a journey akin to a small, full life. Each participant will gain the transformative experience they have long dreamed of.

Untouched, pristine wilderness that rejuvenates and inspires

As we journey through this extraordinary region, we will savor its untouched landscapes: majestic mountains, dense forests, and endless green meadows. Each morning begins with crisp, fresh air infused with the scents of pine and wild herbs, while the sounds of the forest evoke a profound connection to nature.

The emotions experienced by travelers at Mount Belukha range from awe and wonder to deep respect for nature. This towering peak leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who embark on this journey, inviting them to reconnect with themselves time and time again.

Belukha

The sacred Mount

Day One

We’ll meet you in Ust-Kamenogorsk and begin our journey to the first destination—Katon-Karagay village (350 km).

We’ll have lunch in Katon-Karagay, obtain permits to enter the border zone and border strip, and then continue to Yazevoye Lake.

A few kilometers from Yazevoye Lake, we’ll rest and spend the night in a cozy, traditional Altai-style house.

Day Two

Early in the morning, we’ll saddle the horses and set off on a nearly 40-kilometer journey. The scenic trail winds along the lake, allowing us to immerse ourselves in its beauty and enter a meditative state, feeling Life in every cell of our being.

We’ll arrive at the White Berel River Valley, near the old winter camp of Sarsenbay, where we’ll stop for lunch. From there, the path leads us through the National Park, between fir and cedar trees, and alongside thickets of blueberries and honeysuckle. Imagine the delightful aromas that will surround us.

By evening, we’ll reach the Kok-Kol Waterfall and the Base Camp, where we’ll stay for the remainder of our adventure.

Day Three

In the morning, we’ll take a short trek to the Kok-Kol Waterfall near the camp. It is one of the largest mountain waterfalls in Altai, with a height of 80 meters.

Here, immersed in silence, we’ll feel the immense power of nature and draw strength from it. Later, we’ll visit the “Equilibrium” Lake to find our own sense of zen. Though the lake is relatively small, the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking. Pine-covered mountains transition into alpine meadows at higher elevations. From here, there is a magnificent view of Mount Belukha, which reflects in the lake like a mirror on clear days.

We’ll return to the Base Camp, where a hot dinner will be waiting for us.

Day Four

We’ll take a radial hike to the Upper Camp, crossing a river and visiting Kok-Kol Lake along the way.

The Upper Camp is located at a mountain pass, accessed by an old road built along glacial moraines. This is a world of rocks, glaciers, snowfields, mosses, lichens, high-altitude lakes, and crystal-clear streams. It’s also an open-air museum, as the area was once home to mining operations. Here, we’ll release our inner treasure hunters, and someone might even get lucky!

We’ll return to the Base Camp, where a hot dinner will be waiting for us.

Day Five

We’ll embark on a 10-kilometer trek, a meditative journey that mirrors the flow of life itself! Observing our states during the hike, we’ll become aware of our actions and emotions, reflecting on how we navigate challenges, notice signs, and respond to everything happening within and around us.

The path will lead us to “Warm” Lake and then to the Great Berel Glacier. After soaking in the stunning views and personal insights, we’ll arrive at the sacred site of “Kyndyk-Tas” a prayer stone that attracts pilgrims from all over the world! In this powerful and enveloping energy, we’ll let go of what needs to be released, solidify our realizations, and draw strength to guide us further in life.

We’ll return to the Base Camp, where a hot dinner will be waiting for us.

Days Six and Seven

On the sixth day, we’ll saddle up again and descend from our beloved Base Camp to Yazevoye Lake, where we’ll spend the night in the house. In the warm circle of our group, we’ll share our impressions of the journey.

On the seventh day, we’ll return to Ust-Kamenogorsk, stopping along the way to visit the Berel Burial Mounds. It was here that decorations were discovered, later used to reconstruct Kazakhstan’s third “Golden Man.”

Horseback Tour to Altai with photosafari-travel

7 Days in the Altai Shambhala at the Foot of Mount Belukha. This is an opportunity to live a whole new life, filled with transformative experiences and impressions that each participant has long dreamed of.

Choose Tour

Satellite internet

Hot shower and sauna

Trekking equipment

Charging stations

Meals prepared by a chef

Tent camp accommodations

Tourist Comfort

7 days

6 nights

14 to 60 years

Difficulty Level: Medium

Transfer from Ust-Kamenogorsk

Up to 9 people

Official Tour Operator

Tour Organization

Daily Program

This journey is not about luxury—it’s about a genuine adventure into remote and unique corners accessible only on foot, horseback, or by helicopter. Accommodations and meals will be simple, but this simplicity is what gives the experience its special charm.

Upcoming Tours

Choose a suitable tour and submit your application to book a spot in the group.

Accommodation and Tour Cost

Tour Conditions

Two nights in a forest cabin and four nights in tents

Be prepared for simplicity in everything: we gather firewood for the sauna, organize fresh water, and sleep in sleeping bags in tents right in front of the sacred Mount Belukha.

Setting up tents together, cooking meals over a campfire, and overcoming challenges bring the group closer, creating an atmosphere of friendship and support. In the evenings by the fire, we share stories and dreams, feeling nostalgia for the wonderful moments spent in nature and realizing the importance of such trips in our lives.

Included in the tour price

Transfer from Ust-Kamenogorsk along the entire route and back
Permits for the border zone and border area
Meals, drinking water, sauna, and shower
Entrance tickets and fees for Katon-Karagai National Park, museums, and burial mounds
Services of a horse guide and tour guide
Rental: horses, professional tents, sleeping bags, and camping gear
Accommodation in the tent camp and cabin
Electricity in the base camp for charging gadgets
Free satellite internet (low speed, but sufficient to contact loved ones).

Not included in the price

Flight or other means of arrival to Ust-Kamenogorsk
Accommodation in Ust-Kamenogorsk
Meals in Katon-Karagai on the first and last day
Insurance (optional, arranged independently)
Personal expenses during the journey or at locations.

Important information

In the mountainous area of Altai:

There are no stores, pharmacies, or supermarkets.
There is no stable internet or mobile signal.
We provide unlimited drinking water.

If you don’t eat meat or have food allergies, please let us know in advance.

Waterproof footwear, spare shoes for the camp, windproof and waterproof clothing, a rain cover for your backpack, a sun hat, warm clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and personal hygiene products.

Packing list

Reserve Your Spot

Action Tour for 7 Days

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

June 2025

Exact tour dates to be announced

Reserve Your Spot

Action Tour for 7 Days

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

July 2025

Exact tour dates to be announced

Reserve Your Spot

Action Tour for 7 Days

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

August 2025

Exact tour dates to be announced

Reserve Your Spot

Action Tour for 7 Days

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

September 2025

Exact tour dates to be announced

Tour Team
Photosafari-travel

We, the Photosafari team, are a family of road enthusiasts and true adventurers, exploring uncharted paths and discovering new horizons. Each of our journeys is imbued with the spirit of adventure and the atmosphere of expeditions.

Over 16 years of travel across Unexplored Kazakhstan and remote corners of the world, we have captured tons of unique material, including videos that have brought Kazakhstan’s beauty to the global stage.

Ekaterina Koshko

Co-Founder of Photosafari.kz

Konstantin Kikvidze

Co-Founder of Photosafari.kz

Konstantin Ludanov

Guide, Administrator, Driver

Why Choose Us

Comfort and Emotions

Say goodbye to boring and rigid tours — only we offer custom photo-adventures with well-thought-out routes, maximum comfort, and care for your emotions.

Taking Care of Everything

We handle transfers, meals, accommodation, drinking water, showers, internet, and much more to ensure every participant feels comfortable and cared for.

Safety and Health

We prioritize the safety and health of our guests at every stage of the journey, including excursions and accommodations.

Unique Tour Programs

Unmatched programs that other companies won’t offer. As true adventurers, we are eager to share our experiences and emotions with our guests.

Payment and Guarantees

Choose a convenient way to pay for the tour. In case of unforeseen circumstances, we guarantee a full refund.

Complete Immersion

An exhilarating adventure amidst majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and wild forests, where every step fills the soul with harmony and the beauty of nature.

Customer Reviews

Tour Cost

Price

Price per Person

$ 1 000

Horseback Tour to Altai at the Foot of Mount Belukha

Booking and Payment Process

The tour price is listed in USD. Payment is made according to the exchange rate of the National Bank of Kazakhstan on the day of payment. To reserve a spot in the tour, submit an application and make a 50% prepayment.

Booking

Once you confirm your participation, we issue an invoice for the prepayment and sign a contract. We value our reputation and always fulfill our commitments.

Contract

If the tour is canceled on our end (e.g., due to insufficient participants, force majeure, or natural disasters), we guarantee a full refund of the tour cost.

Guarantees

Choose Your Tour

Gulnara

Thank You for an Incredible Adventure! This was truly a vacation. At first, we thought we’d be exhausted and would need a break after the expedition. But today, I realized that not only am I not tired, but I feel recharged and full of energy. We can’t stay indoors today — we need to be outside exploring! 😅 So, under the rain, we ended up being the only two people riding attractions at the park near the hotel until they shut them down.

Valentina

This was my first time camping in tents, cooking outdoors, and spending five days without any connection to the outside world. Were my expectations met? No! The reality far exceeded them. All the fears I had (bugs, discomfort) are gone forever. Thanks to you, I now know that camping can be this amazing: cozy, warm, and safe tents, snug sleeping bags, and... oh, the food! No stomach issues whatsoever with such delicious, almost home-style meals. A warm shower in the wilderness and even a proper restroom — what a treat! Honestly, thank you so much for such thoughtfulness. These little things are so important and mean so much.

Togzhan

As for the itinerary, I loved absolutely everything. Everyone has their favorite highlights, but for me, the ranking goes from the most awe-inspiring to slightly less so: Tuzbair, Torish, Bozzhyra (the “Fangs” and the “Dragon”), and the endless horizons — ahhhh, pure bliss! The beach with almost Seychellois-like rocks, Tiramisu, then the Sphinx and the mosques. We didn’t get to see the Lace-like formation, but I think it would have impressed me just as much as Tuzbair. The whole expedition was fantastic, simply amazing.
Kostya and Katya, you’re such visionaries and dreamers! Without your imagination, this tour would never have come to life. ✨🪄✨ Your idea is brilliant, and its execution was perfect. 🙏

Nuradil

We loved every moment of this trip! Thank you for showing us the stunning beauty of Kazakhstan. Now, such a vacation is a must-have for us. And... we’re already dreaming about Argentina next! 😊
Thank you to the entire team for your professionalism! Rahmet!

Sarah

Hi Konstantin, I am good, arrived safely in Munich, how about you? I miss the girls, you and the rest. I got used to my temorary family😉 Met this interesting woman from Nigeria and Turkey in the plane and had a good chat. It was such an amazing trip, I am so grateful being able to see amazing Mangystau!

How to Get to Altai

Our journey begins in the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk. Please note that tickets for flights or trains to Ust-Kamenogorsk are not included in the tour package and must be purchased separately. Our administrators will provide you with information on suitable dates and flight schedules.

Almaty

You can reach Ust-Kamenogorsk from Almaty as follows:

By Plane: A direct flight takes about 1–1.5 hours. Ticket prices start at 20,000–25,000 tenge one way.
By Train: Travel time is about 20–24 hours. Tickets cost 6,000–12,000 tenge, depending on the class.
By Bus: The journey takes about 23–25 hours. Ticket prices range from 7,000–9,000 tenge.
By Car: A trip by car will take approximately 17–20 hours.

Astana

You can reach Ust-Kamenogorsk from Astana as follows:

By Plane: A direct flight takes about 1–1.5 hours. Ticket prices start at 25,000–30,000 tenge.
By Train: Travel time is 12–16 hours. Tickets cost 5,000–10,000 tenge.
By Bus: The journey takes about 15–17 hours. Ticket prices range from 7,000–10,000 tenge.
By Car: A car trip takes approximately 10–12 hours.

Karaganda

You can reach Ust-Kamenogorsk from Karaganda in several ways:

By Plane: There are no direct flights; you’ll need to transfer in Almaty. The journey, including the layover, takes about 4–5 hours.
By Train: Travel time is 18–20 hours. Tickets cost 5,000–10,000 tenge.
By Bus: The journey takes about 20–22 hours. Ticket prices range from 6,000–8,000 tenge.
By Car: A trip by car will take 12–14 hours.

Moscow

You can reach Ust-Kamenogorsk from Moscow in several ways:

By Plane: A direct flight takes about 5–6 hours. Ticket prices start at 25,000–50,000 rubles.
By Train: There are no direct trains, but with transfers, the journey can take 3–4 days.
By Bus: Travel with transfers takes 4–5 days.
By Car: A trip by personal car will take 40–50 hours, depending on the route and conditions.

Ust-Kamenogorsk

Belukha

We will meet you in Ust-Kamenogorsk and begin our journey.

Corporate Horseback Tours to Altai

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Building team spirit through group adventures is an excellent HR solution for your company.

Photosafari-travel organizes customized tours tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The horseback tour to Altai spans 7 days filled with exciting adventures: from Ust-Kamenogorsk to Katon-Karagay, with treks to stunning waterfalls, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes. Highlights include visiting Kok-Kol Waterfall, Lake “Equilibrium,” the Great Berel Glacier, the sacred “Kyndyk-Tas” at the foot of Mount Belukha, and concluding with a tour of the Berel burial mounds, where the third “Golden Man” was discovered.
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Снаряжение предоставляемое организатором

Equipment Provided by the Organizer

Tent: 2-person and 3-person tents available.

Sleeping bag: Bringing your own is welcome.

Sleeping bag liner.

Foam sleeping mat (8–12 mm thick).

Clothing for Camp and Sleeping

Clothes for relaxing at the camp (pants, shirt, shorts, T-shirt, thermal underwear for sleeping).

Warm sweater or hoodie (fleece or wool).

Warm hat (fleece or wool).

Headwear (cap or wide-brimmed hat).

Footwear

Waterproof shoes (rubber boots, military boots, or high boots; rubber is preferred).

Sneakers or trekking boots.

Spare shoes for the camp.

Additional Accessories

Gloves (cotton gloves are suitable).

Socks (2–3 pairs of cotton socks and 2 pairs of wool socks).

Windproof and waterproof clothing, raincoat.

Equipment
and Tools

Sunglasses.

Headlamp.

Water bottle (preferably with a carabiner).

Portable seat (foam mat).

Personal utensils (plate, spoon, mug).

Camera or video camera (optional), spare battery.

Hygiene
and Health

Toiletries (lip balm, sunscreen, towels, shampoo, soap).

Personal medications (a basic first-aid kit will be provided by the guide).

Clothing for Activities

Comfortable clothing for horse riding and hiking (lightweight, quick-drying pants, long-sleeved shirt or T-shirt, windbreaker).

Warm jacket (synthetic or down). Remember, the weather can be unpredictable.

Transportation and Storage

Backpack or travel bag.

Small pouches or garbage bags for organizing and protecting items.

Heavy-duty polyethylene bags with a volume of 160–180 liters (for extra protection against dirt).

Personal Items Checklist

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Before heading out on the tour, we recommend consulting your doctor, especially if you have chronic illnesses or other health concerns. This will help avoid unpleasant situations and ensure a more comfortable trip.