Overview
Basshi is the administrative entry point for Altyn-Emel National Park and the only place to register for the Aktau-Katutau sector permits. The headquarters at 2 Mametova St. issues route-specific permits and assigns mandatory park guides. Budget 30–60 minutes for registration. The 2024 entry fee is 800 KZT per person per day plus 200 KZT for the vehicle, payable in cash — there is no card reader. At the permit desk, confirm that your route covers both Aktau and Katutau and that camping at the Shygan or Mynbulak ranger station is included. The Aktau Mountains lie 72 km from Basshi along a sandy track that is accessible to 4x4s in dry conditions but closes quickly after rain. Basshi has a small grocery store and a basic guesthouse if you prefer not to camp in the park.
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Visit notes
Viewing visit notes for Aktau and Katutau Mountains
Basshi Village — Altyn-Emel Permit Office
Step 3 · 220 km from previous · 145 min drive
Basshi is the administrative entry point for Altyn-Emel National Park and the only place to register for the Aktau-Katutau sector permits. The headquarters at 2 Mametova St. issues route-specific permits and assigns mandatory park guides. Budget 30–60 minutes for registration. The 2024 entry fee is 800 KZT per person per day plus 200 KZT for the vehicle, payable in cash — there is no card reader. At the permit desk, confirm that your route covers both Aktau and Katutau and that camping at the Shygan or Mynbulak ranger station is included. The Aktau Mountains lie 72 km from Basshi along a sandy track that is accessible to 4x4s in dry conditions but closes quickly after rain. Basshi has a small grocery store and a basic guesthouse if you prefer not to camp in the park.
Viewing visit notes for Altyn-Emel National Park
Basshi Village — Park Headquarters
Step 2 · 295 km from previous · 270 min drive
Basshi is the park's administrative hub and the only entry point for the main routes to the Singing Dune and Aktau Mountains. The headquarters (2 Mametova St.) issues route permits and assigns mandatory guides. Budget 30–60 minutes for the paperwork. The village has a small grocery store and basic guesthouses charging 5,000–10,000 KZT per person with meals included — book ahead in high season. Beyond the permit office, Basshi is the last place to buy supplies, use a phone signal, or access a basic vehicle workshop.