DAY 1: ZHARKENT AND OSEK RIVER
08:00 - Departure from Almaty toward the historical border town of Zharkent.
12:00 - Explore the Zharkent Mosque; a 19th-century wooden masterpiece built by architect Hong Pik, blending Chinese and Central Asian styles.
13:30 - Local Lunch featuring authentic Uighur and Dungan cuisine.
15:00 - Off-road into the Osek River Basin, following the tributaries deeper into the Dzungarian Alatau.
16:30 - Panoramic Hike; a 1.5 km walk (30 mins) to the spectacular viewpoint overlooking the confluence of the Big and Middle Osek rivers.
18:30 - Camp Arrival; reach the secluded Burkhan River Gorge and relax as your guide sets up camp.
20:00 - Fireside Dinner and an overnight stay in comfortable tents under
08:30 - Breakfast at Camp surrounded by the tranquility of the Burkhan Gorge.
09:30 - Morning Exploration; a gentle walk through the gorge’s unique rock formations and alpine scenery.
11:00 - The Painted Valleys of Osek; discover the striking red-and-white clay formations and colorful slopes that mirror the famous Aktau mountains of Altyn-Emel.
13:30 - Return to Zharkent for a final local meal at a village café.
15:30 - Journey back to Almaty, reflecting on the transition from the desert-like basin to the high-mountain gorge.
19:30 - Arrival in Almaty.