A large, modern, light-colored building with a wide paved courtyard under a blue sky.

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The Remaining Aral Sea Shore

Reach the current water level of the shrinking Aral Sea, located roughly 150 kilometers from the former port of Moynaq.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Reaching the surviving western basin requires a 4WD vehicle and a guided tour across the Aralkum Desert. Once you arrive, you will find hyper-saline water bordered by thick mud and steep limestone cliffs.

Most visitors stay overnight at the shoreline yurt camps. This allows enough time to walk to the water's edge and explore nearby Silk Road ruins before making the long drive back.

Three blue glass panels standing in a desert landscape reflecting the sky

Aral Sea Beach

1-2 hoursSticky mud

Walk down to the current water's edge to see the retreating sea up close. The ground near the shore is covered in dense mud. This mud is incredibly thick, sticky, and difficult to wash off. Step carefully and

View of a deep canyon with layered rock formations in a desert

Aral Sea Yurt Camps

OvernightStargazing

Spend the night in traditional Karakalpak felt yurts set up near the shoreline. These camps provide meals and shelter from the harsh desert winds. The remote location has virtually zero light pollution. Step outside your yurt at night for clear stargazing.

Traditional yurts set up in a desert landscape with hills in the background

Kurgancha Fortress

30 minutesStone ruins

Stop near the plateau to see the ruins of an ancient caravanserai from the Silk Road era. These stone foundations have survived centuries in the harsh climate. Look closely at the stones to see how the relentless desert winds have weathered them.