In the morning, we’ll gather at 7:00 AM for breakfast and revisit the key photography concepts from our virtual session. Together, we’ll set up our gear and prepare for the adventure ahead.

After lunch at the hotel, we’ll head out for our first photography excursion to Shomanay–Airakty Valley (Valley of Castles), where dramatic sandstone formations create stunning compositions for Golden Hour landscape shots.

After reaching Aktau, we’ll explore Airakty Valley—known for its fortress-like cliffs and otherworldly desert formations. We’ll plan compositions for Golden and Blue Hour before starting our first nightscape session, capturing star trails under a clearer northern sky. The day ends with dinner and camping beneath the stars amidst this surreal landscape.

Absolutely! Whether you’re accompanying a photography enthusiast or simply drawn to the vast salt flats, rich culture, and raw beauty of Mangystau, Kazakhstan, you are most welcome to join the journey. This tour goes far beyond photography. It’s designed to be immersive and inclusive, offering unforgettable experiences for everyone. Over the years, many non-photographers have travelled with us — spouses, partners, artists, and cultural explorers — and they’ve all found something deeply meaningful in this landscape.

Even without a camera in hand, there’s so much to enjoy: walking across the endless white desert, watching dramatic sunsets over the horizon, experiencing local crafts and traditions, and lying under one of the clearest night skies in the region as the stars unfold above. You won’t feel left out at all — this trip is about connecting with the spirit of Mangystau, whether through your lens or through your heart. Please note that although you may join as a non-photographer, the tour cost remains the same for all participants, as every logistical arrangement — including transport, accommodation, permits, meals, and overall support — is equally provided to each guest.

You don’t need to be an athlete—moderate physical fitness is enough. However, this tour
includes:

• Walking over rocky terrain, salt flats, and gentle desert slopes
• Some climbing around formations like Tuzbair Arch, Airakty and Bozzhira
• Camping in remote locations, which can involve basic setups and sleeping conditions

The arid climate and hot daytime temperatures in Mangystau create a challenging yet spectacular environment, where the intense sunlight enhances the dramatic textures and colours of the landscape.

Daily walking, often in warm conditions. What’s more important than fitness is a sense of adventure, patience, and openness to nature and unpredictable moments. We’ll return to camps for rest every night, but expect long days and physical engagement with the landscapes.

• Temperature Range (July):
  Daytime highs: 40 – 45°C
  Nighttime lows: 22 – 28°C (can be breezy in open desert areas)
• Altitude & Terrain: Most of Mangystau lies at or below sea level, with some high points at 200 – 300 meters. No altitude sickness issues, but expect open desert winds and intense sunlight.
• Connectivity: Mobile signal is available in towns, but expect limited or no connectivity in remote areas like Bokty, Boszhira and Tuzbair. The Internet may not be accessible for 3 – 4 days at a stretch.
• Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel stays in Aktau at the beginning and end of the tour. Yurt (one night) and Camping (5 nights) in safe, picturesque spots – with tented accommodation, bio-toilets, and delicious hot meals prepared on-site.
• Travel & Transport: Travel in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles (Toyota Land Cruisers or similar). Our drivers are experienced with desert navigation and safety protocols.

• A Luxury Holiday: This is a photographic expedition, not a resort-style vacation. While we prioritise comfort, expect long drives, basic camps, and dusty days in rugged terrain.
• Perfect Comfort: Remote sites lack modern conveniences. Be ready for basic toilets, no showers on some days, and the realities of wilderness camping.
• Predictable Schedules: We may shift plans based on light, weather, or shooting potential. Flexibility is part of the journey—and often leads to the most memorable images.
• Weather: This is the Kazakh summer. Prepare for heat, glare, and dry winds. We’ll provide shade when needed, but sun protection and hydration are essential.

• Crafted by photographers for photographers – every location, timing, and session is designed to help you make powerful images, not just collect memories.
• Dedicated to Landscape Shooting – Capture Mangystau’s dramatic terrain during golden and blue hours in real-world conditions. From sunrise hikes to remote desert scenes, every shoot is timed for light, not tourism.
• Dedicated to astro-landscape photography – we’ve aligned the tour with moon phases and weather patterns to give you the best chance at capturing the Milky Way.
• Focused on light and location – every stop is planned around natural lighting and unique landscapes like Tuzbair, Boszhira, and Karynzharyq.
• Collaborative, small-group experience – learn and grow alongside 4 or 7 fellow photographers in an environment that encourages exchange and feedback.
• Explore remote, untouristed terrain – we camp in wild, cinematic locations far from crowded routes, giving you rare and unspoiled scenes.
• Mentor-led learning throughout – from composition and exposure to on-field guidance and post-processing, you’ll receive continuous support before, during, and after the tour.

General Health:

• No altitude risks in Mangystau.
• Dry desert conditions can cause dehydration and sun fatigue—drink plenty of water.
• Participants with chronic conditions (like diabetes or heart issues) should consult a doctor in advance.

Vaccinations:

There are no mandatory vaccinations for Kazakhstan. However, the following are recommended:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus (DTaP) booster
• Influenza (seasonal flu)
• COVID-19 (latest booster)

Registration opens on 1st January 2026 and lasts till the seat reservations end.

• Only 4 or 5 photographers will be selected for this tour to ensure individual attention and learning.
• Participation will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis upon email confirmation and advance deposit.

To confirm your participation in the photo tour, a non-refundable deposit of $1,200 USD is required. You may choose to pay this in two instalments of $600 USD each, with both instalments to be completed no later than 90 days prior to the tour start date. Please note that your seat will only be confirmed once the full booking amount is received in EXPOSURE’s account, even if you opt for the instalment plan. The remaining balance of $1000 USD must be paid in cash on Day 1 of the photo tour during the initial briefing in Aktau.

Payment Methods:

You may pay via PayPal, UPI, QR Code, or request our bank account details for NEFT/IBAN transfers. Once payment is made, please share a screenshot or a copy of the transaction receipt with us for verification.

Important Notes:

• All bank transaction fees, conversion charges, and payment gateway fees must be borne by the participant.
• Participation is considered confirmed only after we acknowledge receipt of your full deposit and send you a formal confirmation email along with the Rules and Regulations of the photo tour.
• By submitting the deposit, you agree to the terms and conditions of the tour and acknowledge that the deposit is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances, including visa denial, travel delays, or personal cancellations.

For any questions or assistance with the payment process, feel free to contact us directly.

By registering for a photo tour with EXPOSURE, you agree to the following terms and conditions regarding cancellations, payments, and refunds. These terms are binding for all participants without exception.

1. PARTICIPANT-INITIATED CANCELLATION

• All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email or registered post. The effective date of cancellation is the date the request is received by EXPOSURE.
• Cancellation charges are based on the total photo tour fee (not just the deposit), regardless of the reason for cancellation:

▶ 121 days or more before the tour start date: Full refund, minus any banking or transaction charges.
▶ Between 120 and 61 days before the tour start date: 80% of the total tour fee will be charged.
▶ 60 days or less before the tour start date: No refund; 100% of the total tour fee will be charged.

• Once the tour has started, no refunds will be given for any unused services, including accommodations, meals, transport, guiding, or missed tour segments.
• Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 14 working days of written confirmation of cancellation and will be made using the original payment method, minus any bank or gateway fees.

2. NON-PAYMENT OR LATE PAYMENT

A non-refundable deposit of $1,200 USD is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance must be paid in full, in cash, on the tour start date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking without any refund.

3. TRIP CANCELLATION BY EXPOSURE

• In the unlikely event that EXPOSURE must cancel a photo tour due to insufficient participants or other unforeseen circumstances, a full refund of all payments, including the deposit, will be issued.
• We will inform all registered participants well in advance if cancellation is being considered. If the photo tour is officially cancelled, 100% of your payment will be refunded.
• However, EXPOSURE is not responsible for any other expenses incurred, including but not limited to airfare, visa fees, extra hotel bookings, or equipment purchases or rent.

For this reason, participants are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage.

4. GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

• All transactions, currency conversion, and international bank charges for payments and refunds are to be borne by the participant.
• Participants must purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and trip interruption.
• Participation in the photo tour becomes official and binding only after confirmation is issued by EXPOSURE upon receipt of your deposit and acceptance of terms.
• By submitting your payment, you agree to all the terms outlined in this Cancellation & Refund Policy. These conditions are final and non-negotiable.

However, UV levels are extremely high, and direct sunlight is intense during the day, particularly in exposed locations like salt flats, canyons, and plateaus. It is essential to carry:

• A wide-brimmed hat or cap
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Light but full-coverage clothing for sun protection
• Ample hydration (provided throughout the tour)

Wind conditions can vary, especially in elevated areas like Boszhira or Ustyurt Plateau, where gusty winds are not uncommon in the late afternoon or evening. Though rainfall in July is rare, sudden dust storms or temperature fluctuations can occasionally occur in the more remote desert locations. In summary, participants should be prepared for high daytime heat, dry air, strong sun exposure, and cooler, comfortable nights—perfect for long shooting sessions under starry skies.

Weather Disclaimer: Astro landscape photography depends on local weather conditions, which can be unpredictable—though April generally offers the best chances for clear skies.

Aktau is a coastal city in western Kazakhstan and the starting point of our photo tour. The most convenient way to reach Aktau is by air travel via Aktau International Airport (SCO), which is located about 30 minutes from the city centre.

RECOMMENDED FLIGHT ROUTES:
▶ Via Almaty or Astana (Kazakhstan): Fly into Almaty (ALA) or Astana (NQZ) from major cities like Delhi, Istanbul, Dubai, Frankfurt, or Moscow, then take a connecting domestic flight to Aktau.

▶ Via Istanbul (Turkey): Turkish Airlines and SCAT Airlines offer direct flights from Istanbul to Aktau, ideal for travellers from South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

▶ From India: Best options are: Delhi → Almaty → Aktau, or Delhi → Istanbul → Aktau or Astana → Aktau.

Arrival Note: We recommend arriving in Aktau at least one day before the tour begins. Airport pick-up will be arranged for participants landing on the official arrival day.

BY TRAIN OR ROAD (NOT RECOMMENDED)
Due to Kazakhstan’s vast geography and limited cross-border land connectivity in this region, reaching Aktau by train or road from other countries is highly time-consuming and logistically complex. These options are not recommended for international travellers joining the tour.