2026Keketuohai Carpooling Travel Guide 3 Routes + Prices Recommended Itinerary Costs and Prices
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quote.
Comprehensive Guide to Carpooling Tours in Koktokay:3 Ways to Unlock the Secret Wonders of Northern Xinjiang
Detailed Introduction to Routes or Destinations
Koktokay, located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, is renowned for its ‘geological wonders + ecological secrets.’ It boasts three core attractions:
Irtysh Grand Canyon:The canyon is densely populated with geological wonders such as Zhongshan and Waterfall Gully. The Irtysh River flows through it, offering rafting in summer and breathtaking autumn foliage, making it a paradise for photographers.
Mine Pit No. 3:This ‘meritorious mine’ once provided rare metals for repaying foreign debt and supporting China’s aerospace industry. Now, it preserves mine site ruins and a geological museum, allowing visitors to delve into China’s mining history.
Koksuuri Lake:The wetlands and marshes contrast beautifully with the snow-capped mountains. In summer, wild ducks abound, while in winter, the frozen lake forms a natural ice rink, offering diverse activities throughout the year.
Scenic Area Policy Notice: In 2026, Koktokay National Geopark will implement a timed reservation system. Admission, including shuttle bus, is 126 yuan per person. Mine Pit No. 3 charges an additional 60 yuan per person, with discounts for students, seniors, etc. Secondary consumption items like electric carts and boat rides must be purchased on-site.
Simple Itinerary:Choose from 3 Routes
Based on the latest road conditions and tourist feedback in 2026, three carpooling routes have been designed to cater to different needs:
Route 1:2-Day In-Depth Tour of Koktokay
Comprehensive Guide to Carpooling Tours in Koktokay: 3 Ways to Unlock the Secret Wonders of Northern Xinjiang[Day 1]
08:00 Depart from Urumqi, heading north along National Highway 216, passing through the Gurbantunggut Desert and encountering wild Przewalski’s horses and Mongolian gazelles.
13:30 Arrive in Fuyun County for lunch, savoring dried meat pilaf and baursak with milk tea.
15:00 Tour Koksuuri Lake, taking a boat to admire the reed marshes and snow-capped mountain reflections.
19:00 Check into a characteristic homestay in Koktokay Town and experience home visits with local families.
[Day 2]
08:30 Take the shuttle bus into the Irtysh Grand Canyon, hike to the Zhongshan Viewing Platform, and photograph the canyon panorama.
12:00 After lunch, visit Mine Pit No. 3, donning gear to explore the mine tunnels.
15:00 Return to Urumqi, stopping in Qiakuertu Town to purchase nut specialties.
Route 2:4-Day Combined Tour of Kanas and Koktokay
[Day 1]
Detailed Introduction to Routes or Destinations07:00 Depart from Urumqi, passing through the Karamaili Ungulate Nature Reserve to reach Fuyun County.
15:00 Tour Koktokay Geopark, focusing on photographing the sunset at Zhongshan.
20:00 Check into Burqin County, stroll the Russian-style street at night, and enjoy a cold-water fish feast.
[Day 2]
08:00 Head to the Kanas Scenic Area, taking the shuttle bus to tour the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay).
15:00 Ascend Guanyu Platform to overlook Kanas Lake and search for traces of the ‘lake monster’ legend.
19:00 Check into a cabin within the scenic area for nighttime stargazing.
[Day 3]
07:00 Photograph the morning mist at Kanas, then proceed to Hemu Village, riding horses or hiking to the Haden Platform.
15:00 Free time:Experience Tuvan folk customs or participate in a bonfire party.
20:00 Check into a wooden cabin in Hemu Village to feel the tranquility of the primitive village.
Koktokay, located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, is renowned for its ‘geological wonders + ecological secrets.’ It boasts three core attractions:[Day 4]
09:00 Return to Urumqi, stopping in Beitun City to visit the Wucai Beach.
18:00 Arrive in Urumqi, concluding the itinerary.
Route 3:6-Day Carpooling Tour of the Northern Xinjiang Loop
[Day 1] Urumqi → Heavenly Lake of Tianshan → Fuyun County
[Day 2] Fuyun County → Koktokay → Burqin
[Day 3] Burqin → Kanas → Hemu
[Day 4] Hemu → Urho Devil City → Karamay
[Day 5] Karamay → Sayram Lake → Yining
[Day 6] Yining → Nalati Grassland → Return to Urumqi
Irtysh Grand Canyon: The canyon is densely populated with geological wonders such as Zhongshan and Waterfall Gully. The Irtysh River flows through it, offering rafting in summer and breathtaking autumn foliage, making it a paradise for photographers.Pricing Information
Prices for carpooling tours in Koktokay in 2026 vary based on route, vehicle type, and accommodation standards. The following are reference ranges:
2-Day In-Depth Tour:800-1200 yuan per person (including transportation, accommodation, and admission)
4-Day Combined Tour:1800-2500 yuan per person (including core attractions of Kanas and Koktokay)
6-Day Loop Tour:3500-4500 yuan per person (covering 80% of Northern Xinjiang’s attractions)
Fees Include:Licensed commercial vehicles, driver service fees, basic accommodation, and first admission tickets to scenic areas.
Fees Exclude:Meals, secondary consumption items, (for solo registrants, efforts will be made to arrange shared rooms; special circumstances require negotiation for price differences).
Note:Prices may fluctuate based on the tour schedule; specifics are subject to the contract or day-of confirmation.
Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency. Manager Zhang Jing will customize your itinerary based on your needs. Valid identification information, contact details, and special requests (such as dietary restrictions, health conditions, etc.) must be provided upon registration.
Fee Explanation and Service Description
Mine Pit No. 3: This ‘meritorious mine’ once provided rare metals for repaying foreign debt and supporting China’s aerospace industry. Now, it preserves mine site ruins and a geological museum, allowing visitors to delve into China’s mining history.Transportation:5-7 seat licensed commercial vehicles are used, with all drivers holding valid licenses and familiar with Northern Xinjiang’s road conditions.
Accommodation:Economy hotels or homestays are arranged by default; upgrades require additional fees.
Meals:No formal meals are included throughout the tour; drivers can recommend local specialty restaurants for visitors to choose from independently.
Insurance:Complimentary travel accident insurance with coverage of 200,000 yuan per person is provided.
Services:A tour manager will follow up throughout the itinerary, responding to emergencies within 1 hour.
Note:Reasonable itinerary changes can be made upon mutual agreement; specifics are subject to actual consultation and contracting.
Precautions
Climate:Northern Xinjiang experiences significant temperature variations between day and night. Warm clothing is needed in summer, and non-slip shoes in winter.
Photography:The best lighting conditions in Koktokay are within 2 hours after sunrise and 1 hour before sunset; a wide-angle lens is recommended.
Prohibitions:Smoking is prohibited within the scenic area, and touching exhibits is prohibited in Mine Pit No. 3.
Policies:In case of extreme weather or policy changes, the travel agency will assist in changing the itinerary or issuing refunds.
The charm of Koktokay lies in its ability to satisfy geology enthusiasts’ desire to explore wonders while allowing ordinary tourists to immerse themselves in the blend of nature and culture. Choosing a carpooling tour allows for cost control and flexible itinerary adjustments, making it the preferred way to deeply experience Northern Xinjiang.
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quote.

