Altay Carpooling 6 Day Research Trip to Keketuohai Mine for Geological Science Education Carpooling Quotation Details Available Recommended Route Price

Contact Manager Yang Jia at phone number 13325559266 or WeChat 13325559266 to send itinerary and quotation

Explore Geological Wonders:6-Day Altay Geological Study Carpooling Tour: Unlock Earth’s Secrets at Koktokay Mine
I. Core Highlights & In-Depth Destination Analysis
Located in northern Xinjiang at the junction of the Altai Mountains and the Junggar Basin, the Altay region is not only a treasure trove of natural landscapes but also a natural laboratory for geological research. This geological study carpooling route, centered on “geological science popularization,” connects three core attractions: Koktokay No. 3 Mine, Irtysh Grand Canyon, and Koktokay Geological Museum. Combining professional explanations with field investigations, it guides participants to systematically understand the formation mechanism of rare metal deposits, the history of the mining area, and the value of industrial heritage.
【Koktokay No. 3 Mine】
This 200-meter-deep, 250-meter-diameter spiral mine was once a “meritorious mine” for rare metal extraction in New China. Its ore veins contain 86 minerals, including beryllium, lithium, and tantalum, accounting for 60% of globally known mineral species, with rare metal reserves ranking among the top nationwide. The distinctly layered spiral banding inside the mine is globally recognized by geologists as a “natural geological museum,” on par with Canada’s Bell Lake Mine. In 2018, the Koktokay UNESCO Global Geopark was inaugurated, with No. 3 Mine as its core attraction, becoming a must-visit for geologists and tourists alike.
【Irtysh Grand Canyon】
As part of the Koktokay Geopark, the Grand Canyon is renowned for its granite landforms and headwaters of the Irtysh River. Iconic rock formations like Zhongshan (Bell Mountain) and Elephant Trunk Peak serve as typical samples for studying granite weathering and erosion. During the study tour, participants will hike along trails to observe the canyon’s geological structure, combining professional explanations to understand the evolutionary process of river landforms.
【Koktokay Geological Museum】
The museum houses rare mineral specimens such as Irtysh Stone and aquamarine, including the globally discovered new mineral “Irtysh Stone,” named by the International Mineralogical Association in 1984. Through historical photos, mining tools, and documents, the museum systematically showcases the mining area’s journey from discovery and extraction to transformation, offering crucial insights into the value of industrial heritage.
II. 6-Day Study Itinerary

Explore Geological Wonders: 6-Day Altay Geological Study Carpooling Tour – Unlock Earth’s Secrets at Koktokay Mine【Day 1:Assembly in Altay City & Geological Introduction】
Morning:Gather in Altay City and travel by carpool to Koktokay Town (approx. 4.5-hour drive), enjoying views of the Altai foothills along the way. The driver will explain the regional geological background based on road conditions.
Afternoon:Upon arrival in Koktokay Town, visit the Koktokay Geological Museum to establish foundational knowledge through mineral specimens and historical footage, focusing on the historical significance and scientific value of No. 3 Mine.
Evening:Check into a town hotel and savor Kazakh-style dinner (recommended: dried meat pilaf and baursak with milk tea).
【Day 2:Field Investigation at No. 3 Mine】
Morning:Head to No. 3 Mine scenic area, observing the mine’s morphology from multiple angles via viewing platforms while learning about pegmatite vein deposit characteristics.
Afternoon:After donning safety gear, enter the mine’s open interior area to closely examine ore vein layering and mining relics, with professionals explaining mineral identification methods on-site.
Evening:Return to town for free time or photograph the mine’s panoramic view at sunset.
【Day 3:Geological Hiking in Irtysh Grand Canyon】
All Day:Hike along Zhongshan Trail (one-way approx. 7 km), observing granite landforms and river erosion. Stop at viewpoints to explain canyon formation mechanisms using topographic maps. Participants may collect non-protected rock samples (with permission).
Evening:Return to town for a geology-themed sharing session to exchange observations from the day.

I. Core Highlights & In-Depth Destination Analysis【Day 4:Exploring Industrial Heritage of the Mining Area】
Morning:Tour mining area relics, including Russian-style architecture and ore processing plant ruins, to understand the historical context and industrial technology during the Sino-Soviet joint operation period.
Afternoon:Visit the mining area’s newly opened underground exhibition hall, using multimedia interactives to simulate rare metal extraction processes and grasp the economic value of ore deposits.
Evening:Free time; recommended to experience traditional ethnic entertainment (e.g., dombra performances, folk dances).
【Day 5:Extended Geological Exploration of Surrounding Areas】
All Day:Choose one of the following routes based on interest:
Route A:Visit Iremil Lake to observe lacustrine sedimentary landforms and Quaternary glacial relics.
Route B:Explore the Karaxenger Earthquake Fault Zone to study the geological impact of the 1931 Fuyun Magnitude 8 earthquake.
Evening:Return to town to organize field notes and prepare for departure the next day.
【Day 6:Return & Summary】
Morning:Carpool back to Altay City (approx. 4.5-hour drive), reviewing itinerary highlights along the way.

Located in northern Xinjiang at the junction of the Altai Mountains and the Junggar Basin, the Altay region is not only a treasure trove of natural landscapes but also a natural laboratory for geological research. This geological study carpooling route, centered on “geological science popularization,” connects three core attractions: Koktokay No. 3 Mine, Irtysh Grand Canyon, and Koktokay Geological Museum. Combining professional explanations with field investigations, it guides participants to systematically understand the formation mechanism of rare metal deposits, the history of the mining area, and the value of industrial heritage.Afternoon:Disband in Altay City. Participants may arrange subsequent itineraries or return independently.
III. Pricing Details & Cost Breakdown
【Carpooling Fee Reference】
Carpooling fees in Altay for 2026 vary by vehicle type and season. This study route uses 7-seat commercial vehicles with the following fee ranges:
Low Season (March-May, late October-November):Approx. 1,000-1,200 RMB/person/day
Peak Season (June-early October, December-February):Approx. 1,200-1,500 RMB/person/day
Fees include vehicle use, driver services, fuel, and tolls. Specifics are subject to contract.
【Scenic Area Tickets & Experience Items】
Koktokay UNESCO Global Geopark Admission:126 RMB/person (includes shuttle bus)
No. 3 Mine Tunnel Experience Ticket:50 RMB/person (confirm availability on-site)

【Koktokay No. 3 Mine】Geological Museum Guided Service:30 RMB/person (optional)
Prices above are 2026 references. Children, students, seniors, and other special groups with valid IDs may qualify for discounts, subject to scenic area announcements.
【Estimated Total Cost for 6-Day Itinerary】
Total cost: Approx. 5,000-7,000 RMB/person (based on 4-person carpool), covering carpooling, tickets, accommodation (standard economic hotel twin room), meals (40-60 RMB/person per main meal), and basic guided services. Costs may fluctuate due to vehicle upgrades, higher accommodation standards, or additional experience items. Specifics are subject to actual consultation and contracting.
IV. Registration & Service Guarantees
【Registration Process】
Participants can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency. After providing name, contact details, and travel dates, Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing will assist in confirming availability and sending an electronic contract. A 30% deposit is required upon registration, with the balance due 7 days before departure.
【Fee Inclusions & Service Standards】
Inclusions:Carpooling fees, first admission tickets to scenic areas, accommodation (twin room; solo travelers will be coordinated for shared rooms where possible), main meals during the itinerary, and basic guided services.
Exclusions:Round-trip transportation to Altay City, personal expenses, off-itinerary experience items, and insurance (recommended to purchase independently).
Service Standards:Vehicles are new commercial cars under 5 years old, with drivers having over 5 years of plateau driving experience. Accommodations are locally comfortable or economic hotels passing hygiene inspections. Meals are arranged at local specialty restaurants prioritizing fresh ingredients.

This 200-meter-deep, 250-meter-diameter spiral mine was once a “meritorious mine” for rare metal extraction in New China. Its ore veins contain 86 minerals, including beryllium, lithium, and tantalum, accounting for 60% of globally known mineral species, with rare metal reserves ranking among the top nationwide. The distinctly layered spiral banding inside the mine is globally recognized by geologists as a “natural geological museum,” on par with Canada’s Bell Lake Mine. In 2018, the Koktokay UNESCO Global Geopark was inaugurated, with No. 3 Mine as its core attraction, becoming a must-visit for geologists and tourists alike.【Precautions】
The mine interior is cold; bring windproof jackets and comfortable hiking shoes.
Geological investigations must comply with scenic area rules. Collecting protected minerals or damaging geological relics is prohibited.
In case of severe weather or road closures, both parties may agree to reasonably adjust the itinerary.
V. Why Choose This Route?
【Balancing Professionalism & Fun】
The itinerary integrates geological knowledge input with outdoor experiences, using a “explain-observe-practice” loop to help participants upgrade from casual observation to expert insight. For example, at No. 3 Mine, participants can marvel at the spiral structure while learning to identify beryl ore and lithium mica through mineral specimens.
【In-Depth Cultural Experience】
The mining area’s history intertwines with ethnic cultures. The itinerary includes visits to Russian-style buildings, Kazakh cuisine tastings, and ethnic entertainment experiences, helping participants understand how geological resource development influenced regional social changes.
【Flexibility & Reliability】
The carpooling model suits small groups of 2-6 people, allowing customization of investigation focuses (e.g., mineral collection or landscape photography). Vehicles and drivers are rigorously vetted by the travel agency, with seat insurance purchased for the entire journey to ensure safety.
Altay’s summer features the glimmering Irtysh River, Zhongshan’s reflection, and the republic’s memories etched in No. 3 Mine. This 6-day study route invites you to rediscover this land through geological eyes, blending scientific exploration with cultural insight for a “deep and warm” journey. Contact Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing at Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency now to embark on your geological adventure!

Contact Manager Yang Jia at 13325559266 or WeChat 13325559266 to send itinerary and quotation