First time in Altay? Really don't recommend joining a tour group!

Hey buddies👋! Who would've thought my first trip to Altay would make me fall head over heels🥰! I was torn about joining a tour, but so glad I chose independent travel - turns out the real joy here is "being your own boss"🥳! 🏔️ The "wild" romance of Kanas Your first stop must be Kanas! No early morning buses - pure bliss😎! Stroll leisurely by the lake at dawn, watching mist drape over mountains like chiffon🌫️, sunlight filtering through leaves onto grassy meadows, the air fragrant with greenery🌿. Stop anytime for photos📸, crouch by the lake watching fish dart by - this kind of "time-wasting" happiness is something tours can't offer~ At dusk, find a hillside to witness breathtaking sunsets🌇, watching skies shift from blue to pink to orange - so healing you'll want to scream (quietly)! 🐎 Galloping freely on the grasslands In Altay, you must rent a horse from local herders🐎! Follow their guidance, ambling across the steppe with wind whispering past your ears, waves of grass rolling beneath you - feeling like a true nomad~ Rest on the grass chatting with herders, sipping their freshly boiled salty milk tea☕, rich and heartwarming. These unplanned encounters are travel's most delightful surprises🥚! 🍢 Culinary punches in every alley The perk of independent travel? Hunting down street food🤤! Altay's baked buns are a must - golden crispy shells bursting with tender lamb, the meaty aroma blending with onion's sweetness, utterly addictive😋! Handmade yogurt topped with raisins and honey offers perfect tangy-sweet balance~ At night markets, grab some kebabs🍖 with chilled kvass, watching the lively crowds - pure fireworks of atmosphere💥! 🏡 Cozy stays within the scenery Choose a village homestay nestled in nature🏡! Wake to mountain and grassland views outside your window, birdsong your alarm🐦, evenings spent stargazing in the yard✨ - the sky so dense with stars it looks diamond-studded, leaving you speechless. Owners will eagerly share secret wildflower spots and perfect meditation hills - this kind of warm hospitality is truly touching🥹! 💡 Super practical tips 1️⃣ Altay has big temperature swings - pack a jacket even in summer🧥! 2️⃣ Share rides to scenic spots - make friends while splitting costs💰! 3️⃣ Respect local customs - greet herders with smiles and waves👋, they're super friendly~ Buddies, skip the tour for your first Altay trip! Only by wandering freely can you discover its hidden tenderness💕! Pack your bags for your very own Altay adventure🚀!