Top Almaty Day Trips - page 2

Get out of Almaty city for the day on a private tour to beautiful Issyk Lake. Admire the views of the mountains that surround the lake while taking a walk, having a boat ride, or enjoying a picnic beside the water. Also visit Issyk’s Golden Man Museum, an archeological site housing an ancient Scythian warrior in a suit of gold armor.

We will start our trip in the morning from your hotel. Drive will take approximately 2.5 hours. Museum-reserve is located on the vast territory with hills, canyons and rocks. There are several groups of petroglyphs of different eras. We will observe all of the available ones. You will have a chance to learn about the life of people and see unique petroglyphs of different time periods from bronze age to late medieval documented on these rocks.

At 10:00 AM, hotel pick-up by comfortable jeep or SUV. Drive to Huns Ethno Village takes about 1 hour. From 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM: cultural program including the traditional “Shashu” ceremony, baursak-making masterclass with tea, introduction to nomadic life, “Besikke Salu” ceremony, equestrian show, and photos with horses (short queues possible). Buffet lunch with traditional Kazakh dishes, followed by an archery masterclass. Then transfer to Issyk Lake (about 1 hour). Walk along the shore and optional light trekking. Return to Almaty (about 2 hours). Arrival at the hotel around 7:00 PM. All entrance fees and activities included — no hidden costs. Feel free to ask your guide to take photos. Guides speak English, Russian, Chinese, and Spanish — please indicate your preferred language when booking. Customized tours across Kazakhstan available upon request.

08:00 – Departure from Almaty A comfortable 4x4 vehicle will pick you up from your hotel. The drive to the Assy Plateau takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, depending on road conditions. Assy Plateau Located at an altitude of 2,500–3,000 meters above sea level, the plateau is known for its endless alpine meadows, panoramic views, and nomadic pastures. During the visit: 1. stops at scenic viewpoints 2. a walk across the plateau 3. photo stops 4. visit to the Assy-Turgen Observatory (outside view) 5. picnic or free time in nature (pick up own food) After exploring the plateau, transfer to Issyk Lake (about 1–1.5 hours). Issyk Lake A beautiful mountain lake in the Ile-Alatau National Park, surrounded by pine forests and rocky cliffs. During the visit: 1. walk along the shoreline 2. free time 3. optional light trekking 4. photo stops Return to Almaty takes about 1.5–2 hours. Estimated arrival in the city: 6:00–7:00 PM.

In one day, you can visit the most beautiful places with spectacular nature: Charyn Canyon, "the little brother of Grand Canyon," Kolsay Lake, the pearl of Tyan Shan Mountain, and Kaindy Lake, a flooded forest. Incredible views of the most unusual, mysterious, and inexplicable natural phenomena won't leave you indifferent. Inspire yourself with the beauty of Kazakhstani nature.

We will drive along the former caravan route of the legendary Grate Silk Way with the views of Tian Shan mountains. We will get to know about the magic qualities of the Grate Steppe . On the way we will make a photo stop at the archeological area with the ancient Saki burial mounts which are thousands of years old but still can tell us the stories about the grate nomadic civilization of the antique times and there you will learn the story of how the terrible tragedy brought Kazakh people to the discovery of their national symbol. The third part of our journey takes us to the National park in the mountains where besides the stunning mountain views we will observe the sad ruins of the Soviet time resorts that witnessed one of the worst of natural disasters that happened in this area in July of 1963 that took many human lives and destroyed one of the wonders of this mountains. We will speak about the beauty and the danger of this place in the historical perspective.

Escape from the the city and enjoy a refreshing day surrounded by mountains, forests, and crystal-clear air. This tour takes you to the stunning Issyk Lake and the peaceful Turgen Gorge, where you can experience the beauty of Kazakhstan’s nature at a relaxed pace. The trail to the Bear Waterfall is short and easy (around 1.8 km), making it suitable even for travelers with no hiking experience. This experience is perfect for families, couples, and anyone who simply wants to slow down and reconnect with nature. Even if you prefer not to hike, you can enjoy your time by the river, breathe in the fresh mountain air, walk among pine trees, and take in the views of the surrounding peaks. There are plenty of comfortable spots to relax, take photos, or just sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for light activity or a calm nature escape, this tour offers the perfect balance of easy walking, beautiful scenery, and total relaxation.

Immerse in culture, traditional show, horsemanship, and lunch with national dishes & activities from gates of Ethno-Village Gunny (Huns)! The life show will be started by warriors and residents welcoming you with degustation of Kazakh bread and drink will continue with ceremonial show: Kyz Uzatu/ Nauryz/other. Then, there will be the show of horsemen-warriors — Jigitovka. Young riders will demonstrate their skill in performing acrobatic tricks on horses, as well as participating in national games that resemble festive celebrations of the people, at full gallop! After the show, there will be a lunch treat of national dishes such as Beshbarmak, Kaordak, Plov, and Manty, as well as traditional drinks — Kymyz or Shubat. After lunch, you can test yourself in horse riding and archering. Lastly you will head to the Troat farm, visiting Monument along the way, where you will be surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes and fishing activities that will provide unforgettable experiences!

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Charyn Canyon on this unforgettable 1-day tour. Just a few hours from Almaty, Charyn Canyon is often called the 'Grand Canyon of Central Asia,' boasting stunning rock formations and dramatic landscapes. Enjoy a comfortable journey in a spacious CUV with a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. Whether you're looking for scenic hikes, photography spots, or just a relaxing escape into nature, we can tailor the tour to your preferences. Join us for a day of adventure and exploration, customized just for you!

Discover the magic of Altyn-Emel National Park, starting from the village of Basshi. Visit the ancient 700-year-old willow tree, then trek through the surreal landscapes of the Ak-Tau mountains, where white slopes and unique formations await. Explore the Katutau mountains, home to stunning stone sculptures shaped by volcanic activity. The tour culminates at the Singing Dune, where the wind creates captivating melodies across the sands, return to Almaty with cherished memories of Kazakhstan's natural wonders. - Explore the ancient 700-year-old willow tree and its surroundings - Trek through the unique landscapes of Ak-Tau and Katutau mountains - Experience the enchanting sounds of the Singing Dune - Enjoy a hearty lunch in the village

Active travelers will love getting out of Almaty for a half or full day of hiking in the Ile-Alatau Mountains. Choose a duration and a route to suit your level of ability, from beginner to experienced hiker. Take a leisurely stroll with plenty of scenic stops, or a more challenging full-day hike. As this is a private tour, you can customize it to suit your needs and interests.

Why choose our Private Experience? Unlike the big crowded bus tours, we offer a journey that feels like traveling with a local friend who knows all the secrets of Kazakhstan. Here is what sets us apart: 100% Flexible & Private: This tour is just for you and your group. We don’t follow a rigid schedule. Want to spend an extra hour at the lake or stop for a photo in a random field of wildflowers? It’s your call. The "Hidden" Canyons: Most tours only show you the main Charyn Canyon. We take you deeper to the Moon Canyon, where you can enjoy and see more. SUV Comfort: Forget about bumpy old vans. You’ll travel in a clean, modern, and air-conditioned 4x4 SUV, perfectly equipped for mountain roads. We always have fresh bottled water inside Expert Local Storytelling: We don't just give you dates and facts. We share the legends, the history, and the modern life of Almaty Stress-Free Experience: From hotel pickup to the best lunch spots in local villages, we handle every detail

Embark on a journey through time at Charyn Canyon, an ancient natural wonder formed millions of years ago. Immerse yourself in the magical vibe of this sacred place where time stands still. Feel connected to nature and experience the pure energy the canyon shares. As you explore, enjoy views of the Valley of Castles, where natural stone sculptures line the canyon's bottom.

05:00 Pick-up and Depature from Almaty 07:00 shortstop for coffee/WC 8:40 Arrival at Charyn Canyon "Valley of the Castles" Visiting sereral spots,walking Along canyon Black Canyon,Viewing spot Photographing 12:00 Arrival at Saty village, transfer to Kaindy Lake In Kaiyndy lake car goes until parking point. From parking until the lake 2km of walk. You can use horses or taxi insead of walking. 14:30 transfer to saty 14:30 Lunch in the guesthouse 16:00 Transfer to the Lower Kolsai Lake from Saty 17:00 Leaving Kolsai Lakes National Park 20:30 Shortstop for coffee/WC 22:00 Drop-off in Almaty

Take a break from Almaty’s busy streets and experience pristine pastures on this 4WD adventure. Head to the Assy Plateau to enjoy panoramic views as far as the eyes can see. Highlights include mountain landscapes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant alpine flowers, and an observatory. Enjoy a picnic, camp, stargaze, take photos of the landscapes, and more.

Altyn-Emel National Park is famous primarily for its unique natural sites, for which thousands of tourists from all over the world come here. First of all, these are the Singing Dune and the chalk mountains of Aktau - the most famous natural monuments, which are original symbols of the Altyn-Emel Park. The singing dune was formed as a result of geological changes in the Semirechye region. About 200 thousand years ago, part of the Ulken Kalkan (Big Kalkan) volcano shifted, forming the mountains known as Kishi Kalkan (Little Kalkan). The sands that lay at the foot of the volcano were drawn into this new corridor, like a wind tunnel, by winds blowing from the southeast to the west-northwest, forming huge dunes about 10-12 thousand years ago. The Big and Small Kalkan mountains surround the Singing Dune, thereby preserving its unchanged shape.

Visit Kolsay and Kaindy lakes, Charyn, Black and Moon canyons in One Day. Enjoy beauties of Almaty Region. Tour includes , traditional food lunch.

Discover Kazakhstan’s hidden natural wonders with a local guide, visiting Charyn Canyon, Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes in one unforgettable adventure.

NOW IT'S TIME TO VISIT TURGEN IN AUTUMN IN WINTER 08:00 – Pick-up and departure from Almaty 09:00 – Arrival at Turgen Gorge Short walk through the gorge surrounded by pine forests 09:30 – Visit Bear Waterfall Enjoy the fresh mountain air and take beautiful photos 11:00 – Transfer to Issyk Lake Free time to walk around, relax by the lake, and take photos 13:00 – Lunch at a local café near Issyk Lake 14:30 – Visit the Golden Man Museum in the town of Issyk Learn about the famous archaeological discovery and ancient Saka culture 16:00 – Departure back to Almaty 17:30 – Shortstop for coffee/WC 18:30 – Drop-off in Almaty

High-altitude plateau goes along the river Assy to the east. Along the river Assy there are ancient burial mounds and rock carvings, which are one of the highest mountain clusters of petroglyphs in Kazakhstan. An observatory of astrophysics is built on the upper platform of the plateau, in which one of the world's largest telescopes is installed.

Visit two of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural sites on an easy private day tour from Almaty. After an early morning pickup from your hotel, head to ancient Charyn Canyon, where you can admire the views and take a short (1.8-mile/3-kilometer) hike. In the afternoon, head to Kolsai Lake, which has beautiful reflective views of the Tien Shan Mountains. This is a must-do tour for nature lovers.

Tanbaly museum-reserve complex is one of the most impressive historical sites in Kazakhstan. A great example of Bronze and Iron Age art, documented on the rocky hills of Chu-Ile mountains. It has a massive scientific and cultural value not only for Kazakhstan, but worldwide. Great size of the complex, number of petroglyphs (over 5000), technique which was used to create them and a geographical position make it a special place. Part of the road goes through the real kazakh steppes, vast flatlands with mountain background, amazing views, traditional lifestyle and some animals to see on the way. The walk inside the Tanbaly is not difficult and suitable for people with moderate fitness level. There is around 2 km walk and some hike between the petroglyphs.

This tour combines three of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural attractions in one unforgettable day. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Kolsai Lake, discover the world-famous sunken forest of Lake Kaindy with its unique tree trunks rising from the water, and admire the dramatic landscapes of Black Canyon. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this experience offers a perfect mix of stunning scenery, photo opportunities, local insights, and comfortable transportation. Your small-group approach allows for a more personal experience, giving travelers enough time to enjoy each destination, learn about the region, and capture unforgettable memories.

Escape from Almaty for a full-day private SUV tour to Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural landmarks. Your experience is personally hosted by the founder of Almaty Premium Tours, a former international airline cabin crew member with over 18 years of hospitality experience. The focus is on comfort, punctuality, safety, attention to detail, and professional guest care from pickup to drop-off. Your tour starts with pickup from your hotel or agreed location within Almaty city. Travel in a comfortable 2025 Jetour T2 SUV with air conditioning, bottled water, WiFi / mobile data hotspot, and personal support throughout the day. At Charyn Canyon, enjoy dramatic red rock formations, open landscapes, walking time, scenic viewpoints, and flexible photo stops. The tour is designed at a comfortable private pace, allowing you to enjoy the canyon without joining a large group. Return safely to Almaty with drop-off at your hotel or agreed location within the city.