Top Almaty Day Trips - page 3

1 Day Private Tour Charyn Canyon Black Canyon and Kolsay Lake

10 to 14 hoursFree Cancellation

from $213

One Day Private Kolsay Lake, Kaindy Lake, Charyn and Black canyon

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(29)

from $235

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.

an equestrian show featuring skilled riders

Almaty: Jeep Private Huns Ethno Village & Issyk Lake Day Tour

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

(6)

from $190

Charyn Canyon Private tour from Almaty, 1 day

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(14)

from $316

The first stop is the mysterious Kaindy Lake — a natural wonder featuring a sunken forest, where fir trees seem to float in the crystal-clear emerald water. Next, we head to the picturesque Kolsai Lake, surrounded by mountains and dense coniferous forests. Here, you can take a walk along the shore, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. We end the day at one of Kazakhstan's most breathtaking locations — the Charyn Canyon. Its majestic cliffs and the Valley of Castles will leave a lasting impression and serve as a perfect finale to the journey. You’ll enjoy comfortable transportation, an attentive guide and countless opportunities for stunning photos. This adventure offers vibrant emotions, unforgettable views, and a full immersion into the wild beauty of Kazakhstan.

1 Day Tour to Kolsay Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

1 Day Tour to Kolsay Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

17 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from $56

Special Offer

Group tour Tanbaly Ancient petroglyphs UNESCO World Heritage

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.

Group tour Tanbaly Ancient petroglyphs UNESCO World Heritage

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Private Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake with Optional Kaindy Lake tour

9 to 13 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(26)

from $180

Book an exhilarating Jackpot Casino Tour with Sabina Travel! This unique experience includes visits to the best casinos in Konaev, including the glamorous Macau Casino and others, each offering a variety of thrilling games like poker, blackjack, and slots. With exclusive access, premium amenities, and professional guidance, our tour ensures you can immerse yourself in a luxurious casino atmosphere without worry. Perfect for both seasoned players and newcomers, this is an unforgettable night of excitement and elegance. Book your Jackpot Tour today for a truly memorable adventure!

2 to 20 hoursFree Cancellation

Private tour to Casino

from $150

Tour in Almaty Kaindy Lake and Kolsai Lake via Charyn Canyon

15 hoursFree Cancellation

from $330

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.

Almaty Assy Plateau and Issyk Lake Private Jeep Tour

Almaty Assy Plateau and Issyk Lake Private Jeep Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $400

We will admire the unbelievable vast landscapes of the Great Steppes – the cradle of the nomadic civilization. We will get to know the peculiarities of the nomadic way of life, who and how invented the Steppe Calendar and what are the main values of the Kazakh shepherds. We will speak about the religions of The Great Steppe and how dogs were transformed from the sacred animals to the devil servants. We will find out about the main product of local farmers of the USSR time. At the end of our journey through the steppes we will reach the kingdom of canyons that created mysterious castles and towers, home for the witches and magic red wolfs, – the heroes of Charyn canyon legends that kept in fear local people for centuries. Our guide will help you to separate the truth from the myths and we will try to guess how and why the legends were born. The visit of the canyons that are millions years old with their mysterious stories will not leave anyone indifferent!

Charyn Canyon Private tour

12 hoursFree Cancellation

(1)

from $270

Your adventure begins at the Charyn Grand Canyon, a geological masterpiece that will leave you speechless. As you traverse the canyon's winding trails, you'll witness the breathtaking interplay of light and shadow on the towering rock formations. Our knowledgeable guides will reveal the secrets of this ancient landscape. Next, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Kolsay Lake. Nestled amidst the majestic Tien Shan mountains, this pristine alpine lake shimmers with emerald hues. As you explore the area on foot, you'll encounter vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and the distant melodies of native birds.

Kolsay Lake and Charyn Grand Canyon

14 to 16 hoursFree Cancellation

See Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon on this trip. Take a full-day tour of Charyn Canyon to enjoy the hiking and wildlife this area has to offer. A National Park, Charyn Canyon is made up of sedimentary rocks that are millions of years old. Close to the Chinese border, the park spans 154 kilometers with distinctive cliffs, such as the Valley of Castles, the Witch’s Gorge, and the Ghost's Gorge.

from $75

Private Day Trip to Fantastic Charyn Canyon

Private Day Trip to Fantastic Charyn Canyon

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(32)

from $180

Our tour is a full-fledged two-day trip with an overnight stay, which allows you to take your time and enjoy the beauty of Altyn-Emel at a leisurely pace. On the first day, we depart from Almaty and head to the village of Basshi. There, we will have lunch at a guesthouse, after which we will travel to the famous Singing Barhan. In the evening, we will return to the village, where we will have dinner and spend the night in the atmosphere of true Kazakh hospitality. The next day, after breakfast, we will head to the picturesque mountains of Aktau and Katutau, and also make a stop at the relict willow with a 700-year history. This is a rare opportunity to see all the main attractions of the park in two days, without rushing and with comfort. In the evening, we return to Almaty, taking with us new impressions and vivid memorie

Altyn-Emel 2-Day Tour: Aktau, Katutau & the Singing Dune

Altyn-Emel 2-Day Tour: Aktau, Katutau & the Singing Dune

20 hoursFree Cancellation

from $1,500

Discover the alpine beauty of Kolsai Lakes on this private day hike from Almaty. Known as the Pearls of Tian Shan, three glacial lakes sit high in the mountains — most visitors only see the first. We go further, hiking through old-growth spruce forest to Kolsai 2, the quieter upper lake where snow lingers into early summer. About 15km round-trip with 600m elevation gain. For lesser fit participants an option to hire horses is available (extra fee). Your guide is Anton — born in Kazakhstan, lived 20+ years across the US, Singapore, and Malaysia. You will see this adventure through the eyes of someone who knows what it's like to arrive somewhere unfamiliar. - Private group never combined with others - Maximum 4 people - Private 4×4 transport from Almaty - English-speaking guide on the full hike - Horseback option at the trailhead for the less fit (excluded, unless proper option is selected) - Saty village Kazakh dinner option (excluded, unless proper option is selected)

Private Trip from Almaty - Pearls of Tian Shan Kolsai Lakes Hike

Private Trip from Almaty - Pearls of Tian Shan Kolsai Lakes Hike

12 to 18 hoursFree Cancellation

from $249

During this tour you will get acquainted with the everyday life of the ancient Kazakhs. The hospitable atmosphere of locals and the traditional infrastructure of the village is unique. Local people wearing authentic national clothes will show you the main traditions, ceremonies and fun activities of our culture which you can also participate. Professional horse-riding tricks show, breathtaking battle between warriors in armor, traditional customs performance, the story of yurt; archery, amateur horse riding for everyone, cooking simple national dishes and drinks (as kumis), crafts production - all of that is waiting for you in Hunns ethno-village! Saturated trip will be finished with delicious outdoor lunch accompanied by picturesque mountain views.

Discover nomadic lifestyle in 'The Huns' Ethno-village

Discover nomadic lifestyle in 'The Huns' Ethno-village

7 hoursFree Cancellation

3.5

from $179

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

Private Day Tour: Charyn Canyon & Kolsay Lake

Private Day Tour: Charyn Canyon & Kolsay Lake

12 to 15 hoursFree Cancellation

(4)

from $300

Tamgaly-Tas is the site of Dzungar Lamaism, common in South-East Kazakhstan in the second half of the XVII-XVIII centuries. Tamgalytas is located 25 km north-west of Kapchagai, on the right bank of the Ili river. Tamgaly-Tas is a unique site of Buddhist culture, has a long history of study and has been known in science for more than a century and a half. Castle of nomads was built as a decoration for the film “Nomad”, which was released in 2005. But you will be surprised by how organically it fits into the surrounding landscape. Now this city is often called the “Nomad Fortress”, and thousands of tourists flock to this tourist site every year.

1 Day Tour: Castle of nomads & Buddha petroglyphs

1 Day Tour: Castle of nomads & Buddha petroglyphs

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

(2)

from $205

Unique tour to feel the history of ancient Kazakhstan. Tamgaly is a petroglyph site in Zhetysu, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. The majority of the 5000 petroglyphs are in the main canyon, but there are many in the side canyons. The petroglyphs are mostly Bronze Age, but in some cases have been overlaid with Medieval or later etchings. There are even some petroglyphs from the Iron Age.

1 Day Tour: Tamgaly Petroglyphs

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $236

Aktau is a mountainous sedimentary massif, which reaches a height of 1000 meters and a length of 5 kilometers. The total area of the ridge is 50 square kilometers. It lies in the east of the Almaty region, in the Kerbulak region of the natural park. From the east it is bounded by the Kalshalysek tract, the valley of the dried up rivers Kokterek and Bokabaidyn-Ashasy. The sands of Aigaikum are located in the south. Aktau is called a "dead" mountain because nothing grows on it. Another name for the protected area is the Museum of the Earth's Past. Aktau consists of colored stones, the age of which, according to various sources, is 60,000,000 years. The mountain is a set of sandstone, red clay, pink carnelian, jasper and white quartz.

Space view of Aktau Mountains. Private Tour.

Space view of Aktau Mountains. Private Tour.

9 hoursFree Cancellation

(1)

from $360

Petroglyphs of Tanbaly UNESCO World Heritage Site

6 hoursFree Cancellation

(2)

from $162

On this tour you will enjoy an authentic theatrical show program, which is an acquaintance with the customs and traditions of the Kazakh people in a specially created ethnographic village, located in a picturesque place at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. In the program, the guests will be acquainted with the life of nomads, with a national dwelling of Kazakhs - yurt, will enjoy master class on cooking Baursaks - a traditional flour product, cleaning and whipping wool, show with horses and horseback-riding. Then you will have a delicious lunch of the national Kazakh dishes. At the end of the program, you will be given an archery master class - the skill possessed by the nomadic Kazakhs. You will also be able to try your hand at horseback and take a short ride on one of the horses.

Kazakh Ethno-Village Tour

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(22)

from $170

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!

Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm

Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(2)

from $99

Visit Kazakstan’s Charyn Canyon hassle-free by booking this private tour from Almaty, where all the logistics are planned for you. After your drive from Almaty, stretch your legs and hike through the canyon. In addition to this, visit a local village, try some local Kazakh food, and take some time to reflect while sitting along the Charyn River. Enjoy this tour at your own pace, since this is a private tour for your group.

Charyn canyon

7 hoursFree Cancellation

(38)

from $174

1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

1 2 3

What are people saying about Almaty

Joshua_B, May 2026

Amazing Private tour. Must do if visiting Kazakhstan!

“Had an amazing all-day private tour in Kazakhstan thanks to my guides/driver, Konti and Ayan. Both were incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating throughout the entire day. The car was brand new and clean, comfortable and they were on time. We visited Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy Lakes and lastly Black Canyon on the return. The diverse landscapes and untouched nature were stunning!!! My guides answered every question I had and were very flexible in tailoring the experience to exactly what I wanted to see and at my pace. Their professionalism and hospitality made the tour smooth, enjoyable, and memorable. Konti was great at ensuring I was always comfortable, tons of knowledge regarding Kazak culture, and great conversations during the road trip as well his fire playlist!! He was also super kind and mature for his age. Ayan is incredibly versed is all things Kazak, gave wonderful history and stories regarding kazak music and the 4 sites visited. He is also a great photographer to help capture all the moments. Thank you guys!! Highly recommend touring with them and requesting Konti or Ayan!”

Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Small-Group Tour

Sean_K, May 2026

A great intro to southern Qazaqstan

This tour was an excellent introduction to the nature and landscapes of southern Qazaqstan. I learned a lot from our guide Alibi about Kazakh history and geography. While the other reviews are true that this was a very long day with lots of time on the bus, we had sufficient time to explore each place with plenty of rest stops on the way, so the time seemed to go by quickly.

Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon

Pauline_K, Mar 2026

The whole experience was...

The whole experience was 10/10. We had a wonderful time. Rustam, our guide was very helpful. The places we went were out of this world. Crazy beautiful. One that I will remember for the rest of my life. Panda Travel made it even more memorable. Definitely worth it.

Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)

Seetha_I, Nov 2025

Amazing

The tour was amazing — we covered all the main places, and our guide, Luba, was excellent and very informative. The only drawback was the car’s speed on the way there; even though the road was empty, the driver was going very slowly, and many cars and trucks were passing us. However, on the way back, he drove much better. Overall, this tour is highly recommended. One tip: if anyone has back or knee pain, I would advise skipping the horse ride at Kandy Lake

Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall tour

Sasha_R, Sep 2025

Its a 30-40 min hike on a...

Its a 30-40 min hike on a rough trail to the waterfall, which isnt very big. No real need to see this. The lake is very pretty, its a 20 min walk on a paved road from the parking. Its maybe 1.5 hour for the waterfall and an hour at the lake. For this you leave in the morning at 9ish and get back evening at 6ish. The guide Serzhan was very nice.

ALmaty mountains hiking tour

Riley_C, Sep 2025

Amazing and challenging hike

The Almaty hiking tour was amazing, and Ote is an incredible guide. He does a great job catering the tour to your interest and ability level. The hike itself was challenging and very rewarding. Although we didn’t make it to the alpine lake, we enjoyed the views along the way. Weather in the Almaty mountains can be a bit unpredictable, so be prepared for rainstorms/hailstorms. Ote was incredibly supportive and ensured that we got down the mountain safely despite the inclement weather. This tour is a great way to see some of Almaty’s natural beauty, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Singing dunes & Aktau mountains group tour to Altyn Emel

Bryan_B, Aug 2025

Unforgettable day in Altyn-Emel — Aktau Mountains & the Singing Dune

I had an incredible day trip to Altyn-Emel that ran like clockwork from the 5:30 a.m. hotel pickup to our return in the evening. Our guide, Bek, was outstanding—friendly, encouraging, and amazingly attentive. He learned everyone’s name within minutes, explained the plan clearly, and kept our group motivated through the heat (around 100°F). After a smooth drive from Almaty, we switched to 4x4s and hiked a dry riverbed into the Aktau (Chalk) Mountains. The layered colors were surreal, and when the climb got steep, Bek’s encouragement helped me push to a fantastic viewpoint. We made a quick stop at the volcanic Katutau formations, then enjoyed a delicious family-style lunch at a local guesthouse—plenty of cold water, which was very welcome. The highlight was the Singing Dune: with Bek’s guidance, our group slid in unison and the dune let out a deep, organ-like hum you could hear and feel. It’s unlike anything I’ve experienced. Transportation was comfortable, the air conditioning worked well, and the whole day felt safe and well organized. Pro tips: bring 2–3 liters of water, sunscreen, a hat that clips on (it’s windy), sturdy shoes, and be ready for squat toilets in places. I highly recommend this tour—and especially Bek—for anyone looking to see the best of Altyn-Emel in one day.