Top Almaty Outdoor Activities - page 2

You might already know that Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon are the top must-visit places in case you are travelling to Almaty. We suggest you private tour and full service but at the same time good price and flexibility. We will make our best so that you can enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of Kazakhstan!

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Big Almaty Lake, the crown jewel of Almaty's natural wonders. Nestled amidst the magnificent Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, this turquoise oasis at 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level is a sight to behold. Discover the captivating beauty of this stunning lake formed by the forces of nature. While the road might be temporarily closed, fear not. An exclusive solution allows you to reach Big Almaty Lake by car.

Discover the dramatic natural surroundings from the city of Almaty on this private tour. Visit the Medeo skating rink and the popular Shymbulak ski resort. Embark on a cable car ride through the gorge, taking in the stunning natural scenery. From mountains, lush forests, rivers and canyons, the area around Almaty boasts plenty of natural wonders.

City Highlights: Explore Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, the Memorial of Glory, Abay and Astana Squares, and Republic Square — key landmarks that reflect Almaty’s rich past and vibrant spirit. Cultural Insight: Learn about the history of Kazakhstan’s southern capital, known as the “Apple City,” and feel its unique mix of Soviet heritage and modern charm. Medeu Valley: Visit the world’s largest high-altitude ice rink, built at 1,691 meters above sea level, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Shymbulak Resort: Take the gondola lift up to 3,163 meters and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. Relaxation in Nature: Spend free time at cozy mountain cafés, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and capture unforgettable moments.

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.

First, we will visit Big Almaty Lake, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Almaty City. On the way to the lake, you will observe the beautiful mountains, crowded pine trees, and landscape. Upon arriving at The Big Almaty Lake, you will wonder how it was formed as a Big Lake on the top of the mountain hundreds of years ago. Big Almaty Lake is a natural alpine reservoir. It is located in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, 15 km south of the center of Almaty in Kazakhstan. The lake is 2511 meters above sea level. During the exploration of the lake, everyone would easily notice the color of the lake change according to the intensity of sunlight from light blue to heavy dark. Next, our journey takes us to the Alma-Arasan Gorage. You will see a river that comes from the spring on the top of the mountain and be astonished by its pureness. We will hike along the river for around 1km. Then, we will discover the Ayusay Gurge. Finally, we are going to First President Park.

Explore the natural wonders surrounding Almaty on this private day trip to Big Almaty Lake and the Alma-Arasan Gorge. Witness the changing colors of the lake which is surrounded by towering peaks and evergreen forests. Then, discover the picturesque Alma-Arasan gorge with its scenic trails, hot springs, and a charming waterfall.

Nature-loving travelers will enjoy getting out of Almaty for the day and heading to some of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural spots. After being picked up from your accommodation, head to the Charyn Canyon, where you’ll explore for a couple of hours. Spend some time in a traditional Kazakh village, Saty, seeing how the local people live. Admire the views of Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes, too.

At 5:30 AM, a comfortable jeep/SUV will pick you up directly from your hotel, and we’ll head to Kolsai Lake. The drive takes about 4 h (approx 300 km). Along the way, you’ll see steppe landscapes, mountains, and authentic village life.We’ll spend a couple of hours at the lake. Lunch is optional at Tary, offering panoramic views over the water. Next, we’ll drive to Lake Kaindy (15 min by car). From the parking area, it’s an easy 15-min walk to the lake. If you prefer not to walk, you can ride a horse or take a UAZ vehicle (2000 tenge). After that, we continue to Charyn Canyon (100 km, 2.5 hours). We’ll arrive just in time for sunset. Enjoy golden hour views from above and take a ride in an improvised safari vehicle (1,800 tenge). The drive back to the city takes about 3 hours. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel around 8:00 PM. Optional extra costs: horse ride, UAZ transfer, restaurant, safari vehicle. Feel free to ask your guide to take photos — we’ll be happy to capture your memories!

Unique Tour of Almaty: Kolsay Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and the Charyn Canyon Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Almaty! Our tour includes visits to three incredible locations: Kolsay Lake - picturesque waters surrounded by mountains, perfect for relaxation and photos. Kaindy Lake - a unique lake with poplars growing right in the water. Charyn Canyon - vibrant cliffs and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. With us, you'll discover the best natural spots, enjoy comfort, and create unforgettable memories! As a nice bonus, every guest will receive a small gift during the tour -- a thoughtful touch to make your trip even more special.

Enjoy the incredibly beautiful scenery of the big Almaty lake without hiking. Our tour provide all transfers directly to the lake round trip. First, we will visit Big Almaty Lake, which is about a 1 hour drive from Almaty City. On the way to the lake, you will observe the beautiful mountains, crowded pine trees, and landscape. Big Almaty Lake is a natural alpine reservoir. It is located in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, 15 km south of the center of Almaty in Kazakhstan. The lake is 2511 meters above sea level. After we will visit Alma Arasan hot springs. A picturesque gorge in Zailiysky Alatau in the south-west of Almaty (height ~1780-1827 m) near the Big Almaty lake, known for its hot radon springs. This is a popular holiday destination with the Prokhodnaya River, restaurants, sanatoriums and well-maintained hiking trails, accessible all year round.

7:00 AM — departure from your hotel by jeep/SUV. Drive 80 km (about 2 hours). First stop — Issyk Lake (1,760 meters above sea level). Time for a walk and photos. Next — a 1-hour hike to Bear Waterfall. The trail is suitable for both children and seniors. Time to relax, take photos, and swim if you’d like. Hike back to the car — about 1 hour. Drive to a trout farm — около 1 hour. Fishing is optional (extra charge). Your catch can be cooked on site. Lunch. Return to Almaty — about 2 hours. Hotel drop-off around 6:00 PM. Feel free to ask your guide to take photos throughout the day!

Discover Almaty’s top mountain highlights on a full-day tour combining nature, culture, and stunning views. Meet your guide at 9:00 AM in front of the Abay Opera House and travel to Ile-Alatau National Park. Visit the Butakovka Visit Center before hiking through scenic pine forests to Butakovka Waterfall (about 1 hour each way). Guests who prefer not to hike can relax at the Visit Center and enjoy the mountain scenery. After the hike, enjoy free time for lunch at Auyl Restaurant (lunch is not included), a unique mountain restaurant with panoramic views of the Small Almaty Gorge. Continue to Medeu, one of the world's highest mountain skating rinks, then ride the cable car to Shymbulak Mountain Resort for free time to explore and take photos. Finish the day at Kok Tobe, Almaty’s most famous viewpoint, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains before returning to the city center.

Embark on a private adventure to Kazakhstan's stunning Charyn Canyon, Kaiyndy, and Kolsay Lakes. Enjoy a fully personalized experience with expert local guidance, flexible itineraries, and exclusive access to breathtaking natural wonders. This tour sets itself apart by offering unparalleled comfort, customized pacing, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers, you’ll discover Kazakhstan’s most iconic landscapes, all while enjoying a seamless, memorable journey tailored just for you. Book now for an unforgettable day of discovery!

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.

Explore some of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural sites on an easy day tour from Almaty. After a morning pickup from your Almaty hotel, head to the Issyk and Turgen Gorges, an easy 90 minutes’ drive away. Admire the views of Bear Waterfall and Ile-Alatau National Park, visit the fascinating Golden Man Archaeological Museum, and refuel with a tasty lunch of local trout.

Experience the best of Almaty in one unforgettable day! Ride the cable car to 3,200 meters at the Shymbulak Ski Resort and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the city below. Explore the city’s top landmarks — Republic Square, Zenkov Cathedral, and the bustling Green Bazaar — after returning from the majestic Tien Shan Mountains. Immerse yourself in the true spirit of Kazakhstan! Taste traditional Kazakh dishes, sample kumis (fermented horse milk), and buy pure mountain honey at the lively Green Bazaar. Your friendly tour guide will share captivating stories and insights, helping you discover the real soul of Almaty — a perfect blend of culture, nature, and flavor.

We spend our lives chasing things, but we only feel truly alive when chasing moments. Most people travel to see places already seen on screens. At Lepsi Travel, step off the paved path and dive into the untamed soul of the Kazakh steppes and Zhongar Alatau mountains. The greatest luxury isn’t a five-star hotel lobby—it’s an emotion you didn’t know existed. We offer a raw, authentic nomadic experience. We don’t do "cookie-cutter" tourism. Below is the framework of your journey, but remember: life isn't scripted, and your adventure shouldn't be either. We move at your pace. Why Choose the Lepsi Family? Culture is Not a Performance: No rehearsed tourist spectacles. You will encounter the true heartbeat of our heritage—real people and genuine traditions. Travelers, Not Tourists: We don’t have "guests," we have friends. We don't just "host" you; we explore the wild with you.

Learn about Almaty through its cuisine on a fun food-focused walking tour. Almaty offers some delicious food but it can be difficult to know where to start. Your private guide will take you to some of the best local spots, where you can try savory and sweet dishes and mingle with the locals. Tour an old Silk Road market and listen to your guide’s stories about Kazakh history and culture.

Want to visit top sights in Almaty in one day?! Then do it to us! We visit the world-famous Medeo high mountain ice rink at an altitude of 1691 meters above sea level. Next, we make a mini ascent up the Health Mountain Staircase to Medeo Dam - 842 steps. From here you can enjoy a fantastic panorama of the mountain peaks of the Ile-Alatau National Park. Afterwards, we drive to the Medeo – Shymbulak gondola road and take the high-altitude cable car to the Shymbulak ski resort. Here you will understand why this Resort has been officially added to the Guinness Book of Records, and you will be greatly impressed by the beauty of the peaks and glaciers of the Tien Shan Mountains. All three locations in one day as part of a luxurious, action-packed excursion!

Join us as we take you to the stunning Charyn Canyon, the peaceful Kolsai Lakes, and the unique Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest with a nightover in a hotel with stunning view of the Magnificent Mountains. Enjoy easy and comfortable travel with us. Book now and experience the beauty of Kazakhstan’s landscapes! Your pleasure and safety is our priority!

With our team you will get acquainted with Almaty city, in one day you will visit all significant places: mountains, historical places, local market with local food. We guarantee you experience with full of joy, good mood and unforgettable memories will be captured by your heart!

Explore the stunning natural wonders of Kazakhstan, including the dramatic Charyn Canyon, serene Kolsai Lakes, an authentic overnight stay in Saty Village, and the mesmerizing Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest and turquoise waters. This tour offers a perfect blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion.

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.