All Shymkent Tours & Excursions in 2026

With soaring peaks, rugged canyons, twin rivers, and a wealth of birds of prey, the Aksu-Zhabagly Reserve offers some of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular landscapes. Explore the wilderness with confidence on this overnight private trek with a guide and vehicle including hotel pickup, three meals, and a guesthouse stay. On day 1, hike the Kshi-Kayindy Gorge; on day 2, explore the Aksu Canyon.

Sayram-Ugam National park is located 70 km from Shymkent. The park is a part of the Western Tian-Shan mountain system. Also, it is included in the list of the UNESCO of World heritage sites. Sayram-Ugam is full of wild gorges and canyons, mountain lakes and rivers, peaks and glaciers. If you are lucky, you can meet a snow leopard, a bear, mountain goats and gazelles, a lot of very rare and endangered birds and amphibians. Most noteworthy – breathtaking landscapes, the availability of different trekking and horseriding options and relatively easy access makes this area a popular destination not only among locals but also foreign guests. In this national park, there are many different routes, but the most colorful is the area around the foothills of peak Sayram-Su. Mountain forests regulate water flow, enrich the air with oxygen and phytoncides. They protect against rain and spring floods, slow the melting of snows.

Explore the majestic Karatau mountains on an unforgettable journey blending history, nature, and adventure. Depart from Shymkent and discover the medieval village of Terekty with its sacred spring before marveling at ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks. Hike through breathtaking landscapes to reach a hidden waterfall and enjoy a picnic in a serene canyon. Step into the enchanting Holy White Mosque cave and uncover Kazakhstan’s rich history at ancient monasteries. End the day camping under the stars by the Borday River, creating lasting memories in the heart of nature. • One day adventure through the Karatau mountains, departing from Shymkent • Visit ancient petroglyphs, sacred springs, and centuries-old Sufi monasteries • Hike to a hidden waterfall and picnic in a stunning canyon

Most tours stick to the crowded paths, but this trek takes you deep into the quieter parts of the Western Tian Shan. You'll be exploring the Sairam-Ugam Nature Park with a local guide who knows these mountains inside out. Expect to walk among rare, centuries-old juniper trees and drink from ice-cold mountain streams without another tourist in sight. It's a real, raw piece of Central Asian nature