Top Almaty How to Get Around

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.

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!

Discover the perfect mix of light adventure and breathtaking nature on this full-day tour from Almaty. Travel in comfort with a small group and enjoy a well-organized experience guided by a professional local expert. Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic Turgen Gorge. Walk along a picturesque mountain trail surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views as you head toward the beautiful Bear Waterfall. At the end of the trail, enjoy the cool freshness of glacial water and the peaceful atmosphere of this place. After the hike, continue to the stunning Issyk Lake, located at 1,756 meters above sea level in the Ili-Alatau mountains. The lake’s color changes from turquoise to deep blue depending on the season, creating a truly mesmerizing landscape. Take time to relax, walk along the shore, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the calm beauty of the mountains.

Step into the world of the nomadic Huns group of Kazakhstan, nestled in the scenic Talgar gorge, on this private half-day experience from Almaty. Immerse yourself in the daily life of ancient Kazakhs, where locals in traditional attire share unique traditions, ceremonies, and cultural activities. Watch a horse-riding tricks show, witness a warrior battle, and partake in archery and crafting. Your day culminates with an outdoor lunch and beautiful mountain views.

Discover Almaty’s top mountain highlights on a full-day tour combining nature, culture, and stunning mountain 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 offering panoramic views of the Small Almaty Gorge. Continue to Shymbulak Mountain Resort and take the cable car up to the resort. Enjoy free time to explore, take photos, and admire the spectacular mountain scenery. During the cable car ride, you can also enjoy views of Medeu and the surrounding mountains. After visiting Shymbulak, return to Almaty city center.

Experience the best of Almaty in one perfect day — from alpine peaks to city streets. Start high above the city at Medeu, the world's highest skating rink, then ride up to Shymbulak mountain resort for breathtaking views of the Tian-Shan peaks. Watch the city stretch out below as you breathe in the fresh mountain air. Back in the city, explore Panfilov Park and the stunning wooden Ascension Cathedral, one of the few tsarist-era buildings still standing. Stroll through the vibrant Green Bazaar for local flavors and Kazakh treats. Stop by the famous Rakhat Confectionery — the sweet heart of Almaty since 1942. Finish at Kok Tobe hill for panoramic views of the city at its best. A lunch stop is included — time to taste local Kazakh cuisine at a traditional restaurant. Private Tour: Same full-day route for your group only — flexible pace, personal attention, no strangers. Hotel pickup from 8 AM. Maximum 8 people per group.

Get to know Almaty better on a private, half-day guided tour of the city. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who have just arrived. Avoid the risk of getting lost or struggling with public transport in a different language, as taking a tour makes sightseeing easy. Visit Almaty highlights such as the Central Mosque and Kok-Tobe Hill, from where you can admire the views.

Want to experience the true beauty of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains and recharge with fresh mountain energy? Join us on a scenic tour to Big Almaty Lake, along with the picturesque Alma-Arasan and Ayusai gorges, located just a short drive from Almaty. What awaits you: • Visit the famous Big Almaty Lake — a stunning alpine reservoir surrounded by towering peaks, famous for its turquoise color and breathtaking panoramic views; • Walk through pine forests filled with fresh mountain air and crystal-clear rivers; • Relax at the natural hot springs of Alma-Arasan (if accessible), known for their calming and rejuvenating properties; • Waterfalls and panoramic views of the Alma-Arasan and Ayusay gorges; • Visit a Falconry Center and enjoy an impressive show with eagles, falcons, and other birds of prey — a unique insight into the region’s nomadic traditions (only from April to October).

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!

Travelers short on time in Almaty will enjoy this short small-group walking tour that covers the city’s highlights. After meeting your guide and group at a designated location, walk through some of the city’s main thoroughfares, parks, and shopping streets. Get a feel for Almaty’s unique atmosphere while your guide tells you more about the city’s history and culture. This is a great way to begin your time in Almaty.

With us you can see the city not only from above, but also from the inside, get acquainted with the history of the war of 1940-1945, find out how multinational and multicultural our country is. We will show you the multifaceted culture, hospitality and the history of the Kazakh people.

We will start our trip in the morning from your hotel. Drive will take approximately 3 hours. Museum-reserve is located on the vast territory with hills, canyons and rocks. There are 6 groups of petroglyphs of different eras. We will observe all of them. Just imagine - you will have chance to learn the art and at the same time documents of people who lived here hundreds and thousands years ago!

Our tour programme is really unique, during one day guests visit 6 interesting, different locations in the canyons of Charyn River. In addition to walking inside the popular Castle Valley Canyon (Location # 1), we offer guests a visit to the observation deck, the view from the top of Castle Valley Canyon is a breathtaking view of the entire canyon (Location # 2). Next we visit Moon Canyon with a truly lunar, ethereal scale, the ground turns from a burgundy colour to a yellow hue (Location # 3). The next stop on the route is "Stone Shelf", a place with volcanic activity a million years ago (Location # 4). The "Napoleon" location includes an unforgettable view of the main canyon of the Charyn River and a huge amount of free space (Location # 5). The last point of the route is the "Austrian View" - the turns of the Charyn River take shape in the form of a giant snake, bordered by the green edge of an ancient tree - turanga (Location # 6).

Join us on a breathtaking journey through Kazakhstan’s natural wonders - from the crystal-clear Kolsai Lake and the mysterious sunken forest of Kaindy, to the dramatic Charyn Canyon and its hidden gems like the Moon and Black Canyons. Enjoy local hospitality in Saty village, traditional meals, and expert guides who speak English, Russian, and Kazakh. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or just craving something new - this experience is made for you. Book now and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Explore the breathtaking Big Almaty Lake, situated 2,500 meters above sea level, alongside the refreshing Almarasan Hot Springs with our best-price guarantee. For inquiries or last-minute reservations, contact us directly on WhatsApp at +77012110150 Guests can choose between a direct drive or a guided hike, enjoying an hour to take in the lake's rich history and another hour to relax in the thermal waters. Please remember to bring swimwear for the hot springs and refrain from entering the lake water, as it is protected drinking water for the city and subject to strict fines. Beyond this trip, we offer fully customizable tours across Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, ranging from Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lake to paragliding and city sightseeing. Recognized as a top-rated local agency, we deliver unmatched flexibility, competitive pricing, and outstanding verified reviews. daotravel.kz. - best travel agency in Almaty.

Head out for some fresh alpine air and some beautiful nature on this hassle-free private tour to Issyk Lake. You have round-trip transport from Almaty to keep things simple. Spend around an hour or more hiking and relaxing at the lake. If you like, you can stop at the Museum of a Golden Man on the way there. It’s up to you, since this is a private tour and you can alter the itinerary if you like.

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!

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 canyon landscapes of Kazakhstan in one action-packed day from Almaty. Your journey takes you through three stunning canyons, each with its own distinct character. Charyn Canyon — towering red rock formations stretching 154 km, often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia. Walk the lower trail through the legendary Valley of Castles, then climb to the upper rim for a panoramic view of the entire canyon. Continue to the mysterious Black Canyon, where dark volcanic walls create a striking contrast, and finish at the surreal Moon Canyon — pale, crumbling formations that look like a lunar landscape. A hot homemade lunch is included mid-tour at a local café. Private Tour: Same route, your group only — flexible pace and personalized attention. English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup from 7 AM. All national park entrance fees included. Maximum 10 people per group.

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.

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.

Escape the crowds and enjoy a private tour of Almaty with hotel pickup and drop-off. See the exquisite natural landscapes of Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes, surrounded by forest and mountains. Take in the unique scenery with plenty of time to stop and take photographs. Visit the incredible Charyn Canyon, with dramatic and unique rock formations.

With so much to see in Almaty, the city is best experienced with a guide who can show you around and fill you in on each attraction’s history. But following a large group around on a rigid sightseeing itinerary doesn’t appeal to every kind of traveler. Ideal for more independent-minded visitors, this private full-day tour lets you customize your schedule, with door-to-door vehicle transfers included.