What tours are available in Almaty?

Almaty is the tourism heartbeat of Kazakhstan. The city’s unique geographical location allows travelers to witness snow-capped Tian Shan peaks, deep dramatic canyons, and boundless prehistoric deserts all within just a few days. The influx of international tourists grows every year. If you are planning your trip and want to know what tours are available in Almaty, this structured guide will highlight the absolute must-visit locations every traveler should see.

The main natural attractions of the region can be divided into key iconic destinations, each unique in its history and landscapes.

1. Excursions to Charyn Canyon: A Journey Into the Prehistoric Past

If you are looking for the most breathtaking tours in Almaty, this landmark should top your itinerary. Charyn Canyon is a grandiose natural monument stretching along the Charyn River, with an estimated age of about 12 million years.

• A Bit of History: Millions of years ago, this entire area was submerged under the ancient Ili Sea. After the water receded, powerful forces of sun, wind, and rushing river currents sculpted the sedimentary rocks. This created the famous "Valley of Castles"—a 2-kilometer-long path where red sandstone cliffs resemble the towers of medieval fortresses and silhouettes of mythical giants.

• Trip Format: A day trip to Charyn Canyon is the perfect classic one-day excursion. The hike along the canyon floor is fully comfortable and suitable for travelers of all ages.

2. Tours to Kolsay Lakes and Kaindy: The Emeralds of Tian Shan

For those who want to swap urban hustle for the whispering pine forests and mirror-like water surfaces, there are high-altitude tours in Almaty leading to the pristine gems of the Kungei Alatau ridge.

Kolsay Lakes (a cascade system of three alpine lakes) are often called the "Blue Necklace" of the Tian Shan. Nestled in a deep gorge and framed by centuries-old Tian Shan fir trees, the water changes its color from deep blue to rich emerald depending on the sunlight.

• A Bit of History: Nearby lies another fascinating wonder—Lake Kaindy. It was formed relatively recently, following the devastating Kemin earthquake of 1911. A massive landslide blocked the river, flooding the conifer forest in the mountain valley. The freezing mountain water perfectly preserved the tree trunks. Today, their dry, stark tops rise above the turquoise surface like the masts of sunken ships, creating a surreal, mystical atmosphere.

• Trip Format: Excursions to Kolsay lakes are most frequently organized as comprehensive 2-day tours, allowing you to enjoy both lakes without rushing and spend the night at cozy local guesthouses.

3. Altyn-Emel National Park: Martian Mountains and the Singing Dune

If you are drawn to endless steppe horizons, desert mystique, and archaeological secrets, then out of all the options of what tours are available in Almaty, you should choose a trip to the vast Altyn-Emel State National Nature Park.

• The Singing Dune: A massive sand dune reaching up to 3 kilometers in length, rising right out of the flat steppe. In dry weather, the dune emits a deep, vibrating hum resembling an organ chord or a low-flying aircraft. A Bit of History: Ancient nomadic legends attributed this sound to the voice of Genghis Khan or spirits trapped beneath the sands. In reality, the sound is generated by friction caused by moving sand grains.

• Aktau and Katutau Colored Mountains: This is the exposed floor of the ancient Tethys Ocean. The Aktau Mountains stun visitors with their vibrant white, pink, and red clay layers, making you feel as though you are walking on Mars. Meanwhile, the nearby Katutau Mountains display frozen volcanic lava shaped into bizarre, twisted formations.

• Trip Format: Due to the vast distances and the abundance of unique locations, Altyn-Emel tours are best planned as a full 2-day expedition.

4. Trips to Big Almaty Lake (BAO)

If you only have half a day to spare but still want to see raw, majestic alpine ridges, the closer excursion-style tours in Almaty are a perfect match.

Big Almaty Lake (BAO) is nestled in a scenic gorge at an altitude of over 2,500 meters above sea level, completely surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau.

• Historical and Geographical Fact: BAO is of tectonic origin, formed as a result of an ancient glacier movement followed by earthquakes. Today, this lake holds vital strategic importance—it serves as the primary source of fresh drinking water for the entire city of Almaty. Because of this, a strict environmental protection regime is enforced: descending to the water line and swimming are strictly prohibited.

• Trip Format: A targeted tour to Big Almaty Lake takes about 4 to 5 hours including transit time, making it the most accessible yet incredibly photogenic mountain route.

Summary: How to Choose Your Perfect Itinerary?

When planning your vacation and deciding what tours are available in Almaty, simply base your choice on your available time and interests:

1. Half-day tour: Opt for a scenic drive up to Big Almaty Lake.

2. Full-day tour: Head out to explore the Martian landscapes and ancient history preserved within Charyn Canyon.

3. Weekend in the mountains (2 days): Choose a full-immersion journey to Kolsay Lakes and Kaindy with an overnight stay in cozy eco-lodgings.

4. Weekend in the desert (2 days): Travel to hear the Singing Dune and explore the multicolored alien peaks of Altyn-Emel.

You can find all variations of these iconic trips right on the kztravel.ru website. We handle the complete organization of your holiday: comfortable transport, expert guides who know the history of the region, and delicious meals. All you have to do is pick a date and step into your next adventure!