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Looking for the perfect half-day escape from Almaty? Experience the true spirit of the Kazakh steppe and the beauty of the Tien Shan mountains in just a few hours.

This tour combines a thrilling live demonstration of ancient nomadic hunting traditions with a refreshing, scenic hike through the famous Alma-Arasan gorge.

Forget the stress of navigating local buses or finding a taxi in the mountains. We provide a completely hassle-free experience with hotel pick-up, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance tickets included.
What to Expect
🦅 The Nomadic Heritage: Sunkar Falconry Center Our journey begins with a visit to the Sunkar sanctuary, home to rare birds of prey. Here, you will witness a spectacular open-air show featuring Golden Eagles, Falcons, and Owls. You will learn about the ancient art of "Berkutchi" (hunting with eagles) — a proud tradition of Central Asian nomads. After the breathtaking flight demonstrations, you will have the unique opportunity to hold a magnificent hunting bird on your arm for memorable photos.
🌲 Nature Escape: Trekking in Ayusai Gorge After the show, we will drive deeper into the picturesque Alma-Arasan gorge. Leaving the car behind, we will embark on an easy, relaxing hike along the Ayusai (Bear Gorge) eco-trail. Surrounded by relict coniferous forests and the sound of a mountain river, we will reach the beautiful Ayusai waterfalls. It’s a perfect spot to breathe in the crystal-clear alpine air, take stunning landscape photos, and enjoy the tranquility of nature before heading back to the city.

Why Book This Tour?:
  • Time-Saving: A perfect 4-5 hour itinerary, leaving you plenty of time for evening plans in Almaty.
  • All-Inclusive: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, comfortable transport, and all eco-park & show tickets are covered.
  • Family-Friendly: The walking trail is safe, well-maintained, and suitable for all fitness levels and children.
Price of the Ayusai and Alma-Arasan trip
Price of the Ayusai + Falconry Show tour

Price includes: comfortable transport, guide, and entrance tickets.

Falconry show available from March to October (Wednesday to Sunday).

What should you bring with you?
  • Passport
  • Clothes
    The temperature is like in the city.
  • Sun protection
    sun glasses and SPF cream
Photo of Alma - Arasan
Book a tour and get a free airoport pick up from us!
What is included in service of Kazia Tour?
Meeting at airport if booking 3 tours
Transfer to the location
Guide support
Free cancelation policy
Free cancelation of tour is available until 24 hours before your tour starts
Read our 230+ 5* reviews on TripAdvisor, Viator,
  • Steven
    UK

    ★★★★★

    We became friends!

    We had an amazing four-day adventure, made all the more enjoyable by Gulzat's personality. Through discussion, we arrived at the perfect bespoke four-day road trip. We did everything that we wanted to do and it was fantastic that we could return to the Charyn Canyon to take photographs in better light....

  • Reka
    Hungary
    ★★★★★
    See you in Budapest!
    We spent teo days with her! She was so nice and plesent and helpful. I always felt safe. She was helpful! We spoke so much about our familiy and culture, we learned a lot from Kazakhstan! Thank you for the unfogetable experience! I recommend her to anyone! It was amazing how she can speak on three language...
  • Nao
    Japan
    ★★★★★
    We spent a great day!
    I had a great experience with my guide, Gulzat. She is very polite, kind and caring person. She replied me very quick any time. I came to Almaty from Japan alone. I was a little bit nervous before but I was very relieved by her support. She invited me to a nice riverside lunch on the way to Big Almaty Lake. I had an amazing afternoon. The lake was beautiful ....
Frequently Asked Questions
Ayusai and Alma-Arasan: the best mountain routes near Almaty
If you are looking for a place near Almaty to enjoy fresh air, mountains, and the beauty of wildlife, Ayusai Gorge and the Alma-Arasan hot springs area are among the most popular and picturesque destinations. These places are perfect for those who enjoy easy hikes, beautiful landscapes, clean air, and the cozy atmosphere of mountain rivers and forests.
Ayusai Gorge and Ayusai Waterfall
Ayusai is one of the most accessible and beautiful gorges of the Zailiysky Alatau, located just 40 minutes from the city of Almaty. The area is known for its scenic mountain landscapes, coniferous forests, and especially the Ayusai Waterfall.
The walk to the waterfall takes about 30 minutes along a well-maintained trail. The route is considered easy, so it is often visited by families with children as well as tourists without special training. Along the way, you can enjoy the mountain river, fresh air, and picturesque views of the gorge.
Ayusai Waterfall is a small but very beautiful stream of water cascading over rocks, creating the feeling of a secluded corner in the heart of the mountains. In summer, it is cool and fresh here, and in autumn the gorge is painted in bright shades of golden and red leaves.
Alma-Arasan and the Hot Springs
After visiting Ayusai, tourists often head towards Alma-Arasan. This is a famous hot springs area located in the upper reaches of the eponymous gorge. The journey from Almaty takes about an hour.
The Alma-Arasan hot springs are known for their healing properties. The mineral waters are rich in sulfur and beneficial for the skin, joints, and overall health. Bathing in these springs is especially pleasant after a mountain hike — the warm water relaxes muscles and gives a sense of recovery.
Besides the springs, Alma-Arasan is famous for its scenic views: dense fir trees, rushing mountain rivers, and amazing silence. This place has long been a favorite among both locals and foreign tourists.
Tour to Ayusai and Alma-Arasan from Almaty
The excursion to Ayusai and Alma-Arasan is an excellent option for a one-day tour from Almaty. The trip combines an easy hike, a visit to the waterfall, and the opportunity to relax in the hot springs.
Why choose the tour to Ayusai and Alma-Arasan?
  • Proximity to Almaty — just an hour’s drive, and you are already in the mountains.
  • Easy trail — the walk to the waterfall is suitable even for beginners.
  • Hot springs — a unique opportunity to combine a mountain hike with bathing.
  • Scenic views — clean air, mountain river, coniferous forests, and tranquility.
  • Comfort — the trip can be organized as a private excursion with a guide.
Tips for tourists
  • Take comfortable shoes for the hike to the waterfall.
  • A swimsuit and towel will be useful for bathing in the springs.
  • It is recommended to take a light snack or order lunch in local cafes.
  • The best time to visit is from May to October, when the trails are dry and nature is especially beautiful.
A trip to Ayusai and Alma-Arasan is a unique opportunity to see a mountain waterfall, walk through a stunning gorge, and relax in the hot springs in one day. If you are planning a stay in Almaty, be sure to include this tour in your itinerary.
Ayusai Waterfall and the Alma-Arasan hot springs will give you unforgettable impressions and allow you to discover the true beauty of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains.

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