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Almaty, kazakhstan
The Best Things to Do in Almaty.
Where to go and what to see?
Where to go and what to see?
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Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan
Almaty, often called the “Southern Capital” of Kazakhstan, has a rich history and culture. The city is known for its vivid seasons, especially in spring when thousands of apple trees bloom. This creates a unique landscape and makes the city especially attractive for tourists. The city draws visitors with its unique combination of modern architecture and enchanting nature, located at the foot of the majestic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains. In this article, we present the most important information about Almaty, which will be useful for every visitor. It is an ideal starting point for trips to the most beautiful places in the country. Just a few hours’ drive takes you into a completely different world: canyons, alpine lakes, deserts, mountains, and national parks. Almaty (formerly Alma-Ata) is the main cultural and economic center of the country and one of the most popular and visited cities in Central Asia.
It is convenient to start any tours across Kazakhstan from here — the infrastructure is well developed, the roads are good, and the variety of routes is huge. That is why excursions from Almaty are one of the most popular travel formats among tourists from the CIS countries. If you are visiting the region for the first time and do not know what to choose, this article will help you understand.
How to get there
Almaty is served by an international airport connecting the city with many major cities around the world. The city has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro, making it easy to get around.
Cultural life
The cultural life of Almaty is rich and diverse: the city offers a wide selection of museums, galleries, and theaters for every taste. A special place belongs to the Abay Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater. The Abay Opera and Ballet Theater is one of the main cultural venues in the country, hosting outstanding opera and ballet performances, classical music concerts, and shows by leading artists. Here, you can not only spend an evening but truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of high art and the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan.
Almaty, often called the “Southern Capital” of Kazakhstan, has a rich history and culture. The city is known for its vivid seasons, especially in spring when thousands of apple trees bloom. This creates a unique landscape and makes the city especially attractive for tourists. The city draws visitors with its unique combination of modern architecture and enchanting nature, located at the foot of the majestic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains. In this article, we present the most important information about Almaty, which will be useful for every visitor. It is an ideal starting point for trips to the most beautiful places in the country. Just a few hours’ drive takes you into a completely different world: canyons, alpine lakes, deserts, mountains, and national parks. Almaty (formerly Alma-Ata) is the main cultural and economic center of the country and one of the most popular and visited cities in Central Asia.
It is convenient to start any tours across Kazakhstan from here — the infrastructure is well developed, the roads are good, and the variety of routes is huge. That is why excursions from Almaty are one of the most popular travel formats among tourists from the CIS countries. If you are visiting the region for the first time and do not know what to choose, this article will help you understand.
How to get there
Almaty is served by an international airport connecting the city with many major cities around the world. The city has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro, making it easy to get around.
Cultural life
The cultural life of Almaty is rich and diverse: the city offers a wide selection of museums, galleries, and theaters for every taste. A special place belongs to the Abay Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater. The Abay Opera and Ballet Theater is one of the main cultural venues in the country, hosting outstanding opera and ballet performances, classical music concerts, and shows by leading artists. Here, you can not only spend an evening but truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of high art and the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan.
Nature and active leisure
The city is surrounded by magnificent mountain landscapes, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing. The Charyn Canyon, located not far from the city, is another natural attraction worth visiting.
Almaty is located at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range, so within just 30–90 minutes from the city you can find yourself in a completely different natural environment — among coniferous forests, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows. In the summer season, hiking routes to mountain lakes and scenic viewpoints are especially popular, while in winter the region turns into a skiing center with modern resorts.
In addition to Charyn Canyon, tourists often choose trips to high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and national parks, where they can experience the rare nature of Kazakhstan, clean mountain air, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. This type of travel is suitable both for easy walks and for more active trekking routes of moderate difficulty.
The city is surrounded by magnificent mountain landscapes, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing. The Charyn Canyon, located not far from the city, is another natural attraction worth visiting.
Almaty is located at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range, so within just 30–90 minutes from the city you can find yourself in a completely different natural environment — among coniferous forests, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows. In the summer season, hiking routes to mountain lakes and scenic viewpoints are especially popular, while in winter the region turns into a skiing center with modern resorts.
In addition to Charyn Canyon, tourists often choose trips to high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and national parks, where they can experience the rare nature of Kazakhstan, clean mountain air, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. This type of travel is suitable both for easy walks and for more active trekking routes of moderate difficulty.
Weather and seasons: when is the best time to visit Almaty
Almaty is a year-round destination, but each season offers completely different experiences.
Almaty is a year-round destination, but each season offers completely different experiences.
- Spring (March – May) Blooming steppes and mountains
- Mild temperatures: +15 to +25°C
- Perfect for sightseeing and light hiking
- Summer (June – August) The most popular season
- Warm weather: +25 to +35°C
- Best time for trips to lakes (Kolsai, Kaindy)
- Autumn (September – October) One of the most beautiful seasons
- Golden foliage, fresh air
- Comfortable temperatures: +15 to +25°C
- Winter (November – February) Snowy mountains and fairytale landscapes
- Temperatures: from -5 to -15°C
- Great for those who want to experience winter in Kazakhstan
Currency
Tenge — Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). In the city, it is easy to exchange dollars, euros, rubles, and soms into tenge almost everywhere. The exchange rate is approximately $1 = 470 KZT.
Tenge — Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). In the city, it is easy to exchange dollars, euros, rubles, and soms into tenge almost everywhere. The exchange rate is approximately $1 = 470 KZT.
Languages
Official languages: Kazakh and Russian. Most young people speak English.
Official languages: Kazakh and Russian. Most young people speak English.
Transport
Taxi services available in the city include Yandex, InDriver, and Uber. Public transport includes buses, trolleybuses, and the metro.
Taxi services available in the city include Yandex, InDriver, and Uber. Public transport includes buses, trolleybuses, and the metro.
Best tour from Almaty:
Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon is one of the oldest natural formations in the region, estimated to be around 12 million years old. Over time, wind, water, and sun have carved the red rock into fantastic shapes, now known as the Valley of Castles.
Locals have long considered this place special — due to its unusual silence, vast scale, and almost “alien” landscape. It’s easy to feel outside of time here.
What you will see:
Why visit:
Charyn Canyon is one of the oldest natural formations in the region, estimated to be around 12 million years old. Over time, wind, water, and sun have carved the red rock into fantastic shapes, now known as the Valley of Castles.
Locals have long considered this place special — due to its unusual silence, vast scale, and almost “alien” landscape. It’s easy to feel outside of time here.
What you will see:
- The Valley of Castles with massive rock towers
- The Charyn River cutting through the canyon
- Panoramic viewpoints with views stretching for dozens of kilometers
Why visit:
- One of the most photogenic canyons in Central Asia
- Opportunity to walk along the canyon floor
- Contrast between the hot desert and the cool river area
- A sense of scale that is hard to describe in words
Kolsai Lakes
The Kolsai Lakes are often called the “pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.” They were formed as a result of mountain processes and landslides that blocked river valleys. The water here is incredibly clean, and its color ranges from emerald to deep blue depending on the light.
Kaindy Lake
Kaindy Lake has a unique history. It was formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911, which created a natural dam and flooded a coniferous forest. Today, the trunks of submerged spruce trees rise above the water, creating a surreal landscape.
What you will see:
Why choose this tour:
The Kolsai Lakes are often called the “pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.” They were formed as a result of mountain processes and landslides that blocked river valleys. The water here is incredibly clean, and its color ranges from emerald to deep blue depending on the light.
Kaindy Lake
Kaindy Lake has a unique history. It was formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911, which created a natural dam and flooded a coniferous forest. Today, the trunks of submerged spruce trees rise above the water, creating a surreal landscape.
What you will see:
- The Kolsai Lakes surrounded by coniferous forests
- The flooded forest of Kaindy
- Mountain trails and alpine meadows
Why choose this tour:
- Some of the most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan
- A unique combination of nature and history
- Opportunity for light hiking
- Perfect for those who want an “Alpine” atmosphere without difficult routes
Tours to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Lake Kaindy
Altyn-Emel National Park (Singing Dune, Aktau, Katutau)
Altyn-Emel National Park is a vast protected area with diverse landscapes that once formed part of the Great Silk Road. Caravans used to pass through here, connecting the East and the West.
The Singing Dune is the park’s main mystery. Under certain conditions, the sand begins to vibrate and produces a sound similar to a deep hum or organ music. Scientists explain this phenomenon by friction between sand grains, but the effect still feels almost mystical.
The Aktau Mountains are a geological “chronicle” of the Earth. By reading the rock layers, one can literally trace millions of years of natural history.
The Katutau Mountains are ancient volcanic formations that create a sharp contrast with the soft lines of the desert, resembling Martian landscapes.
What you will see:
Why you should go:
Altyn-Emel National Park is a vast protected area with diverse landscapes that once formed part of the Great Silk Road. Caravans used to pass through here, connecting the East and the West.
The Singing Dune is the park’s main mystery. Under certain conditions, the sand begins to vibrate and produces a sound similar to a deep hum or organ music. Scientists explain this phenomenon by friction between sand grains, but the effect still feels almost mystical.
The Aktau Mountains are a geological “chronicle” of the Earth. By reading the rock layers, one can literally trace millions of years of natural history.
The Katutau Mountains are ancient volcanic formations that create a sharp contrast with the soft lines of the desert, resembling Martian landscapes.
What you will see:
- Singing Dune, up to 150 meters high
- Colorful Aktau Mountains
- Lava formations of Katutau
Why you should go:
- Completely unique landscapes of Kazakhstan
- Places connected to the Silk Road history
- Very few tourists — a sense of solitude
- A rare chance to experience a “singing” desert
Tours to Altyn-Emel
Almaty City Tour
Almaty is a city with a rich history that blends Soviet heritage, modern architecture, and traditional culture. It was once the capital of Kazakhstan and still remains the cultural heart of the country.
Located at the foothills of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, the city offers stunning mountain views from almost any point, making every walk especially scenic.
What’s included:
Why choose this tour:
Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is rich in cultural heritage and surrounded by beautiful nature, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the main sights every traveler should visit:
These attractions allow you to explore the history, culture, and nature of Almaty in depth, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Almaty is a city with a rich history that blends Soviet heritage, modern architecture, and traditional culture. It was once the capital of Kazakhstan and still remains the cultural heart of the country.
Located at the foothills of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, the city offers stunning mountain views from almost any point, making every walk especially scenic.
What’s included:
- Central streets and historic districts
- Parks, squares, and cultural landmarks
- Medeu high-mountain ice rink and Shymbulak resort (optional)
Why choose this tour:
- A deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture
- A convenient format for first-time visitors
- A chance to experience both city life and mountains in one day
- A perfect balance of nature and urban atmosphere
Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is rich in cultural heritage and surrounded by beautiful nature, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the main sights every traveler should visit:
- Medeu – A high-altitude sports complex, famous for one of the world’s largest mountain ice rinks for speed skating and figure skating. Surrounded by mountains, it is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor walks.
- Kok-Tobe – A mountain featuring an entertainment park and observation deck with panoramic views of the city. It is also known for its TV tower and Beatles monument.
- Green Bazaar – Not just a market, but a place to experience local life, taste traditional food, and buy souvenirs.
- First President Park – One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Almaty, ideal for walks and relaxation.
- Central State Museum – Offers exhibitions dedicated to the history and culture of Kazakhstan, from ancient times to modern days.
- Panfilov Park – Famous for its World War II memorial and the wooden Ascension Cathedral, built without a single nail.
- Shymbulak Ski Resort – A popular mountain resort near Almaty with excellent skiing and snowboarding slopes.
- Big Almaty Lake – A stunning alpine lake in the mountains, perfect for nature lovers and photography.
- Charyn Canyon – Although located some distance from Almaty, it is a must-visit destination for unique natural landscapes.
- Arbat Street – A pedestrian street in the city center filled with shops, cafés, and street musicians, reflecting modern urban culture.
These attractions allow you to explore the history, culture, and nature of Almaty in depth, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Tour in Almaty
Ethno Tour to the Village “Huns”
This tour offers a unique opportunity to take a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakh people. The ethnovillage “Huns” is a reconstruction of a nomadic settlement where customs, music, crafts, and traditions passed down through generations are preserved and brought to life.
Kazakh culture has been shaped over centuries by nomadic life, and many traditions are still actively preserved and passed from generation to generation today.
What you will see:
Why you should go:
This tour offers a unique opportunity to take a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakh people. The ethnovillage “Huns” is a reconstruction of a nomadic settlement where customs, music, crafts, and traditions passed down through generations are preserved and brought to life.
Kazakh culture has been shaped over centuries by nomadic life, and many traditions are still actively preserved and passed from generation to generation today.
What you will see:
- Traditional yurts and nomadic daily life
- National costumes and cultural performances
- Horse shows and traditional equestrian games
- Taste of Kazakh national cuisine (please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or dietary preferences, such as vegan or vegetarian lifestyle)
Why you should go:
- A true cultural immersion, not just sightseeing
- Interactive experience with guest participation
- Perfect for families and groups
- Opportunity to try authentic national cuisine
Tour to Ethno Village "Hunns"
Seasonal & Cultural Experiences in Almaty
This collection of thematic tours offers a diverse way to experience Almaty and its surroundings — from winter landscapes and horse riding traditions to local cuisine and hands-on culinary experiences. Each tour reveals a different side of Kazakh culture, nature, and lifestyle.
Kazakhstan is a country where ancient nomadic traditions meet modern city life, and these experiences allow you to explore both in an authentic and engaging way.
What you will see:
Snowy mountain landscapes and winter activities during the cold season
Horse riding across steppe and mountain trails, just like the nomads
Local restaurants, markets, and hidden gastronomic spots
Traditional cooking techniques and authentic national dishes
Difficulty level: easy to moderate (depending on the chosen activity)
Why you should go:
A variety of experiences
Combination of nature, culture, and gastronomy
Interactive format with guest participation
Suitable for everybody
There are also many other tours not listed in this article, which you can also book on our website.
This collection of thematic tours offers a diverse way to experience Almaty and its surroundings — from winter landscapes and horse riding traditions to local cuisine and hands-on culinary experiences. Each tour reveals a different side of Kazakh culture, nature, and lifestyle.
Kazakhstan is a country where ancient nomadic traditions meet modern city life, and these experiences allow you to explore both in an authentic and engaging way.
What you will see:
Snowy mountain landscapes and winter activities during the cold season
Horse riding across steppe and mountain trails, just like the nomads
Local restaurants, markets, and hidden gastronomic spots
Traditional cooking techniques and authentic national dishes
Difficulty level: easy to moderate (depending on the chosen activity)
Why you should go:
A variety of experiences
Combination of nature, culture, and gastronomy
Interactive format with guest participation
Suitable for everybody
There are also many other tours not listed in this article, which you can also book on our website.
Seasonal & Cultural Experiences
Why You Should Book Tours in Advance
Many travelers leave booking until the last minute — and end up sacrificing quality. Here’s why it’s better to plan ahead:
Safety: Organized tours from Almaty follow well-tested routes with experienced drivers.
Professional guides: You don’t just see places — you actually understand them.
Comfort:
We don’t just sell tours from Almaty — we create experiences.
Our advantages:
Experience
Many travelers leave booking until the last minute — and end up sacrificing quality. Here’s why it’s better to plan ahead:
Safety: Organized tours from Almaty follow well-tested routes with experienced drivers.
Professional guides: You don’t just see places — you actually understand them.
Comfort:
- Air-conditioned transport
- Clear and well-structured schedule
- Thoughtfully planned stops
- Time saving: No need to deal with logistics, car rentals, or route planning.
We don’t just sell tours from Almaty — we create experiences.
Our advantages:
Experience
- We work with travelers from different countries
- We know the routes in detail
- Local experts
- Extensive experience
- Able to explain clearly and engagingly
- Multilingual guides available (Russian, English, Kazakh, Chinese, etc. — arranged in advance)
- We tailor routes to your level
- We consider all your preferences
- Trusted transport
- Well-organized operations
Almaty is a rare place where, within a single day, you can see a canyon, a mountain lake, and even a desert. That is why tours around Kazakhstan from Almaty are becoming increasingly popular.
If you want not just to see the places, but to truly feel the nature, choose well-planned routes with our experienced guides.
Leave a request or message us on WhatsApp (green icon on the right side of the screen), and we will help you choose the perfect tour — tailored to your pace, budget, and fitness level.
If you want not just to see the places, but to truly feel the nature, choose well-planned routes with our experienced guides.
Leave a request or message us on WhatsApp (green icon on the right side of the screen), and we will help you choose the perfect tour — tailored to your pace, budget, and fitness level.
Photos of Almaty landmarks
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend staying at least 3-4 days. This gives you enough time to explore the city highlights and take 2-3 day trips to the mountains or canyons.
Yes, the city center is very pedestrian-friendly with many parks, fountains, and cafes. For longer distances, taxis are very affordable.
It depends on your goals! June to September is perfect for hiking, while December to March is the best time for skiing and winter activities.
While you can explore the city on your own, a guided tour is highly recommended for trips outside the city (like Charyn Canyon) to ensure safety and learn the history from an expert.
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and is often called the Southern Capital of the country. Astana (formerly Akmola) became the new capital in 1997. However, Almaty still remains the cultural and financial center of Kazakhstan. It attracts tourists with its mild climate and exceptionally beautiful landscapes.
Almaty is located in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. With a population of around 2 million people, it is the cultural, financial, and educational hub of Kazakhstan.
Situated at the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, Almaty is surrounded by stunning scenery, including snow-capped peaks and forests. The city has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Almaty has a rich history. It was founded in the 19th century as a trading post on the Great Silk Road. Over the years, it has been known by different names, including Verny and Alma-Ata, before receiving its current name, Almaty.
Today, Almaty is a vibrant city with a diverse population and a wide range of cultural attractions. These include the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, the Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Almaty Zoo. The city also has a thriving culinary scene with a wide selection of traditional Kazakh and international restaurants.
Almaty is a city rich in cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern infrastructure. Here are some of its main attractions:
Medeu Ice Rink: This world-famous ice skating rink is located in the mountains near Almaty. It is one of the highest skating rinks in the world and is popular among both tourists and locals.
Kok-Tobe Hill: Located on the outskirts of the city, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty. Visitors can reach the top by cable car, where they will find restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions.
Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: This museum showcases the history and culture of Kazakhstan, including exhibits on traditional crafts, ancient artifacts, and modern art.
Ascension Cathedral: One of Almaty’s most iconic landmarks, this beautiful Orthodox cathedral was built in the early 20th century and is decorated with stunning frescoes and intricate details.
Big Almaty Lake: A spectacular mountain lake located near the city, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and accessible via hiking routes.
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen: Located in the heart of Almaty, this park is dedicated to the 28 soldiers who died defending Moscow during World War II. It is also home to the Ascension Cathedral, one of the few wooden cathedrals built without nails.
Almaty Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring thousands of plant species from around the world, popular among nature lovers and bird watchers.
These are just some of the many attractions in Almaty. Overall, Almaty is one of the most popular cities in Central Asia. The city is full of interesting and beautiful places to explore, and visitors are sure to find something that captivates them.
Almaty is located in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. With a population of around 2 million people, it is the cultural, financial, and educational hub of Kazakhstan.
Situated at the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, Almaty is surrounded by stunning scenery, including snow-capped peaks and forests. The city has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Almaty has a rich history. It was founded in the 19th century as a trading post on the Great Silk Road. Over the years, it has been known by different names, including Verny and Alma-Ata, before receiving its current name, Almaty.
Today, Almaty is a vibrant city with a diverse population and a wide range of cultural attractions. These include the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, the Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Almaty Zoo. The city also has a thriving culinary scene with a wide selection of traditional Kazakh and international restaurants.
Almaty is a city rich in cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern infrastructure. Here are some of its main attractions:
Medeu Ice Rink: This world-famous ice skating rink is located in the mountains near Almaty. It is one of the highest skating rinks in the world and is popular among both tourists and locals.
Kok-Tobe Hill: Located on the outskirts of the city, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty. Visitors can reach the top by cable car, where they will find restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions.
Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: This museum showcases the history and culture of Kazakhstan, including exhibits on traditional crafts, ancient artifacts, and modern art.
Ascension Cathedral: One of Almaty’s most iconic landmarks, this beautiful Orthodox cathedral was built in the early 20th century and is decorated with stunning frescoes and intricate details.
Big Almaty Lake: A spectacular mountain lake located near the city, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and accessible via hiking routes.
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen: Located in the heart of Almaty, this park is dedicated to the 28 soldiers who died defending Moscow during World War II. It is also home to the Ascension Cathedral, one of the few wooden cathedrals built without nails.
Almaty Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring thousands of plant species from around the world, popular among nature lovers and bird watchers.
These are just some of the many attractions in Almaty. Overall, Almaty is one of the most popular cities in Central Asia. The city is full of interesting and beautiful places to explore, and visitors are sure to find something that captivates them.
1-2-3 days tours
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