03/09/2026
Top Activities for International Travelers in Almaty & the Region 🇰🇿 & Almaty Region
The Almaty region is special because in just a few days you can experience completely different sides of Kazakhstan: high mountains, glaciers, steppes, canyons, deserts and ancient cultural sites.
If you are visiting for the first time, here are some of the activities that best represent our region.
1. Trekking in the Northern Tien Shan 🥾
Mountain valleys, spruce forests, waterfalls, alpine lakes and glaciers — from easy day hikes to multi-day trekking routes.
2. Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes 🏔️
The Kolsai Lakes and the famous sunken forest of Kaindy are among Kazakhstan's most iconic natural attractions.
3. Charyn Canyon 🏜️
Walk through the impressive Valley of Castles, surrounded by huge rock formations and dramatic canyon walls. It is also easy to combine Charyn with Kolsai and Kaindy in one trip.
4. Expedition to Altyn-Emel 🚙
Explore desert landscapes by 4x4 and visit the Singing Dune, the colorful Aktau Mountains and the ancient volcanic formations of Katutau.
5. Horseback Riding & Horse Treks 🐎
Horses have been part of nomadic life in Kazakhstan for centuries. Exploring the mountains and steppe on horseback is one of the most authentic ways to experience the country.
6. Birds of Prey Shows 🦅
See golden eagles and falcons up close, learn about the traditions of local eagle hunters.
7. Nomad Games & Traditional Culture 🏇
Horse games, traditions, local cuisine and nomadic heritage offer a much deeper understanding of Kazakhstan than a standard sightseeing tour.
8. Tamgaly Petroglyphs 🪨
Thousands of ancient rock carvings tell the story of the region across different periods, from the Bronze Age to later cultures.
9. A Night in a Tent Camp ⛺
Sometimes the most memorable part of a trip is not a single attraction, but an evening at camp, dinner under the open sky and a night far away from city lights.
10. Winter in the Mountains ❄️
In winter, the region changes completely: skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, snowy valleys and frozen waterfalls reveal a completely different side of the Tien Shan.
And there is even more to explore: photo tours, birdwatching, rock climbing, fishing and even helicopter flights over mountains, glaciers, canyons and deserts.
This variety is one of the main reasons to travel around the Almaty region. In a single journey, you can experience the nature, history and culture of Kazakhstan.
