Almaty: 5-Day National Parks Tour with Meals & Lodging

This 5-day guided tour explores Kazakhstan’s Almaty region, visiting three national parks and diverse landscapes, ideal for nature lovers and moderate hikers.

Highlights

• Experience Kazakhstan’s landscapes on a 5-day adventure
• Explore the natural beauty of the Almaty region
• Visit three national parks with varied scenery
• Enjoy full board with three daily meals and four guesthouse nights
• All SUV transfers included with fuel and professional driver

Description

Day 1: Issyk Lake & Turgen Gorge
Start at Issyk Lake, an alpine lake surrounded by peaks. Drive through Turgen Gorge, known for waterfalls and wildlife. Hike moderately to Bear Waterfall (Medvezhy) with photo opportunities. Try catch-and-release fishing at a trout farm and enjoy a fresh trout lunch. Overnight in Turgen village guesthouse.

Day 2: Assy Plateau & Charyn Canyon
Depart early for sunrise views at Assy Plateau (2,600m). Visit Assy Observatory for panoramic and drone photography. Drive to Charyn Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of Asia. Continue to Saty village near Kolsai Lakes. Overnight in a traditional guesthouse.

Day 3: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes
Visit Lower Kolsai Lake, 'Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan.' Take an easy hike around the lake with views of pine forests and mountains. Transfer to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged spruce forest. Take a short trek around the lake, ideal for photography. Return to Saty village guesthouse for the night.

Day 4: Altyn-Emel - Singing Dune
Travel early to Altyn-Emel National Park. Visit the 150-meter Singing Sand Dune, which produces sounds when dry. Climb the dune for views of the desert landscape. Have lunch in Basshi village featuring local dishes. Watch sunset on the dune. Overnight in Basshi village.

Day 5: Aktau & Katutau Moon Mountains
Drive to multicolored Aktau Mountains, noted for their rainbow layers. Explore the Katutau Mountains, shaped by wind and time. Both ranges offer unique landscapes for exploration. Enjoy farewell lunch in Basshi village with traditional Kazakh dishes. Return to Almaty for hotel drop-off, ending the tour.

Includes

• All SUV transfers with fuel and experienced driver
• 4 nights accommodation in guesthouses or small hotels (twin share)
• Full board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily
• Professional English-speaking guides
• National park entrance fees
• Group first-aid kit
• Bottled water during transfers
• 24/7 emergency support

Excludes

• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips

Important Information

• The tour involves moderate hiking and walking.
• Weather conditions vary; pack appropriate clothing.
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or serious health issues.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book in advance and bring hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, a camera, and personal medication. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for favorable weather conditions.