Explore Day Trips from Almaty with iBestTravel

A pleasant, leafy city that would seem more at home in central Europe than Central Asia, Almaty is stocked with museums, cafes, and nightlife. However, Kazakhstan’s second city (and its former capital) is also an excellent base from which to explore the country’s wild southern landscapes. The city itself is manageable in size, and on its doorstep are numerous natural attractions.

Red-rock canyons, snowy mountains, waterfalls, and turquoise lakes are some of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural attractions. These sites can be visited in just a few hours by bus or car, making them perfect for day trips from Almaty.

Experience the country’s vast landscapes during the day and return to the city in time for the nightlife to heat up—if you manage to drag yourself away from the wilderness, of course.

Charyn Canyon

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon’s Little Brother’, the desertified Charyn Canyon is among the most popular day trips from Almaty. The easily accessible ‘Valley of Castles’ features stark landscapes and striking rock formations, while the ice-cold and deep-blue Charyn River adds an additional layer of contrast. Although public transportation to this location can be challenging, a bus tour is the easiest option for the more than 400-km return trip. Adventurous travelers may also wish to camp in the canyon to explore parallel valleys that are only negotiable on foot or by 4WD.

Ak-Sai Valley

Less popular but equally worthwhile is Ak-Sai Valley, located just southwest of Almaty. This serene area features a wooden Russian Orthodox monastery and a small monastic community perched on a tree-lined path alongside the Ak-Sai River below. A gentle trail through pine forests leads to a tranquil monastery hidden in a copse of trees. Annually, on August 11, many gather to commemorate the death of two monks, believed to have mysteriously appeared in the valley. The drive from Almaty takes about half an hour, but staying overnight in homestays in nearby villages is also an appealing option.

Ile-Alatau National Park

The vast Ile-Alatau National Park begins only 40km from Almaty and spans over 2,000 square kilometers of mountainous terrain along the border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. With various valleys and trekking routes, it’s suitable for visits ranging from a few hours to several weeks. Among the most notable sites for a quick visit is Turgen Gorge. About 70km from Almaty, fewer travelers venture here, but the scenic trek up a waterfall-studded valley makes the journey worthwhile. For those interested in multi-day hikes or biking, this area is perfect as it offers multiple trails, including the impressive 55m Buzgul Falls. A private transport hire from Almaty is recommended for a swift one-day visit.

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake, also part of Ile-Alatau National Park, attracts many visitors due to its stunning scenery. Nestled amongst sharp peaks and pine forests, the lake offers a picturesque view just 15km south of central Almaty. While access to the lake itself is restricted due to its protected status, roadside viewpoints offer great photo opportunities, especially during summer weekends when local visitors come to enjoy the area. Hikers may find it easy to reach the lake from the GIS-1 bus stop, although many prefer to taxi up to GIS-2 before continuing on foot.

Medeu & Chimbulak

For winter activities, the twin resorts of Medeu & Chimbulak are top choices for a day trip from Almaty. Easily accessible via public transportation, Medeu was once considered one of the best ice rinks in the world during the Soviet era; it’s now a popular winter outing. Visitors can skate while enjoying views of snowy peaks and Russian and Kazakh pop music. Beyond Medeu, a scenic road and a gentle cable car ride lead to Chimbulak Ski Resort, often regarded as the best in Central Asia. It’s a prime destination for skiing enthusiasts, but the area also attracts non-skiers who wish to take in the beautiful winter panorama of the Tien Shan range.

In conclusion, Almaty serves as an excellent gateway to discover the breathtaking natural landscapes of Kazakhstan. Each of these day trips offers a unique experience, ensuring that visitors can immerse themselves in both adventure and tranquility.