What are the must-see spots?

Charyn Canyon, the Kolsai lakes, the sunken forest of Lake Kaindy, and the singing dunes of Altyn-Emel National Park.

When is the best time to visit?

May to October for canyons and lakes, with July and August the peak in the high mountains; winter for ski touring on the Tuyuk-Su glaciers.

Can it be done from Almaty?

Yes — Charyn and the lakes are long day trips or short overnights from the city, and operators run regular departures with transfers.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Much of it is — Charyn and the lakes are beginner-friendly walks, while the glaciers and peaks are for the experienced. Each course page states the level.

Things to do in Almaty Region

The mountains, canyons and deserts ringing the city make Almaty Region the single richest adventure area in Kazakhstan. In a few days you can walk a red sandstone canyon, swim in a turquoise lake dammed by an earthquake, camp beneath singing sand dunes and stand in a glacier cirque — all radiating out from the same base.

Canyons and lakes

Charyn Canyon hiking, the turquoise Kolsai lakes and the drowned-forest Lake Kaindy, and the Turgen waterfall trails, all a day from the city in the Tien Shan.

Glaciers and dunes

Ski touring on the Tuyuk-Su glaciers, mountaineering around Big Almaty Lake, and the singing dunes and painted hills of Altyn-Emel National Park. Open the Book here tab to see live dates.

Canyons and lakes

Charyn Canyon hiking, the turquoise Kolsai lakes and the drowned-forest Lake Kaindy, and the Turgen waterfall trails, all a day from the city in the Tien Shan.

Glaciers and dunes

Ski touring on the Tuyuk-Su glaciers, mountaineering around Big Almaty Lake, and the singing dunes and painted hills of Altyn-Emel National Park. Open the Book here tab to see live dates.