From Almaty: Tamgaly Tas and City of Nomads Day Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure from Almaty that combines history, stunning landscapes, and a taste of Kazakhstan’s past, then this tour is a solid choice. Priced at $140 per person and lasting from early morning to mid-afternoon, it offers a chance to see ancient petroglyphs at Tamgaly Tas and walk through a carefully reconstructed medieval City of Nomads film set. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip promises a blend of cultural insight and natural beauty.

What we love about this experience is how it balances historical exploration with breathtaking scenery. We especially appreciated the petroglyph site’s ancient Buddhist paintings and the authentic feel of the Nomads set, which transports you back in time. It’s a great way to connect with Kazakhstan’s nomadic roots without straying far from Almaty.

A couple of considerations: the drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, so it’s a long day on the road, and food is not included, so bringing snacks is a smart idea. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those over 70, which is important to keep in mind if traveling with family. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, and a bit of adventure—especially those who like to learn while experiencing authentic local sites.

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Key Points

Cultural immersion with visits to ancient petroglyphs and medieval film set
Stunning views of the Ili River and surrounding nature
Knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of Kazakhstan’s history
Flexible options with booking that allows for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Includes transportation, entry tickets, and water, offering good value for an all-in-one experience
Moderate physical activity with trekking around the petroglyph site and exploring the Nomads set

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Exploring Kazakhstan’s Hidden Treasures

When we think of Kazakhstan, images of vast steppes and ancient nomadic cultures come to mind. This tour offers a window into that world by visiting Tamgaly Tas, a site that’s been touched by history for over a thousand years. The petroglyphs at Tamgaly Tas are truly fascinating—they include rock paintings from as far back as the 10th century, as well as 17th-century Buddhist images. Walking among these carvings, it’s easy to imagine the lives of early Kazakh tribes and Buddhist monks, their stories etched into the stone.

The site itself is beautifully situated on the bank of the Ili River, providing a scenic backdrop that makes the experience even more memorable. The serenity of the river, combined with the ancient carvings, creates a sense of peaceful connection to the past. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the carvings, making history feel alive and relevant.

Just across the river, the City of Nomads film set was built in 2005, recreating a medieval Kazakh steppes town. This set is a favorite for history buffs and film fans alike. Its authentic-looking yurts, wooden buildings, and market streets give you a tangible sense of medieval nomadic life. It’s a well-constructed set that makes for great photos and provides an immersive glimpse into a past way of living.

The Itinerary

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your hotel in Almaty around 8:00 am. The 1.5-hour drive takes you into the scenic countryside, where the landscape transitions from city to vast steppe. Arriving at Tamgaly Tas around 9:30 am, you’ll spend approximately two hours exploring the petroglyphs and walking around the site. This part of the tour is particularly rewarding for those interested in archaeology and ancient art.

Afterward, it’s about a 1 hour and 50-minute drive to the City of Nomads, arriving by 1:00 pm. Here, you get an hour to wander the set, ask questions, and take photos. Guides often share insights into the filming process and the historical accuracy of the set, enriching your understanding of the region’s past.

Finally, the return journey to Almaty begins around 2:00 pm, with a drive back of 1.5 hours, arriving back in the city by 3:30 pm. The day is well-paced, allowing enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to both sites, one liter of bottled water per person, and a guided transportation service. This setup offers excellent value, especially considering the sites’ proximity and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Remember to bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, as the Kazakh sun can be quite intense, especially during the summer. Since food isn’t included, packing some snacks or a sandwich is advisable—there are limited options for quick bites at the sites.

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Authentic Experiences That Connect You to Kazakhstan

The reviews echo the overall satisfaction with this tour. Claire mentions her guide, who was “very nice, spoke great English, and was very accommodating,” making the experience enjoyable. Shaurya highlights the “friendly guide with flexible pickup,” which makes the day comfortable and personalized.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance that helps illuminate the sites’ significance. We loved the way the guide could answer questions about the petroglyphs’ origins and the set’s construction, making history accessible and engaging.

The scenery is another highlight. The Ili River’s peaceful flow and the open steppe landscape offer a refreshing break from city life. It’s easy to forget you’re so close to Almaty when surrounded by such natural serenity.

While the tour is primarily focused on history and scenery, some reviewers noted that the guides made the experience lively and informative, turning what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful journey.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring snacks since food isn’t included, especially if you prefer a quick lunch at the site.
Dress comfortably for walking and trekking around the petroglyphs; sturdy shoes are recommended.
Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
Book in advance to secure your spot, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive day trip that combines culture, scenery, and some light walking. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided insight and authentic sites over commercialized attractions.

The Sum Up

This Almaty day tour to Tamgaly Tas and the City of Nomads offers a balanced mix of ancient art, scenic beauty, and cultural storytelling. For about $140, you gain access to remarkable petroglyphs, a well-crafted medieval film set, and plenty of natural vistas. The knowledgeable guides make history come alive, and the scenic surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the city.

If you’re eager to see Kazakhstan’s hidden historical gems and capture striking photos, this trip delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy learning about local cultures in an active, outdoor setting. The inclusion of transportation and entry fees makes this a convenient, good-value choice for a full day of discovery.

While it’s not suited for everyone—pregnant travelers or those over 70 might prefer more relaxed options—the tour’s overall appeal is strong for adventurous, curious explorers who want to connect with the country’s past and present in a single day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Almaty, along with guided transportation to and from the sites.

How long is the total tour? The tour runs from 8:00 am to approximately 3:30 pm, including travel time, site visits, and exploration.

Are food and drinks included? No, food is not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or a sandwich to keep you energized during the day.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are best, along with sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for older children who don’t mind walking and spending time outdoors, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those over 70.

This tour from Almaty provides an excellent taste of Kazakhstan’s ancient and medieval past, wrapped in a comfortable, scenic package. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply curious about this Central Asian nation, it offers a rewarding and authentic experience.