Turgen Waterfall and Assy Plateau Tour

Experience the Beauty of Ile-Alatau on a Full-Day Tour

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz of Almaty and learn about Kazakhstan’s natural splendor, the Turgen Waterfall and Assy Plateau Tour offers a solid day of scenic views and light adventure. For $45 per person, this 12-hour journey takes you through some of the most captivating landscapes in the Ile-Alatau National Park, with stops at the breathtaking Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge and the panoramic Assy Plateau. Led by friendly guides in a comfortable SUV, you’ll get plenty of opportunities for memorable photos, fresh mountain air, and a taste of local nomadic charm.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its accessibility—light hikes to the waterfall are suitable for most, and the small group setting creates a more intimate experience. Plus, you’ll enjoy a friendly picnic, complete with hot mountain tea and snacks, which adds a cozy touch to the day. The only caveat? The itinerary involves roughly 2.5 hours of driving each way, so if long bus rides aren’t your thing, this might feel a bit lengthy. Still, if you love capturing stunning vistas and want a taste of Kazakhstan’s high-altitude landscapes, this trip matters.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy photography, nature walks, and peaceful mountain scenery. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting Almaty and want to experience the region’s natural beauty without complicated logistics or extensive hiking. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the combination of scenic stops and comfortable transport makes it a reliable choice.

Key Points

• Beautiful Landscapes: The tour offers spectacular views of alpine meadows, grazing animals, and lush forests.
• Light Hiking: Suitable for most fitness levels, especially at Bear Waterfall.
• Cultural Charm: The Assy Plateau features nomadic yurts and an old astronomical observatory.
• Comfortable Transport: Small group size and air-conditioned SUV make for an enjoyable day.
• Value for Money: Entrance fees, bottled water, and guide services are included, making it a straightforward package.
• Potential Lengthy Drive: Expect about 2.5 hours of driving each way, which might be tiring for some.

A Detailed Look at Your Day in the Mountains

We love the simplicity and focus of this tour. Starting early at 7:30 am from Almaty, you’ll hop into a small, air-conditioned SUV with up to seven other travelers. This intimate group size means more personalized attention from your guide and a more relaxed experience overall. The drive itself is a highlight, winding through forests, rivers, and mountain passes, offering glimpses of the Kazakh countryside.

First stop: Assy Plateau

After about 2.5 hours on the road, you’ll arrive at the Assy Plateau, sitting at over 2,500 meters altitude. This is a high-altitude haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. The expansive green meadows stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with traditional yurts and grazing horses. The cool, fresh mountain air invigorates, especially during summer when temperatures are moderate, not sweltering.

What makes Assy unique is its blend of natural beauty and cultural remnants—an old astronomical observatory hints at the area’s historical and scientific significance. The views from the plateau are truly panoramic, with sweeping vistas of the alpine landscape. Many visitors find themselves captivated by the sense of space and tranquility here. It’s also a great spot for a leisurely walk, soaking in the fresh air, or snapping memorable photographs.

Second stop: Turgen Waterfalls

The highlight for many is the Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge. The short trail to the waterfall is accessible and offers a scenic walk through lush pine forests. The 30-meter cascade plunges dramatically down rugged rocks, creating a mist that refreshes and invigorates—ideal for a photo op or just marveling at nature’s power.

The reviews highlight the serenity and beauty of this spot. One traveler mentioned, “The cool mist, the sound of crashing water, and the fresh pine-scented air create a refreshing and serene atmosphere.” The hike is light, making it suitable for most visitors, and the surroundings are lush with mossy rocks and wildflowers, adding to the picture-perfect scenery.

Picnic and Relaxation

A definite plus is the included picnic, featuring hot mountain tea and snacks. This break allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the rush. It’s a nice touch that adds warmth to the day, especially after the hike and during the cooling mountain breezes.

Return Journey and Practicalities

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll head back to Almaty in the late afternoon or early evening. The drive back provides time to reflect on the day’s highlights — the sweeping mountain views, the roaring waterfall, and the quiet beauty of the plateau.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

Review snippets reveal a mixture of opinions but skew positive for scenery and guide professionalism. One reviewer raved about their guide Tomiris, praising her calm demeanor and leadership skills, which added to the overall experience. “We lived it,” they said, and recommended it for friends and family.

Another traveler appreciated the driver and a helper nicknamed Star for their kindness—helping retrieve a lost phone, which shows the personal touch guides can bring.

However, not all reviews are perfect. A negative review pointed out a frustrating experience with a canceled booking and delayed refund, highlighting that booking and cancellation policies require attention. It’s worth noting that the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, but cancellations made less than that are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

The Value Proposition

At $45 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck. Entrance fees, bottled water, and guided narration are included, simplifying your day. The focus on scenic spots means you get a true taste of Kazakhstan’s natural splendor without hidden costs or complicated arrangements.

The tour isn’t geared towards intense hiking or adventure but rather offers a relaxed way to see impressive natural sights and take photographs. The long drive is a consideration—you’ll spend around five hours on the road in total—so if you’re not a fan of lengthy trips, this might feel a bit taxing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those who crave beautiful landscapes and enjoy light walking or photography. It suits travelers who prefer a small-group, guided experience that takes the hassle out of organizing transport and entrance logistics. It’s perfect if you’re in Almaty and want to add a scenic, culturally rich day to your itinerary without breaking the bank.

If you’re seeking a quiet, scenic escape with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the spot. Just keep in mind the length of the drive and the need for a comfortable attitude towards sitting in a vehicle for a couple of hours each way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the evening, with about 2.5 hours of driving each way.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers entrance fees, guide services, and bottled water. Lunch is not included, but you can buy food at stops or bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The light hiking to Bear Waterfall is accessible for most, but the long drive and high altitude might be tiring for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, a camera, and layers suitable for mountain weather, which can be cooler than Almaty city.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour groups are limited to seven travelers, making for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
Summer offers pleasant weather, but the scenery is beautiful from late spring to early autumn. Avoid winter if you’re not prepared for snow and colder temperatures.

The Sum Up

The Turgen Waterfall and Assy Plateau Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience to see some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural sights. With easy access, friendly guides, and a focus on panoramic views and light hikes, it provides a perfect escape for lovers of nature, photography, and peaceful mountain scenery. The inclusion of a picnic, small group setting, and straightforward logistics make it a hassle-free way to enjoy the region’s highlights.

While the long drive might not suit everyone—especially those who prefer shorter trips or more intense hikes—the scenery and relaxed pace make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for travelers who want to soak in the views without too much physical exertion and those eager to capture memorable photos of Kazakhstan’s highlands. If this sounds like your idea of a day well spent, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Almaty.