Almaty City offers a surprising array of hiking and trekking opportunities that suit all types of outdoor lovers. Unlike many other cities in Central Asia, Almaty combines accessible scenic spots with challenging mountain adventures, making it easy to find a trail that fits your fitness and curiosity. Whether you prefer a gentle walk along a lake, a full-day canyon trek, or an advanced mountain summit, there’s something here for everyone. I personally find the Big Almaty Lake Tour particularly appealing for its breathtaking views and flexible options, while the Almaty Advanced Hiking offers a more intense experience for seasoned hikers.
What makes Almaty stand out is the diversity of its landscapes—glacial lakes, high mountain peaks, lush forests, and dramatic canyons. The variety of tours listed below reflects this richness, from family-friendly hikes to private guided challenges. Notably, the From Almaty: Charyn Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour with Hike combines both natural beauty and cultural insight, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience. For a detailed look at what’s available, check out the full list.
1. From Almaty: Charyn Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour with Hike
At number 1, the Charyn Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour stands out for its accessibility and scenic grandeur. This well-organized day trip takes you into the Almaty Region to explore one of Central Asia’s most impressive natural formations. The highlight is hiking through the canyon, which is often called the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,” and discovering the Castle Valley with your guide.
The tour includes comfortable transportation, with a focus on both the beauty and history of the canyon. The guide’s stories about the geological formations and local lore add depth to this adventure. Reviewers give it a perfect 5/5 from 20 reviews, praising its smooth organization and the unforgettable scenery. The hike itself offers panoramic views of the colorful rocks, and you will have plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.
This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day trip that mixes light hiking, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights without the strenuous challenge of mountain summits. The value of $140 is reasonable for a full day of exploration with a guide.
Bottom line: If you want a scenic, educational, and well-managed tour, this is a top choice. Suitable for most fitness levels and those wanting a taste of Kazakhstan’s dramatic landscapes.
2. Big Almaty Lake Tour with Optional Hike
Number 2 spot goes to the Big Almaty Lake Tour. For $69 per person, this flexible experience can be a quick drive or an active hike. The tour guarantees stunning mountain lake views, and the option to walk or drive makes it adaptable whether you’re short on time or eager to stretch your legs.
The tour is praised for its flexibility—it’s easy to customize before booking, whether you want a scenic drive or an extended walk. The lake, situated high in the mountains, offers incredible photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers note that the tour is well-organized and provides clear guidance, making it suitable for families or solo travelers alike.
What sets this apart is the ability to choose your preferred mode—if you want to keep it simple, just enjoy the views from the car; if you’re feeling energetic, take a short hike around the area. The price is attractive, especially considering the guaranteed beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking for a quick, flexible trip to one of Almaty’s most famous spots, with options for walking or just relaxing.
3. Almaty Advanced Hiking: Four Peaks Hike
For those craving a challenging and private mountain adventure, the Four Peaks Hike delivers. This 10-hour guided tour takes you into the stunning mountains near Almaty, with visits to Furmanov, Panorama, Bashuta, and Chimbulachka peaks. The guide will tailor the trail based on weather and your fitness level, so expect a personalized experience.
The hike offers epic views of mountain swings and the peaks, with the chance to breathe fresh mountain air and escape the city’s hustle. The itinerary includes multiple hiking segments, some lasting over an hour, and the guide’s emphasis on safety and comfort ensures a rewarding experience. Reviewers highlight the expertise of the guide and the stunning scenery, describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.
The price of $170 is a bit higher, but it reflects the private, customized nature and the level of challenge. Best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with intensities and longer durations.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an advanced, tailor-made mountain challenge with panoramic views, this tour is well worth considering.
4. Almaty: Hiking to the High Mountain Pasture Kok Zhailau
Number 4 features a classic hike to the Kok Zhailau pasture, a popular and accessible destination near Almaty. Ascending to 2200 meters, this guided tour offers spectacular mountain vistas of Almaty and the Tien Shan peaks. The full-service experience includes transportation to and from the trailhead, making it an easy yet rewarding outing.
This hike is perfect for those who want to enjoy magnificent scenery without a strenuous climb. The tour is led by a certified mountain guide with multilingual skills, which adds a layer of comfort. Visitors rave about the full service, including the transfer, making it manageable even for less experienced hikers. The route is straightforward, with options to relax at the scenic plateau or explore nearby viewpoints.
The price of $128 offers good value, considering the convenience and the chance to enjoy stunning mountains and possibly spot wildlife or alpine flora. It’s especially suited for families or casual hikers looking for a memorable mountain experience.
Bottom line: This is a great choice for travelers wanting a scenic, guided hike in a popular location with minimal logistical hassle.
5. Skyline Hike in Almaty: Bukreev Peak
At number 5, the Bukreev Peak Skyline Hike offers an unforgettable journey to one of the most scenic viewpoints near Almaty. The hike takes you to 3,010 meters in the Ile-Alatau National Park, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains and Almaty city below.
This medium-difficulty hike includes the services of an experienced mountain guide who shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and mountaineering history, including stories about Anatoliy Bukreev. The trail’s highlight is the diverse landscape—from alpine meadows to rocky summits—and the chance to witness the natural beauty of Kazakhstan’s mountains.
Guests mention the stunning vistas and the guide’s knowledge as key strengths. The route is suitable for hikers with a moderate fitness level seeking a rewarding challenge. The price of $136 makes it a good investment for those eager to reach a high vantage point.
Bottom line: For a balanced mix of challenge and spectacular views, Bukreev Peak is a top pick for hikers wanting a moderate yet memorable summit experience.
6. Almaty: Shymbulak Mountain Hiking Tour with Cable Car Ride
Next on our list is a popular tour that combines a moderate hike with a cable car ride—perfect for those seeking mountain scenery without the full intensity of a summit climb. The Shymbulak Mountain Hiking Tour takes you up to 3,450 meters at Shymbulak Peak, renowned for its ski resort and panoramic views.
The tour’s highlight is the easy yet breathtaking hike to the top, with plenty of photo opportunities. The cable car ride itself offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and the city of Almaty below. The guide provides insight into the local landscape and the history of the ski resort, making it both educational and enjoyable.
Guests rave about the stunning scenery and the ease of the hike, which makes it suitable for most fitness levels. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of mountain hiking with minimal effort but maximum scenery. The price of $140 reflects good value for a half-day adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or casual hikers who want to experience mountain views with a straightforward route and scenic cable car.
$140 per person
7. Almaty: Bogdanovich Glacier and Shymbulak Ski Resort Hike
For those seeking an authentic glacier experience, the Bogdanovich Glacier and Shymbulak Ski Resort Hike provides a full-day private adventure. The trip combines a cable car ride to Shymbulak with a hike to the Bogdanovich Glacier, passing by the Octyabrskaya Cave along the way.
This tour is highly praised for its private and personalized approach. The hike to the glacier is of medium intensity, and the guide supplies shoes spikes and trekking poles, making the ascent safer and more comfortable. The views of the Arctic-like glacier and the surrounding peaks are unforgettable. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.
Guests describe the experience as “breathtaking,” and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to the trip. At $190, it’s a good value for a full-day, premium experience with exclusive access to some of the most stunning glacial scenery.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for travelers who want an intimate experience of a glacier, with the convenience of private transport.
$190 per person
8. Almaty: Big Almaty Lake Hike and Falconry Show Tour
Number 8 combines nature with culture in the Big Almaty Lake Hike and Falconry Show. While details are limited, this tour offers a guided hike around the lake, plus an exciting falconry demonstration that showcases traditional Kazakh hunting techniques.
Perfect for travelers interested in both scenery and cultural heritage, the hike around the lake provides stunning views of the mountain landscape. The falconry show offers unique insights into Kazakhstan’s historic hunting traditions, making it a well-rounded experience. The tour is priced at $165, making it a good value given the combination of nature and culture.
While reviews are sparse, the inclusion of free time at the lake means you can linger and take photos, or simply soak in the peaceful environment. The tour suits travelers who want a relaxed hike with a memorable cultural twist.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who love combining outdoor activity with Kazakh traditions, especially if you’re keen on bird of prey demonstrations.
$165 per person
9. Almaty: Kim Asar Mountains and Waterfall Hiking Tour
Number 9 offers a refreshing mountain hike to the Kim Asar Waterfall and surrounding mountains. This guided tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. The route takes you through snow-covered mountains and past 100-year-old spruce trees, with plenty of scenic viewpoints.
The highlight for many is the Kim Asar Waterfall, a spot where visitors can make wishes amid the natural beauty. The guide encourages participation in local traditions, like tossing coins into the water. The hike combines nature and cultural experiences, with the option to enjoy hot tea and chocolates while admiring the mountain scenery.
Pricing at $139 offers a fair deal, especially for travelers who want a moderate hike with cultural charm. The route is suitable for most fitness levels but is better suited for those comfortable with mountain walking.
Bottom line: This is a good choice for travelers seeking a mix of scenic nature and local culture in a manageable hike.
$139 per person
10. Almaty: Kok Zhailau Mountain and Batareika Waterfall Hike
Finally, the Kok Zhailau Mountain and Batareika Waterfall Hike combines two classic Almaty natural sights in one guided tour. You’ll hike to 2200 meters for panoramic views of Almaty and enjoy the Batareika Waterfall along the way.
This trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a hot tea and chocolates break amidst the mountains, making it a relaxing, scenic adventure. The route offers an impressive mix of mountain scenery, waterfall views, and a chance to appreciate the local flora.
The tour is suitable for those who want to experience mountain views and waterfalls without intense technical climbing. It’s a great option for families or casual hikers, with a price of $150 reflecting good value for the full experience.
Bottom line: For a scenic, manageable hike with the added bonus of a waterfall, this tour is a reliable choice.
$150 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking Tour in Almaty
When selecting a hiking or trekking tour in Almaty, consider your fitness level, time available, and interests. For a full-day scenic adventure, the Charyn Canyon tour offers a mix of natural beauty and history, while the Big Almaty Lake trips are ideal for a shorter, flexible visit.
If you’re an experienced hiker, the Four Peaks Hike provides a challenging mountain experience, whereas the Bukreev Peak Skyline Hike offers a balance of challenge and stunning views. For those who prefer a less intense, scenic walk, the Kok Zhailau or Batareika Waterfall hikes are perfect.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak summer months when trails fill up quickly. Think about your budget and what kind of experience excites you most—whether it’s a cultural twist, glacier views, or mountain summits—and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Almaty offers an impressive range of hiking and trekking tours, whether you’re after a family-friendly lakeside walk or a challenging mountain summit. For a quick and scenic experience, the Big Almaty Lake Tour is hard to beat. For a more intense adventure, the Four Peaks Hike or the Bukreev Peak will satisfy your craving for mountain challenge.
For those wanting a well-rounded day with cultural flavor, the Charyn Canyon full-day trip offers a memorable mix of scenery and history. Whatever your style, booking ahead ensures you’ll get the best experience — Almaty’s mountains won’t wait forever.