Kazakhstan might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a trip abroad, but it’s a destination that rewards those willing to explore beyond the usual. The country offers stunning natural landscapes, like the shimmering Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes or the dramatic Charyn Canyon, along with fascinating cultural sites and adventurous excursions. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, Kazakhstan has something to offer. We especially like the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour for its combination of iconic sights and the chance to experience local life, or the Big Almaty Lake hike for a manageable but unforgettable mountain experience. Both tours showcase the country’s rugged beauty with practical, well-organized itineraries.
If you’re craving a longer, more immersive trip, the Adventurous Mangistau tour offers a deep dive into Kazakhstan’s geological marvels and cultural landmarks, while the Alien landscapes of Mangistau takes you through otherworldly scenery that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie. For travelers on a tighter schedule, the Butakovka Waterfall makes for a perfect half-day escape, combining scenic views and a gentle hike. And for those interested in combining culture with entertainment, the Almaty Falconry Show and Big Almaty Gorge provides an engaging mix of tradition and mountain scenery.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top tours, helping you decide which one fits your interests, fitness level, and travel style.
1. Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour Lunch Included
Starting with one of the most popular day trips from Almaty, this tour combines three of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular sights. The day begins early with a 5:00 pickup and a drive toward the Charyn Canyon (often called the “Valley of the Castles”). At the canyon, you’ll walk along the rim, take in breathtaking views of the towering rock formations, and explore several scenic spots like the Black Canyon for photo opportunities. The admission tickets for these sites are included, making it easier to enjoy without extra fuss.
After a few hours at Charyn, the journey continues to Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and clear turquoise waters. You’ll transfer to Saty village, where a short walk or horse ride takes you to the lake—perfect for capturing memorable photos. Returning to Saty, the tour stops for a hearty lunch in a local guesthouse, allowing you to dive into some traditional Kazakh cuisine. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the Kolsai Lakes, with the first being the Lower Kolsai. Surrounded by lush forests and mountains, these lakes are a peaceful contrast to the canyon’s rugged cliffs.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of dramatic landscapes and cultural experiences, all within a manageable 15-hour day. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the best spots efficiently, and the included lunch adds value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure with a bit of everything.
Bottom line: This tour offers exceptional value for its comprehensive itinerary, iconic sights, and comfortable organization. Perfect if you want a packed day of Kazakhstan’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort.
2. Hiking to the magical Big Almaty Lake
At around $135 per person, this approximately 7-hour hiking tour is perfect for those with good physical fitness and a desire for an active day in the mountains. The trek begins at the last ecological checkpoint, where you’ll start ascending through the Ile Alatau National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass the Legendary Japanese Road, explore the Kumbelsu River, and enjoy panoramic views that are simply unforgettable.
The highlight is reaching Big Almaty Lake, a stunning high-altitude reservoir famous for its changing hues—shifting from light green to vivid sky blue as the day progresses. The hike offers a great mix of challenging sections and easier walks, making it suitable for hikers with some experience. The trail also provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the chance to see wildlife like mountain goats and birds. In addition, the tour includes visits to Medeo and Shymbulak, two of the most famous mountain destinations in Kazakhstan, where you can relax and soak in the mountain scenery.
What makes this tour unique is not only the breathtaking scenery but also the opportunity to learn about the diverse landscapes of the Tien Shan Mountains. The guide shares insights into the region’s natural history, and the walk is well-paced to keep your legs happy. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy moderate hiking and want a full day of outdoor activity.
Bottom line: This tour strikes a good balance between challenge and reward, offering spectacular vistas and a chance to stretch your legs in the mountains—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Kazakhstan: One day tour to Assy plateau and Bear waterfall
For around $54, this day trip from Almaty is designed for those craving a nature escape without a long trek. The tour kicks off with a drive into the Tien Shan foothills, where you’ll hike to the Bear Waterfall. The trail is accessible and offers wonderful views, with the waterfall itself providing a perfect spot for photos and cooling off.
Afterward, you’ll explore the Assy Plateau, a vast alpine meadow dotted with wildflowers and grazing horses. The plateau’s openness offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, and you might even spot some wild horses in the distance. The walk is leisurely but provides enough physical activity to feel like a meaningful outdoor experience. The tour includes some local tea, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery.
This trip is ideal for travelers who want an active day out but prefer a shorter, less intense hike. The smaller group size and guide’s local knowledge make for an intimate, personalized experience. Its affordability and focus on natural beauty make it appealing for families or those with limited time.
Bottom line: A well-priced, straightforward option that gets you into the mountains for a taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.
$54 per person
4. Adventurous Mangistau
If you’re after a multi-day adventure and enjoy geological and cultural exploration, this 3-day tour in Mangistau is hard to beat. Starting from Aktau, you’ll visit Shakpak Ata, an underground mosque and necropolis, followed by the surreal Torysh Valley, famous for its spherical stones formed over millions of years. The tour continues to the Kokala Valley, with multicolored rocks, and the Sherkala Mountains, shaped like a traditional yurt and a local symbol.
What sets this tour apart is the attention to geology and local culture. You’ll stay overnight at campsites, giving an authentic feel, and visit several viewpoints for impressive landscape photography. The itinerary includes stops at Kazakhstani cultural sites like the Sherkala Mountains, and the guide provides detailed insights into the region’s history. The trips to the Ustyurt National Reserve and Karlyk Mountains add to the sense of adventure.
This tour is best suited for adventurers and geology enthusiasts who don’t mind camping and long drives. The private guide enhances the experience with personalized commentary, and the included meals make it more convenient. While the cost is higher, the depth and authenticity of the experience justify the price for those interested in Kazakhstan’s less-traveled landscapes.
Bottom line: A full-bodied, multi-day journey into Kazakhstan’s geological marvels and Kazakh culture, ideal for those seeking a deep adventure.
$1,194.24 per person
5. Alien landscapes of Mangistau with one of a kind Salty Hollow of Karyn Zharyk
This 5-day tour is designed for adventure seekers ready to traverse over 1,800 km through Kazakhstan’s most otherworldly scenery. The Mangistau region has been sculpted by wind and rain into dramatic cliffs and chalky formations that look like scenes from a sci-fi movie. The journey begins in Aktau, passing through the Karagiye Depression, the lowest point in Central Asia, known for its vast salt flats and unique flora and fauna.
Next, you’ll visit Karyn Zharyk, a remarkable salt-marsh depression with salty crystals and reflective surfaces that create surreal photo opportunities. The tour also includes stops at Sauto Sands and the Bokty Mountain, with their striking red chalk formations. The itinerary emphasizes staying in local guesthouses and camping, providing a genuine Kazakh experience. The route is intense, covering hundreds of kilometers, but the landscapes are truly unlike anywhere else.
This trip is perfect for geology fans, photographers, and those craving a serious adventure. The private guide ensures your trip is tailored, and the included meals keep logistics simple. The high price reflects the extensive logistics and remote travel, but for those who want to see Kazakhstan’s most alien scenery, this is unmatched.
Bottom line: A bold, multi-day exploration of Kazakhstan’s most unusual landscapes, suited for experienced travelers ready for a challenge.
$1,355.00 per person
6. “Butakovka Waterfall” – a half day tour
For a quick nature escape, this half-day tour is a great choice. Starting in the Almaty Region, it offers an easy hike to the Butakovka Waterfall, a peaceful spot perfect for a scenic picnic or just soaking in the mountain air. The walk is straightforward and accessible, making it ideal for families or travelers short on time.
The highlight is the waterfall itself, flowing over rocks in a lush, green setting. The surrounding area is dotted with wildflowers and trees, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for photos. It’s a chance to disconnect from city life and enjoy some fresh mountain air without committing to a full-day hike. The tour is short but delivers a satisfying dose of natural beauty and tranquility.
What makes this tour appealing is the ease of access and the picturesque setting, making it suitable for those with limited mobility or young children. The convenient location close to Almaty means you can enjoy a quick nature fix without the hassle of long travel.
Bottom line: A short, relaxing outing that offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect if you want a quick nature fix near Almaty.
7. Almaty: Falconry show and Big Almaty Gorge
For a blend of cultural and natural experiences, this tour combines a spectacular falconry show with a visit to the stunning Big Almaty Gorge. Starting at $116 per person, it’s a reasonable price for a memorable half-day or full-day. The tour kicks off with the Falconry Show, where skilled falconers demonstrate traditional hunting techniques using majestic birds of prey. It’s a captivating sight that offers insight into Kazakh hunting traditions.
After the show, you’ll venture into the Big Almaty Gorge, one of the most scenic spots in the area. The lush valley features towering peaks, pine forests, and clear streams—an ideal backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. The tour also includes visits to the popular Medeo Ice Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort, so you can enjoy mountain views and perhaps a hot drink.
This tour appeals to those interested in cultural traditions and mountain scenery, especially if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded experience. The combination of entertainment and natural beauty makes it a popular choice for families and history buffs alike.
Bottom line: A culturally rich and scenic tour that’s perfect for a half-day outing, offering a glimpse into Kazakh traditions amid breathtaking mountain views.
8. From Aralsk: 2-Day Aral Sea, Akespe and Kokaral dam Tour
This 2-day adventure provides an immersive experience of the Aral Sea, once one of the world’s largest lakes. Starting from Aralsk, you’ll visit the Fishermen’s Museum to learn about the sea’s dramatic decline and explore the abandoned village of Akespe, where the remnants evoke both sadness and awe. Dunes and the Kokaral Dam offer striking landscapes, and you’ll take a boat ride across the Small Aral Sea to see firsthand how the waters have receded.
The tour includes a traditional lunch at a guesthouse, sampling local shubat (camel milk), and a walk along the coast of the Small Aral Sea, with plenty of photo opportunities. The boat ride is optional but highly recommended for understanding the scale of ecological change. The journey is both educational and visually impressive, providing a stark reminder of environmental resilience.
Ideal for travelers interested in history, ecology, and human stories, this tour provides a meaningful perspective on Kazakhstan’s environmental challenges. The private guide, included meals, and local insights make for a comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: An eye-opening tour that combines history, ecology, and a touch of adventure—best suited for those interested in environmental stories and photography.
$1,000 per group up to 3
9. From Aralsk: Aral Oasis Eco-Adventure Day Trip
This eco-tour offers a day of natural beauty and resilience at the Aral Oasis. Starting from Aralsk, the trip focuses on the coast of the Small Aral Sea, where you’ll visit Butakov Bay, a landscape shaped by wind and water over centuries. The tour includes a scenic walk along the coast, great for photos, and a chance to learn about local efforts to restore and protect the environment.
The highlight is a boat ride across the waters of the Small Aral Sea, if weather permits, allowing you to see how the sea is slowly recovering. The local community’s stories of resilience and adaptation add depth to your understanding of this once-massive lake. The day concludes with a traditional Kazakh lunch, including shubat, in a local guesthouse.
This trip suits eco-conscious travelers and those interested in natural recovery projects. The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and a boat ride offers a well-rounded, meaningful experience in a region of striking change.
Bottom line: A thoughtful day trip focusing on environmental recovery and local life—perfect if you want to see Kazakhstan’s natural restoration efforts firsthand.
$450 per group up to 3
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your Kazakhstan tour, consider your budget, interest level, and physical fitness. For example, if you love hiking and mountain landscapes, the Big Almaty Lake tour is a solid choice. Conversely, if you want a shorter, relaxing nature outing, the Butakovka Waterfall is ideal. Longer multi-day adventures like the Mangistau or Alien Landscapes tours are best for experienced travelers or those eager to explore Kazakhstan’s less-visited regions.
Think about your interests—history and culture lovers may prefer the Falconry Show and Gorge, while environmental enthusiasts will appreciate the Aral Sea trips. For those on a tight schedule, the half-day Butakovka Waterfall offers a quick nature fix, while the 3-day Mangistau provides a comprehensive geological adventure.
Booking early is wise, especially for longer tours or those with limited availability. Also, check the best times to visit each region—mountain hikes are best in summer or early fall, while desert and canyon tours can be enjoyed in spring and autumn.
The Sum Up
Kazakhstan offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. From day trips exploring Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes to multi-day adventures in Mangistau, there’s something for all. For those seeking a balanced outdoor experience, the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Tour is perfect. Adventure seekers should consider the Alien Landscapes of Mangistau, while history and culture enthusiasts will enjoy the Falconry Show and Big Almaty Gorge.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will ensure you get the best options and dates. Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes and welcoming people make it a destination worth exploring—so start planning your trip today.