10 Almaty Day Trips: Ultimate Guide to Day Trips from Almaty!

Day Trips from Almaty

Almaty, a picture-perfect city in Kazakhstan, is a thriving economic and cultural hub, popular among tourists for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Almaty day trips include several exciting attractions like the Big Almaty Lake, the Medeu ice skating rink, and the iconic Chimbulak ski resort that you can explore.

You can visit the Panfilov Park and explore its lush green spaces or spend some time at the Zenkov Cathedral, which is located within its complex. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you can explore Charyn Canyon National Park, the adventurous Kim-Asar Gorge, and the Huns Ethno Village. Adventure enthusiasts can head to Shymbulak Ski Resort for skiing and snowboarding.

Our excursions during the Kazakhstan tour offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Plan your journey of exploration and uncover the magic of this mesmerizing region and its endless wonders.

Here are some of the best day trips from Almaty:

Kazakhstan Tour Packages Explore All (14)

5D/4N

27 Ratings

Kazakhstan in a Nutshell with FREE Shymbulak Cable Car Ride

₹ 59,000 ₹ 45,000 per adult

6D/5N

26 Ratings

Wonders of Kazakhstan with FREE Tickets to Kob Tobe Gondola Ride

₹ 74,347 ₹ 55,900 per adult

7D/6N

33 Ratings

Discovering Kazakhstan with FREE Trip to Charyn Canyon

₹ 96,500 ₹ 72,800 per adult

8D/7N

40 Ratings

Best of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan with FREE Koke Tobe Cable Car Ride

₹ 102,990 ₹ 78,000 per adult

7D/6N

31 Ratings

Kazakhstan Delights | Flight Inclusive Deal

₹ 147,360 ₹ 122,800 per adult

Aerial view of the Orthodox wooden Ascension Cathedral

9D/8N

34 Ratings

Glimpse of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan with FREE Tufandag Cable Car Tickets

₹ 110,999 ₹ 82,000 per adult

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12D/11N

27 Ratings

Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan Odyssey with FREE Visit to Charyn Canyon

₹ 145,000 ₹ 115,000 per adult

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11D/10N

38 Ratings

Grand Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan Tour with FREE Visit to Palace of Shaki Khans

₹ 112,000 ₹ 99,990 per adult

Explore All (14)

01

Charyn Canyon National Park

In the heart of Southeastern Kazakhstan lies the Charyn Canyon National Park. A trip to this National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Almaty. This area was once called the "Grand Canyon’s little brother".

The National Park sprawls along the Charyn River to an expansive stretch of about 90 kilometres, boasting many geological marvels. One of the chief highlights of the park is the Valley of Castles, named for the uniquely shaped rock formations that look similar to ancient fortresses.

Location: Near the Charyn River, Almaty Region

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily

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02

Black Canyon

Visit the Black Canyon to experience the untainted natural beauty. The landscape here is characterised by towering black cliffs and the beautiful Chilik River running through the canyon.

The rugged beauty of the place and the quiet ambience make it one of the best places to unwind and commune silently with nature. This place is ideal for picnicking, fishing, or enjoying the enchanting views of the rocky, skyline-defying cliffs. A visit to the Black Canyon is one of the most exciting day trips from Almaty.

Location: Along the Charyn River, Almaty Region.

Timings: Accessible 24/7, but daytime visits are encouraged

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03

Kolsai Lake

The magical Kolsai Lake comprises a breathtaking series of three beautiful alpine lakes titled ‘Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan’. The first lake in this chain of lakes is accessible by car and is visited the most. The lakeside is ideal for short strolls and picnics.

To reach the second and third lakes, one has to trek to a higher altitude as those lakes are cradled at a higher level. Adventure enthusiasts often trek to those lakes to experience adventure and relaxation.

Location: Kolsai Lakes National Park, Almaty Region.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Daily

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04

Kaindy Lake

The turquoise-watered Kaindy Lake is renowned for its uniquely submerged forest. The forest was submerged due to a massive earthquake nearly a century back. We can catch sight of the submerged forest existing in the form of sunken tree trunks, rising dramatically above the water's surface.

The Kaindy Lake trip is one of the most sought-after Almaty day trips, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike. Whether hiking the rugged trails or just immersing in the serene nature, escaping to this beautiful lake is indeed a soul-exhilarating experience.

Location: Near Saty Village, Almaty Region.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily

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05

Huns Ethno Village

A visit to the Huns Ethno Village offers a glimpse into Kazakhstan’s rich culture and traditions. The place makes an ideal spot for Almaty day trips. Visitors to this place can learn about the nomadic lifestyle of Kazakhstan, and enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine, melodious music, and exquisite crafts while exploring yurts and engaging in interesting folk activities.

Visiting this ethnic village can be rewarding as you can enjoy breathtaking mock battle shows, professional horse-riding trick shows, archery shows, and traditional custom performances in the picturesque village.

Location: Near the Turgen Gorge, Almaty Region.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

06

Big Almaty Lake

This natural alpine reservoir is cradled at 2511 meters above sea level. A visit to this lake makes one of the most fascinating day trips from Almaty. The lake has a turquoise blue color but interestingly the color can change to emerald green during the seasonal weather changes.

The place is ideal for photography, nature walks, picnicking, hiking, and immersing oneself in the breathtaking mountain scenery. Those who wish to spend some quiet moments in a serene ambiance must come to the Big Almaty Lake.

Location: Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountain Range, Almaty

Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily

07

Issyk Lake

A day trip to Issyk Lake is one of the most popular Almaty day trips. This beautiful alpine lake is fed by the Issyk River and is surrounded by majestic mountains, dense forest covers, and expansive flower fields. The place is ideal for trekkers, nature lovers, and camping enthusiasts.

Even visitors may use the lakeside as a picnic spot during the weekends. Furthermore, visitors to the tranquil Issyk Lake can explore the archaeological spots nearby and gather knowledge and facts about the ancient Saka culture.

Location: Issyk Gorge in Almaty Region

Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily

08

Altyn Emel National Park

Altyn Emel National Park is home to a massive diversity of ecosystems, offering shelter to many endangered animal species. The terrain of the place is mainly rocky, sandy and stony. Kulan is one significant animal found in this area.

The animal prefers to reside in the hard, tough areas within the National Park. Another chief highlight of this park is its Singing Dune. The dune is crescent-shaped, and as the wind hits it, the sand grains rub against each other, producing a song-like sound.

Location: Near the Ili River in Almaty

Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily

09

Kim Asar Gorge

Kim-Asar Gorge is a hiker’s paradise near Almaty. Vibrant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, gurgling streams, and breathtaking mountain views define the intoxicating charm of the place. The magnificent vistas of rolling mountains captivate nature lovers who spend several hours here gazing at the marvels of nature.

As this place has a range of hiking trails, hikers of all skill levels are drawn to the Kim-Asar-Gorge. Those who love photographing nature also find this place fascinating. Even for the wildlife lovers and birdwatchers, this place is outstanding.

Location: Located in the Medeu area, near Almaty

Timings: Accessible 24/7

10

Tian Shan Astronomical Observatory

It’s a famous Research Centre perched atop the Tian Shan Mountains, nearly 30 Kilometers south of Almaty. Founded in 1957, this Observatory offers marvellous views of the celestial bodies in the night sky.

The observatory boasts two 1-meter Ritchey–Chrétien telescopes, an advanced radio telescope, and several other smaller telescopes for viewing the orbs in the sky. Those looking for leisure or an educational day trip from Almaty must visit this destination for a unique experience.

Location: Near Almaty, on the Assy Plateau in Kazakhstan.

Timings: Open during specific operating hours.

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Tien Shan Mountains

The Tien Shan Mountains, or "Mountains of Heaven," span Central Asia, covering China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. Known for rugged peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine lakes, they offer a paradise for trekkers and adventurers. Home to diverse ecosystems and the famous Khan Tengri peak, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.