Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is a vibrant and dynamic destination offering a wide range of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some highlights of things to do in Almaty:

1. Visit Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

• Medeu: Located in a picturesque valley just outside the city, Medeu is the world’s highest ice skating rink, set against the backdrop of the towering Tien Shan mountains. In winter, visitors can skate, while in summer, it is a lovely place for walks and enjoying the stunning scenery.
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: Just above Medeu, Shymbulak offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in the winter. During the warmer months, it's a great destination for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying panoramic views of the city below.

2. Explore Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

• Panfilov Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Almaty, named after the Panfilov Division, which fought during WWII. It’s home to the Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning Russian Orthodox church built entirely out of wood (without any nails) and adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs. The park itself is perfect for leisurely walks or a relaxing afternoon.

3. Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

• This museum is one of the largest and most significant in Central Asia, offering fascinating exhibits on Kazakhstan's history, culture, and heritage. It’s a great place to understand the country’s past, from ancient nomadic civilizations to Soviet times and independence.

4. Walk Along Arbat Street

• Arbat Street is a lively pedestrian street filled with local shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, to pick up souvenirs, enjoy street art, and experience Almaty’s vibrant atmosphere.

5. Take a Cable Car to Kok Tobe

• Kok Tobe Hill offers stunning views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the top, where there are cafes, a large TV tower, a mini-zoo, and a beautiful park. It's also a great place to see the city from a high vantage point.

6. Explore the Green Bazaar

• The Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar) is a bustling market where you can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Almaty. Here you can sample fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local delicacies like dried fruits, honey, and nuts.

7. Hike and Explore the Big Almaty Lake

• Just outside the city, Big Almaty Lake is a stunning alpine reservoir surrounded by mountains. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography. The turquoise waters of the lake make for incredible views, and the area offers several trails for hiking enthusiasts.

8. Visit the Almaty Zoo and Botanical Garden

• The Almaty Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including native species from Kazakhstan and Central Asia, and provides an educational experience about wildlife conservation. The Botanical Garden, a serene green space with hundreds of plant species, is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

9. Tour the Almaty Opera House

• For a cultural experience, catch a performance at the Almaty Opera House, which hosts operas, ballets, and classical concerts. The elegant venue is known for its excellent acoustics and artistic performances.

10. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity

• Another beautiful architectural gem, the Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, is an iconic landmark with its striking blue and gold dome. It’s a peaceful place to explore and reflects Almaty’s diverse cultural and religious history.

11. Sample Kazakh Cuisine

• Almaty offers a fantastic culinary scene, from casual eateries to fine dining. Be sure to try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with pasta), plov (rice pilaf), and kymyz (fermented mare’s milk). Local cafes and restaurants offer an authentic taste of Kazakh flavors.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Almaty offers something for everyone, making it an exciting city to explore!

Big Almaty Lake, located in the Tian Shan mountains just 15 kilometers south of Almaty, is a stunning destination with a variety of activities to enjoy in a breathtaking natural setting. Here are some things to do at and around the lake:

1. Hiking

• Big Almaty Lake is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, offering various levels of difficulty. A popular hike is to the Big Almaty Peak (4,068 meters), which provides stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For a shorter and easier trek, you can walk around the lake to enjoy the serene scenery.
• Several other trails around the lake lead through alpine meadows, offering great opportunities for photography and nature walks.

2. Photography and Sightseeing

• The lake's vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, create a photographer’s paradise. Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, the landscape offers many opportunities to capture stunning views, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is ideal.
• The views of the surrounding Tian Shan mountains and the reflection of the peaks on the water are especially mesmerizing.

3. Picnicking

• The area around the lake is perfect for a peaceful picnic. There are designated spots where you can relax, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and take in the scenery. It’s a great place to spend a relaxing day surrounded by nature.

4. Stargazing

• Due to the clear skies and the remote location of the lake, Big Almaty Lake is an excellent spot for stargazing at night. The lack of light pollution allows for unobstructed views of the stars, making it a fantastic place to observe constellations and meteor showers.

5. Wildlife Watching

• The area around Big Almaty Lake is home to various species of wildlife. While hiking, you may spot animals like marmots, ibex, snow leopards, and a wide variety of birds. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the diverse species in the area.

6. Visiting the Big Almaty Lake Observatory

• The Big Almaty Lake Observatory is located near the lake and is one of Kazakhstan’s major astronomical research facilities. While it may not always be open to the public, it is a fascinating place to learn about the study of space and the role the observatory plays in researching celestial bodies.

7. Photography of the Wildlife and Flora

• The area surrounding Big Almaty Lake is rich in alpine flora and fauna. Spring and summer months bring a burst of wildflowers, making it an ideal location for nature photography. The surrounding forests and meadows offer beautiful scenery, with a variety of plant and animal life to observe.

8. Relax and Enjoy the Peace

• If you’re looking for relaxation, the peaceful environment around the lake is perfect for unwinding. The calmness of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the crisp air make it an ideal destination to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

9. Winter Activities (Seasonal)

• In the winter months, Big Almaty Lake is less accessible due to snow and road conditions, but for those who do visit, it offers a stunning winter landscape. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are possible for adventurous travelers, and the lake is covered with snow and ice, making it a quiet, magical spot.

10. Visit the Nearby Almaty Military Facility

• A little further from the lake, there’s a military facility that is sometimes visible from the hiking paths. While access to this area is restricted, it adds an interesting historical dimension to the region, reflecting Kazakhstan's military presence in the Tian Shan mountains.

Big Almaty Lake is a year-round destination, offering a wide range of activities for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. The combination of stunning natural beauty and accessible outdoor experiences makes it one of the most popular spots near Almaty.

Charyn Canyon, located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty, is one of Kazakhstan’s most striking natural wonders. Its dramatic rock formations, deep valleys, and vibrant colors make it a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers. Here’s what you can do when visiting Charyn Canyon:

1. Hiking and Exploring the Canyon

• One of the best ways to explore Charyn Canyon is by hiking. There are several trails that take you through different sections of the canyon, each offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities. A popular hike is the Valley of Castles, where towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses or castles. This trail is relatively easy and provides breathtaking views of the canyon’s layers of red and orange sandstone cliffs.
• You can also venture on more challenging hikes to explore deeper parts of the canyon, where fewer tourists go, offering a more remote and peaceful experience.

2. Photography

• Charyn Canyon is a photographer’s dream, with its colorful rock formations, winding river, and dramatic cliffs. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular times to capture the canyon's beauty, as the changing light casts vibrant hues across the landscape. The Valley of Castles is especially famous for its dramatic rock structures that make for fantastic photos.

3. Visiting the Valley of Castles

• The Valley of Castles is one of the main attractions within Charyn Canyon, known for its unique and towering rock formations. These natural structures have been shaped by millions of years of erosion, creating striking "castles" that appear like ancient ruins. The valley is easily accessible from the main entrance and is a must-see during your visit.

4. Camping and Picnic

• Charyn Canyon is an excellent spot for camping or enjoying a picnic, especially if you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. There are designated camping areas where you can set up tents and spend the night under the stars. During the warmer months, it's a great place for a peaceful picnic along the canyon’s edge or near the Charyn River that runs through the canyon.

5. Visit the Charyn River

• The Charyn River runs along the bottom of the canyon, adding a serene element to the otherwise rugged landscape. The river is great for peaceful walks or simply enjoying the sound of flowing water as it cuts through the canyon floor. You can also take a leisurely walk along its banks, which is especially scenic when viewed from above.

6. Visit the Charyn Canyon Eco Center

• Near the entrance of the canyon, there is an Eco Center where you can learn more about the canyon’s geology, wildlife, and flora. The center provides useful information about the canyon’s history and offers maps and guides to help you navigate the area. You can also find local handicrafts and souvenirs here.

7. Horseback Riding

• For a different perspective of Charyn Canyon, some tour operators offer horseback riding excursions. Riding through the canyon on horseback allows you to cover more ground while taking in the scenery in a traditional way, echoing the nomadic culture of Kazakhstan. It’s a unique experience for those looking to explore the canyon from a different angle.

8. Wildlife Watching

• Charyn Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild goats, marmots, and various bird species. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy spotting raptors and other birds that inhabit the canyon and surrounding areas. You may also encounter native animals while hiking through the canyon’s trails.

9. Adventure Activities

• For the more adventurous traveler, some tour operators offer guided activities like rock climbing, off-roading, or ATV rides in the surrounding areas of the canyon. These activities allow you to explore the rugged terrain of the canyon in a more adrenaline-filled way.

10. Relaxing and Scenic Drives

• If you prefer a more leisurely approach to exploring Charyn Canyon, you can take a scenic drive along the roads that skirt the canyon. The views from the car are spectacular, and there are multiple spots to stop and enjoy the vistas. While driving, you can appreciate the vast, arid landscape surrounding the canyon and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

11. Stargazing

• The remote location of Charyn Canyon makes it an excellent place for stargazing. The clear desert skies, far from the city lights, offer a perfect opportunity to observe the stars. Spend a night camping in the canyon, and you’ll be treated to a stunning display of constellations.

Charyn Canyon is a versatile destination, offering everything from easy day hikes to more intense outdoor adventures, all set in a surreal and stunning landscape. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a beautiful place to connect with nature, Charyn Canyon has something to offer.

Kolsai Lakes, located about 300 kilometers from Almaty in the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range, are a series of three picturesque alpine lakes surrounded by forests and towering peaks. Known for their stunning beauty, the lakes offer a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s what you can do at Kolsai Lakes:

1. Hiking

• Hiking around the lakes: The main activity at Kolsai Lakes is hiking. There are various trails connecting the three lakes, with varying difficulty levels. The hike to the first lake (Kolsai 1) is relatively easy and suitable for most people. The trail to Kolsai 2 is more challenging and offers stunning views along the way. For more experienced hikers, the path to Kolsai 3, the highest lake, offers a more rugged and remote experience.
• Trekking through the forests: The forests around the lakes are beautiful, particularly in the spring and summer when they are full of wildflowers and lush greenery. Hiking through the pine forests and along the lake shores offers a peaceful experience with plenty of opportunities for photography.

2. Camping

• The area around Kolsai Lakes is perfect for camping. Whether you’re hiking or just visiting for the day, you can set up camp near the lakes and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Many visitors enjoy camping near Kolsai 1 or Kolsai 2, where there are designated camping spots and breathtaking views.
• In addition to traditional camping, you can also opt for yurt stays, which are traditional Kazakh tents, giving you a unique and immersive experience in the area.

3. Boating and Fishing

• Boating: While the lakes are known for their pristine beauty, they are also ideal for boating. On Kolsai 1, you can rent small boats to paddle across the clear waters and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery from the water. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the lakes.
• Fishing: The lakes are home to several fish species, including rainbow trout. If you enjoy fishing, you can try your luck at Kolsai 1 or Kolsai 2. While fishing requires a permit, it’s a relaxing activity that lets you fully enjoy the tranquility of the lakes.

4. Horseback Riding

• Horseback riding is a popular activity around the Kolsai Lakes, especially if you want to explore the more remote parts of the area. Horseback riding tours are available and provide an excellent way to experience the stunning landscape, including reaching the higher lakes, which may be more difficult to access by foot.
• Local guides often offer horseback riding tours that can range from short trips to multi-day adventures.

5. Photography

• Kolsai Lakes offer some of the most beautiful landscapes in Kazakhstan, with crystal-clear waters, lush green forests, and towering peaks. Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the stunning vistas, wildflowers, and the reflections of the mountains in the water, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s a fantastic place for both landscape and wildlife photography.

6. Wildlife Watching

• The area surrounding Kolsai Lakes is home to a variety of wildlife. You may encounter wild goats, marmots, and various species of birds while hiking around the lakes. The area is also known for its abundance of alpine plants and wildflowers, particularly in spring and summer, making it a haven for nature lovers and botanists.

7. Relaxing and Enjoying Nature

• If you’re looking to relax and enjoy nature, Kolsai Lakes is the perfect place. The tranquil setting, with the still waters of the lakes and the stunning mountain views, offers a peaceful retreat. You can spend time simply walking around the lakes, reading by the shore, or enjoying a picnic with an incredible view.

8. Skiing and Snowboarding (Winter Activities)

• In the winter months, the Kolsai Lakes area turns into a winter wonderland. While the lakes themselves are not directly used for skiing or snowboarding, the nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort is easily accessible and offers great slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Many people visit the lakes during the winter season to enjoy the snowy landscapes and serene winter beauty.

9. Visiting Saty Village

• Saty is a small village near the Kolsai Lakes and serves as the main base for visitors exploring the lakes. While in the area, you can visit the village to experience local life, sample traditional Kazakh food, and learn more about the nomadic culture. The village is a great starting point for your Kolsai adventure.

10. Picnicking

• Kolsai Lakes is an excellent destination for a scenic picnic. Whether you’re near Kolsai 1 or closer to Kolsai 2, you’ll find many beautiful spots to relax and enjoy a meal with breathtaking views. The peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to take in the surroundings, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy a leisurely meal.

Kolsai Lakes offer a wide range of activities, from hiking and camping to more leisurely activities like photography and relaxing by the lakes. It’s a fantastic destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both in one of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural areas.

The Tian Shan Mountains, stretching across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China, are a vast and stunning range offering a wide range of activities for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. The Tian Shan, often referred to as the "Mountains of Heaven," are famous for their dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, alpine lakes, and deep valleys. Here’s what you can do in the Tian Shan Mountains:

1. Trekking and Hiking

• Hiking is one of the top activities in the Tian Shan Mountains. There are a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. The range offers everything from short treks to multi-day expeditions. Some popular hikes include:
  • Big Almaty Peak: A relatively easy but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding region.
  • Trekking to Ala-Kul Lake (Kyrgyzstan): A challenging hike leading to the stunning Ala-Kul Lake, a turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s one of the most popular treks in the region.
  • Sary-Mogol Valley (Kyrgyzstan): A beautiful area for trekking, with views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and impressive mountain passes.

2. Mountaineering

• The Tian Shan Mountains are home to some of the highest peaks in Central Asia, making it a premier destination for mountaineering. Experienced climbers can tackle summits like Pik Pobedy (Victory Peak), the highest peak in the Tian Shan, at 7,439 meters, or Khan Tengri (7,010 meters), known for its dramatic pyramid shape.
• Various climbing routes cater to experienced mountaineers, and several expedition companies offer guided climbs to these iconic peaks.

3. Skiing and Snowboarding

• During the winter months, the Tian Shan Mountains are an excellent destination for skiing and snowboarding, particularly in areas like:
  • Shymbulak Ski Resort (Kazakhstan): Located near Almaty, this resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, along with stunning views of the mountains.
  • Karakol Ski Resort (Kyrgyzstan): Known for its off-piste terrain and friendly atmosphere, this resort attracts both beginners and advanced skiers.

4. Wildlife Watching

• The Tian Shan Mountains are rich in wildlife, including species like snow leopards, wild boars, ibex, marmots, and brown bears. Birdwatchers can also find a wide range of species, including eagles, vultures, and falcons. A visit to the Tian Shan offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and observation.
• The Issyk-Kul Biosphere Reserve (Kyrgyzstan), located in the Tian Shan foothills, is a popular place for spotting wildlife.

5. Alpine Lakes and Glaciers

• The Tian Shan is dotted with stunning alpine lakes, most of which are accessible by hiking or horseback riding. Some notable lakes include:
  • Ala-Kul Lake: A stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the region.
  • Issyk-Kul Lake (Kyrgyzstan): The world’s second-largest saline lake, surrounded by the Tian Shan peaks, offering water activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Sary-Chelek Lake (Kyrgyzstan): A remote and picturesque lake in a protected biosphere reserve, ideal for hiking, camping, and photography.

6. Horseback Riding

• Horseback riding is a traditional way to explore the Tian Shan region, and there are several tour companies offering guided horse treks into remote areas of the mountains. Horseback riding is one of the best ways to access remote valleys, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes.
• Riding tours to places like Song Kul Lake (Kyrgyzstan), Kolsai Lakes, or through the Jeti-Oguz Valley offer unique insights into the region’s natural beauty and nomadic culture.

7. Cultural Exploration and Nomadic Traditions

• The Tian Shan region is home to many indigenous communities, particularly the Kyrgyz and Kazakh peoples. You can visit traditional yurts, experience the nomadic lifestyle, and learn about the ancient traditions, music, and crafts of the local people.
• Kazakh and Kyrgyz culture are deeply tied to the mountains, and visiting local villages gives you a chance to explore their way of life, sample local cuisine, and even try your hand at traditional activities like eagle hunting or herding animals.

8. Caving

• The Tian Shan Mountains also have a number of caves, some of which are large and impressive. For example, Tamgaly Gorge (Kazakhstan) is famous for its ancient rock carvings and has cave systems that can be explored. While not as well-known for caving as some other areas, the region offers some opportunities for underground exploration.

9. Camping and Stargazing

• Camping in the Tian Shan is a fantastic way to experience the remote and rugged beauty of the region. There are several campsites located near the lakes and hiking routes. Spending the night under the stars, far from city lights, allows for amazing stargazing opportunities, with clear skies and spectacular views of the Milky Way.

10. Fishing

• The many lakes and rivers in the Tian Shan region are home to a wide variety of fish species, including trout. If you enjoy fishing, you can spend a day casting in the pristine waters of lakes like Issyk-Kul or rivers flowing from glaciers. Some tour companies offer fishing expeditions with local guides.

11. Off-Road Adventures

• For those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, off-roading through the Tian Shan foothills and valleys is an option. Many companies offer guided 4x4 tours through remote and rugged terrains, allowing you to access areas that are difficult to reach by foot.

The Tian Shan Mountains provide a perfect combination of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, cultural exploration, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, nature lover, or someone simply looking to enjoy stunning landscapes and peaceful solitude, the Tian Shan offers something for everyone.