Almaty, Kazakhstan-day-trips

Discover the Best Day Trips from Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, there’s a day trip to suit every taste and activity level. Here are some of the best day trips from Almaty:

1. Lake Kaindy

  • Distance: 120 km (75 miles) from Almaty
  • Duration: 2-3 hours each way
  • Activity level: Easy to moderate

Take a scenic drive through the Tian Shan mountains and visit this picturesque lake, known for its unique “sea” of trees. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, have a picnic, or simply take in the breathtaking views.

2. The Big Almaty Lake

  • Distance: 45 km (28 miles) from Almaty
  • Duration: 1-2 hours each way
  • Activity level: Easy to moderate

Located in the Tian Shan mountains, this stunning lake is a must-visit for nature lovers. Enjoy a scenic drive, take a leisurely walk around the lake, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

3. Medeo Gorge

  • Distance: 25 km (15 miles) from Almaty
  • Duration: 30 minutes each way
  • Activity level: Easy

Visit this stunning gorge, located in the Tian Shan mountains. Take a leisurely walk along the gorge, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and try your hand at ice skating or sledding (seasonal).

4. Turgen Gorge

  • Distance: 120 km (75 miles) from Almaty
  • Duration: 2-3 hours each way
  • Activity level: Moderate to difficult

Explore this beautiful gorge, known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a challenging hike, try your hand at rafting or horseback riding, or simply take in the breathtaking views.

5. Zaysan Lake

  • Distance: 150 km (93 miles) from Almaty
  • Duration: 2-3 hours each way
  • Activity level: Easy to moderate

Visit this picturesque lake, located on the border of Kazakhstan and China. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, have a picnic, or simply take in the stunning scenery.

These are just a few of the many amazing day trips you can take from Almaty, Kazakhstan. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, there’s something for everyone. So why not get out and explore?