Weekend Tours Almaty

Weekend Tours Almaty
Weekend Tours Almaty
Tian Shan nature, experienced guide, prices from 3,263 KZT/person with no extra fees
$0 prepayment
Free cancellation
Rating 4.9 ★
1300+ Tourist Reviews
0

Catalog

All weekend tours from Almaty by category

Choose by direction, duration, and season — the price is per person

Why choose weekend tours from Almaty

Local guides, fixed price per person, and care on every route. — everything for a relaxing vacation.

Prices from 3,263 KZT/person

Минимальная цена среди 112 туров — 3 263 тг/person, максимальная 250 000 тг/people Выбирайте бюджетный вариант или премиум.

Guide-instructors

All routes are led by certified guides with knowledge of mountain training and first aid.

Equipment included

Trekking poles, helmets, life jackets — provided free of charge. No need to buy.

Safety

Routes are verified, satellite communication with base, first aid kit and insurance in every tour.

Flexible start

Departure from Almaty in the morning or evening — we adjust to your schedule.

Children under 12 — discount

For children under 12, a 20% discount on all weekend tours.

How it works

How to book weekend tours from Almaty — 6 steps

Step 1

Route selection

Choose a tour by duration (1, 2, or 3 days) and difficulty. Beginners get easy walks, experienced hikers get radial ascents.

Route selection — tour booking stage from Almaty
Step 2

Booking

Pay online or via WhatsApp. We confirm the tour 2 hours before departure.

Booking — tour booking stage from Almaty
Step 3

Meeting at the office

Meet in central Almaty (corner of Abay and Baitursynov streets) at the specified time. We check your gear.

Meeting at the office — tour booking stage from Almaty
Step 4

Transfer to location

Travel by comfortable minibus to the trailhead. Travel time: 30–90 minutes.

Transfer to location — tour booking stage from Almaty
Step 5

Active Part

Hiking, jeep tour, or horseback riding along the route with stops for photos and snacks. The guide shares info about local nature.

Active Part — tour booking stage from Almaty
Step 6

Return

After the route, return to Almaty by 18:00–20:00. Photos and videos are sent within the day.

Return — tour booking stage from Almaty

Team

Our team — guides and instructors from Almaty

Routes are led by practicing guides and instructors. These same people respond in. WhatsApp and accompany groups on the tour.

Aidos Serikov — Senior guide, mountain routes★4.9

Aidos Serikov

Senior guide, mountain routes

187 reviews · experience 14 years

Dinara Kassymova — Guide-lecturer in Almaty★5

Dinara Kassymova

Guide-lecturer in Almaty

142 review · experience 11 years

Marat Zhunussov — Trekking instructor★4.8

Marat Zhunussov

Trekking instructor

96 reviews · experience 9 years

Oleg Kim — Driver-guide, jeep tours★4.9

Oleg Kim

Driver-guide, jeep tours

164 review · experience 13 years

Zhanna Abenova — Tour manager★4.8

Zhanna Abenova

Tour manager

78 reviews · experience 7 years

Timur Beketov — Multi-day tour guide★4.9

Timur Beketov

Multi-day tour guide

118 reviews · experience 10 years

Aliya Nurlan — Group coordinator★5

Aliya Nurlan

Group coordinator

64 review · experience 6 years

Sergey Volkov — Instructor, ski tours★4.8

Sergey Volkov

Instructor, ski tours

103 review · experience 12 years

Useful

Weekend Tours from Almaty: City, Mountains, and Canyons

AN
Author: Aliya Nurlan
Group Coordinator
Published: Updated: 14 min read

Discover Almaty: Weekend Tours for Every Traveler

Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, is a gateway to stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you have a free day or a full weekend, our tours are designed to help you experience the best of the region. From city walks to high-altitude lakes and dramatic canyons, there is something for everyone. All tours start from Almaty and are led by experienced guides who know the area intimately.

The region around Almaty is defined by the Zailiysky Alatau mountains, part of the Tian Shan system. These peaks rise abruptly from the steppe, creating dramatic scenery and a cool climate even in summer. The city itself sits at an altitude of 700–900 meters, while many of our destinations reach over 2,000 meters. This variation means you can experience both urban culture and alpine wilderness within a short drive.

Our weekend tours are carefully planned to make the most of your time. Whether you prefer a leisurely cultural excursion or an active trek, you'll find options that fit your pace. We provide transport, guides, and support, so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Below, we break down the different types of tours, what to expect, and how to prepare.

City Tours: Culture, History, and Gastronomy

Walking Tours of Almaty

Explore the heart of Almaty on foot with our walking tours. The "Audio Tour of Almaty with Music" is a unique 2-hour experience where you stroll through the city center wearing headphones, listening to a soundtrack that blends jazz, classical, and ethnic music. The route takes you from Panfilov Park to the Green Bazaar, offering a sensory journey through the city's history and architecture.

For architecture enthusiasts, the "From Wooden Architecture to Soviet Modernism" tour is a 3-hour deep dive into Almaty's built environment. You'll see ornate wooden houses from the early 20th century, contrasting with monumental Soviet-era structures. The tour reveals how the city's identity has been shaped by different eras, from the Tsarist period to the Soviet Union.

If you prefer a broader overview, the "Sightseeing Tour of Almaty" is a 4-hour group excursion by bus. You'll visit central squares, parks, and viewpoints, getting a comprehensive introduction to the city. The tour covers major landmarks and provides historical context, making it ideal for first-time visitors.

Combined City and Mountain Tours

For a taste of both city and mountains, consider the "Sightseeing Tour of Almaty with Medeu and Kok Tobe." This 5-hour private auto tour takes you to the famous Medeu skating rink, located at 1,691 meters, and the Kok Tobe hill, which offers panoramic views of the city. You'll also drive through green boulevards and see the contrast between urban life and the towering peaks.

Another option is the "Almaty Legends" tour, which combines a city tour with a cable car ride to Shymbulak ski resort. At an altitude of 2,260 meters, you'll experience the fresh mountain air and stunning views of the Zailiysky Alatau. This 5-hour tour is perfect for those who want to see the city's cultural sites and also enjoy the alpine environment.

Gastronomic Experiences

Kazakh cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and our "Gastronomy Tour of Almaty" lets you taste it all. Over 5 hours, you'll visit the Green Bazaar, sample traditional dishes like baursaki (fried dough) and kumis (fermented mare's milk), and enjoy a full meal at an authentic local café. This group walking tour is a feast for the senses and a great way to understand local culture.

Almaty's food scene reflects its history as a trading hub along the Silk Road. You'll find influences from nomadic traditions, Russian cuisine, and Central Asian flavors. The Green Bazaar is a vibrant market where vendors sell spices, dried fruits, meats, and cheeses. Our guide will help you navigate the stalls and explain the significance of each dish.

Mountain Treks: Lakes, Glaciers, and Peaks

Day Hikes to High-Altitude Lakes

The crown jewel of the Zailiysky Alatau is the Big Almaty Lake (BAO), located at 2,511 meters. Our "Big Almaty Lake in 4 Hours" tour is a private car excursion that takes you up a winding mountain road to the lake's turquoise shores. You'll have about an hour to relax by the water, take photos, and enjoy the scenery before returning to the city.

For a more active experience, the "Hiking Tour to Big Almaty Lake in a Mini Group" is a full-day trek (7 hours) that starts early in the morning. You'll hike along a scenic trail that follows a mountain river, gaining elevation gradually. The trail is suitable for beginners, but you should be in reasonable physical shape. Along the way, you'll see alpine meadows, juniper forests, and possibly wildlife like marmots.

Another beautiful lake is Kolsai, often called the "Pearl of the Tian Shan." While not in our immediate list, it's a popular weekend destination. Our tours focus on the Big Almaty Lake due to its proximity to Almaty, but if you have more time, we can arrange a visit to Kolsai and Kaindy Lake, which are further east.

Glacier and Cave Expeditions

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the "Hike to Tuyuksu Glacier and Dolphin Grotto" is a 10-hour private trek. The route starts in the Medeu Gorge and ascends to the Tuyuksu Glacier, one of the largest in the Zailiysky Alatau. You'll pass through moraines and see the glacier's ice formations, then descend to the Dolphin Grotto, a natural ice cave. This tour is for experienced hikers with good fitness.

Similarly, the "Shymbulak Trails: Glacier and Cave" tour is a 6-hour mini-group hike that takes you to a glacier and an ice cave near Shymbulak. The trail is less technical than Tuyuksu but still offers rewarding views. You'll start from the Shymbulak ski area and hike to the glacier, with the option to visit the cave if conditions allow.

These tours require proper equipment: sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, and plenty of water. The high altitude can cause shortness of breath, so it's essential to acclimatize and pace yourself. Our guides are trained in first aid and know the routes well.

Preparing for High-Altitude Treks

Altitude sickness is a real concern when hiking above 2,500 meters. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. To minimize risk, we recommend spending a day at altitude before attempting a strenuous hike. If you're coming from sea level, consider taking it easy on your first day. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and eat light meals.

Physical preparation is also important. Regular cardio exercise, such as walking or cycling, will help you enjoy the trek more. On the trail, take breaks as needed and listen to your body. Our guides are experienced in managing altitude issues and will adjust the pace accordingly.

Charyn Canyon and Other Natural Wonders

Charyn Canyon: The Valley of Castles

Charyn Canyon, located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty, is a geological marvel. The canyon stretches for 154 kilometers along the Charyn River, with colorful rock formations that resemble ancient castles. The most famous section is the "Valley of Castles," where you can hike down to the river and look up at towering red cliffs.

Our "Charyn Canyon: Valley of Castles Hike" is a 12-hour mini-group tour that departs early in the morning. You'll travel by comfortable SUV to the canyon, spend several hours exploring the trails, and return to Almaty in the evening. The hike is moderate, with some steep sections, but the reward is unforgettable views.

The canyon is at an altitude of about 1,000 meters, so the climate is drier and warmer than Almaty. Summers can be hot, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild.

Other Weekend Destinations

If you have more than a day, consider a multi-day tour to places like Katon-Karagay National Park, which is famous for its pristine forests and hot springs. However, our current weekend selection focuses on day trips from Almaty, making it easy to fit into a short break.

For those interested in ancient history, the "Individual Journey to Ancient Cities" is a 3-day private jeep tour to Turkestan, Otrar, Sauran, and Arystanbab. This is a cultural expedition that covers significant Silk Road sites, including the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour includes a guide-driver and flexible scheduling, but is not a typical weekend trip.

Practical Information: When to Go and What to Bring

Seasonality and Weather

Almaty has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time for city tours and canyon visits is from April to October, when temperatures are pleasant. For mountain treks, June to September is ideal, as trails are clear of snow and wildflowers are in bloom. However, weather can change quickly in the mountains, so always be prepared for rain or cold.

Here is a general seasonality table for our tours:

TourBest MonthsNotes
City Walking ToursYear-roundWinter can be cold, but tours run with proper clothing.
Medeu and Kok TobeYear-roundMedeu is open all year; Kok Tobe has an observation deck.
Big Almaty LakeMay-OctoberRoad may be closed in winter due to snow.
Tuyuksu GlacierJune-SeptemberGlacier accessible in summer; cave conditions vary.
Charyn CanyonApril-OctoberSummer is hot; spring and autumn are best.

Winter tours to Shymbulak are popular for skiing, but our listed tours are mostly summer-oriented. If you visit in winter, consider the "Almaty Legends" tour, which includes a cable car ride to Shymbulak, where you can enjoy the snow.

What to Pack

Regardless of the tour, we recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes (broken in for hikes)
  • Layered clothing (including a warm jacket for high altitudes)
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Water bottle (at least 1 liter)
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Personal medications

For trekking tours, add:

  • Hiking poles (optional)
  • Gaiters (for glacier hikes)
  • Warm gloves and a beanie
  • Thermos with hot tea
  • Portable charger

Physical Fitness and Health

Most of our tours are accessible to people with average fitness. However, high-altitude treks require better conditioning. If you have any health concerns, consult your doctor before booking. Our guides can accommodate different paces, but they cannot take responsibility for participants with severe medical conditions.

Age restrictions vary by tour. For example, the glacier hikes are not recommended for young children or the elderly. We do not set strict age limits, but we ask you to honestly assess your abilities. Contact us when booking to discuss any special needs.

Comparing Our Tours: Which One Is Right for You?

Tour Comparison Table

To help you choose, we've compared key features of our most popular tours:

TourDurationFormatTransportBest For
Audio Tour of Almaty2 hoursIndividualWalkingCulture lovers, short on time
Sightseeing Tour of Almaty4 hoursGroupBusFirst-time visitors
Medeu & Kok Tobe5 hoursIndividualCarScenic views, families
Big Almaty Lake (4h)4 hoursIndividualCarPhotographers, quick escape
Hike to Big Almaty Lake7 hoursMini groupHikingActive travelers
Tuyuksu Glacier10 hoursIndividualHikingExperienced trekkers
Charyn Canyon12 hoursMini groupSUVNature enthusiasts

If you're interested in history, the architecture tour is a great choice. For a mix of city and mountains, the Medeu and Kok Tobe tour is ideal. If you're an avid hiker, don't miss the Tuyuksu Glacier. And for those who want to see a natural wonder, Charyn Canyon is a must.

Price Range and Value

Our tours range from 3,263 KZT for the audio tour to 250,000 KZT for the multi-day jeep expedition. This variation reflects differences in duration, group size, and transport. Private tours are more expensive but offer flexibility and personalized attention. Group tours are more economical and provide a social experience.

All tours include the services of a professional guide, transport (where applicable), and entrance fees (if any). Some tours may have additional costs, such as meals or cable car tickets, which we will inform you about when booking. We strive to be transparent about pricing, so there are no hidden surprises.

Booking and Preparation Tips

How to Book

Booking a tour is easy. You can contact us via our website or phone. We recommend booking at least a few days in advance, especially for weekend tours, as they fill up quickly. When booking, please specify the tour you're interested in, the date, and the number of participants.

For private tours, we can customize the schedule to your preferences. For group tours, we have fixed departure times. Some tours require a minimum number of participants to operate; if we don't meet that, we may offer an alternative date or a private option at an adjusted price.

What to Expect on Tour Day

On the day of the tour, please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early. For tours that include transport, we can pick you up from your hotel in Almaty. Our guides will have a sign with the tour name. Make sure you have your phone charged and bring any necessary documents (e.g., passport for checkpoints).

During the tour, your guide will provide commentary and ensure your safety. You'll have opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery. At the end, we'll drop you back at the meeting point or your hotel.

If you have any special requests, such as vegetarian meals or accessibility needs, please let us know in advance. We'll do our best to accommodate.

Conclusion

Almaty and its surroundings offer incredible diversity for a weekend getaway. From cultural city tours to adventurous mountain treks, you'll find experiences that create lasting memories. Our goal is to make your trip seamless and enjoyable, so you can focus on the beauty of Kazakhstan.

Explore our selection and choose the tour that speaks to you. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, there's an adventure waiting. We look forward to welcoming you to Almaty!

Reviews

Reviews of weekend tours from Almaty

Leave a review
4.9 ★
Our rating · 312 reviews
4.8 ★
Google · 540
4.9 ★
Yandex · 268
4.8 ★
2GIS · 197
1317
Total reviews
АК
Айгуль К.
Google ·
★★★★★

We went to Kapchagay with the kids. The water was warm and the beach was clean. Aidos suggested a good spot to set up. We had a great time.

Verified review · Order #10250
МЖ
Марат Ж.
2GIS ·
★★★★★

I liked the tour to Charyn, the road was bumpy but the views are worth it. The organization was spot on.

Verified review · Order #10257
ОП
Ольга П.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We chose the hike to Lake Kolsay because of the beautiful photos on Instagram. Dinara helped with choosing gear. We were a bit late for departure but it was all good.

Verified review · Order #10264
ДВ
Дмитрий В.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We took a weekend tour to the Assy Plateau. Everything was super, but we were tired at the end. Thanks to Timur for the company.

Verified review · Order #10271
СМ
Салтанат М.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

Менин отбасыммен Капчагайга бардык. Барлыгы унады, тек жол бойы шан бар екен. Динарага рахмет уйымдастырганга

Verified review · Order #10278
ИК
Илья К.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Vzyal tur na Charynskiy kan'on. Ochen' kruto, no veter sil'nyy. Marat ob'yasnil vsyo pro kan'on. Rekomenduyu

Verified review · Order #10285
ГС
Гульмира С.
Google ·
★★★★★

I've always wanted to see the Charyn Canyon. The route was convenient, the guide (I don't remember his name) told interesting stories. The only thing was that it was stuffy on the bus.

Verified review · Order #10292
АД
Арман Д.
2GIS ·
★★★★★

I enjoyed the hike to Kok-Zhaylyau. The trail is scenic, the air is clean. Zhanna cheered me up when I got tired. I'll come back again.

Verified review · Order #10299
ЕА
Елена А.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Went to Kapchagay with colleagues. The drive took just over an hour, and there's a well-equipped recreation area. Oleg organized volleyball. Downside: not enough umbrellas for shade.

Verified review · Order #10306
БТ
Бахыт Т.
Our website ·
★★★★★

I visited Lake Kolsai. The nature is incredibly beautiful. Aydos told us about its history along the way. Next time I'll stay longer.

Verified review · Order #10313
СН
Сергей Н.
Google ·
★★★★★

Vzyali tur na Bol'shoe Almatinskoe ozero. Pod'em byl tyazhelym no vid potryasayushchiy. Dina pomogla s sovetami. Spasibo

Verified review · Order #10320
АК
Асель К.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Tour to Charyn is a fairy tale! The photos turned out amazing. The queue for the viewing platform was long, but it was worth it. Great organization, thanks to Aliya.

Verified review · Order #10327
РШ
Руслан Ш.
Our website ·
★★★★★

I wanted a break from the city, so I chose the hike to Turgen Gorge. The waterfalls are beautiful, but the road is rough. Marat warned me in advance. Overall, it was okay.

Verified review · Order #10334
НФ
Наталья Ф.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We went to Kapchagay for the day. Everything was great: the water and the beach. Only waited 15 minutes for the bus, a minor thing. Zhanna was friendly.

Verified review · Order #10341
АС
Амирхан С.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We took a tour to Kolsay with an overnight stay. The nature is incredible, you can see the stars. Only downside was mosquitoes. Thanks to Sergey for the tent.

Verified review · Order #10348
ВИ
Вера И.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

I really enjoyed the tour to Charyn. Dinara talked about the canyon's history so engagingly that time flew by. I recommend it to everyone.

Verified review · Order #10355
ТР
Талгат Р.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Mne ochen' ponravilsya pokhod na Kolsay. Vse bylo organizovano khorosho. Timur byl ochen' vnimatel'nym. Edinstvennoe — ne khvatilo vremeni

Verified review · Order #10362
ЗБ
Зухра Б.
Our website ·
★★★★★

My daughter and I went to Kapchagai. The water is clean, the shore is nice. Aidos helped a lot. Thank you.

Verified review · Order #10369
ОС
Олег С.
Our website ·
★★★★★

I've been wanting to see Charyn for a long time—no regrets. Aliya managed the time well. By the end my legs were buzzing, but the emotions outweighed it. I'll definitely come back.

Verified review · Order #10376
ДМ
Динара М.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We chose the Kapchagay tour based on reviews. It's all true: clean water, golden sand. Just not enough sunbeds. Timur helped with a lounger.

Verified review · Order #10383
ВА
Владимир А.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

Hiking to Kok-Zhaylyau with kids. The trail was easy, the kids managed. Zhanna constantly checked if everything was okay. The only downside was that it was hot.

Verified review · Order #10390
АТ
Алия Т.
Our website ·
★★★★★

The vacation on Kapchagay was a success! The group was great. Oleg joked the whole way. The downside was that it took a long time to gather everyone.

Verified review · Order #10397
МЛ
Максим Л.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Brali tur na Kaskelen. Ochen' krasivo no doroga pryamaya. Dina rasskazala o rasteniyakh. Ochen' interesno

Verified review · Order #10404
ГЕ
Гаухар Е.
Google ·
★★★★★

My wife and I went to Charyn. The views were amazing! Aidoss guided us well. It was just hot.

Verified review · Order #10411
СВ
Светлана В.
Google ·
★★★★★

We chose the trip to Kolsai because of the clear lake. We liked the route, but we would have liked more time for photos. Dinara showed us the best angles. I recommend it.

Verified review · Order #10418
НК
Нуржан К.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Poezdka na Charynskiy kan'on byla neza byvaemoy. Tol'ko sehrannost' ne ochen' — mnogo musora. Marat staralsya sdelat' vse luchshe. Spasibo

Verified review · Order #10425
ЕР
Евгения Р.
Google ·
★★★★★

We had been dreaming of a mountain hike for a long time. The Turgen Gorge impressed us with its waterfalls. Sergey helped us choose shoes before the tour. The downside was that we didn't have time for all the spots.

Verified review · Order #10432
АЖ
Асылжан Ж.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We rested at Lake Kolsai. The water is ice-cold and clean. Timur showed the way. Next time we'll bring our own tent.

Verified review · Order #10439
ТБ
Татьяна Б.
Our website ·
★★★★★

The trip to Kapchagay met expectations. The water was warm, the beach was well-maintained. Aliya organized games. The weather let us down a bit, but that's a minor thing. Thanks to the team.

Verified review · Order #10446
КГ
Константин Г.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Ponravilsya tur na Kolsay. Alla vse ob'yasnila ponyatno. Iz минусов — dolgaya ochered' na avtobus. Vse ravno rekomenduyu

Verified review · Order #10453

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Cost Calculator — Weekend Tours from Almaty

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    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions about weekend tours from Almaty

    We've gathered what tourists ask most often. Didn't find an answer. — write to us, the guide will tell you in a couple of minutes.

    Ask a question

    Most tours are easy to moderate (up to 10 km, elevation gain up to 500 m). Challenging routes require basic experience.

    Comfortable shoes, a warm jacket (even in summer), water (1.5 L), and snacks. We provide the rest of the gear.

    From May to October is ideal. In winter, only some routes are available (e.g., Medeu).

    Yes, children aged 6 and up on easy routes. For younger kids, private tours with a guide are available.

    Free cancellation 24 hours in advance. After that, 50% refund. Rescheduling is possible 12 hours before.

    Yes, round-trip transfer from Almaty is included in all tours. Extra charge only for private transfer (6,000 tenge/group).

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