Weekend Tours Almaty

Weekend Tours Almaty

Tian Shan nature and walks around Almaty with an experienced guide — from $7/person
$0 prepayment
Free cancellation
Rating 4.9 ★
1300+ Tourist Reviews

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 $7/person

The minimum price among 131 tours is $7/person, the maximum is $559/person. Choose a budget option or premium.

Guide-instructors

Routes are led by guides, driver-guides and instructors, depending on the tour: in the mountains, on rafting trips and on city tours.

Equipment for active tours

On rafting trips a life jacket and helmet, on SUP trips a board and life jacket, on rock climbing a harness and helmet, and on the ski day skis or a snowboard are all included in the price. What a particular tour includes is listed on its card.

Safety

The guide knows the route and adjusts the programme in bad weather. Insurance is not included in every tour — this is shown on the card; if needed, we recommend arranging it yourself.

Flexible start

Private tours run at a time that suits you, group tours run on a schedule: the departure time is listed on the tour card.

Tours for families with children

There are dedicated programmes for families: "Medeu and Kok-Tobe — a family day", "Charyn for families with children" and "Winter day on Shymbulak with children".

How it works

How to book weekend tours from Almaty — 6 steps

Step 1

Route selection

You choose a tour by duration (from a couple of hours to 3 days) and difficulty. For beginners — easy walks, for experienced hikers — out-and-back climbs with elevation gain.

Route selection
Step 2

Booking

You book on WhatsApp with no prepayment, payment is made on the day of the trip. We confirm the tour 2 hours before departure.

Booking
Step 3

Group Gathering

We meet at the meeting point given in the tour programme at the stated time — we send the exact location on WhatsApp the day before the trip.

Group Gathering
Step 4

Transfer to location

We drive to the start of the route by minibus, bus, car or jeep, depending on the tour. The drive takes from half an hour to Medeu to several hours to the more distant lakes and canyons.

Transfer to location
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
Step 6

End of the programme

The end time and place are given in the programme of each tour.

End of the programme

Team

Our team — guides and instructors from Almaty

Routes are led by working guides and instructors. The same people answer in WhatsApp and accompany groups on tour.

Alexander Пашкин — Driver-guide, инструктор по трекингу★4.52

Alexander Пашкин

Driver-guide, инструктор по трекингу

52 review · experience 10 years

Andrey Шевелёв — Driver-guide★4.74

Andrey Шевелёв

Driver-guide

73 review · experience 13 years

Анжелика Чвыкова — Гид-фотограф★4.27

Анжелика Чвыкова

Гид-фотограф

58 reviews · experience 11 years

Ильяс Дарбеков — Гид-переводчик★4.27

Ильяс Дарбеков

Гид-переводчик

36 reviews · experience 6 years

Мадина Данина — Организатор туров★4.55

Мадина Данина

Организатор туров

65 reviews · experience 15 лет

Сергей Бабичев — Personal guide-водитель★4.49

Сергей Бабичев

Personal guide-водитель

65 reviews · experience 12 years

Useful

Weekend Tours from Almaty: City, Mountains, and Canyons

AT
Author: Aleksandr Talakushkin
Senior guide, hiking & jeep-tour organizer
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. Most tours start from Almaty, and all 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 late 19th and early 20th centuries, 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." It lies further east, and this section has Kolsai trips too: a day trip, a private tour to Kolsai and Kaindy in one day, and a weekend with a night at a tourist base.

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, the section also has weekend trips with an overnight stay: to the Kolsai lakes and Kaindy, to the hot springs and Charyn, to Altyn-Emel and to Lake Balkhash.

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.

In winter the section has a ski day on Shymbulak and a winter day on Shymbulak with children, and the "Almaty Legends" tour 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 $7 for the audio tour to $559 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 reach us on WhatsApp or by 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 confirm the departure point in Almaty when you book; walking tours start in the city centre. 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 bring you back to the meeting point in Almaty.

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
AK
Aigul K.
Google ·
★★★★★

We went to Kapchagay with the kids. The water was warm, the beach clean. The instructor showed us how to stand on the SUP. We had a good rest

Verified review · Order #10250
MZ
Marat Zh.
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
OP
Olga P.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We chose the Kolsai trip because of the beautiful photos on Instagram. We were a little late for departure but everything was ok

Verified review · Order #10264
DV
Dmitry V.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We took a weekend tour to the Assy plateau. Everything was great, we were just tired at the end. Thanks to Aleksandr, he drove the jeep carefully

Verified review · Order #10271
SM
Saltanat M.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

My family and I went to Kapchagay. We liked everything, only there was dust along the road. Thanks to the organizer

Verified review · Order #10278
IK
Ilya K.
Our website ·
★★★★★

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

Verified review · Order #10285
GS
Gulmira S.
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
AD
Arman D.
2GIS ·
★★★★★

I liked the hike to Kok-Zhailau. The trail is scenic, the air is clean. Sergey cheered me on when I got tired. I will come back

Verified review · Order #10299
EA
Elena A.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We decided to go to Kapchagay with colleagues. The drive took a little over an hour. The water was already cool, but we rode the SUP and the instructor showed us everything. Downside — not enough sun umbrellas

Verified review · Order #10306
BT
Bakhyt T.
Our website ·
★★★★★

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

Verified review · Order #10313
SN
Sergey N.
Google ·
★★★★★

Took a tour to Big Almaty Lake. The climb was hard but the view is stunning. The guide helped with advice. Thanks

Verified review · Order #10320
AK
Asel K.
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 Madina.

Verified review · Order #10327
RS
Ruslan Sh.
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. Aleksandr warned me in advance. Overall, it was okay.

Verified review · Order #10334
NF
Natalya F.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

We went to Kapchagay for the day. We liked everything: the water and the SUP. We only waited 15 minutes for the bus, a trifle. The manager explained everything kindly on the phone

Verified review · Order #10341
AS
Amirkhan S.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We took the Kolsai tour with a night at the tourist base. Incredible nature, you can see the stars. The only downside — it is cold at night, bring warm clothes

Verified review · Order #10348
VI
Vera I.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

I really liked the Charyn tour. The guide told the story of the canyon so engagingly that time flew by. I recommend it to everyone

Verified review · Order #10355
TR
Talgat R.
Our website ·
★★★★★

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

Verified review · Order #10362
ZB
Zukhra B.
Our website ·
★★★★★

My daughter and I went to Kapchagay. The water is clean, the shore is nice. The instructor helped a lot. Thanks

Verified review · Order #10369
OS
Oleg S.
Our website ·
★★★★★

I've been wanting to see Charyn for a long time—no regrets. Madina 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
DM
Dinara M.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We chose the Kapchagay tour because of the reviews. It is all true: clean water, golden sand. Just not enough sunbeds. The instructor helped us get the hang of the SUP

Verified review · Order #10383
VA
Vladimir A.
Yandex ·
★★★★★

A hike to Kok-Zhailau with the kids. The trail is easy, the children managed. The guide kept checking that everything was ok. The only downside — it was hot

Verified review · Order #10390
AT
Aliya T.
Our website ·
★★★★★

The Kapchagay trip was a success! A great group of people. The driver joked all the way. Downside — it took a long time to get going

Verified review · Order #10397
ML
Maksim L.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Took a buggy ride in the Kaskelen ravines. The instructor showed everything, gave us a helmet and goggles. Really cool, but dusty

Verified review · Order #10404
GE
Gaukhar E.
Google ·
★★★★★

My friend and I went to Charyn. The view is amazing! The guide directed us well. Only it was hot

Verified review · Order #10411
SV
Svetlana V.
Google ·
★★★★★

We chose the Kolsai tour because of the clear lake. We liked the route, but would have liked more time for photos. The guide suggested the best angles. I recommend it

Verified review · Order #10418
NK
Nurzhan K.
Our website ·
★★★★★

The trip to Charyn Canyon was unforgettable. Only the cleanliness isn't great — lots of trash. The guide tried to make everything better. Thanks

Verified review · Order #10425
YR
Yevgeniya R.
Google ·
★★★★★

We had long dreamed of a hike in the mountains. The Turgen gorge impressed us with its waterfalls. Before the tour they sent us a packing list, so we took the right shoes. Downside — there was no time for all the spots

Verified review · Order #10432
AZ
Asylzhan Zh.
Our website ·
★★★★★

We rested at Kolsai Lake. The water is ice-cold and clean. Andrey showed the way. Next time we'll bring the kids too

Verified review · Order #10439
TB
Tatiana B.
Our website ·
★★★★★

The Kapchagay tour lived up to expectations. It is still cold to swim in April, but we enjoyed riding the SUP in life jackets. The weather let us down a bit, but that is minor. Thanks to the team

Verified review · Order #10446
KG
Konstantin G.
Our website ·
★★★★★

Liked the tour to Kolsai. The manager explained everything clearly. The only downside: a long line for the bus. Still recommend

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 collected the questions travelers ask most often. Didn't find your answer? Write to us — a guide will reply 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), snacks. Equipment for rafting, rock climbing and the ski day is included in the price of those tours.

    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.

    Cancellation is free — we take no money in advance; just let us know on WhatsApp as early as possible. Rescheduling is possible up to 12 hours before departure.

    For out-of-town tours — to the mountains, lakes, canyons and rafting — transport under the tour programme is included in the price. Walking tours of the city start in central Almaty, and you get to the meeting point on your own.

    Ready to choose weekend tours from Almaty?

    Write to us — a guide will pick a route for your dates and budget and send you the price per person.

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