A route that has absorbed all the contrasts and beauties of Ile Alatau mountains and will introduce you with the most interesting nature sites of Small and Big Almaty Gorges. You will visit the mountain resort Shymbulak, dine in a traditional Kazakh yurt, cross the glacier, rising to an altitude of almost 4000 meters, enjoy the view of moraine lakes and take a dip in the hot spring Alma-Arasan after the hike.

Turgen Gorge is a unique corner of Almaty region nature, known for its magnificent waterfalls, one of the most impressive is Kairak. In the most inaccessible corners of the gorge wonderful alpine landscapes, moraine lakes, moss thickets and massive glaciers are hidden in its upper reaches. There are almost no visible paths and traces of human presence, only wild fauna around and breathtaking panoramic views.

Explore the wilderness of Kungey Alatau mountains in one of our most authentic and adventure mixed horseback riding and hiking trips to Kolsay Lakes. You will explore wild and unknown trails avoiding crowded and touristic places, get an unusual experience of traveling by horse and feet in wild environment among the beauties of pristine nature, enjoy the simple camping life and try the role of a true Nomad.

A magical adventure in the Turgen Gorge will acquaint you with the most amazing places, such as Don Zhailau and the Assy Plateau. You will see the yurts of nomadic families, the largest astronomical observatory, the Oi-Karagai area, visit a mountain lake with massive glaciers reflecting in its mirror surface, see an impressive Kairak waterfall and unique moss glaciers growing in the permafrost points. 

Horseback tour through the apple orchards in the foothills of Ile Alatau mountains with stunning panoramic views to the Almaty city and Kargaly Gorge, assisted by an experienced instructor who will help beginners with learning horse-riding and will give more freedom to the experienced riders, take you through the most picturesque places and tell about local attractions, culture and the role of horses in the life of Nomads.

Left Talgar Gorge is a great option for those who want to take a short multi-day hike and get to know the nature of the Almaty mountains. In two days you will visit different altitude zones, see flowering alpine meadows, crystal clear streams, raging rivers, rocky peaks and glaciers. The route starts from Medeo through the Kimasar gorge, Butakovskiy pass and ends at the highest point of Shymbulak – the Talgar pass.