Why Almaty Is an Easy Mountain Escape from Dubai
Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest city and its former capital, set at around 700 to 900 metres in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau, the northern edge of the Tian Shan. Snow-capped peaks rise straight behind the city, and some of the country’s most striking landscapes are within a day’s drive. With direct flights from Dubai of around four and a half hours and only an hour’s time difference, a Kazakhstan holiday package from Dubai fits a short break well.
Charyn Canyon and the Kolsai lakes
About 200 km east of the city, the Charyn River has cut a canyon up to 300 metres deep through layers of red sandstone. Its most visited section, the Valley of Castles, is a stretch of weathered towers and pillars that glow orange in the afternoon light. The canyon has been protected as Charyn National Park since 2004. Further on, the Kolsai lakes lie in forested valleys of the Tian Shan, a quiet contrast to the dry canyon country.
Shymbulak, Kok-Tobe and the city
Closer to home, Shymbulak is a mountain resort about 25 km south of the centre, reached by cable car. Its base sits at 2,200 metres and the lifts climb to the Talgar Pass at 3,200 metres, with views across the range. In the city, Panfilov Park is home to the Ascension Cathedral, a wooden church built in 1907 from Tian Shan spruce, while the Green Bazaar is the place for dried fruit, nuts and local sweets. Kok-Tobe hill, with its aerial tramway, gives the classic view of the city against the mountains.
Planning your Almaty trip
This Almaty tour package suits couples, friends and families who want dramatic scenery and an active few days, with a guide and transfers handling the logistics. Late November is early winter in the mountains, so pack a warm jacket, layers and shoes with grip for walks and high-altitude cable car stops. The trip runs over the UAE National Day break and works at other times of year too. Entry rules depend on your passport, so check the Visa Info section before you book.
Take a look at the full itinerary and inclusions on this page, then send us an enquiry to check availability on this departure.