Why Almaty Rewards a Few Days in the Mountains
Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest city and was its capital until 1997. It sits at around 700 to 900 metres where the steppe meets the Trans-Ili Alatau, the northern edge of the Tian Shan, so snow-capped peaks fill the view at the end of many streets. An overnight flight from Sharjah lands in the early hours, and with Kazakhstan only an hour ahead of UAE time, an Almaty holiday package from the UAE suits a short break with little jet lag.
Kolsai Lake and Charyn Canyon
The Kolsai lakes lie in forested valleys of the Tian Shan, south-east of the city, in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. Pine slopes drop to still, cold water with the mountains behind, and the area is as popular with local families as with visitors.
On the way east, the Charyn River has carved a canyon up to 300 metres deep through layers of red sandstone. Its best-known section, the Valley of Castles, is a line of weathered pillars and towers that catch the light in the afternoon. The canyon has been protected as Charyn National Park since 2004 and lies about 200 km from Almaty, so it makes for a long but rewarding day.
Shymbulak, the city and Kok-Tobe
Closer to town, Shymbulak is a mountain resort about 25 km south of the centre, reached by cable car. Its base is at 2,200 metres and the lifts climb to the Talgar Pass at 3,200 metres. In the city, Panfilov Park is home to the Ascension Cathedral, a wooden church built in 1907 from Tian Shan spruce, and 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 Almaty against the mountains.
Planning your Almaty trip
This Kolsai Lake tour suits couples, friends and families who want lakes, canyons and mountain air in one short trip, 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 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.