Kazakhstan · ISSYK LAKE TOURS
Issyk is the close mountain lake, an hour and a half east, which makes it the answer when the Kolsai day will not fit. These 6 are priced from under $30 and usually add the Turgen waterfall on the way back.
Spend nine hours beyond Almaty with an English or Russian-speaking guide, hiking to Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge and visiting turquoise Lake Issyk. Guides such as Aika, Amal, Shakh, and Azamat have been praised for friendly service, useful stories, and careful help on the rocky trail.
“Guide was so nice and humble, good vehicle nice driver and overall exciting trip.”
Spend a full day outside Almaty, hiking to Turgen’s Bear Waterfall and visiting turquoise Lake Issyk. The $32 tour includes transport, water, park fees, and a guide such as Aza, Medina, or Azamat. Expect a group of up to 25, an à la carte lunch, and moderate walking.
“Medina was a wonderful tour guide. She was fun and informative and brought all the members of the tour together. We all enjoyed our time on the trip.”
Travel privately from Almaty to Issyk Lake at 1,760 meters, with air-conditioned transport and about an hour by the water. You can adjust the outing with a Golden Man Museum stop, picnic, café break, or paid Tourgen Waterfall visit.
“Excellent service! They picked us up punctually and provided a comfortable ride to this stunning venue. The location is absolutely breathtaking - a peaceful paradise surrounded by beautiful green waters. This trip exceeded all expectations Read more”
Travel from Almaty to Turgen for a two-hour Bear Waterfall hike, a trout farm visit, and turquoise Issyk Lake. The $32 price includes transport, a guide, and ecological fees. English is offered, but guide language can vary, so confirm before booking.
“Anularon una hora antes la excursión, me dieron opción de otro día y ese día la volvieron a anular. Una tomadora de pelo. Nunca mas con esta compañía.”
Travel from Almaty to Issyk Lake with a private guide, then visit the museum holding a Scythian warrior’s gold armor. Guides such as Nursultan and Ruslan add local history and cultural context. Enjoy a walk, picnic, or boat ride, with trout-farm lunch available at extra cost.
“Excellent guide. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Provide great insight into the culture and history of the area. Great tour. Highly recommended”
Set out from Almaty at 7:30 am with a private guide for Issyk Lake, the waterfall country of Turgen Gorge, and the wide-open Assy Plateau. Guides such as Boris and Chingiz can adjust the route when snow or road conditions change. Plan for about 10 to 12 hours and roughly 5 km of walking.
“We had a great experience on our tour! Because of extensive snow and an avalanche across a road, we were not able to take the intended tour. However, our guide, Chingiz, adjusted our plans and we had a lovely time hiking near the Turgen Read more”
Pick a canyon, a lake, a ridge or a bazaar.
