10 Best Tours & Experiences In Kazakhstan (With Prices)

Kazakhstan might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a trip full of adventures, but it should be. Its vast landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to otherworldly deserts, offer a wealth of memorable experiences. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping ski adventures, ancient cultural sites, or stunning natural scenery, Kazakhstan has it all. We particularly love the 6-Day Kazakhstan Ridder Camp Ski Private Guided Tour and Adventure for its deep powder skiing in the Altai, and the Unforgettable 3 Days Mangystau – Group Tour for exploring rugged desert landscapes and geological marvels. Check out this experience if you’re after a true winter challenge, or the Mangystau tour for a taste of Kazakhstan’s surreal terrain.

Quick Overview

Kazakhstan offers a variety of tours, from skiing and hiking to cultural and eco-tours. Snow lovers can hit the slopes on the 6-Day Ridder Camp Ski, while history and nature enthusiasts can explore the Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsai Lakes with the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour. For those seeking a rugged adventure, the Mangystau region offers geological wonders and desert landscapes, like in the Adventurous Mangistau or the Alien Landscapes of Mangistau. For a laid-back but scenic day, consider hiking to the stunning Big Almaty Lake with this tour.

1. 6-Day Kazakhstan Ridder Camp Ski Private Guided Tour and Adventure

This tour is perfect for skiers craving deep powder and forested slopes. Starting from Ust-Kamenogorsk, you’ll drive into the Altai Mountains—a range shared with Russia, China, and Mongolia—making this a true cross-border adventure. Over six days, you’ll explore more than 60 routes on skis, with options on ridges like Serzhinskiy and Ivanovskiy, tailored to weather and snow conditions. The trip is guided by experts who know the terrain intimately, ensuring safe and enjoyable exploration. The lodge in Ridder is situated at 500 meters altitude, with peaks reaching 2200 meters, offering stunning views and challenging runs.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on forest skiing and the variety of routes, catering to intermediate and advanced skiers. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the quality of snow, with a 5-star rating from 11 reviews. The price (~$1,095) reflects a premium experience, but for serious skiers, it’s a worthwhile investment in a unique mountain adventure.

Bottom Line: If skiing deep in the Altai sounds like your kind of trip, this tour delivers authentic powder runs with expert guidance. Be prepared for physical activity and cold-weather gear.

2. Unforgettable 3 Days Mangystau – Group Tour

For those intrigued by Kazakhstan’s otherworldly landscapes, this 3-day guided group tour offers an immersive experience. Covering nine major sites, including the Valley of Balls (Torysh), Jurassic Clays (Kokkala), and Airakty Valley of Castles, you’ll traverse rugged terrain in air-conditioned 4x4s. The trip is designed for comfort and adventure, with camping under the stars and sampling local camel milk products—a treat you won’t find elsewhere. The tour focuses on geology and natural formations, with routes carefully chosen based on weather and snow conditions.

Rated 5.0/5 from 13 reviews, travelers appreciate the professional guides and the chance to see Kazakhstan’s iconic landscapes in a short time. Priced at $545 per person, the tour offers excellent value given the comprehensive itinerary and cultural insights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a compact but rich experience of Mangystau’s strange and stunning scenery. Good physical fitness is recommended for some walking and camping.

3. Explore Mangystau with Private Transportation Tour

If you prefer a personalized, flexible schedule, this private tour allows you to customize your trip in Mangystau. From the Hanga-Baba Necropolis to the Kenty Baba Necropolis, your guide will tailor the experience to your interests. The itinerary includes popular sites like Sherkala Mountain, the Jurassic Clays, and Karynzharyk Depression, with options to stay overnight in local campsites. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to go at their own pace, seek deeper cultural insights, or explore lesser-known spots.

The tour’s strength lies in its insider access and flexibility. The price, $678 for up to four people, makes it a good deal for a private adventure. Reviews are limited but positive, emphasizing the smooth logistics and authentic encounters. It’s best suited for those who enjoy customized journeys and off-the-beaten-path sites.

Bottom Line: For a tailored experience in Mangystau, this private tour works well, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace and personalized attention.

4. Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour Lunch Included

This is the classic day trip for anyone based in Almaty wanting to see some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders. Starting early, you’ll visit the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Valley of the Castles,” with its dramatic rock formations. Afterward, the tour heads toward Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and surreal turquoise waters. The day wraps up with a visit to the Kolsai Lakes, a series of three alpine lakes in a lush mountain setting.

Rated 5.0/5 by travelers, this tour offers a well-organized way to experience diverse landscapes in one day. The lunch is included, saving hassle and adding local flavor. For around $145, it provides excellent value, making it suitable for families and first-time visitors. The tour’s highlights include walking along the canyon and photographing the stunning scenery.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a full day of mountain scenery and geological marvels, especially if you’re short on time but want a real taste of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.

5. Hiking to the Magical Big Almaty Lake

If hiking and mountain scenery appeal, this roughly 7-hour trek offers a moderate challenge with incredible payoff. Starting from Almaty, you’ll walk along the Japanese Road and cross the Stunning Big Almaty River before reaching the lake itself. The panoramic views of the Ile Alatau National Park are spectacular, with the lake’s colors changing with the light. The trail is suitable for those with good physical fitness and some hiking experience.

The guide shares insights into the region’s geology and wildlife, making the walk both engaging and educational. The tour costs about $135 per person, making it a good value for active travelers eager to see a pristine mountain lake away from crowded spots.

Bottom Line: Ideal for hikers with some experience who want to enjoy breathtaking scenery and a manageable trek with a big reward.

6. From Aralsk: 2-Day Aral Sea, Akespe and Kokaral Dam Tour

For a historical and environmental exploration, this two-day tour takes you to the Aral Sea, once the fourth largest lake in the world. Visiting the Fishermen’s Museum, abandoned villages, and the Kokaral Dam, you’ll see the tangible effects of ecological change firsthand. The boat ride across the Small Aral Sea is a highlight, alongside walking through dunes and the healing spring of Kambash Lake. The tour also offers insight into the resilience of local communities.

Costing around $1,000 for a small group, it is a meaningful experience for travelers interested in history, ecology, and photography. The trip combines educational content with spectacular scenery.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in ecological issues and history, willing to spend a couple of days exploring a dramatically altered landscape.

7. From Aralsk: Aral Oasis Eco-Adventure Day Trip

This eco-focused day tour offers a quieter look at the resilience of the Aral region. You will visit Butakov Bay, walk along the coast of the Small Aral Sea, and learn about ongoing natural recovery efforts. The trip includes a traditional lunch with local products like shubat, and optional boat rides across the waters. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the environment and see nature’s recovery process.

At about $450 per group, it offers a relaxed, educational experience suitable for eco-enthusiasts or anyone curious about the ongoing environmental story of Kazakhstan’s most famous lake.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in ecology and local life, seeking a calm, insightful day.

8. Alien Landscapes of Mangistau with One of a Kind Salty Hollow of Karyn Zharyk

This five-day tour is a geological exploration into the surreal salt plains and cliffs of Mangistau. Covering around 1800 km, you’ll visit Karagiye Depression, the Sautta Sands, Salt Mountains, and the famous Karyn Zharyk—a salt marsh depression often compared to a lunar landscape. The scenery looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, with multicolored chalk cliffs and salt formations shaped by wind and rain.

Rated 5.0/5, travelers rave about the adventure and unique scenery. The tour’s focus on geology and natural art makes it ideal for explorers and photographers. The $1,355 price covers five days of intense exploration, including camping and local cultural experiences.

Bottom Line: For those seeking adventure and stunning landscapes, this is a tour of otherworldly beauty, perfect for geology buffs and thrill-seekers.

9. “Butakovka Waterfall” – A Half Day Tour

Sometimes, a half-day escape is all you need. This tour takes you close to Almaty’s outskirts for a relaxing hike that ends at the beautiful Butakovka Waterfall. The easy trail makes it accessible for most fitness levels, and the scenery is perfect for photography and picnics. You breathe fresh mountain air and get a chance to unwind amid nature without a full-day commitment.

Priced at $176, it’s a good option for travelers with limited time but still craving some mountain scenery. Reviews highlight the scenic beauty and the peaceful atmosphere.

Bottom Line: A short, sweet nature break with accessible hiking, ideal for families or those with a tight schedule.

10. Almaty: Falconry Show and Big Almaty Gorge

Combine cultural tradition with stunning scenery in this half-day tour. Watch the falconry show, where skilled falconers showcase the hunting prowess of native birds, then trek into the Big Almaty Gorge. The landscape offers sweeping views of the mountains, plus a chance to learn about Kazakh falconry — a centuries-old practice. The tour concludes with unbeatable mountain vistas at Medeo and Shymbulak ski resorts.

At $116, this experience gives you a window into Kazakh culture and nature in a single outing. The falconry demonstration particularly appeals to those interested in tradition and wildlife.

Bottom Line: An engaging cultural experience with scenic rewards, perfect for a half-day outing in Almaty.

How to Choose Your Kazakhstan Tour

Deciding between these options hinges on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re an avid skier, the 6-Day Ridder Camp offers unmatched powder and mountain routes. For those wanting a quick but scenic escape, the Charyn Canyon and Lakes day tour provides a beautiful mountain adventure in just a day.

Travelers interested in geology or surreal landscapes will find the Alien Landscapes of Mangistau a memorable five-day trek, while cultural explorers should consider the private Mangystau tours for a personalized experience.

Keep in mind fitness levels—hiking Big Almaty Lake or exploring the Aral Sea requires good physical condition, whereas shorter tours like the Butakovka Waterfall are accessible to most.

Booking early is advisable, especially for guided tours with limited availability, such as the Mangystau or skiing adventures. Tailor your choice to your interests and time constraints for the most satisfying Kazakhstan experience.

Kazakhstan’s vast and varied landscapes make it a top destination for adventure, culture, and nature. Whether you prefer skiing in the Altai, exploring alien salt formations, or hiking mountain lakes, there’s a tour here for you. Consider your budget, fitness, and curiosity, and get ready to discover Kazakhstan’s incredible sights—early planning will ensure you don’t miss out.