9 Best Tours In Kazakhstan (With Reviews & Prices)

Kazakhstan may not be the first country that springs to mind for a tour, but it’s packed with surprises for travelers willing to explore beyond the usual. Whether it’s deep powder skiing in the Altai Mountains, exploring ancient geological formations in Mangystau, or marveling at spectacular lakes and canyons, Kazakhstan offers adventures that are authentic, rugged, and often surprisingly accessible. We particularly love the 6-Day Kazakhstan Ridder Camp Ski Private Guided Tour for its thrilling ski routes and stunning forested terrain, and the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour, which showcases some of Central Asia’s most iconic scenery. Check out the full list of experiences to plan your ideal trip.

Quick Overview

This guide covers a range of tour styles—from adrenaline-filled ski trips to cultural and natural explorations—each with unique features. You’ll find multi-day expeditions in the mountains, shorter day trips to lakes and canyons, and specialized cultural journeys in Mangystau. Whether your budget is tight or you’re splurging on a week-long adventure, these options highlight what makes Kazakhstan special. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.

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

At number one, this 6-day ski adventure is perfect if you’re craving deep powder skiing amid Kazakhstan’s lush forests. Starting from Ust-Kamenogorsk, the trip takes you into the Altai Mountains, a region offering more than 60 routes on skins, including on ridges like Serzhinskiy and Ivanovskiy. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on forest skiing, with ski touring in areas where the highest peaks reach around 2200 meters. The trip is guided by experts and includes visits to Ivanovsky and Kholodniy ridges, with routes tailored to weather and snow conditions.

Guests consistently praise the expert guidance and the chance to explore untouched snow in remote forests. One reviewer mentions, “Our guide was fantastic—patient, knowledgeable, and eager to share the secrets of the Altai.” The cost of around $1,095 per person reflects the personalized experience, including transportation, guiding, and lodging. This tour is best suited for intermediate to advanced skiers comfortable in forested terrain and with some experience in mountain skiing.

Bottom line: If you want a challenging, immersive ski experience in Kazakhstan, this trip offers excellent value and unforgettable deep powder in one of Eurasia’s most rugged settings.

2. Unforgettable 3 Days Mangystau – Group Tour

At number two, this 3-day group tour is the ideal choice for those eager to explore Kazakhstan’s geological marvels and ancient sites in a compact trip. For just $545 per person, you’ll visit nine key attractions, including Torysh Valley of Balls, known for its perfectly circular rock formations, and the Airakty Valley of Castles, with its castle-shaped hills. The tour transports you between locations in air-conditioned 4×4 jeeps, making even the most rugged terrain comfortable to navigate.

Highlights include geological wonders, historical sites, and scenic vistas like Sherkala Mountain. The tour is praised for its professional guides and seamless logistics. One traveler says, “This tour was stunning—an out-of-this-world landscape with rich history, all well-organized and fun.” The tour is great for adventurers who enjoy geology and history, as well as those looking for a budget-friendly way to see Mangystau’s best.

Bottom line: If you’re after a focused, fast-paced exploration of Mangystau’s top sights with a great price, this group adventure hits the mark.

3. Explore Mangystau with Private Transportation Tour

Number three offers a more personalized experience over 1 to 5 days, perfect if you prefer flexibility and private guides. For around $678 for a group of up to four, you’ll visit key sites like Zhygylgan Cape, Kapamsay Canyon, and the Shakpak-Ata Underground Mosque. This tour emphasizes customized itineraries that match your interests, whether you want to linger at geological sites, explore caves, or relax near scenic spots.

Tour guides are local experts, ensuring you get an authentic insight into the region’s history and geology. The itinerary allows you to spend more time at sites like Sherkala Mountain or the Brothers Mountain, with comfortable transportation included. Travelers love the personalized attention and the ability to adjust the schedule to suit their pace. However, with flexible scheduling, it’s best suited for travelers who like plenty of options and less structured days.

Bottom line: For travelers seeking a tailor-made adventure with local guides, this private tour offers the best balance of comfort and customized exploration.

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

Number four brings you an immersive day trip from Almaty to some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic lakes and canyons. For $145 per person, you’ll visit the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Valley of the Castles,” with options to walk along the canyon or photograph its dramatic scenery. Afterward, you’ll enjoy lunch in Saty village before heading to Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. The tour wraps up with a visit to Lower Kolsai Lake, a serene mountain retreat.

What makes this tour special is the opportunity to see a diverse range of landscapes in one day—cliffs, lakes, and forests—all within a manageable trip. Travelers rave about how well-organized and scenic the journey is, with one review stating, “The places are breathtaking, and the guides knew exactly where to take the best photos.” It’s ideal for nature lovers and photographers but can be tight for those wanting more time at each site.

Bottom line: This day tour offers excellent value, combining three must-see sites into a single adventure, perfect if you’re based in Almaty and short on time.

5. Kazakhstan: One day tour to Assy plateau and Bear waterfall

Number five is an affordable, quick escape for $54 per person from Almaty. It takes you into the Tien Shan foothills for a hiking experience at Bear Waterfall and the Assy Plateau. You’ll walk through a peaceful forested gorge and enjoy panoramic mountain views, with a chance to see wild horses grazing in the distance.

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a short day trip without the hassle of multiple stops. The highlight is the waterfall’s rushing waters, and travelers love the fresh mountain air. It’s a simple, straightforward option for those with limited time but a desire to see Kazakhstan’s mountain landscapes up close.

Bottom line: Perfect for a light, accessible mountain escape, this tour keeps things simple but memorable.

6. “Butakovka Waterfall” – a half day tour

At number six, this half-day trip in Almaty Region focuses on the Butakovka Waterfall. For $176 per person, it offers an easy hike to a stunning waterfall surrounded by picturesque scenery. It’s a relaxing outdoor activity that suits travelers who want a quick nature break close to the city.

Many reviewers mention the scenic beauty and breathtaking photos they captured. The hike is accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, making it a popular choice for families or those short on time. The crisp mountain air and peaceful environment provide a perfect escape from urban life.

Bottom line: If you’re after a short, scenic hike with beautiful photo opportunities, this tour hits the spot.

7. From Aralsk: 2-Day Aral Sea, Akespe and Kokaral dam Tour

Number seven offers a two-day journey into the Aral Sea’s remnants, combining history, nature, and culture. For around $1,000 for a group of up to three, you’ll visit the Fishermen’s Museum, explore abandoned villages, and enjoy boat rides on what’s left of the sea. The tour includes sand dune visits, local meals, and the chance to understand the dramatic environmental changes that have shaped this region.

Travelers appreciate the authentic experience of visiting Kokaral Dam and the small Aral Sea, with many noting the emotional impact of witnessing such a stunning environmental tragedy firsthand. It’s well-suited for history buffs and nature lovers willing to venture into a lesser-visited part of Kazakhstan.

Bottom line: For a deep dive into environmental history and authentic village life, this two-day tour is both educational and memorable.

8. Almaty Highlights Guided Tour

Number eight offers a 6-hour guided exploration of Almaty’s top spots. For just $80 per person, you’ll visit the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, Green Bazaar, Medeu skating rink, and Chimbulak ski resort. The tour provides a well-rounded overview of the city’s key attractions, blending cultural sights with outdoor activities.

The tour is praised for its practical itinerary and for giving travelers a taste of Kazakh culture and mountain scenery. Visitors especially enjoy walking through vibrant markets and stopping at the largest ski resort in Central Asia. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown without committing to multiple days.

Bottom line: It’s a solid choice for those interested in urban culture and mountain scenery in a half-day format.

9. 7 Day Mangystau Nature and Sightseeing – Group Tour

Finally, number nine is a 7-day group tour that packs in 18 natural wonders and five of Central Asia’s most iconic sites. Starting at $1,493 per person, it combines camping in yurt villages, exploring caves, and visiting salt flats and Panfilov’s “Fangs” formations. The trip is designed for those who want deep immersion into the region’s diverse landscapes.

Each day offers new sights—from the Zhygylgan Cape to Tuzbair—and plenty of local cultural experiences like tasting camel milk products. The tour’s stunning scenery and authentic atmosphere makes it stand out. Reviewers note the professional guides and the comfortable transportation as key benefits.

Bottom line: For travelers who want a comprehensive, week-long adventure with a focus on nature and culture, this tour provides an extensive view of Mangystau.

How to Choose the Best Kazakhstan Tour for You

When selecting your tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If skiing in pristine forests is your dream, the 6-Day Kazakhstan Ridder Camp Ski offers a unique, guided deep powder experience. For those with limited time but big ambitions, the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Tour is a great way to see iconic landscapes in a single day.

If you prefer customized exploration, the private Explore Mangystau with Private Transportation is ideal. For a cultural and natural overview, the 7-day Mangystau group tour provides a comprehensive experience, while shorter trips like the Butakovka Waterfall suit those seeking a quick outdoor escape.

Book early—these tours fill quickly, especially during Kazakhstan’s peak seasons in spring and summer. Match your travel style with these options, and Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures will reward your curiosity.

Whether you’re drawn to mountain skiing, spectacular lakes, or cultural history, Kazakhstan’s diverse tours offer something for every adventurous spirit. From deep forest ski routes to ancient geological sites, the country’s natural beauty and authentic experiences are waiting. Use this guide to find the perfect fit, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Central Asia’s hidden treasure.