Assy Plateau

When it comes to stepping away from the hustle and bustle of city life, few experiences compare to venturing into untouched nature. This particular tour to the Assy Plateau near Almaty promises a day of breathtaking scenery, tranquility, and authentic Kazakh landscapes. Although we haven’t taken it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a journey worth considering.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning mountain vistas and waterfalls promise spectacular photo opportunities. Second, the personalized private experience with a knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll get a genuine taste of Kazakh nature without feeling like just another face in a crowd. Third, the chance to disconnect from modern life—no cell towers, just silence and endless fields—appears to be a major draw. One potential downside? The weather can impact the experience, so packing warm clothes and planning for good conditions are wise. This tour suits travelers craving nature, peaceful escapes, and picturesque landscapes combined with ease of access from Almaty.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide ensures an intimate experience.
• Stunning scenery including mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and alpine flowers.
• Great value for the price, particularly with included activities like a picnic and star gazing.
• Accessibility with pickup from Almaty and flexible cancellation policies.
• Authentic local experience with visits to a traditional open market.
• Ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty away from city crowds.

What Is the Assy Plateau Tour About?

This 8-hour adventure takes you on a scenic journey from Almaty into the heart of Kazakhstan’s untouched natural beauty. Led by Kazia Tour, the trip combines a 4WD drive through mountain terrain with stops at key highlights including waterfalls, alpine meadows, and a renowned observatory. The tour emphasizes a balance between structured sightseeing and unstructured moments like picnics, camping, and stargazing, making it a well-rounded nature escape.

Most travelers appreciate that this is a private tour, meaning it’s tailored to your group’s pace and interests. The journey begins early with pickup from your accommodation, setting the stage for a full day of awe-inspiring views and peaceful silence.

The Itinerary: Breaking It Down

Stop 1: Turgen and the Open Market

The adventure kicks off with a short drive through the city of Issyk to the small village of Turgen. Here, the visit to a local open market offers a glimpse into everyday Kazakh life. Whether you’re after fresh fruits, snacks, or souvenirs, this quick stop (around 10 minutes) is a perfect chance to stretch your legs and soak up local flavors.

Reviewers mention that this stop adds an authentic touch to the tour—one described it as a “hidden gem,” emphasizing how few visitors reach this part of Kazakhstan, making it feel like a secret world. The market is a simple, unpretentious spot but offers a chance to pick up fresh produce or a snack before heading into the mountains.

Stop 2: Assy Plateau – The Main Event

The centerpiece of the tour is the Assy Plateau itself. The journey there is undertaken in a sturdy 4WD vehicle, capable of navigating the rugged mountain roads. Once at the plateau, travelers are treated to stunning mountain landscapes, complete with lush pastures, trickling waterfalls, and vibrant alpine flowers.

One of the significant features is the observatory, perched atop the plateau. It’s an ideal spot for stargazing given the absence of cell towers and light pollution—a favorite among previous travelers. The silence, combined with the expansive views, creates a surreal feeling of being at the top of the world.

While here, many guests take the opportunity to set up a picnic and just breathe in the mountain air. Some reviews mention the unexpected delight of being served a lamb kebab lunch, prepared by the guide, adding a local flavor to the experience.

Camping and Stargazing

For those interested, camping is an option, and the night sky at Assy is said to be spectacular. Listening to the sounds of nature and gazing at countless stars makes for a memorable, almost spiritual experience. Reviewers describe the quietness as “something you won’t find in many other places,” making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Transportation and Timing

The tour begins at 7:30 am, which allows for early start and maximum daylight. The drive in the 4WD is part of the adventure, and the tour lasts approximately 8 hours overall. The group size is small and private, ensuring personalized attention from the guide, who’s often praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The price of $195 per person covers most activities, including the visit to Assy Plateau, the market stop, and the picnic. The tour also includes a professional guide and mobile tickets for easy access. It’s recommended to bring warm clothes as mountain temperatures can fluctuate, especially if you plan to stay for stargazing or camping.

Review Insights and Authentic Experiences

Reviewers highlight the quality of the guides, describing them as knowledgeable and attentive. One mentioned that Gulzat, the tour organizer, keeps everything well-organized and makes sure everyone has a good experience. Guests also appreciated the less crowded, peaceful environment, with some remarking that it’s a “hidden gem” seldom visited by large crowds.

The scenery receives high praise, with descriptions of majestic mountain views, peaceful herds of animals, and unspoiled landscapes. Several reviews mention the emotional impact of being in such a remote, untouched place—”it’s the end of the world and the top of the world,” as one reviewer put it.

Practical Notes: What Travelers Should Know

• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but packing warm clothes is advised considering the altitude and temperature variations.
• The free cancellation policy allows for peace of mind—cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• The timing and private nature make it easy to customize the experience, whether you want more time for photography or a relaxed picnic.
• Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or full refunds—flexibility is built-in.

This tour offers a rare opportunity to escape urban life and enjoy Kazakhstan’s stunning natural beauty. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, excellent scenery, and a chance to disconnect completely, this experience delivers. It’s especially well-suited for those who value authentic local interactions, scenic photography, and star-gazing.

Travelers who appreciate small-group, private tours will find this a flexible and personalized option. The inclusion of a local market stop, combined with the untouched landscapes, ensures a genuine taste of the Kazakh countryside.

This is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers eager to see mountain vistas and alpine flora. It’s also ideal for those wanting a quiet escape from city life, with the added bonus of star gazing. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a private, tailored experience, this tour offers great value.

However, if you’re looking for a fast-paced or nightlife-oriented trip, this might not be your best fit. The focus here is on quiet reflection, stunning landscapes, and local authenticity.

Is transportation in a private vehicle?
Yes, the tour uses a private 4WD vehicle suitable for mountain roads, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The $195 fee covers transportation, a guide, visits to the market and Assy Plateau, and a picnic lunch. It also includes an observatory visit.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is recommended due to mountain temperatures. Also consider bringing a camera, sunglasses, and any personal snacks or drinks.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 7:30 am, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and activities.

Can I camp overnight?
Camping is an option, and many travelers enjoy staying overnight under the stars, though this would need to be arranged separately.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unfavorable, with a full refund offered if canceled.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While most travelers should be able to participate, younger children and elderly travelers should be aware of the mountain terrain and potentially cold weather.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a private tour, but you can book alone and enjoy the company of your guide and the natural surroundings.

The Assy Plateau tour offers an authentic Kazakh adventure with spectacular mountain views, a peaceful atmosphere, and personalized service. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want to step outside the city, breathe fresh mountain air, and take home unforgettable photographs. The inclusion of local market visits and the option to camp or star gaze elevates it beyond a typical day trip.

If you’re seeking a genuine, quiet escape into nature with knowledgeable guides guiding your way, then this tour is well worth the investment. It’s a chance to connect with Kazakhstan’s unspoiled landscapes and experience the country’s natural beauty in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a star-gazing enthusiast, or just craving peace and quiet, the Assy Plateau will not disappoint.