Winter Kapchagay — Ice Fishing and Quiet Escapes Near Almaty

Frozen shores, massive ice blocks, crisp air and silence — Kapchagay Reservoir transforms in winter. This isn’t a noisy beach destination, but a different, raw side of nature — just 80 km from Almaty. In the cold season, Kapchagay (now the city of Konaev) sheds its summer crowds and becomes a place of peace — perfect […]

Bestyubinskoye Reservoir — a hidden gem in the Almaty Region

Silence, mountains, a massive dam, and the calm surface of turquoise water — this is Bestyubinskoye Reservoir. If you’re looking for an unusual travel destination in the Almaty Region, far from crowded tourist routes, this place will surprise you. Located about 240 kilometers from Almaty, near the Kuluk-Tau tract and the village of Kensu, the […]

15 Ski Touring Tips for Beginners: Stay Safe and Comfortable in the Backcountry

Ski touring combines the thrill of skiing with the serenity of hiking through snow-covered mountains, giving access to untouched slopes and breathtaking scenery. But for beginners, backcountry skiing can be full of pitfalls — from gear malfunctions to technical errors. Here are 15 essential tips to help you prepare properly, stay safe, and enjoy every […]

Shymbulak Ski Resort | Best Winter Getaway Near Almaty

Dreaming of a Winter Full of Adrenaline and Beauty? Picture this: you’re racing down a snowy slope, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Zailiyskiy Alatau. The snow sparkles in the sun, and your heart pounds with excitement and freedom. This is Shymbulak — a ski resort just 30 minutes from Almaty where the dreams […]

Freeride in Kazakhstan: Top Locations, Safety Tips & Gear Advice

When you think of Kazakhstan, endless steppes and wide-open spaces probably come to mind. But beyond this image lie real treasures — towering mountain ranges, snowy fields, and the silence of the wild. All of this makes the country a perfect destination for freeride skiing — off-piste adventures far from resorts and civilization. Freeriding here […]

Balkhash: A Lake with Two Personalities

In the heart of Eurasia, surrounded by Kazakh steppes and sandy plains, lies Lake Balkhash—one of the largest lakes in Asia and the fourteenth largest in the world. But it’s not the numbers that define its uniqueness. Balkhash is a one-of-a-kind lake divided into two distinct water worlds: the western part is fresh, while the […]

Lake Alakol 2025: A Unique Vacation in Kazakhstan

Immerse yourself in the tranquility and healing waters of Lake Alakol — a truly unique corner of Kazakhstan. Lake Alakol is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Kazakhstan, hidden among endless steppe landscapes. Legend has it that even the warriors of Genghis Khan’s army healed their wounds in its waters. During the Soviet […]

The Best Ski Resorts in Kazakhstan for a 2025 Winter Vacation

Discover the Snowy Slopes and Cozy Chalets at Kazakhstan’s Best Ski Resorts Uncover the snowy slopes and cozy chalets at the best ski resorts in Kazakhstan for an unforgettable winter getaway. Kazakhstan’s ski resorts captivate visitors with their stunning mountains and snowy landscapes, offering perfect conditions for a winter vacation. From beginner-friendly trails to extreme […]

Bozzhira Tract — Kazakhstan’s Martian Landscape

Bozzhira is one of the most surreal places in Kazakhstan, located in the western part of the Ustyurt Plateau in the Mangystau Region. With towering chalk cliffs and otherworldly shapes, this site has become a symbol of the region and a must-visit for travelers, photographers, and adventure seekers. How Bozzhira Was Formed Millions of years […]

Climate in the Mountains of Almaty: A Month-by-Month Guide

Introduction The mountainous region of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, located near Almaty, is climatically diverse. Elevation here ranges from 1500 to over 4000 meters, and weather conditions strongly depend on altitude. Even a 500-meter difference can dramatically affect the environment. This article provides a month-by-month breakdown of weather conditions in the Almaty mountains and includes advice […]