Saltanat Bekenova, from Astana, Astana Adventure Association Holiday rep, SMM-specialist
Organizes trips around Kazakhstan and abroad
Rafting
Almaty region: the Ili, Koksu, Chilik rivers
Great place for water rafting and recreation.
At the Ili riverside you can find the Tamgaly Tas monument created by Buddhists centuries ago. Besides, you’re welcome to visit the Nomad’s fortress for a fee.
You can take a part in regattas. Special skills are not required at all.
The road is in a good condition so you are free to get by a car. Tourists prefer staying in tents. This area is great to have rest with children.
The Koksu and Chilik rafting is much harsher. You need a specially equipped vehicle to get there as the road is really bad.
Tourists are attracted by the areas’ original form, since it hasn’t undergone any changes since ancient times.
The Koksu river has descents of complexity starting from two points and more. Competitions are regularly held here.
Here you can stay in the Raft Service recreation center. Eco takings are required.
Tourists season lasts from May till September.
Camping
The Ustyurt Plateau
Here you’ll have an unforgettable vacation with beautiful and nontrivial views.
The Ustyurt Plateau has a specific landscape. You’d better get here by specially equipped cars. The place is suitable for staying in tents.
N.B. It’s boiling hot in summer.
Altyn Emel National Park
Tourists should have much time and a car to come here.
You’d better be accompanied by a guide whose work costs about 1000 tenge. Otherwise you must be an experienced traveler knowing the terrain well.
N. B. There’s no mobile connection in the park.
You are welcome to come here from May till September.
Hiking
Aksu-Jabagli Reserve, South-Kazakhstan Region
Here you’ll enjoy pristine nature, magnificent views, glaciers and springs.
You can go hiking, trekking, ride quad bikes and enjoy jeep tours.
Tourists season lasts from April to early October.
By the way, Chinese tourists are attracted by the underground cave called Ak Mechet which is located in the Algabas region of the South-Kazakhstan region. According to myths, it used to be inhabited by a dragon.
Velotrips
Komirshi Gorge, Assy Plateau
The Komirshi gorge is located on the southern side of the Ketmen ridge, the easternmost of the northern chains of the Tien Shan. You’d better get here by a SUV or a crossover.
In summer it’s rainy and windy. Keep in mind to get repellents against bloodsucking insects and mites.
The Assy plateau startles you with its various and indescribable beauty. You can visit the Assy-Turgen Observatory here.
The pastures have been used as jailaus since ancient times. It’s full of gorges suitable to set a tent.
