Cycling in Kazakhstan
Including Charyn Canyon and Almaty Region, Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Region, and Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains. On the map.
The vibe
Pedalling across these immense steppe horizons and sweeping mountain passes provides a profound sense of isolation and grand scale, contrasting sharply with the dense bike-lane culture of cycling-first European nations. Early summer hits the sweet spot when wildflower meadows bloom and temperatures remain manageable before the fierce desert heat sets in. You share wide asphalt roads mostly with long-distance truck traffic and grazing livestock, making it a distinctly DIY undertaking.
Charyn Canyon and Almaty Region
Almaty Region
Anna Dobrynina ( https://imaggeo.egu.eu/user/dobrynina/ ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Traverse the dramatic, arid landscapes of the 'Little Brother' to the Grand Canyon on rugged gravel tracks. This region offers expansive, remote riding through otherworldly rock formations and vast steppe scenery that attracts adventurous bikepackers.
Access. Best accessed from Almaty; local tour operators provide 4x4 support and bike rentals for multi-day expeditions.
Notes. Best from May to September. Requires high self-sufficiency and navigation skills; remote with limited services.
Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Region
Almaty Region
Valihan Konurbayev / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A scenic touring route through the Tian Shan mountains, connecting the famous sunken forest of Kaindy Lake with the alpine Kolsai Lakes. The route features a mix of forest tracks and gravel roads perfect for endurance cycling.
Access. Accessible via multi-day organized tours starting from Almaty; limited public transport, so private transfers are recommended.
Notes. Best in late spring and summer. Expect variable weather and significant elevation changes.
Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains
Almaty Region
Alexandr Babkin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
High-altitude mountain biking trails ranging from technical singletrack to scenic alpine fire roads near the former capital. The area is renowned for its dramatic vertical gain and stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes.
Access. Accessible via the Medeu or Shymbulak cable cars from Almaty; local MTB clubs organize guided group rides.
Notes. Summer season only. High altitude requires acclimatization; some trails are very steep and demanding.