Hiking in Kazakhstan
Including Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Burabay National Park, and Charyn Canyon National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Stepping out onto these high-altitude paths feels like entering a vast, untouched wilderness where the scale of the mountains dwarfs everything else, completely unlike the manicured trail networks of Western Europe. Late summer brings the most reliable weather for reaching high passes before the first autumn snows dust the ridges. You mostly move through empty valleys at your own pace, meeting local herdsmen rather than crowds of trekkers.
You register at park gates for certain border zones.
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve
Turkistan Region
Нурсауле Е / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia, this area offers pristine wilderness ranging from deep, sheer-walled canyons to high-altitude mountain peaks. It is a biodiversity hotspot perfect for multi-day trekking and exploring untouched mountain landscapes.
Access. Located near Shymkent; access is strictly regulated and usually requires a guide and pre-arranged permits.
Notes. Permits are mandatory; guided access is required for most interior trails.
Burabay National Park
Akmola Region
This image was created by user Igor (Igor_Yevdokimov) at Mushroom Observer , a source for mycological images. You can contact this user here . / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Known as the 'Kazakhstan Switzerland,' this park features granite rock formations, pine forests, and numerous lakes. The hike up Mount Bolektau offers panoramic views of the surrounding lake district and unique rock spires.
Access. Accessible by train or car from Astana to the town of Burabay.
Notes. Popular with domestic tourists; trails are well-marked but can be crowded on weekends.
Charyn Canyon National Park
Almaty Region
Anton Yefimov / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Often called the 'little brother' of the Grand Canyon, this park features striking sedimentary rock formations and the famous Valley of Castles. The trails wind through deep, narrow gorges and along the rim, offering dramatic views of the red-hued landscape.
Access. Accessible by car from Almaty; guided tours are common, though independent hiking is permitted along marked trails.
Notes. Extreme heat in summer; bring plenty of water as there is no shade.
Ile-Alatau National Park
Almaty Region
Tienshanicum / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located just outside Almaty, this park offers dramatic alpine scenery, including the famous Big Almaty Lake and the Tuyuk-Su glacier region. Hikers can traverse high-altitude passes, lush coniferous forests, and rugged ridgelines that define the northern Tian Shan mountains.
Access. Easily accessible from Almaty via taxi or local bus to the Medeu or Shymbulak trailheads.
Notes. High altitude can cause sickness; weather changes rapidly in summer.
Kaindy Lake
Almaty Region
PictureRost / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Famous for the submerged spruce trees rising out of its turquoise water, the trail to Kaindy Lake is a short but scenic hike through the surrounding mountains. It provides a surreal landscape experience that is distinct from the typical alpine ridge hike.
Access. Located near Saty village; requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach the final trailhead, followed by a moderate walk.
Notes. The road to the trailhead is rough and often requires local transport.
Kolsai Lakes National Park
Almaty Region
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Known as the 'pearl of the Northern Tian Shan,' this park features a series of three stunning alpine lakes connected by well-maintained forest trails. The trek between the first and second lake is a classic route through dense spruce forests and alpine meadows.
Access. Accessible by road from Almaty to the village of Saty, followed by hiking from the first lake trailhead.
Notes. Border zone permit may be required for the third lake; check local regulations.