Trekking, backpacking and hiking in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a huge country, ranked 4th largest on the Eurasian continent and attracting tourists from all over the world with its diverse landscape: sandy deserts, endless steppes and modern cities.

Every year, millions of tourists come here to get acquainted with the culture and life of the locals, as well as to get acquainted with its amazing nature.

Along with cultural tours, trekking and hiking are in great demand in Kazakhstan. More and more people are go trekking in search of adventure and thrills.

Let’s look at the most popular trekking and hiking destinations:

The alpine lake Manshuk is located 20 km from the city of Almaty, at an altitude of 3500 meters and is surrounded by the fascinating peaks Manshuk Mametova, Antikainen, Amangeldy.

The lake originates from the glacier of the same name, which is located nearby. The length of the lake is 280 meters, the width is 140 meters and the depth reaches 30 meters. Since the glacier is melting intensively, the lake poses a threat of a breakthrough, and therefore it is under the supervision of specialists.

Trekking, backpacking and hiking in Kazakhstan | Travel Land

Kok-Zhailau plateau is located on the territory of the Ile-Alatau National Natural Park, 10 km from Almaty and is a favorite place of Almaty residents.

Amazing landscapes, clean mountain air, a variety of flora and fauna, as well as a convenient location make Kok-Zhailau one of the most popular tourist destinations. Thanks to the many easy trails, people with a minimum level of training can go hiking here.

If desired, you can climb the plateau located at an altitude of 2500 meters, between the Big and Small Almaty gorges. The hike to the plateau itself takes about 3 hours in one direction.

Trekking, backpacking and hiking in Kazakhstan | Travel Land

Big Almaty Lake is located in the southern part of the country in the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau at an altitude of 2510 meters. This treasure of the northern Tien Shan was formed as a result of a strong earthquake.
The lake is surrounded by beautiful peaks and wooded slopes. The hike is considered to be of average difficulty, the total distance of the hike is about 16 km.

Trekking, backpacking and hiking in Kazakhstan | Travel Land

There are also many other places for hiking in Kazakhstan. Each of the following places is beautiful in its own way and definitely worth a visit: