Tour to the Assy plateau

Rating: Not available (0 reviews)
Price: $350.92 per person
Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Supplier Name: Turan Asia
Supplier Phone: +77762730303
Supplier Email: [email protected]
Similar Experiences: Kolsay Lake & Charyn Canyon Tour, Almaty Custom Tours, and others listed above.

Meta Description

Explore the Assy Plateau from Almaty on a 10-hour guided trip featuring scenic drives, light trekking, and breathtaking views of untouched nature.

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Almaty and craving a taste of Kazakhstan’s less-visited natural beauty, a tour to the Assy Plateau might be just what you need. This experience promises a full day of scenic drives, gentle walks, and a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air away from tourist crowds. What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on untouched landscapes — from endless steppes to spruce forests, topped by views of the amazing Bear Falls.

One of the aspects we really appreciate about this tour is the mix of cultural and natural highlights, especially the stop at the Issyk museum where you can glimpse ancient burial mounds and the famed “Golden Man” excavations. However, it’s worth noting that this is a fairly active day, with some trekking involved, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

A potential consideration is the weather, as the tour is weather-dependent and cancellations can occur if conditions aren’t ideal. This tour will suit travelers who love authentic outdoor adventures, appreciate scenic drives, and want a peaceful, immersive experience outside the usual tourist trail.

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Key Points

• Authentic landscapes: Access areas of natural Kazakhstan rarely crowded with travelers.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and light trekking.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey.
• Flexible options: Private tour means your group moves at your pace.
• Value: Includes lunch and all fees, offering clarity on costs.
• Weather policy: Full refund if canceled due to poor weather, providing peace of mind.

Getting to the Assy Plateau: What to Expect

This 10-hour adventure kicks off early, with a pick-up around 9:00 am (or at a time specified). The journey begins with a roughly 2.5-hour drive eastward from Almaty, crossing the scenic Kuldzhinskiy tract. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of Kazakhstan’s sprawling steppes and the chance to relax as your driver navigates the sometimes winding roads.

First Stop: Issyk Museum (about 1.5 hours)

After around 60 kilometers, you’ll stop at the Issyk museum. Here, the past comes alive through the preservation of ancient burial mounds and the remarkable excavations of the “Golden Man,” a UNESCO-listed find that dates back thousands of years. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Kazakhstan’s ancient history and adds a cultural layer to what is primarily a natural tour.

Passing through Turgen Gorge

Next, you’ll cross the Turgen Gorge, a scenic route renowned for its lush greenery and mountain streams. This 40 km stretch takes about 45 minutes and sets the stage for what’s to come: the wide-open spaces of the Assy Plateau.

Reaching the Assy Plateau

Once you arrive, it’s a short 10-15 minute drive onto the plateau itself. Here, you’ll disembark, and the real exploration begins. The landscape is a diverse mix of endless steppes, spruce forests, and Tien Shan fir trees growing at high altitudes (1500-3000 meters). The scenery is nothing short of spectacular — expect sweeping views of mountain peaks, patches of dense forest, and the striking Bear Falls in the distance.

Light Trekking and Scenic Highlights

The core of the tour involves some gentle trekking through the plateau’s natural features. The walks are described as simple, making them accessible to most travelers with moderate fitness. You’ll be walking amidst pristine natural surroundings, with opportunities to photograph the landscapes and possibly spot local wildlife.

Along the way, your guide will likely point out plant species like the Tien Shan firs that thrive at high altitudes, and you’ll get a chance to breathe in the fresh, unpolluted air. The trek culminates at the observatory, where panoramic views make for unforgettable photos.

What You’ll Love

The stunning vistas are the main draw here. As one reviewer noted, “The views were incredible, especially the Bear Falls, which looked like a hidden gem in the mountains.” The quiet, untouched nature offers a refreshing escape from crowds and a perfect setting for reflection or simply soaking in the scenery.

Additional Inclusions and Practicalities

Included in the tour are a hearty lunch, all fees and taxes, and comfortable air-conditioned transportation. Lunch typically features local dishes, giving a taste of Kazakhstan’s culinary flavors.

Not included are mountain climbing equipment, should you wish to ascend the nearby peak of Karakyz (3455 m). If climbing is on your agenda, you’ll need to arrange gear separately.

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved, but it’s not a strenuous hike. It’s suitable for most travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and scenic outdoor activity.

Meeting point is conveniently arranged with pickup at your hotel or designated location, starting at 9:00 am. The tour is private, so your group moves at your preferred pace without the pressure of a larger tour group.

Value and Overall Impression

At $350.92 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances drive time, cultural insight, and natural beauty. When you consider the inclusion of lunch, private transportation, and the opportunity to visit a relatively untouched part of Kazakhstan, it feels like good value for those seeking authentic exploration.

While the cost might seem on the higher side for some, the personalized nature of the private tour, along with the chance to see rare landscapes and historical sites, makes it worthwhile for those who prioritize quality experiences over a hurried sightseeing schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who:
– Want an authentic Kazakh nature experience away from crowded tourist sites
– Enjoy light physical activity and scenic walks
– Appreciate cultural insights combined with natural landscapes
– Seek a private, flexible itinerary tailored to their pace
– Are comfortable with a 10-hour day that includes some driving and outdoor exploration

It’s less suited for travelers looking for extreme outdoor adventures or those with mobility issues, given the moderate walking involved. Also, if weather is poor, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is important.

The Sum Up

The tour to the Assy Plateau offers a rare peek into Kazakhstan’s unspoiled landscapes, combined with cultural insights from the Issyk museum. The highlights — sweeping views, lush forests, and the peaceful atmosphere — make it a worthwhile day trip for nature lovers and curious travelers alike. The private setup ensures a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and the freedom to soak in the scenery at your leisure.

This experience is best suited for those who want a genuine outdoor escape, with enough comfort and cultural richness to make the day memorable. If you’re keen to see one of the less-visited natural gems near Almaty, this tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am with a full day of scenic drives, stops, and walking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive comfortable.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a full refund policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance due to poor weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all taxes and fees, lunch, and transportation. Mountain climbing equipment is not included if you wish to climb nearby peaks.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The walks are simple and not strenuous, but some mobility may be required.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 15 days ahead, which suggests good availability and planning should be made in advance.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning views.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included, typically featuring local Kazakh dishes.

What makes this tour unique?
It allows access to a largely untouched natural area, with a combination of scenic drives, light trekking, and cultural stops, making it a well-rounded day trip from Almaty.