Tamgaly Tas and City of Nomads: One Day Trip

If you’ve been curious about Kazakhstan’s ancient past and stunning landscapes, this one-day excursion promises a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Offered by QazExpedition, this tour packs a lot into a manageable day, making it a great choice for travelers looking to get a taste of the Kazakh steppe without spending too much time away from Almaty.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to wander among 10th and 17th-century rock paintings, experience a reconstructed medieval fortress, and enjoy peaceful scenes by the Ili River. Plus, the guide’s friendly service and local insights really elevate the experience. The only catch? It’s a full day on the road, so those with limited energy or mobility might need to consider comfort. This trip suits history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager for an authentic day trip outside the city.

Good To Know

• Rich historical sites with petroglyphs dating back centuries.
• Beautiful scenery along the Ili River, perfect for photography.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance storytelling and navigation.
• Comfortable transportation included, with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment.
• Limited crowding at points of interest, ensuring a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Departure and Travel (8:00 am)

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is definitely convenient. Your guide, who speaks fluent English and Russian, will introduce the day’s plan and answer any quick questions. After a roughly two-hour drive from Almaty, you’ll arrive at Tamgaly Tas, nestled on the bank of the Ili River. The scenic drive alone offers glimpses of Kazakhstan’s vast steppe, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Tamgaly Tas – The Petroglyph Gallery (10:00 am)

Once at Tamgaly Tas, you’ll step into a world of ancient carvings and paintings. This site is renowned for its Buddhist rock paintings dating back to the 17th century, alongside rune inscriptions from the 11th century. These petroglyphs tell stories of Kazakh ancestors, their beliefs, and everyday life, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Expect about an hour and a half to explore the site thoroughly, walking among the rocks and reading the symbols. The guide will point out notable carvings, highlight their significance, and share stories behind the images. Some visitors note the peaceful atmosphere and the surprising detail of the carvings, which have survived centuries despite the elements.

Trekking and Scenic Views

Following the main tour, you’ll have some time to trek around the area. The terrain is relatively manageable, but sturdy shoes are recommended. The views of the Ili River from this vantage point are stunning, especially as the river winds through the landscape, offering plenty of opportunities for photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch Break and Transition to the City of Nomads (11:30 am)

After exploring Tamgaly Tas, you’ll depart for the City of Nomads, a recreated medieval eastern fortress built in 2005. The short drive takes about 1.5 hours and offers a chance to relax and chat with your guide about Kazakhstan’s history and culture.

The City of Nomads – Step into the Middle Ages (1:00 pm)

The City of Nomads is a faux medieval fortress, built to resemble a traditional Kazakh stronghold and village. While it’s a reconstructed set rather than an ancient ruin, it offers a vivid visual of the Kazakh steppes’ historical architecture. Visitors can walk along the wooden walls, peek inside recreated dwellings, and imagine life in a medieval Kazakh community.

The guide’s storytelling brings this set to life, and many appreciate the opportunity to learn about the settlement’s layout and purpose. It’s a fun stop that combines education with a touch of adventure.

Return Journey and Reflection (2:30 pm)

After touring the City of Nomads, you’ll start heading back to Almaty. The drive is roughly two hours, perfect for relaxing or reviewing your photos. The guide often shares additional insights into Kazakhstan’s history, geography, or local customs, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

Arrival Back in Almaty (4:30 pm)

You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, hopefully feeling enriched by the day’s experiences. Many travelers, like the reviewer who praised the personalized service and good English-speaking guides, find this tour refreshingly informative and well-organized.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Historical Significance of Tamgaly Tas

The petroglyphs at Tamgaly Tas are more than just old carvings; they’re windows into the spiritual and cultural life of ancient Kazakh people. The Buddhist paintings suggest the influence of religion and trade routes that passed through this region. Visiting this site allows you to connect with Kazakhstan’s long-standing traditions, making the experience more meaningful.

The Scenic Beauty of Ili River

Positioned at Tamgaly Tas, the Ili River’s landscape paints a picture of tranquility and natural grandeur. Travelers can expect to see a wide river flanked by rolling hills and open sky, perfect for those interested in landscape photography or simply soaking in untouched nature.

The Recreated Fortress at City of Nomads

While not an ancient ruin, the fortress offers a hands-on approach to understanding medieval life. Its construction in 2005 shows Kazakhstan’s efforts to preserve and showcase cultural history in an engaging manner. Visitors enjoy wandering through the wooden walls and imagining life in a bygone era.

The Role of a Knowledgeable Guide

The reviews highlight how guides like “speaking really good English” make a difference, especially when they share stories, answer questions, and provide context. This personal touch makes the experience more immersive and enjoyable, especially in a setting where understanding history is key.

Value for Money

At $193 per person, the tour includes all transportation, entry fees, water, snacks, and a personalized guide. When you consider the comprehensive itinerary and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, it offers good value — especially for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning logistics.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring sunglasses and a sun hat — the Kazakh steppe can be quite sunny and exposed, especially during warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for trekking around Tamgaly Tas and the fortress.

Plan for full-day energy — this tour runs from 8:00 am to about 4:30 pm, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding day. The optional snacks and water help keep everyone refreshed.

Book in advance — the tour offers flexibility with “reserve & pay later,” but spots can fill up, especially in peak season. Confirm your pickup details and ask about any special needs you might have.

Consider your mobility and health — the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those over 70, due to the physical nature and length of the day.

The Sum Up

This Tamgaly Tas and City of Nomads day trip offers an engaging mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty, expertly curated for travelers who want more than just a quick glance. The combination of ancient petroglyphs, a reconstructed fortress, and the peaceful Ili River scenery gives a well-rounded experience that connects you with Kazakhstan’s rich heritage.

It’s an ideal choice for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, or those simply eager to explore beyond Almaty’s urban environment. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtfully planned itinerary make this tour both enriching and convenient. While it’s a full day, it’s packed with stories and sights that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized excursion that balances education, scenery, and cultural insights, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring your curiosity, a camera, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

How long is the total tour?
The tour runs from 8:00 am to around 4:30 pm, with about a two-hour drive each way, so plan for a full day.

What is the cost per person?
It costs approximately $193 per person, which covers transportation, entry tickets, water, snacks, and guiding services.

Are food and drinks provided?
Snacks and water are included, but meals are not. You might want to bring extra snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses and a sun hat are recommended for sun protection. Comfortable shoes are also advised for walking and trekking.

Is there any language support?
Guides speak both English and Russian, ensuring good communication throughout the day.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect scenic views of the Ili River, Kazakhstan’s steppe landscape, and historical sites with minimal crowds.

Is the fortress authentic?
No, the fortress is a modern reconstruction built in 2005 to resemble medieval Kazakh architecture, offering a visual and cultural experience.

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Kazakhstan’s historical and natural wonders, perfectly suited for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby