Alma-Arasan & Ayusai Mountain Gorges with Hot Springs Tour

If you’re in Almaty and craving a break from city life, this tour promises a refreshing escape into the mountains, complete with hot springs, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Although I haven’t taken this trip myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is its combination of comfort and adventure—small group sizes mean personalized attention, the scenic stops are picture-perfect, and the hot springs are a true highlight. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make the stories of the region come alive. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some light walking and outdoor activities.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of nature without venturing too far from Almaty. It suits anyone looking to reconnect with the outdoors, capture some beautiful photos, or simply enjoy a relaxing soak in natural springs. Let’s explore what makes this trip stand out.

Good To Know

• Spectacular mountain scenery with waterfalls, gorges, and pine forests
• Relaxing hot springs that boost health and wellbeing
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge of the region’s history and ecology
• Short hikes suitable for beginners, with plenty of time for picture taking and relaxation
• Comfortable transport and small groups ensure a personal experience
• Cultural insights including a visit to the Falconry Center (seasonal)

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Alma-Arasan & Ayusai Gorges tour offers an appealing glimpse into the natural beauty of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, all within a manageable day trip from Almaty. It’s designed as an easy but fulfilling outdoor experience that combines scenic walks, cultural insights, and relaxation.

One of the best things about this tour is how it balances active exploration with restorative downtime. The stops are well-spaced, allowing you to enjoy each without feeling rushed. The hot springs of Alma-Arasan are a major highlight, where you can soak while taking in the wintery mountain scenery—an experience many reviews have found unforgettable.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Several reviews mention guides like Serzhan, Nazerke, and Emil, who are praised for their storytelling, patience, and attentiveness. This makes even a short trip feel personalized and engaging, especially for those new to the area or outdoor hiking.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins with a pickup from one of five convenient locations in Almaty, such as the Holiday Inn or The Ritz-Carlton. From there, a comfortable van transports you in about 45 minutes to the Alma-Arasan gorge. This area is renowned for its lush pine forests, clear mountain rivers, and the natural hot springs that give the tour its name.

Once at Alma-Arasan, your guide will lead a guided walk lasting around 1.5 hours. Expect to traverse mountain trails that are manageable for most fitness levels, with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery. The highlight here is undoubtedly the thermal springs—an ideal spot for relaxing in warm waters surrounded by snow or greenery depending on the season. A 45-minute free swim follows, giving visitors time to soak and unwind.

Afterward, a short 20-minute van ride brings you to Ayusai gorge. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch, often with local flavors, and have some time for shopping, which might include souvenirs or regional crafts.

Post-lunch, a guided tour around Ayusai offers panoramic views of the gorge and waterfalls—think of it as a delicious visual feast. The scenery is wild and untouched, perfect for nature photography. The final stop is at the Falcon Nursery Sunkar, where you’ll experience a bird of prey show featuring eagles, falcons, and hawks, providing insight into local nomadic traditions—only available seasonally from April to October.

The tour wraps up with a relaxing drive back, arriving at your starting point within about 8 hours total.

Experience Quality and Value

The tour’s pricing reflects its high-quality service, small group size, and expert guides. It’s a full-day experience that provides more than just sightseeing—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and local culture in a relaxed setting. Many reviewers have noted the value in the personalized attention and the scenic, well-chosen stops.

Transportation is described as “highly-rated,” with perfect scores from all reviewers. The van is comfortable, making the long drives pleasant rather than tedious. The itinerary is carefully crafted to balance activity with rest, making it suitable for most fitness levels, with some gentle hiking involved.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience. One traveler from the UK mentioned that her guide, Nazerke, made the experience “even better” with her friendliness and understanding. Another noted how the guide Serzhan was “excellent in taking us to all the locations and informing details of the location and its history,” emphasizing how guides enrich the trip with their insights.

The highlight for many is soaking in the hot springs amidst stunning winter landscapes—a common theme in many reviews. One traveler from South Korea called it an “unforgettable experience,” and others appreciated the scenic beauty of waterfalls and mountain views.

Most reviewers agree the experience is well-managed and comfortable, with timings running smoothly and activities happening as scheduled. The inclusion of short, accessible hikes makes it an excellent choice for those who might be new to outdoor adventures.

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Practical Tips for Participants

• Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be walking and exposed to mountain weather.
• Swimwear and towels are recommended if you plan to take advantage of the hot springs.
• The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health conditions, so plan accordingly.
• For photography lovers, the stops offer ample opportunities for stunning landscape pictures.
• The tour operates in English and Russian, so language preferences are accommodated.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, casual hikers, and anyone seeking a quick retreat from city life. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the local natural landscape, enjoy a relaxing soak, and learn about Kazakhstan’s scenic and cultural highlights from knowledgeable guides.

While it’s accessible for most fitness levels, those with mobility issues or respiratory concerns may find the walks challenging. It’s also a solid choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an intimate, well-organized day out.

The Sum Up

The Alma-Arasan & Ayusai Mountain Gorges with Hot Springs Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic outdoor experience just outside Almaty. It combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and wellness in a way that feels genuine and accessible. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtful itinerary planning, it’s a great way to reconnect with nature without straying far from the city.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic adventure that’s both relaxing and visually stunning, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good storytelling and want to enjoy Kazakhstan’s natural riches in a friendly, small-group setting.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included. The transportation is a comfortable van, and the pickup is from specified locations in Almaty.

What should I bring for the trip?
You should pack comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, swimwear, and a towel if planning to use the hot springs. Hiking shoes and sports shoes are recommended for walking and hikes.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are there any seasonal restrictions?
The bird of prey show at the Falconry Center is only available from April to October, so outside those months, this part might be replaced or not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 3 years old, or those with mobility or respiratory issues, due to the nature of walking and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexible planning.

This tour offers a wonderful balance of adventure, relaxation, and insight into Kazakhstan’s stunning mountain landscapes. Whether you’re a keen photographer or just seeking peace amid nature, it’s a memorable way to see the best of Almaty’s surrounding gorges.

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