Issyk Lake & Bear Waterfall In Turgen Gorge+Golden Man museum

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About this experience

NOW IT'S TIME TO VISIT TURGEN IN AUTUMN IN WINTER
08:00 – Pick-up and departure from Almaty
09:00 – Arrival at Turgen Gorge
Short walk through the gorge surrounded by pine forests
09:30 – Visit Bear Waterfall
Enjoy the fresh mountain air and take beautiful photos
11:00 – Transfer to Issyk Lake
Free time to walk around, relax by the lake, and take photos
13:00 – Lunch at a local café near Issyk Lake
14:30 – Visit the Golden Man Museum in the town of Issyk
Learn about the famous archaeological discovery and ancient Saka culture
16:00 – Departure back to Almaty
17:30 – Shortstop for coffee/WC
18:30 – Drop-off in Almaty

Available options

ISSYK 5

ISSYK 5 Pickup included

ISSYK 4

ISSYK 4 Pickup included

Issyk

Issyk 1 Pickup included

issyk 2

Issyk 2 Pickup included

Issyk 3

Issyk 3 Pickup included

ISSYK 7

ISSYK 7 Pickup included

Issyk 5

Issyk 5 Pickup included

Issyk 1

Issyk 1 Pickup included

Turgen&Issyk lake waterfall

Issyk lake Turgen : Experience the tranquility and rich natural beauty of lake Issyk and waterfall
Travel with tourists from all around the world minivan Pickup included

Issyk 2

Issyk 2 Pickup included

Turgen&Issyk lake waterfall

Watelfall (Bear In Turgen) Horseback riding Pickup included

ISSYK 2

ISSYK 2 Pickup included

ISSYK 1

ISSYK 1 Pickup included

Issyk 4

Issyk 4 Pickup included

ISSYK 6

ISSYK 6 Pickup included

Issyk 6

Issyk 6 Pickup included

ISSYK 3

ISSYK 3 Pickup included

What's included

Lunch at local cafe

Entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

All fees And Taxes

English Speaking Guide

Bottled water

Vegeterian option is available

We can have lunch at the local trout farm cafe or kebab house during our tour

Detailed itinerary

08:00 Depature from Almaty
09:30 Short-stop for coffee/WC
10:00 Arrival to Museum
12:00 lunch, the journey continues to Issyk Lake, located 70 km from Almaty at an altitude of 1,756 meters. Surrounded by the Ili-Alatau mountains, this alpine lake shimmers in shades ranging from turquoise to deep blue, depending on the season. Here you’ll enjoy the tranquility of nature, capture stunning photos, and leave filled with unforgettable emotions.

13:00 Arrival at Turgen Gorge with a refreshing walk in the mountain air. You’ll follow a forest trail leading to the picturesque Bear Waterfall, where you can admire the alpine scenery and feel the cool mist of glacial waters.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

For travelers who do not require pick-up:
Please meet us at 28 Shevchenko Street, in front of the National Academy of Sciences building (main entrance) or at Hotel Kazakhstan (Dostyk Avenue) upon request. Look for our guide holding a "Nomad Trails" sign and wearing a white cap.

About Almaty

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and stunning natural beauty. Known for its apple orchards, scenic mountain backdrop, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience with its bustling markets, Soviet-era architecture, and nearby outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, featuring a TV tower, a small amusement park, and a restaurant.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free to enter, fees for attractions

Zenkov Cathedral

Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral, is a wooden Russian Orthodox church located in Panfilov Park. It's one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and a notable example of Russian architecture.

Historical/Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Green Bazaar

Green Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kazakh cuisine.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Medeu Skating Rink

Medeu Skating Rink is a popular destination for ice skating and ice hockey. Located in the mountains, it offers stunning views and a unique sporting experience.

Sports/Adventure 2-3 hours Entrance and rental fees vary

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Ile Alatau National Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint Half-day to full-day trip Free to enter, fees for parking and guided tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) and noodles, served with a broth.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich broth.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and no meat.

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baursaks

Deep-fried dough balls, often served as a snack or breakfast item.

Snack Vegetarian, can be vegan if made with vegetable oil.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Snowboarding Ice skating Spa treatments Tea house visits Park picnics

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Almaty for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kazakh, Russian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Time Zone

ALMT (Almaty Time, GMT+6)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution at night and in poorly lit areas. Political protests and demonstrations can occur, so it's best to avoid large gatherings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Almaty International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Almaty-2 Railway Station

By bus

Sayarnaya Bus Station, Sairam Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Almaty. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Kok Tobe Saryarka Zhetysu

Day trips

Charyn Canyon

200 km (124 miles) • Full-day trip

Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about 200 km east of Almaty. Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,' it offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a unique desert landscape.

Kolsai Lakes

300 km (186 miles) • Overnight trip

The Kolsai Lakes are a series of three stunning alpine lakes located in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. They offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a serene mountain setting.

Issyk Glacier

60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day trip

Issyk Glacier is a unique glacier located about 60 km east of Almaty. It's one of the few glaciers in the world that can be reached by car, making it a popular destination for day trips.

Festivals

Almaty Apple Festival • September Almaty International Film Festival • September Almaty Jazz Fest • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Visit the Green Bazaar for an authentic taste of local life and to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine
Take the cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
Explore the nearby mountains and lakes for a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, and shashlik at local restaurants and markets