1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty, Kazakhstan

1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge

Outty Ranking 59 4.8 · 6 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $260
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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge worth booking?

1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge is a 10-hour experience in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from $260 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (6)
Duration
10 hours
From
$260 per person

Wonderful 1 Day Express tour to the "Must visit" places in Kazakhstan. During tour, you will see beautiful landscape and Kazakh village lifestyle! Moreover you will see best pastureland in Kazakhstan - Assy plateau!

What you get

    About this experience

    Wonderful 1 Day Express tour to the "Must visit" places in Kazakhstan. During tour, you will see beautiful landscape and Kazakh village lifestyle! Moreover you will see best pastureland in Kazakhstan - Assy plateau!

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • English speaking guide
    • Lunch
    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    What you'll see and do

    1. Lake Issyk

      Issyk lake is a picturesque, alpine lake surrounded by unusually beautiful nature of thick forests and spacious flower fields. The lake is located at an altitude of 1760 meters above sea level, in the Issyk gorge of Trans-Ili Alatau, about 70 km east of Almaty.

      120 minutes here

    2. Plateau Assy

      Assy plateau – which is located 100km to the east from Almaty: it is a huge valley at a height of 2100-2800m above sea level, about 40km long. The easiest way is from Turgen gorge over Asy pass. One of the beautiful valleys in Kazakhstan.

      120 minutes here

    3. Turgen

      Turgen gorge – One of the amazing and beautiful places of Kazakhstan. It is located 90 km from Almaty. There are a lot of beautiful waterfalls, pine forests, hot springs, as well as lakes with clear water. Turgen gorge is famous for waterfalls. One of these attractions is the Bear Falls, about 30 meters high.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    ru, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Explore Kazakhstan

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, photo 21 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, photo 31 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, photo 41 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, photo 51 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge in Almaty, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    5
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    Maps20376107121 · March 2026

    Itinerary was not followed but we were brought to somewhere better

    Both the plateau and Turgen Gorge were impassable because of avalanche risk. So instead, our tour guide brought us to Bartogay beach and then visited some local houses, which we enjoyed the experience very much.

    via Tripadvisor

    Neha_A · August 2025

    The tour was good however...

    The tour was good however it is not explained properly. It is a private tour and there is decent amount of walking involved about 5km. 2.5km is trek to the waterfall and 2 km walk to the lake. Therefore, I would advise to wear proper shoes for the same. We did not have lunch, not sure if it was included or not. However, it is not refunded. The places visited are nice however, the lake looks bigger in the picture and so does the waterfall. Assy plateau is great!

    via Viator

    Gregory_H · September 2024

    Amazing tour, Amazing tour guide (Boris)

    The Assy Plateau was a beautiful and truly unique experience. Our tour guide Boris was awesome and really made the experience special!!! !We loved the waterfall hike and Issyk. If you are in Almaty you should 100% do this tour!

    via Viator

    159rajeshj · June 2024

    Treat for the eyes - Kazakhastan

    Kazakasthan is really scenic and has diverse landscapes. Each site is unique and pleasing to the eyes. Natalia is best tour guide I have met so far, she is like a master of all trades, from driving in harsh terrains to being an expert of plants, soil and mountains. She made us feel comfortable as if we were traveling with a friend or family. Madi is extremely proactive and goes out of the way to support. Thanks and see you again Regards, Rajesh

    via Tripadvisor

    Amy_S · March 2024

    We had a great experience...

    We had a great experience on our tour! Because of extensive snow and an avalanche across a road, we were not able to take the intended tour. However, our guide, Chingiz, adjusted our plans and we had a lovely time hiking near the Turgen River and spending time at the Shymbulak Ski Resort. We also had a wonderful lunch at a local restaurant, with our guide ordering a spread of local dishes. Would definitely recommend this tour group. Finally, I left my sweatshirt in the tour vehicle and Chingiz went out of his way to drop it off at my hotel later that week.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $260 to $480
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Explore Kazakhstan, who run 12 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 52.6.

    See everything Explore Kazakhstan runs

    Why this scores 59

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)86
    Review evidence (18% weight)36
    Booking momentum (14% weight)25
    Value for money (12% weight)45
    Listing quality (10% weight)60
    Local standing (8% weight)50
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Almaty.

    How much does 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge cost?

    +

    Prices start at $260 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Almaty usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge take?

    +

    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Almaty is not rushed.

    Is 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Almaty, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Almaty can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Almaty and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Almaty within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Almaty?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Almaty experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Small Group Tour, Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons 2-day tour, Kolsai, Kaindy lakes & Charyn canyon with Yurt stay and Campfire. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Almaty?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Almaty?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge?

    +

    Included: Bottled water; English speaking guide; Lunch; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 80 listed pickup locations in and around Almaty. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge offered in?

    +

    It is offered in Russian and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about 1 Day Express Tour: Issyk Lake, Assy Plateau & Turgen Gorge?

    +

    Across 6 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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