Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall

Outty Ranking 85 4.8 · 97 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $45
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Outty Ranking

85/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 97 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall worth booking?

Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall is a 9-hour experience in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from $45 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 97 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
85 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (97)
Duration
9 hours
From
$45 per person

Discover the perfect mix of light adventure and breathtaking nature on this full-day tour from Almaty. Travel in comfort with a small group and enjoy a well-organized experience guided by a professional local expert. Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic Turgen Gorge. Walk along a picturesque mountain trail surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views as you head toward the beautiful Bear Waterfall. At the end of the trail, enjoy the cool freshness of glacial water and the peaceful atmosphere of this place. After the hike, continue to the stunning Issyk Lake, located at 1,756 meters above sea level in the Ili-Alatau mountains. The lake’s color changes from turquoise to deep blue depending on the season, creating a truly mesmerizing landscape. Take time to relax, walk along the shore, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the calm beauty of the mountains.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the perfect mix of light adventure and breathtaking nature on this full-day tour from Almaty. Travel in comfort with a small group and enjoy a well-organized experience guided by a professional local expert. Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic Turgen Gorge. Walk along a picturesque mountain trail surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views as you head toward the beautiful Bear Waterfall. At the end of the trail, enjoy the cool freshness of glacial water and the peaceful atmosphere of this place. After the hike, continue to the stunning Issyk Lake, located at 1,756 meters above sea level in the Ili-Alatau mountains. The lake’s color changes from turquoise to deep blue depending on the season, creating a truly mesmerizing landscape. Take time to relax, walk along the shore, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the calm beauty of the mountains.

    What's included

    Included

    • National park admission
    • English-speaking tour guide
    • Bottled water
    • Modern and comfortable van with AC

    Not included

    • Lunch (provided at a local cafe)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Lake Issyk

      After lunch you will head to the Lake Issyk located in Issyk gorge of Ili-Alatau mountains 70 km from Almaty at an altitude of 1756 m above sea level. The color of the water in this lake varies from turquoise to dark blue depending on the time of year. You will enjoy nature and the scenic panorama of the Ili-Alatau mountains with magnificent lake, take stunning memorable pictures and be filled with positive emotions.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Ile-Alatau National Park

      This tour is designed so that you can enjoy the views at the best time of the day with the best lighting conditions. Our tour guide will show you the best photo spots and tell you interesting information about the sites.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    3. As a morning warm-up in the fresh air, you will have a short hike deep into the Turgen mountain gorge, where the picturesque Bear waterfall is located. You will walk along a mountain trail enjoying stunning mountain views, and at the end you will enjoy the coolness of the glacial water of this waterfall.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Almaty

    Meeting point

    Almaty

    Meeting point

    Almaty

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Options you can book

    • Small-group tour

      Small group: of up to 15 participants. Pick-up/drop-off: only listed meeting points.

    • Private tour option

      Individual tour: only you travel, without other people. Vehicle type: 2-5 pax - SUV/minivan; 6-7 pax - Toyota Hiace van; 8-15 pax - Mercedes Sprinter minibus. Pick-up/drop-off: any location in Almaty city. Pickup included

    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 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Kazakhstan Guided Tours

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Important note: Children under 3 y.o. are not allowed on the tour
    • Not recommended for travelers who can not withstand hikes

    Photos

    Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 2Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 3Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 4Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 5Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 6Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall in Almaty, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 97 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

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

    Traveler reviews

    97 verified traveler reviews for Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    82
    4 star
    12
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    mightypink6 · October 2026

    Great day trip to the Waterfall and Issyk Lake

    Great small tour to the Turgen Waterfall and Issyk Lake, our tour guide, Ax was amazing and we even met our other tour guides at lunch and everyone is so friendly and remembers you. Ax is very knowledgeable and passionate about the outdoors and this was great to see. The waterfall hike is beautiful with a lovely waterfall to relax at at the top. The time at the Issyk Lake was perfect, enough time to take a walk to other view points and sit and relax with the amazing views. Highly recommend this tour and the company, they have amazing guides and everyone is so friendly. Thanks for a great day and way to finish our Kazakhstan adventure.

    via Tripadvisor

    P6271TSbartekp · September 2026

    Great Kazakh experience

    Amazing tour. Professionally organized and coordinated. Our guide Yeldar with his friendly and proactive approach, did great job, telling a lot of information about places we visited and about the country.

    via Tripadvisor

    yuhaj2026 · September 2026

    I genuinely recommend this tour

    I was extremely satisfied with the tour. I feel especially lucky to have had Yeldar as our guide. He was incredibly dedicated and agile, moving around like a flying squirrel as he expertly led and looked after us throughout the tour. He was responsible, trustworthy, and genuinely decent. I would highly recommend this tour to everyone.

    via Tripadvisor

    P6271TSbartekp · September 2026

    Great Kazakh experience

    Really nice tour, professionally organized and coordinated. Yeldar was a great guide, very proactive and sharing lot of facts about places we visited and about the country.

    via Tripadvisor

    Shalene_S · July 2026

    Contrary to the details...

    Contrary to the details given in this itinerary- we only got to see Issyk Lake and Bear Waterfalls. There weren't any restrooms and it felt slightly anti climatic but this is purely a personal experience.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your feedback. We would just like to clarify a couple of points for future travelers. This tour includes two main destinations: Lake Issyk and Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge — and both were visited as stated in the itinerary. Regarding restrooms, facilities at the natural sites themselves are limited, which is why our guide makes stops at gas stations along the way where guests can use the restrooms. We’re sorry if the destinations themselves didn’t fully meet your expectations, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    9 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $45 to $180
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    34
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Kazakhstan Guided Tours, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 78.3 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Kazakhstan Guided Tours runs

    Why this scores 85

    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)84
    Booking momentum (14% weight)80
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)49
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall cost?

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    Prices start at $45 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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall take?

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    Plan for about 9 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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 97 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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    Around 34 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?

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    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 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall start and how do I get there?

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    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?

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    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?

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    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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    Included: National park admission; English-speaking tour guide; Bottled water; and Modern and comfortable van with AC. Not included: Lunch (provided at a local cafe). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 95 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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall offered in?

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    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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall if the weather is bad?

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    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 Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    Across 97 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. 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.

    What booking options are available for Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Small-group tour, Private tour option. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall.

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