A Journey Through Diverse Landscapes
The Assy Plateau offers an invigorating escape from Almaty, showcasing a highland valley approximately 50 kilometers long, nestled between formidable mountain ranges to the north and south. To the west, the scenic Turgen Gorge seamlessly merges into the Assy Plateau, while to the east, it flows into the serene Bartogay Reservoir.
The fauna of the plateau is diverse, with common sightings of marmots, snakes, and wolves in winter, alongside deer, bears, snow leopards, leopards, lynxes, argali, Siberian mountain goats, and stags.
The Assy Plateau offers an invigorating escape from Almaty, showcasing a highland valley approximately 50 kilometers long, nestled between formidable mountain ranges to the north and south. To the west, the scenic Turgen Gorge seamlessly merges into the Assy Plateau, while to the east, it flows into the serene Bartogay Reservoir.
The fauna of the plateau is diverse, with common sightings of marmots, snakes, and wolves in winter, alongside deer, bears, snow leopards, leopards, lynxes, argali, Siberian mountain goats, and stags.
The unique climate zones within Assy Valley result in unpredictable weather patterns. In July, the average temperature on the plateau reaches a pleasant +16°C, but summer often brings rain, and occasional snowfall is not unheard of. In contrast, temperatures around the Bartogay Reservoir can soar to +50°C during summer.
General Information
Experience stunning views of the Assy Plateau, where lush valleys meet majestic mountain ranges, creating a profound connection with nature.
Encounter a variety of wildlife, including marmots and deer, as you traverse diverse landscapes from semi-desert to alpine meadows, including visits to the iconic Turgen Waterfalls and ancient petroglyphs.
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Choose from a one-day jeep tour with trekking or a more immersive two-day tour, allowing you to explore the beauty of the plateau and Bartogay Reservoir at a relaxed pace.
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Nomad Outfitter KZ team is excited to offer a one-day jeep tour, complemented by trekking opportunities,
to the breathtaking Assy Plateau in the Almaty region.
As Matt Kowalski, the character from George Clooney's film Gravity, famously stated, "...these views are second to none." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the stunning landscapes of the Assy Plateau, where the transition from lush valleys to majestic mountain ranges, framed by crystal-clear blue skies, creates a profound sense of connection with nature.
to the breathtaking Assy Plateau in the Almaty region.
As Matt Kowalski, the character from George Clooney's film Gravity, famously stated, "...these views are second to none." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the stunning landscapes of the Assy Plateau, where the transition from lush valleys to majestic mountain ranges, framed by crystal-clear blue skies, creates a profound sense of connection with nature.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
After pick-up from your addresses in Almaty, the adventure will begin in the picturesque Turgen gorge, a favored retreat for both locals and visitors. Here, you can visit the famous Turgen Waterfalls, extending your journey by approximately two hours. Ascending to the plateau, your first destination will be the renowned Assy Astronomical Observatory.
As we traverse the plateau eastward, we'll repeatedly cross the Assy River, unveiling an array of unforgettable landscapes that transition from semi-desert to lush alpine meadows. Although the elevation changes are gradual, the valley lies at an impressive altitude of 2,400 to 2,800 meters above sea level.
During our journey, the serene valley vistas give way to striking red rocks adorned with ancient petroglyphs. We will pause for a leisurely lunch in a grove beside the Assy River, providing a tranquil setting amidst nature's beauty.
As we traverse the plateau eastward, we'll repeatedly cross the Assy River, unveiling an array of unforgettable landscapes that transition from semi-desert to lush alpine meadows. Although the elevation changes are gradual, the valley lies at an impressive altitude of 2,400 to 2,800 meters above sea level.
During our journey, the serene valley vistas give way to striking red rocks adorned with ancient petroglyphs. We will pause for a leisurely lunch in a grove beside the Assy River, providing a tranquil setting amidst nature's beauty.
Navigating through the Kyzylauz and Karaarsha passes along the southern ridge of Sarytau, we will reach the valley of the Zhenishke River, where routes to Kolsay Lake are accessible. The Sarytau Ridge accompanies us along the entire plateau route on the southern side.
As we continue, the Assy Plateau gradually descends into the Bartogay Reservoir valley, characterized by a remarkable 60-meter-high rock dam and intricate culverts. Our journey to Bartogay will take us through a low pass (2,050 meters) between the Ortatau and Alabaytal mountains.
The Chilik River, the largest river in the Ili Alatau mountain range, stretches approximately 300 kilometers, originating from glaciers and converging with other rivers before flowing into the Kapshagai Reservoir.
Established in 1985, the Bartogay Reservoir was created to supply water for the Big Almaty Channel (BAC), which spans around 160 kilometers and serves to irrigate agricultural lands.
As we continue, the Assy Plateau gradually descends into the Bartogay Reservoir valley, characterized by a remarkable 60-meter-high rock dam and intricate culverts. Our journey to Bartogay will take us through a low pass (2,050 meters) between the Ortatau and Alabaytal mountains.
The Chilik River, the largest river in the Ili Alatau mountain range, stretches approximately 300 kilometers, originating from glaciers and converging with other rivers before flowing into the Kapshagai Reservoir.
Established in 1985, the Bartogay Reservoir was created to supply water for the Big Almaty Channel (BAC), which spans around 160 kilometers and serves to irrigate agricultural lands.
Tour Options
We offer various options for exploring the Assy Plateau, including trekking, jeep tours, and biking. The one-day jeep tour, enriched with several excursions, is a popular choice for a weekend getaway. For those seeking a more immersive experience, we also offer a two-day jeep tour, allowing ample time to savor the enchanting alpine valley.
For more information about the two-day tour, please feel free to contact the Nomad Outfitter KZ team.
For more information about the two-day tour, please feel free to contact the Nomad Outfitter KZ team.
Additional Information
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DurationSingle-day - Route DifficultyStandard and suitable for individuals with average physical fitness.
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PrecautionsIt is mandatory to bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially during the spring period). -
Total route length100 km from Almaty, the total length of the tour is approx 350 km. -
ChildrenInfants under 2 years old travel free of charge. Child seats can be provided upon prior arrangement. - When to goFrom mid-April to mid-October.
Price List
Included in the tour price
All our tours are private, offering a personalized experience tailored to your group.
Prices vary depending on the number of people in your group.
Prices vary depending on the number of people in your group.
6 People
- Comfortable SUV transportation
- Services of an English/Chinese/Russian-speaking guide
- Eco-fees for the National Park
- 1.5 liters of drinking water per guest per day
- Personal expenses
- Pet-Friendly Travel: Bringing your furry friends (dogs and cats) along is welcome! A fee of $10 per day applies.
Not included in the tour price
$70 per person ($420 total)
$85 per person ($425 total)
5 People
4 People
$85 per person ($340 total)
$110 per person ($330 total)
3 People
Solo Tour
$300 total
$150 per person ($300 total)
2 People
Join the Adventure
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Discover the Nomad Outfitter Team
Recognized by Lonely Planet as a leading outdoor provider in Almaty, Nomad Outfitter team has established itself as a premier choice for outdoor adventures. Since joining the Kazakhstan Tourist Association in 2018, our commitment to exceptional service and local expertise has been consistently strengthening. TripAdvisor has honored us with the "Traveler's Choice" award for five consecutive years (2020-2024), highlighting our dedication to providing unforgettable experiences based on traveler reviews.
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