The Tamgaly Tas rock paintings are situated in the scenic valley of the Ili River, located northwest of Kapchagay in the Almaty region. This historical site offers both cultural and natural wonders, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor and history enthusiasts alike.

During spring (late April to early May), the steppe transforms into a vibrant red carpet, thanks to the unique blooming poppies native to the area.
Just a few kilometers across the Ili River stands the "City of Nomads," a historical film set originally constructed for the movie Nomads. The site was later used by renowned director Timur Bekmambetov during the production of Night Watch.

For a complete exploration of the area, Nomad Outfitter KZ recommends dedicating ample time to the Tamgaly Tas monument, followed by a visit to the City of Nomads on the opposite bank of the Ili River.
In close proximity to the rock paintings lies a rugged terrain belonging to the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan, where rescue workers and mountaineers regularly train in climbing and survival skills. In 2016, this area also hosted the second annual Tengri Ultra Trail Marathon, Central Asia's premier ultra-trail event.
General Information
Discover the captivating Tamgaly-Tas rock sculptures, nestled in the picturesque Ili River valley, surrounded by vibrant steppe and stunning natural beauty.
Cross the Ili River to experience the City of Nomads, a unique film set used in iconic movies, offering a glimpse into Kazakhstan's rich cultural history.
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
08:00 – Pick up guests from their addresses and depart for Tamgaly-Tas (120 km)
10:00 – Arrive at Tamgaly-Tas, explore the ancient Buddhist rock carvings, and enjoy a short trek to panoramic viewpoints
11:30 – Depart for the City of Nomads (15 km)
12:00 – Arrive at the City of Nomads, a historical film set showcasing traditional Kazakh architecture and culture
13:00 – Lunch break (packed lunch)
14:00 – Free time for photography and exploring the surroundings along the Ili River
15:00 – Depart for Almaty
17:00 – Arrival back in Almaty, drop-off at guests' addresses
Additional Information
  • Duration
    Single-day
  • Route Difficulty
    Standard and suitable for individuals with average physical fitness.
  • Precautions
    It is mandatory to bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially during the spring period).
  • Total route length
    6-7 hours or 200 km.
  • Children
    Infants under 2 years old travel free of charge. Child seats can be provided upon prior arrangement.
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.
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
$55 per person ($330 total)
$65 per person ($325 total)
5 People
4 People
$70 per person ($280 total)
$95 per person ($280 total)
3 People
Solo Tour
$260 total
$130 per person ($260 total)
2 People
Join the Adventure
Leave your contact details, and our team will get in touch to create a personalized and unforgettable adventure for you in the heart of Kazakhstan.
Photogallery
Photo by Paul
Photo by Lea
Photo by Leopold
Photo by Tiana
Photo by Mohd
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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