What is the route of the 5-day Almaty region tour?
Almaty — Basshi and Aktau Mountains — Singing Dune — Tiger Mountains — Zharkent Mosque — Chundzha — Temirlik and Lunar canyons — Saty — Kaindy and Lower Kolsai lakes — Charyn Canyon — Baiseit — Turgen Gorge — Assy Plateau — Issyk Lake — Almaty.
How long is the drive from Basshi to Saty on day two?
Allow approximately six hours after lunch, including Tiger Mountains, Zharkent Mosque, the Chundzha coffee stop and visits to Temirlik and Lunar canyons. This is an estimate; roads, traffic and time at each stop affect the arrival in Saty.
Where do we stay during the four nights?
One night in a Basshi guesthouse, two nights in a Saty guesthouse and one night in a guesthouse or hotel in Turgen. Group prices use twin or double rooms. The selected properties have private showers and toilets in the rooms.
Where are lunch, Bear Waterfall and the visitor centre on day four?
After Charyn Canyon, lunch is in Baiseit. You then drive to Turgen Gorge to visit Bear Waterfall and the visitor centre and walk in the gorge. The overnight stay is in Turgen.
When is Assy Plateau accessible?
Usually May–October, depending on weather and roads. The tour runs year-round: in winter Assy is always replaced with a location agreed individually before booking. We refine the plan for the weather; winter prices are usually unchanged.
How much does the tour cost per person?
The price is $840 with four guests, $1,050 with three guests, $1,350 with two guests and $2,530 for one traveller. Group rates are based on twin or double accommodation.
What is included, and which activities cost extra?
Four nights, meals, a guide-driver, private transport, fuel, water, entrance tickets and the local UAZ transfer at Kaindy are included. Horse riding, boat rental, flights, insurance, personal purchases, extra nights and accommodation upgrades are separate.
How much walking is required?
The standard tour uses easy walks without technical climbing or special training. The full Charyn river walk is about 7 km return, but you can shorten or skip it and choose a viewpoint reached by vehicle. Your guide adapts the pace and stops to your party. Uneven ground and rough roads remain; tell us about injuries or mobility needs before booking.
Can the tour finish at Almaty airport?
Yes. Agree your flight before booking so we can adapt the final day and plan airport arrival at least three hours before departure. Airport pickup on the tour start date is also included. If arriving before that date, a separate one-way transfer costs around US$70 per vehicle for up to five guests or around US$100 for a larger party; Almaty hotel stays outside the itinerary are extra.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
