Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, combines awe-inspiring natural landscapes with a wealth of cultural landmarks, making this walking tour a captivating way to explore.
Verdant countryside surrounding the city of Almaty (Photo: Alexey Komarov
Hosted by renowned tour agency Guydeez, this action-packed two-hour private walking tour of Almaty gives travellers a chance to explore the city at a relaxed pace while seeing much of what the city has to offer. You’ll visit key landmarks, wander through a busy market, and take in views from an elevated spot. It’s an easy way to see the city’s different sides, from its history to its everyday life. Check out our review below.
About the company
Guydeez lets travellers connect with local guides for private, personalised tours in around 80 destinations worldwide. All guides are selected for their deep knowledge of the area’s language, culture, history, and society, ensuring a truly local experience.
You can customise your tour based on your interests and needs, planning your itinerary with your guide ahead of time through an online chat. Alternatively, there are also a variety of pre-made itineraries to choose from. Tours are available in English, French, Spanish, and Italian to accommodate different language preferences.
Tour highlights
Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: A green oasis in the heart of Almaty, Panfilov Park is home to the jaw-dropping Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece and one of the tallest wooden structures anywhere in the world. The cathedral’s vivid colours and intricate details make it one of the Almaty’s must-sees, and the surrounding park is a popular spot for a relaxed stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Zenkov Cathedral (Photo: Kalpak Travel
via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Green Bazaar: Located just a short stroll from Panfilov Park, the Green Bazaar is a lively public market filled with the sights, sounds and smells of fresh produce, spices, nuts, and handmade goods. It’s an ideal spot to dive into the local culture, sample traditional Kazakh dishes, and soak up the lively energy of the city.
Kok Tobe Hill: For some of the finest panoramic views of Almaty, head toward Kok Tobe Hill. While it’s a bit uphill, the walk is rewarding, with sweeping views of the city and the surrounding mountains to take in along the way. You can also find the 371-metre Almaty Television Tower, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks, on the hill, along with several cafes and an amusement park.
A view from Kok Tobe Hill (Photo: Alex J. Butler via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort: If your tour can extend slightly outside the city center, visit Medeu, the highest ice skating rink in the world, nestled in the picture-postcard environs of the Medeu Valley. From here, you can take a cable car or walk up to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, which offers beautiful scenery year-round.
Aroma Cafe: If you’re keen to unwind after a day of exploring Almaty on foot, Aroma Café is just the ticket. Located on Abylai Khan Avenue, this trendy café is known for its sleek, modern design and focus on high-quality coffee. Alongside its variety of light bites, the relaxed atmosphere and attentive service provide an enticing backdrop for reflecting on the day’s discoveries while enjoying a moment of calm in the heart of the city.
Practical info
Starting Point: You’ll start your tour at Panfilov Park, a serene yet central location whose proximity to other key attractions makes it ideal for kicking off your exploration.
Getting There: Panfilov Park is simple to access. If you’re near the city centre, it’s within walking distance for many travelers. For those further away, the Almaty Metro offers an efficient option, with Zhibek Zholy station being just a short walk from the park. Taxis and rideshare services are also widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Accessibility: While Almaty’s walking paths offer tons to discover, some areas may be a little tough to traverse for those with mobility needs. The city’s streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, but uneven surfaces and steps at certain sites can present a challenge. For a smoother experience, walkers may want to consider routes with fewer obstacles or inquire about accessibility-friendly tours to ensure comfort.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating Almaty’s streets. Since the weather can be unpredictable, pack layers to adjust throughout the day – light clothing and sunscreen for summer, or warm jackets in winter. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated, though you’ll also find plenty of stalls and other outlets to stop for refreshments along the way.
You can book this tour at GetYourGuide.com