Umai Travel

ALMA-ARASAN AND AYUSAI MOUNTAIN GORGES

Discover the serene beauty of the Alma-Arasan and Ayusai gorges, nestled in the Ile-Alatau National Park. These mountain trails offer crystal-clear rivers, alpine forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful hiking escape.

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SeasonSpring to Autumn

Tour languageEnglish

TransportCar/Minibus

Distance30 km from Almaty

Tour activitiesHiking / Walking / Sightseeing

Tour duration6-7 hours

Start time9 am Almaty time

Discover two of the most scenic and tranquil gorges in the Ile-Alatau National Park — Alma-Arasan and Ayusai. These hidden gems offer crystal-clear mountain rivers, dense coniferous forests, waterfalls, and panoramic alpine views just a short drive from Almaty.

Your journey begins in Alma-Arasan Gorge, famous for its rich flora, cascading streams, and former hot springs. After a gentle hike through pine-covered trails, we continue to the nearby Ayusai Gorge, a quieter and more secluded area ideal for peaceful nature walks, picnic spots, and photography.

🌄 Highlights:

🥾 Scenic trekking along mountain rivers and lush forest trails
🏔️ Breathtaking views of the Tien Shan mountain range
💧 Visit to the Ayusai Waterfall and panoramic viewpoints
🍵 Time for relaxation, tea, and optional picnic in nature
🐿️ Fresh mountain air and opportunities for wildlife spotting

Perfect for:
Nature lovers, couples, solo travelers, and those looking to escape the city for a day of mountain serenity.

Optional: Add a visit to the Ayusai Visitor Center for eco-education and a rope bridge adventure.

What is important to know

Alma-Arasan and Ayusai — mountain gorges near Almaty If you are looking for easy mountain routes with stunning views, the Alma—Arasan and Ayusai gorges are ideal for a day trip in nature near the city. What is important for a tourist to know: Location: both gorges are located only 20-30 km from the center of Almaty. You can get there by taxi or private transport. Season: the best time is from May to October. In spring everything is green and blooming, in summer it is fresh, in autumn there are bright colors of foliage. Alma-Arasan Features: wide trail along the mountain river, pine forest, fresh air and beautiful nature. What to see: hot springs (closed for swimming, but interesting as a location), an abandoned sanatorium, picturesque bridges and viewpoints. Route: simple, suitable for families and beginners. Ayusai Features: an eco-trail with signs, clean paths, springs, a waterfall and a new modern infrastructure (information boards, benches, toilets). What to do: walking to the waterfall (~3 km), photo on the background of rocks, rest by the river. Suitable for: walks with children, beginners and those who want to be alone with nature without long ascents. Respect nature: don't leave trash, keep to the trails, don't make campfires. Alma-Arasan and Ayusai are ideal places to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and breathe in the mountain air just a few steps from Almaty.