Alma-Arasan & Ayusai Mountain Gorges with Hot Springs Tour
Overview
Available languages
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Want to see the true beauty of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains and recharge your batteries with mountain energy? Join us on a fascinating tour through the picturesque Alma-Arasan and Ayusai gorges, just a few kilometers from Almaty!
What awaits you:
- Walk through pine forests with the purest air and mountain rivers;
Bathing in the natural hot springs of Alma-Arasan, which provide not only relaxation, but also a boost of health;
- Waterfalls and panoramic views of the Ayusay gorge, where you'll feel like you're in the heart of wilderness;
- A visit to the Falconry Center, featuring an impressive bird of prey show with eagles, falcons, and hawks — a unique insight into the region’s nomadic traditions (only from April to October).
This tour is perfect for beautiful photos, a refreshing escape from the city, and an easy hike suitable even for beginners.
You’ll feel comfortable and safe with us — round-trip transfers, an experienced guide, and a friendly atmosphere are guaranteed.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Alma-Arasan Gorge
- Walk (short hike) to the Maiden's Tears waterfall along the gorge with stops for photo; - Bathing in the hot springs (optional);
Ayusai Visitor Center
Souvenir shopping at the Visitor Center and lunch in the cafe (not included)
What‘s Included
National park admission
English-speaking tour guide
Comfortable minibus
Birds of prey show admission
Bottled water
Shampoo and shower gel
Lunch is not included (provided at local cafe)
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Group tour with show
With Birds of Prey Show: Includes a visit to the Falconry Center, featuring an impressive show with eagles, falcons, and other birds of prey.
Small-group: an uncrowded small group of up to 15 tourists.
Pick-up/drop-off: only listed meeting points.
Private tour
Individual tour: only you participate, without other people.
Vehicle type: 2-5 pax - SUV/minivan;
6-7 pax - Toyota Hiace van;
8-15 pax - Mercedes Sprinter minibus.
Pick-up/drop-off: any location in Almaty city.
Pickup included
Group tour without show
Birds of Prey Show is not held: available only from April to October.
Small-group: an uncrowded small group of up to 15 tourists.
Pick-up/drop-off: only listed meeting points.
Reviews
20 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Experience Outdoor Hot Spring + Cold Plunge @ Winter in Almaty
Departure61109317011,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00Alma Arasan hot spring is the highlight of the tour. You have to hike up / walk around 20 - 30 mins to the hot spring, its an easy walk w mostly metal walking paths and staircase. The winter view towards the hot spring was nice, w a stream flowing along the pathway. Highly recommended to try out the hot spring while you are there since this is the highlight for the entire trip (in my opinion). There're 2 very basic changing room and 2 shower room (same water temp as the hot spring) for simple shower. Please bring flip flop (optional), towel, and swimming wear. Hot spring water was lukewarm (for me) since the winter temp is low. If u go on a sunny day, its not too cold when u r in your swim wear in the outdoors. Try to dip in the cold stream water and back to the hot spring like the kaz. Ayusai waterfall was frozen over since its winter. Its just 10 mins from Arasan. Simple hike up of 20-30 mins to reach the waterfall. Shoes with good traction / w spikes r highly recommended as the ground turns icy and slippery. There's a cute restaurant on the way to the waterfall. Again, kaz food taste bit bland. We stopped for lunch / tea. Tried the fermented horse milk and it gave me some discomfort to my stomach. You will have a slight burning sensation after you drink it. Its sourish, cold and pungent after taste when u drink it. Give it a try. Restaurant allow payments in card / cash (they may not have enough change). There is also a slide u can enjoy at Ayusai. Overall trip was average as tour ended earlier around 2pm when its suppose to end 4pm. I can see why its less popular choice amongst travellers. Good option if u want to experience the outdoor hot spring in the winter and have extra days at Almaty.
Amazing!
Aythnic,,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an amazing nature tour, hotspring is my main goal in joining the tour but the view added more on the experience. Thanks to Yula for guiding us well.
Half day memorable trip
sundert2018,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guided tour was exceptional. Our guide was knowledgeable and professional, providing insights that truly enriched the experience. The chosen locations were perfect and well-coordinated, allowing us to create wonderful memories.
Value for money tour
381preetamh,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Serzhan was excellent in taking us to all the locations and informing details of the location and its history. It was fun filled tour with all activities as per itinerary on time. It was good!
Friendly
Global34239236611,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an incredible time. Their depth of knowledge about the place was impressive—we learned so much more than we would have on our own. Guide was punctual, organized, and answered all our questions with a smile. Highly recommend if you want a deep dive into the local culture!
Great Tour!
487edriane,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The trip was worth it. Zhenis was an awesome tour guide. In addition, Zhenis convinced us to dip into the hotspring and then ice water and then hot spring because according to him, it’s good for the body. He was right! 😊
Alma Arasan - A peaceful winter escape.
Paradise46558247045,,Dec 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was truly magnificent.. The slopes, the snow and gentle streams create a peaceful and intimate atmosphere that allows you to slow down and simply take it all in.. The air is crisp and clean - the kind that sharpens your senses and instantly calms your thoughts.. Our guide Zhenis made the experience even more memorable. He was warm, friendly and always smiling, while providing excellent information about the area and setting clear expectations. Although it was a short trip , it was an amazing experience and absolutely worth it. Highly recommended for anyone seeking nature , tranquility and well guided escape
A lovely day
BoardingPass802757,,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour with Zhenis..................................................................................................!
Fabulous, 100% recommend
Gerrygerrie,,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a fabulous time with Alma, she is such a great bubbly tour guide with extensive knowledge about the region. She makes you feel so welcomed. Thank you Alma for your time, we really enjoyed ourselves ❤️
A lovely day out in the mountains
joshua0589,,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time with Amal! She was outgoing, knowledagble and friendly; we enjoyed our experience with her! The tour led us to see 2 waterfalls and a hotspring in the Alma-Arasan and Ayusai area. The hot spring is really an experience in itself, worth going for anyone looking to be out in the wild and seeking a stress-free experience.
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Operated by Kazakhstan Guided Tours