Hiking Tour

Issyk Lake with Bear Waterfall Tour

5.0(15 reviews)
1 dayEasyPrivate tourEN · RU · KZ
Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Duration 17 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English, Russian

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5.0/515 reviews
5
CW
Clara Whitmore
November 18, 2025

November 2025 • Solo

This was one of the most refreshing day trips I did from Almaty. The short hike to Bear Waterfall was very enjoyable and gave the morning a nice active start without being too difficult. Later, Issyk Lake felt completely different — calm, wide, and incredibly photogenic. I liked that the tour combined movement and relaxation in one day. It never felt rushed, and the scenery throughout the route was beautiful.

5
EN
Ethan Navarro
October 17, 2025

October 2025 • Couple

A really well-balanced excursion. The waterfall section added a bit of adventure, while Issyk Lake gave us the quiet, scenic atmosphere we were hoping for. The contrast between the forested gorge and the open lake views made the whole day much more interesting. We also appreciated that the drive back was comfortable after a full day outside. A very good option for anyone who wants nature without anything too extreme.

5
MS
Marina Solberg
September 16, 2025

September 2025 • Friends

We had a lovely day on this tour. Bear Waterfall was not huge, but the hike there was fun and the setting in Turgen Gorge made it feel worth it. Issyk Lake was the real visual highlight for me — the water color changed depending on the light, and the mountain backdrop was stunning. The route had a nice rhythm and felt well planned from start to finish.

5
JM
Julian Mercer
August 19, 2025

August 2025 • Business

I joined this tour during a short work trip and it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable parts of my stay in Kazakhstan. The walk to the waterfall was light and manageable, and the later stop at Issyk Lake was exactly the kind of peaceful alpine scenery I was hoping to see. It is a long enough day to feel substantial, but still relaxed enough to enjoy comfortably. Very worthwhile.

5
SL
Sofía Lindström
July 18, 2025

July 2025 • Couple

This trip gave us a very nice mix of activity and scenery. We started with the forest and rocky path toward Bear Waterfall, then later reached the lake, which had a much calmer and more open feeling. I liked that both places were different in character, so the day never became repetitive. Issyk Lake was especially beautiful in person and much more impressive than I expected from the photos.

Detailed itinerary

09:00 - 09:30

Pick-up and departure from Almaty (Exact pick-up time will be informed a day before the tour)

Trip to Turgen Gorge

Short hike to Bear Waterfall, enjoying the scenery, photographing

Departure from the Gorge

Stop for lunch in a local restaurant (not included)

Trip to Issyk Lake

Issyk Lake, enjoying the scenery, walking, and photographing

Departure from the Lake

Road back to the city

18:00 - 19:00

Drop-off in Almaty

Highlights

  • Issyk Lake
  • Ili-Alatau mountains
  • Turgen Gorge
  • Bear Waterfall

Full description

  • Start your day with a refreshing hike into Turgen Gorge to see the beautiful Bear Waterfall and enjoy the mountain views. After lunch, visit the stunning Issyk Lake, where the water shifts from turquoise to deep blue, set against the backdrop of the Ili-Alatau mountains. You’ll have time to take amazing photos and soak in the scenery. Our guide will show you the best spots and share interesting facts along the way.

Includes

  • Guide service
  • Transportation along the route
  • Main itinerary stops
  • Basic trip coordination

Not suitable for

  • Pregnant women
  • People with back problems
  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

and departure from Almaty (Exact pick-up time will be informed a day before the tour)

Important information

Know before you go
  • Bring your passport or ID card
  • Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
  • Cash is useful for personal purchases outside the program
  • Mobile signal may be unstable in remote locations
from
$235.00/ person
Free cancellation

Select travelers, date and language

For tourists

Clear answers, policies, and travel recommendations.

Which vehicles are used during the tour?

For groups of up to 6 travelers, we use reliable off-road SUVs such as Toyota Tundra, Land Cruiser, Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Patrol. For larger groups (7+ people), we provide specially prepared off-road vans and minibuses, including Dodge Caravan, Hyundai Starex and Mitsubishi Rosa, ensuring comfort and safety on all routes.

Is internet access available during the trip?

Mobile internet coverage depends on the region and terrain. However, our team is always available — you can contact our managers 24/7, including weekends and nighttime, or visit our office for a personal consultation.

Can I go horseback riding during the tour?

Yes! We offer a flexible and personalized approach to every traveler. Horseback riding can be included upon request, depending on the selected route and season.

Is vegetarian or special food available?

Absolutely. Vegetarian meals and other dietary preferences can be arranged — just let us know in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, our tours are family-friendly and suitable for children. We adapt routes and activities to ensure comfort and safety for travelers of all ages.

Can I download the tour route?

Yes. We provide an interactive digital map with all key locations and attractions included in your tour itinerary.

I’m traveling solo — can I join a group?

Of course. We can include solo travelers in existing group tours or arrange participation in a private tour, subject to availability and group consent.

How does payment work?

We accept bank transfers, cryptocurrency, and secure online payment methods for your convenience.

Can I customize or change the tour program?

Yes. Our tours are flexible, and changes to the itinerary are possible upon request.

Issyk Lake with Bear Waterfall Tour | Kazakh Travel