On my journey to discover the Almaty Region, I met a Swiss family during an unexpected stopover in Istanbul. They were returning home to Kyrgyzstan, but their faces lit up when I mentioned my destination. Almaty, just a four-hour drive from Bishkek, had become their favourite spot for family weekends. They described it as the perfect destination for children, with plenty of activities to keep young travellers entertained. Whether you’re coming from nearby regions or further afield – New Delhi is only three hours away, while Seoul is just five hours by air – Almaty is the ideal getaway for families looking for a short holiday packed with fun.
And with Kazakhstan’s recent expansion of direct flights to Europe, getting there from cities like Brussels, less than seven hours away, has become even easier. Direct routes to Vienna, Budapest, and Riga are also set to increase, making Almaty even more accessible for families.
1. Nature at your doorstep
Almaty’s natural landscape is awe-inspiring, particularly for families who love spending time outdoors. The city sits at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains, providing endless opportunities for adventure without straying far from urban comforts.
Kok Tobe is a great place to start. Accessible by cable car, the ride itself is an exciting experience for children – especially if they’re not afraid of heights! – with panoramic views of the city unfolding beneath them. At the top, there’s plenty to explore – a mini-zoo, playgrounds, and amusement rides keep the kids entertained, while parents can relax at nearby cafés, taking in the stunning mountain peaks.
For winter enthusiasts, Medeu Ice Rink offers a unique family experience – skating at the world’s highest outdoor rink, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Even the children will be thrilled by the sheer novelty of it.
In the summer, the nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort transforms into a family-friendly hiking destination. The cable car rides offer easy access to breathtaking mountain views, and the trails are perfect for children to explore the fresh mountain air. Parents and kids alike can enjoy the adventure of hiking or even mountain biking along paths suitable for younger adventurers.
2. A cultural adventure
While Almaty is a paradise for outdoor activities, its cultural side offers equally rich experiences that appeal to all ages. The city is steeped in history, from its connection to the ancient Silk Road to its deep-rooted Kazakh nomadic heritage. This blend of history and tradition, alongside modern life, makes Almaty a captivating place for families to explore together.
A perfect example of this balance is Panfilov Park, a lush green space ideal for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. At the heart of the park stands the Zenkov Cathedral, a striking wooden structure that has withstood the test of time – and earthquakes. Walking through the park, children can run around, while parents appreciate the beauty and historical significance of this remarkable building.
For a livelier experience, a visit to the Green Bazaar is a must. The market’s vibrant mix of colours, scents, and sounds create a sensory adventure for the entire family. Kids will love exploring the stalls filled with fresh fruits, spices, and local snacks, while parents can hunt for unique souvenirs or stock up on local delicacies. It’s a place where the traditional market atmosphere comes to life, offering a glimpse into everyday Kazakh life.
Dining out in Almaty is just as easy and enjoyable for families. The city’s restaurants serve both local Kazakh specialities and more familiar international dishes, making it easy to find something everyone will enjoy. Traditional favourites like beshbarmak – Kazakhstan’s hearty national dish of meat and noodles – are perfect for sharing after a day of exploration.
And if you want to take your family’s cultural immersion a step further, a visit to the Nomad Ethnic Centre is the perfect way to experience Kazakhstan’s nomadic past.
3. The nomad ethnic centre
Despite my initial concerns that the Nomad Ethnic Centre might feel too touristy, it has managed to maintain its authentic charm. Set in the open air at the foothills of Ushkonyr in the Almaty region, the centre offers a true immersion into the traditional culture of the Kazakh nomads. It feels like stepping back in time, with history brought to life in a way that guests can not only watch but actively engage with.
Owned and run by a local family, the atmosphere is warm and genuine, more like a cultural exchange than a typical tourist attraction. Children will be captivated by the sight of golden eagles, both trained and wild, soaring above as they hunt, while the Kazakh warriors on horseback—clad in armour weighing up to 25 kilos—provide a striking glimpse into centuries-old nomadic traditions.
What sets this experience apart is the family’s deep love for what they do. Rather than offering standard performances, the family members compete against each other in traditional games and sports, showcasing their skills in horse riding, archery, and the fast-paced game of Kokpar—Kazakhstan’s version of polo, once played with a goat carcass. Their enthusiasm is infectious, making the re-enactments of historical battles and competitions feel vibrant and personal.
Moreover, children can also sample baursak – a local fried dough treat – while parents might test their taste buds with kumis, fermented horse milk. Much like Marmite, kumis can be an acquired taste, but it’s a fun way to introduce children to new and unfamiliar flavours from Kazakhstan’s nomadic traditions.
4. Nature and exploration: Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes
For families who love the outdoors, a trip to Charyn Canyon is essential. Known as Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon, this natural wonder is just a three-hour drive from Almaty. Along the way, you’ll pass fields of wheat, barley, and small villages dotted with grazing cattle, painting a quintessential Kazakh landscape.
As you approach the Canyon, the terrain becomes rugged and dramatic. Stark hills and cliffs emerge, and the region’s rich history of mineral resources, including tungsten and rare earth metals, adds depth to the experience. It’s not only a scenic drive but also a chance to introduce children to the natural resources and geological features of Kazakhstan.
Upon arrival, the sheer scale of Charyn Canyon will leave children wide-eyed. The towering rock formations and the awe-inspiring beauty of the canyon make it the perfect place for easy family hikes. The trails are well suited for younger children, giving them plenty of space to explore, run around, and engage with nature, all while introducing them to the world’s ancient landscapes.
A visit to the Kolsay Lakes is a more serene experience, but equally magical. Nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains, these three alpine lakes are surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, creating the ideal setting for a family getaway, away from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re up for a hike with the kids or prefer a laid-back picnic by the water, this is the perfect family retreat. The gentle trails and serene atmosphere make the lakes accessible for children, and there’s plenty of space to run around, explore, or even dip their toes in the clear water. For a more adventurous experience, camping by the lakes is an unforgettable way to bond as a family. The nearby luxury resorts are also a great option for families who prefer modern comforts while still being close to nature.
And don’t worry about the long road trips! The well-maintained roads leading to these beautiful spots, along with gas stations that offer food, restaurants, and clean toilets, make the journey much more comfortable for families travelling with children.
5. Where to stay: family-friendly options
When it comes to accommodation, those who enjoy nature, have the option of camping near Charyn Canyon or the Kolsay Lakes, a fantastic way to immerse your family in Kazakhstan’s great outdoors. If you’d prefer a more comfortable stay, the luxury resorts around the lakes offer family-friendly amenities and the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
As I explored the area, I couldn’t help but imagine how perfect it would be to organise yoga retreats, spiritual escapes, or even Sufi-inspired journeys at the new guesthouse near Charyn Canyon. Surrounded by nature, with the tranquil sound of the river nearby and the vast open sky above, this setting is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the land and with themselves. Whether it’s a family holiday or a retreat to recharge, the peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to reconnect.
6. Kazakhstan: Always an adventure
As the Swiss father said to me when we parted ways, “It’s always an adventure to visit Almaty.” His words couldn’t have been more accurate. Almaty is a destination where both children and parents can find joy in the same experiences, each for their own reasons. From the thrill of riding the cable car to Kok Tobe, to the wonder of skating at Medeu, to the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Charyn Canyon and the peaceful serenity of the Kolsay Lakes, every moment in Almaty and its region feels like an adventure.
