Trekking in Katon Karagai national park

🏞️TREKKING IN KATON-KARAGAI NATIONAL PARK

Embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure through the heart of the Altai Mountains in eastern Kazakhstan. Explore rugged trails, interact with nomadic communities, and immerse yourself in one of the wildest corners of Central Asia.

📌QUICK FACTS

🧭 Tour Type: Cultural & Adventure

📅 Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

📍 Location: East Kazakhstan (Altai Mountains)

🏞️ National Park: Katon-Karagai

🌤️ Best Time: May to October

🚶‍♂️ Hiking Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging

🏕️ Accommodation: Hotels & Tents

🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner, water (3 bottles/day), Besbarmaq dinner

✈️ Domestic Flights: Included (Almaty ↔ Uskemen)

👥 Group Size: 1–16+

✨TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

🏔️ Trek across the Altai Mountains—Kazakhstan’s most scenic and remote region

🌿 Explore Katon-Karagai National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

🐏 Visit nomadic settlements and experience authentic Kazakh culture

🔭 Enjoy sweeping views of Mt. Belukha (4,506 m)

🌌 Camp under the stars in pristine wilderness

🦅 Spot wildlife like ibex, marmots, and golden eagles

🍽️ Taste traditional Kazakh dishes, including Besbarmaq

🏕️ABOUT KATON-KARAGAI NATIONAL PARK

Katon Karagai National Park is situated in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, near the border with China and Russia. It covers a substantial area in the Altai Mountains region. The park is known for its location in the Altai Mountains, a range that spans across Kazakhstan, Russia, Mongolia, and China. The Altai Mountains are characterized by their rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and pristine landscapes.

🥾HIKING PACE & DIFFICULTY

🕓 Hiking Time: 5–7 hours/day

🏞️ Terrain: Mountainous, rocky trails, river crossings

🧗‍♂️ Elevation Gain: Up to 3,200 meters

💪 Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

🚶‍♀️ Fitness Level: Good physical condition required

❓FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

🧭 Do I need prior trekking experience?

Yes. This tour is best for travelers with previous hiking experience.

🐎 Are pack animals provided?

Yes. Horses or porters will carry group equipment—only a daypack is required.

🌤️ What’s the weather like?

Mild days (10–25°C), chilly nights (can drop below 0°C at altitude).

🏕️ Where will we sleep?

Tents during the trek and hotels in Almaty and Uskemen.

📵 Is there phone signal?

Signal is unreliable or nonexistent during the trek.

🧍 Can I travel solo?

Absolutely! Solo travelers can join a group or request a private tour.

🎒WHAT TO BRING

🥾 Waterproof hiking boots (broken-in)

🧥 Rain & windproof jacket + pants

🧣 Layers (base, fleece, insulated jacket)

🧢 Hat, gloves, sunglasses

🛏️ Sleeping bag (3–4 season)

🎒 Daypack (25–35L)

💡 Headlamp + spare batteries

🧴 Sunscreen & personal hygiene kit

💧 Water bottle or hydration system

🔋 Power bank

🩹 Personal first aid kit

KARAGAI NATIONAL PARK TOUR PACKAGE PRICE

Group size	1 pax	2-3 pax	4-6 pax	7-9 pax	10-12 pax	13-15 pax	More than 16 pax
Price/Per person	2850$	2200$	2190$	2180$	2170$	2160$	2150$

No	Include service	Exclude service	Include service of Meals
1	Vehicle with a driver.	Items of personal nature	Lunch, Dinner
2	English speaking guide	Beverages, alcoholic drinks, bar bills, laundry	Per day 3 bottle water for per person /1,5 liter/
3	Airport shuttle	Travel and insurance	One time Kazakh traditional food /Bes barmaq/
4	Lunch, Dinner	International transportation
5	Museum tickets.	Taxi
6	Accommodation/Tourist camps and Hotel/	Optional activities
7	Domestic flight tickets	Single supplement /For Hotel or Tourist camp/
8		Gratuity for the tour team

TREKKING IN KATON KARAGAI NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

Welcome to Almaty, the gateway to your exciting trekking adventure! Upon your arrival, a comfortable transfer will take you to your hotel, providing a welcoming space to check-in and unwind after your journey.

Take the opportunity to rest and recharge, preparing for the upcoming trekking expedition. Later, engage in a briefing session with your experienced trekking guide. During this informative meeting, you'll receive essential details about the trek, safety guidelines, and any additional information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

As the anticipation builds, get ready to embark on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes that await you. Your trekking adventure begins here in Almaty, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Kazakhstan's natural beauty.

Distance	Route	Drive time	Accommodation	Food
n/a	n/a	n/a	Hotel	Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Almaty to Katon-Karagay National Park

Embark on the next leg of your trekking adventure with a flight from Almaty to Uskemen city, followed by a scenic drive to the pristine wilderness of Katon-Karagay National Park.

Upon your arrival in the park, be welcomed by local trekking guides who will accompany you on this immersive journey. Begin the trek towards the first campsite, where the beauty of nature unfolds with each step. The trail introduces you to the diverse landscapes, from lush meadows to dense forests and pristine rivers.

As you reach the chosen campsite, set up camp amid the natural splendor, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness. The night in this tranquil setting promises an authentic connection with nature, allowing you to rest under the starlit sky and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead in Katon-Karagay National Park.

Distance	Route	Drive time	Accommodation	Food
n/a	n/a	n/a	Tourist camp	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3-10: Trekking Exploration

Embark on a series of daily trekking excursions that promise to unveil the diverse landscapes of Katon-Karagay National Park. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders as you trek through lush meadows, traverse dense forests, and follow the course of pristine rivers.

The journey extends beyond the bounds of nature, providing opportunities to visit local nomadic settlements and engage with the warm hospitality of the Kazakh people. Witness their traditional way of life and share in cultural exchanges that add depth to your trekking experience.

Marvel at the stunning views of the Altai Mountains, where every vantage point reveals a new facet of the majestic scenery. Each day, set up camp in different locations within the park, offering a unique perspective and connection with the surrounding wilderness.

These daily trekking excursions promise not only physical adventure but also a cultural immersion and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that defines Katon-Karagay National Park.

Distance	Route	Horce riding duration	Accommodation	Food
25km	Mountain road	5 hours	Camping/Tent/	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Return to Almaty

Conclude your exhilarating trekking tour in Katon-Karagay National Park and embark on a journey back to Almaty, bringing with you the memories of the diverse landscapes and cultural encounters.

Upon your return to Almaty, check into your hotel, providing a comfortable haven to relax and reflect on the experiences of your trekking adventure. Whether it's unwinding in the comforts of your accommodation or relishing the vibrant atmosphere of Almaty, this marks the end of your trekking expedition.

As evening falls, you have the option to explore Almaty further, discovering its cultural sites, indulging in local cuisine, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through its charming streets. This optional exploration offers a fitting conclusion to your journey, allowing you to immerse yourself once more in the vibrant energy of Kazakhstan's largest city.

Distance	Route	Drive time	Accommodation	Food
n/a	n/a	n/a	Hotel	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Departure

Embrace a leisurely free time, granting you the flexibility to indulge in last-minute shopping, explore Almaty's charming corners, or simply savor the ambiance of the city at your own pace.

As the day unfolds, relish the opportunity to gather any souvenirs or mementos that capture the essence of your time in Almaty. Whether it's local crafts, traditional treasures, or unique finds, this free time allows you to curate a collection of memories from your journey.

Later, a convenient transfer will be arranged to take you to the airport, ensuring a seamless and stress-free departure. Bid farewell to Almaty, carrying with you the echoes of its beauty, the warmth of its culture, and the fulfillment of a remarkable trekking adventure in the heart of Kazakhstan.