Almaty

Almaty was the long-standing capital of Soviet and then independent Kazakhstan, growing into a garden city at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains.

While its governmental functions have moved, it retains a distinct youthful energy, fusing a deep café culture with hiking trails accessible in minutes, a rare urban blend that offers both city life and alpine wilderness.

Fly into:

• Almaty International ALA

Almaty has an efficient metro system and extensive bus routes, plus ride-hailing apps for city travel. For mountain day trips to Big Almaty Lake or Shymbulak, marshrutkas and shared taxis are readily available. Longer trips to Charyn Canyon or Kolsai Lakes are best by arranged tour or private driver.

Kazakh culture thrives on hospitality, so accept offers of tea or food readily. Taking an evening stroll along Arbat street, the pedestrianized Zhibek Zholy, or through Panfilov Park, is a popular local pastime to observe city life.

Best in Spring

Spring: mild and pleasant around 15-25C, with blooming trees and occasional light rain, perfect for city walks and lower altitude hikes.

• sturdy hiking shoes for mountain trails
• layers for changeable mountain weather
• a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen for high altitude
• a reusable water bottle