Three days of waterfalls, high alpine pastures, Scythian history and two nights of riverside glamping east of Almaty. Expect jeep tracks to 2,600 m, guided hikes to Kairak and Bear falls, and close encounters with nomadic life on the Assy plateau.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the minivan where the road thins and the Trans-Ili ridge opens—pine and spruce crowd the valley, the Turgen River daring you to follow its roar upriver. A suspension bridge hums underfoot to the Trekking Club camp, lights in safari tents like quiet beacons against the dark. Over three days the landscape shifts from museum-dotted lowlands to high alpine meadows where yurts puncture the skyline.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (72 hours)
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; able to manage walks of 3–6 hours and short uneven terrain at altitude.
Wildlife
History
The King’s Valley contains Scythian kurgans (IX–III BC); one burial inspired the ‘Golden Man’ national symbol discovered near Issyk.
Conservation
The route passes through Ile-Alatau protected areas; the Trekking Club emphasizes low-impact glamping and local employment to reduce visitor footprint.
Reserve your spot on the 3-Day Nomadic Adventure: Turgen Falls, Assy Plateau & Glamping today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize gradually
Spend your first day taking it easy—altitudes on the Assy plateau reach ~2,600 m, so hydrate and avoid heavy exertion on arrival.
Sturdy footwear
Trails to Kairak and Bear waterfalls can be wet and rocky; ankle-supporting boots will keep you sure-footed.
Sun protection at altitude
UV intensity increases with elevation—bring a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen for plateau stops.
Respect nomadic land
Ask before photographing herders or their yurts and avoid disturbing grazing animals and archaeological sites.
Waterproof hiking boots
Provide traction and ankle support on wet, rocky trail sections to waterfalls.
Layered clothing (softshell + fleece)
Mornings and evenings are cold while midday can warm quickly at elevation.
Daypack with 2–3L water capacity
Keeps hydration, snacks, camera, and a light rain layer within reach during hikes.
Sun protection kit (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
High-elevation sun can be intense—protect skin and eyes during plateau visits.
summer