Day Hiking Tour to Kairak Waterfall in Turgen Gorge from Almaty

A full-day guided hike from Almaty through the forested Turgen Gorge to the 55-meter Kairak Waterfall — the tallest waterfall in the Ile-Alatau National Park.

What to expect on the Turgen Gorge & Kairak Waterfall hike

The Turgen Gorge Kairak Waterfall hike is one of the most rewarding day trips you can take from Almaty. Starting 80 km east of the city in the Ile-Alatau National Park, the trail follows the crystal-clear Turgen River through ancient Schrenk spruce forests, across flowering meadows, and over 11 wooden bridges — all without any steep ascents or technical sections. At the end of the 8 km path, you’re met with the thundering cascade of Kairak Waterfall plunging 55 meters down a rock face it has carved over thousands of years. The name “Kairak” comes from the Kazakh word for grindstone — fitting, as the river has essentially sharpened its way through solid rock.

This hike works well for most fitness levels. The trail gains only about 430 meters in elevation over 8 km one way, with a gradual and steady incline along the old national park road. The terrain is dirt path and forest trail — no scrambling, no exposure, no river crossings without bridges.

Detailed Itinerary

Drive from Almaty to Batan (2 hours)

We pick you up early morning from your hotel, hostel, or apartment in Almaty. The drive heads east along the highway past Issyk town, then turns south into the Turgen valley. After passing the national park gates (entry fee included), the paved road continues for about 20 km through the lower gorge — you’ll catch glimpses of the Turgen River far below and dense forest climbing the slopes. The road ends at Batan, a small forestry settlement at the confluence of the Turgen and Kishi-Turgen rivers (approximately 1,700 m above sea level). This is where we lace up and start walking.

Forest trail along the Turgen River (2.5–3 hours)

From Batan, the trail follows what was once planned as a national park road — until a mudflow washed out the main bridge years ago. Now it’s a wide, well-trodden hiking path that gently climbs alongside the Turgen River. The first few kilometers run through mixed forest: Schrenk spruce, ash shrubs, and mossy undergrowth endemic to this part of the Tien Shan. The forest floor is thick and green, carpeted with moss and ferns.

You’ll cross 11 wooden bridges over the river and its tributaries. Some are sturdy, some are charmingly weathered — all of them are perfectly functional. Between the bridges, the path passes through open meadows full of wildflowers, dragonflies, and butterflies in summer. The sound of rushing water is constant.

After about 7 km, you reach a large clearing at the confluence of the Turgen and Kairak rivers. Here we turn left and follow the Kairak River upstream for the final kilometer through a dense spruce grove.

Kairak Waterfall (30–40 minutes)

The waterfall reveals itself suddenly, just around the last bend. Kairak is the largest of the seven waterfalls in Turgen Gorge: a powerful cascade dropping over 55 meters across three tiers of rock. The volume of water is impressive year-round — the falls are fed by glaciers high in the mountains and never dry out completely, not even in winter.

There’s a viewing platform near the base of the lower cascade, and a path climbs to a rocky outcrop above that gives a wider view of all three tiers. We spend 30–40 minutes here for photos, a snack, and just taking in the spectacle. The mist from the falls keeps the surrounding area cool even on hot summer days.

Return hike to Batan (2 hours)

The way back follows the same trail. Downhill is noticeably easier and faster. With the afternoon light filtering through the forest canopy, the return hike has a completely different atmosphere than the morning ascent.

Drive back to Almaty (2 hours)

We return to the vehicles at Batan and drive back to Almaty, arriving in the early evening. On the way, depending on the group’s interest, we can make a short stop at the Bear Waterfall (Medvezhiy) — a 30-meter falls that’s only a 20-minute walk from the road.

FAQ: Turgen Gorge & Kairak Waterfall

How hard is the Kairak Waterfall hike? The trail is rated 2 out of 5 for difficulty. There are no steep climbs, no scrambling, and no river crossings without bridges. It’s suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness who can walk 16 km over 5–6 hours.

Can children do this hike? Older children (roughly 10+) who are comfortable walking 8 km handle it well. For younger kids, the Bear Waterfall in the lower gorge is a better option — it’s only a 1.5 km walk from the road.

Do I need hiking boots? Trail runners or sturdy walking shoes with good grip are fine. Full hiking boots aren’t necessary unless you prefer ankle support. Avoid sandals or fashion sneakers — the trail has rocky and muddy sections.

Is the waterfall accessible year-round? The waterfall itself flows year-round. However, the hiking trail is only practical from May to October. In winter, deep snow and icy conditions make the 8 km trail unsuitable for casual day-hiking.

What wildlife might I see? The Turgen area is home to deer, wild boar, lynx, and various bird species. Brown bears are present but extremely rare — sightings happen mainly in early spring. You’re far more likely to see butterflies, dragonflies, and marmots.