A three-day expedition in our specially equipped off-road vehicles across the Almaty region to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Descending from the mountains through Kokpek Pass
After eventful days in the mountains, we begin our journey back through Kokpek Pass. Along the way, the landscape constantly changes—majestic canyons, red cliffs, and winding gorges unfold before us. This is a great chance to take final photos and enjoy the stunning views of Almaty Region once more. After the descent, we stop in a nearby village for dinner, where you can choose from over 20 types of lagman before returning to Almaty.
Reach the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Our journey continues higher—to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai, hidden among the mountain ridges. Few people know the way here—a high-altitude plateau concealed within the Zailiysky Alatau.
The ascent requires effort, but the views from the top are worth every turn. Alpine meadows, rugged slopes, and towering peaks—this is nature at its most powerful. It’s the perfect place to pause, take in the mountain energy, and capture images that can’t be replicated.
Set up camp by the Zhenishke River
In a secluded valley, where the crystal-clear Zhenishke River flows through the mountains, we set up camp. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the water, listen to the night wind rustling through the trees, and enjoy dinner by the fire. As night falls, we witness a starry sky unlike anywhere else—no city lights, just millions of shimmering constellations.
Cross the vast Asy Plateau
Endless open spaces stretch beyond the horizon. Here, the sky feels closer than the earth, and the wind carries the scent of alpine meadows. In the distance, herds of grazing horses can be seen. We cross the plateau on a steppe road, feeling the vehicle glide effortlessly over the even terrain. Every bend in the landscape reveals new views—from rolling valleys to panoramic peaks of the Zailiysky Alatau.
Ascend into the mountains through Turgen Gorge
We embark on a journey through Turgen Gorge, one of the most scenic places in the Zailiysky Alatau. A narrow, winding road climbs up, weaving between rocky cliffs and dense coniferous forests. Below, the Turgen River, originating from glaciers, rushes down the gorge with its fast-flowing waters.
Tour Itinerary
Tour Organization
3 days
2 nights
Age: 12 to 60 years
Group size: up to 12 people
Medium difficulty level
Transfer from Almaty
Official tour operator
Tourist Comfort
Prepared and comfortable off-road vehicles
Experienced mountain guide-instructor
Field meals
Tourist equipment provided
Overnight stay in comfortable tents
3500 meters above sea level
Throughout the tour, we will stay above 2,500m, with the highest point reaching 3,500m above sea level. To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend pre-acclimatization—take a hike in the Almaty mountains or visit Shymbulak beforehand. Mountain weather is unpredictable—🌞 bright sun, 🌧 rain, 🌫 fog, 💨 wind, and in early summer, even ❄ snow and hail are possible.
Mountain off-road tour from Asy Plateau to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Tour duration
3 days and 2 nights
Secret Plateau
An uncharted route
Day One
Departure from Almaty and journey through Turgen Gorge – forested slopes, fast-flowing rivers, and the first mountain passes.
We cross the Asy Plateau at an altitude of 2,500m, enjoying panoramic views. Then, we turn into a gorge and descend to the Zhenishke River.
Alternative route: If Kyzyl Auz Pass is inaccessible, we descend via the Bartogay Reservoir.
Setting up camp, dinner by the fire. A starry sky, mountain silence, and fresh air make this evening special.
Day Two
Breakfast and pack-up. Today, we ascend to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai.
The drive takes 3–5 hours, gradually climbing to 3,500m – landscapes become more majestic, alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks appear. Photo stops at the best scenic points.
Camping at 2,800m, just steps away from one of the most breathtaking views of a mountain river valley. The clear sky, full of stars, provides perfect conditions for Milky Way photography.
Day Three
A relaxed morning in the mountains – no rush, just the serenity of nature. Breakfast, packing up camp, and beginning our descent.
Retracing our route, descending via Kokpek Pass. Changing landscapes – steppe terrain replaces alpine meadows. We make several scenic stops before returning to Almaty, bringing home new emotions and unforgettable memories.
Mountain Off-Road Tour with photosafari-travel
An off-road adventure – traveling the roads that lead to the most breathtaking corners of the Alatau mountains. Every detail has been carefully planned to surprise you and make every moment of the journey comfortable and unforgettable.
Tourist Comfort
Prepared and comfortable off-road vehicles
Experienced mountain guide-instructor
Field meals
Tourist equipment provided
Overnight stay in comfortable tents
Tour Organization
3 days
2 nights
Age: 12 to 60 years
Group size: up to 12 people
Medium difficulty level
Transfer from Almaty
Official tour operator
Day-by-Day Itinerary
For three days, we will explore the mountains of Almaty Region, traveling by off-road vehicle across the Asy Plateau, mountain passes, and valleys. We will camp by the Zhenishke River and ascend to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai, reaching 3,500m altitude.
Upcoming Tours
Seasonal off-road expeditions – join the next tour through the mountains of Almaty Region, Kazakhstan.
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Mountain off-road tour
Three-day expedition to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Dates to be confirmed
Limited spots available
Accommodation & Tour Price
Two nights in modern tents
We have ensured a comfortable rest, and you will sleep in modern tents. Accommodation is based on double occupancy, with an optional single-occupancy upgrade.
Tour Conditions
What’s Included in the Tour Price
🚙 Transportation – travel in our specially equipped off-road vehicles.
🏕 Camping accommodation – tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and cot.
🍽 Meals – three meals a day in field conditions.
🗺 Guide – an experienced guide who knows the route.
🔥 Camping equipment – campfire gear, tables, and chairs.
📸 Photos & videos – pictures from the journey for participants.
⚕ First-aid kit – essential medical supplies.
🏕 Camping accommodation – tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and cot.
🍽 Meals – three meals a day in field conditions.
🗺 Guide – an experienced guide who knows the route.
🔥 Camping equipment – campfire gear, tables, and chairs.
📸 Photos & videos – pictures from the journey for participants.
⚕ First-aid kit – essential medical supplies.
What’s Not Included
❌ Lunch at a café on the way back – paid separately.
❌ Flight to Almaty – if you are traveling from another city.
❌ Travel insurance – arranged individually at your discretion.
❌ Personal expenses – souvenirs, extra purchases on the road or at stops.
❌ Flight to Almaty – if you are traveling from another city.
❌ Travel insurance – arranged individually at your discretion.
❌ Personal expenses – souvenirs, extra purchases on the road or at stops.
Important Information
🚙 Off-road tour – the trip is conducted in our prepared vehicles; no personal car needed.
⚠ Food preferences – if you have dietary restrictions, inform us in advance.
📡 No cell service – mobile signal and internet are unavailable along the route.
🚫 No stores or pharmacies – bring everything you need with you.
🌦 Mountain weather – expect sudden temperature changes, rain, snow, or hail.
🎒 Packing list – check the full list of required items via the link.
🏔 Altitude 3,500m – acclimatization is recommended before the tour.
⚠ Food preferences – if you have dietary restrictions, inform us in advance.
📡 No cell service – mobile signal and internet are unavailable along the route.
🚫 No stores or pharmacies – bring everything you need with you.
🌦 Mountain weather – expect sudden temperature changes, rain, snow, or hail.
🎒 Packing list – check the full list of required items via the link.
🏔 Altitude 3,500m – acclimatization is recommended before the tour.
When embarking on a journey, feeling well-rested is essential. A good night's sleep, a hearty meal, and time to recharge make the world around you brighter and your mood better.
We strive to provide maximum comfort and care for our guests. Our team has carefully designed the service to surprise you and make every moment of the trip enjoyable.
We strive to provide maximum comfort and care for our guests. Our team has carefully designed the service to surprise you and make every moment of the trip enjoyable.
Tour Team
Photosafari-travel
We, the Photosafari team, are a family of road enthusiasts and true adventurers, exploring uncharted paths and discovering new horizons. Each of our journeys is imbued with the spirit of adventure and the atmosphere of expeditions.
Over 16 years of travel across Unexplored Kazakhstan and remote corners of the world, we have captured tons of unique material, including videos that have brought Kazakhstan’s beauty to the global stage.
Over 16 years of travel across Unexplored Kazakhstan and remote corners of the world, we have captured tons of unique material, including videos that have brought Kazakhstan’s beauty to the global stage.
Ekaterina Koshko
Co-Founder of Photosafari.kz
Konstantin Kikvidze
Co-Founder of Photosafari.kz
Konstantin Ludanov
Guide, Administrator, Driver
Why choose Us
Comfort & Experience
Forget boring tours – we create unique photo journeys with comfort, well-planned routes, and a focus on your emotions.
We Take Care of Everything
We arrange transfers, meals, accommodation, drinking water, and more to ensure a comfortable experience for every participant.
Safety & Health
Your safety and well-being are our priority at every stage of the journey, including excursions and accommodations.
Unique Programs
We design exclusive itineraries for adventure lovers, sharing our expertise and creating unforgettable experiences.
Payment & Guarantees
Choose a convenient payment method. In case of unforeseen circumstances, we guarantee a refund.
Total Immersion
An exciting adventure among majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and wild forests.
Booking and Payment Process
Booking
The tour price is listed in USD. Payment is made according to the exchange rate of the National Bank of Kazakhstan on the day of payment. To reserve a spot in the tour, submit an application and make a 50% prepayment.
Contract
Once you confirm your participation, we issue an invoice for the prepayment and sign a contract. We value our reputation and always fulfill our commitments.
Guarantees
In case of route closure to the Secret Plateau, travel restrictions, or cancellation of transportation services, we guarantee the transfer of your deposit to any other trip or a full refund.
Off-road Tour Price
The price includes off-road vehicles, meals, and comfortable camping
Off-Road Tour to the Secret Plateau of Taban-Karagai
Adult
18+ years old
Per person
400 $
Corporate jeep tours to the secret plateau of Taban-Karagai
Conquering mountain passes together, camping under the starry sky, and embarking on an off-road expedition as a team – the perfect teambuilding experience.
Photosafari-Travel organizes corporate jeep tours tailored to your team’s needs, ensuring comfort, safety, and unforgettable adventures.
Photosafari-Travel organizes corporate jeep tours tailored to your team’s needs, ensuring comfort, safety, and unforgettable adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Almaty
We start our journey early in the morning from Almaty in our specially equipped off-road vehicles, setting off on a three-day jeep tour to the secret plateau of Taban-Karagai.
Ahead lie mountain passes, the Asy Plateau, steppe roads, and the untouched nature of the Zailiysky Alatau.
Ahead lie mountain passes, the Asy Plateau, steppe roads, and the untouched nature of the Zailiysky Alatau.
Moscow
How to Get from Moscow to Almaty
✈ Airplane: Direct flights ~4h 10m. Tickets from ₽13,000.
🚆 Train: With transfers, ~2d 23h. Tickets from ₽8,000.
🚌 Bus: With transfers, ~2d 20h. Tickets ₽7,500–11,000.
🚗 Car: ~54h drive, 3,968 km.
✈ Airplane: Direct flights ~4h 10m. Tickets from ₽13,000.
🚆 Train: With transfers, ~2d 23h. Tickets from ₽8,000.
🚌 Bus: With transfers, ~2d 20h. Tickets ₽7,500–11,000.
🚗 Car: ~54h drive, 3,968 km.
How to Get from Karaganda to Almaty
✈ Airplane: Direct flights from 1h 50m. Tickets from $45.
🚆 Train: From 12h 51m. Tickets from ₸5,421 (reserved seat), ₸9,626 (compartment).
🚌 Bus: From 15h 44m to 16h 39m. Tickets from ₽8,339.
🚗 Car: About 14h 20m drive, 996 km.
✈ Airplane: Direct flights from 1h 50m. Tickets from $45.
🚆 Train: From 12h 51m. Tickets from ₸5,421 (reserved seat), ₸9,626 (compartment).
🚌 Bus: From 15h 44m to 16h 39m. Tickets from ₽8,339.
🚗 Car: About 14h 20m drive, 996 km.
Karaganda
Astana
How to Get from Astana to Almaty
✈ Airplane: Direct flights from 1h 45m. Tickets from ₸19,430.
🚆 Train: From 16h 6m. Tickets from ₸6,084 (reserved seat), ₸10,626 (compartment).
🚌 Bus: About 20h. Tickets from ₸11,770.
🚗 Car: About 17h drive, 1,210 km.
✈ Airplane: Direct flights from 1h 45m. Tickets from ₸19,430.
🚆 Train: From 16h 6m. Tickets from ₸6,084 (reserved seat), ₸10,626 (compartment).
🚌 Bus: About 20h. Tickets from ₸11,770.
🚗 Car: About 17h drive, 1,210 km.
Starting the journey in Almaty
Our jeep tour begins in Almaty, the main tourist hub of Kazakhstan. Flights or train tickets to Almaty are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. Our team can assist you in selecting convenient travel options to ensure you arrive in time for the expedition's start.
The jeep tour from Almaty to the Secret Plateau is a three-day adventure in our specially equipped off-road vehicles through the Zailiysky Alatau. You’ll traverse mountain passes, the Asy Plateau, steppe roads, and wild landscapes inaccessible to regular tourists.
🚙 Ascent through the Turgen Gorge – a scenic route through forests and rivers.
🏞 Crossing the Asy Plateau – vast open spaces with wild horses and nomads.
⛺ Overnight stay by the Zhenishke River – a camp under the starry sky, the perfect spot for a photo tour.
🗺 Trip to the Secret Plateau in Taban-Karagai – unique terrain and untouched wilderness.
🏔 Descent via Kokpek Pass – panoramic views of the mountains and steppes.
📸 For photographers and bloggers – breathtaking shots.
⛰ For travelers – a real expedition full of adventure.
👉 Full itinerary available here
🚙 Ascent through the Turgen Gorge – a scenic route through forests and rivers.
🏞 Crossing the Asy Plateau – vast open spaces with wild horses and nomads.
⛺ Overnight stay by the Zhenishke River – a camp under the starry sky, the perfect spot for a photo tour.
🗺 Trip to the Secret Plateau in Taban-Karagai – unique terrain and untouched wilderness.
🏔 Descent via Kokpek Pass – panoramic views of the mountains and steppes.
📸 For photographers and bloggers – breathtaking shots.
⛰ For travelers – a real expedition full of adventure.
👉 Full itinerary available here
The group is limited to 12 participants, so we recommend booking in advance – spots fill up quickly!
The mountain climate is unpredictable: expect rain, snow, wind, and sudden temperature drops. Be prepared for high-altitude conditions (up to 3,500m), with no cell service or stores along the route.
Throughout the tour, we will remain above 2,500m, with the highest point reaching 3,500m. To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend pre-acclimatization – take a hike in the Almaty mountains or visit Shymbulak before the tour.
Packing List:
📌 Clothing & Footwear:
⚠ Food preferences – if you have dietary restrictions, let us know in advance.
📡 No cell service – there is no mobile signal or internet throughout the route.
🏔 Altitude 3,500m – acclimatization is recommended before the tour.
📃 Download the full packing list here
Throughout the tour, we will remain above 2,500m, with the highest point reaching 3,500m. To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend pre-acclimatization – take a hike in the Almaty mountains or visit Shymbulak before the tour.
Packing List:
📌 Clothing & Footwear:
- Warm layers (down jacket, fleece, thermal wear, hat, gloves).
- Protection from wind & moisture (waterproof jacket, pants, raincoat).
- Comfortable footwear (trekking boots, camp shoes).
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm.
- Insect repellent.
- Personal first-aid kit (no stores or pharmacies on the route).
- Flashlight, power bank, camera, binoculars.
- Water bottle or mini thermos.
⚠ Food preferences – if you have dietary restrictions, let us know in advance.
📡 No cell service – there is no mobile signal or internet throughout the route.
🏔 Altitude 3,500m – acclimatization is recommended before the tour.
📃 Download the full packing list here
The tour price includes:
🚙 Transportation – travel in our off-road prepared 4x4 vehicles.
🏕 Camping accommodation – includes tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and cot.
🍽 Meals – three daily meals prepared in the field.
🗺 Guide – an experienced guide who knows the route.
🥾 Tourist equipment – campfire gear, tables, and chairs.
📸 Photos & videos – pictures from the journey for participants.
⚕ First-aid kit – essential medical supplies.
🚙 Transportation – travel in our off-road prepared 4x4 vehicles.
🏕 Camping accommodation – includes tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and cot.
🍽 Meals – three daily meals prepared in the field.
🗺 Guide – an experienced guide who knows the route.
🥾 Tourist equipment – campfire gear, tables, and chairs.
📸 Photos & videos – pictures from the journey for participants.
⚕ First-aid kit – essential medical supplies.
Photosafari Tours
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Equipment Provided by the Organizer
Tent: 2-person and 3-person tents available.
Sleeping bag: Bringing your own is welcome.
Sleeping bag liner.
Foam sleeping mat (8–12 mm thick).
Clothing for Camp and Sleeping
Clothes for relaxing at the camp (pants, shirt, shorts, T-shirt, thermal underwear for sleeping).
Warm sweater or hoodie (fleece or wool).
Warm hat (fleece or wool).
Headwear (cap or wide-brimmed hat).
Footwear
Waterproof shoes (rubber boots, military boots, or high boots; rubber is preferred).
Sneakers or trekking boots.
Spare shoes for the camp.
Additional Accessories
Gloves (cotton gloves are suitable).
Socks (2–3 pairs of cotton socks and 2 pairs of wool socks).
Windproof and waterproof clothing, raincoat.
Equipment
and Tools
Sunglasses.
Headlamp.
Water bottle (preferably with a carabiner).
Portable seat (foam mat).
Personal utensils (plate, spoon, mug).
Camera or video camera (optional), spare battery.
Hygiene
and Health
Toiletries (lip balm, sunscreen, towels, shampoo, soap).
Personal medications (a basic first-aid kit will be provided by the guide).
Clothing for Activities
Comfortable clothing for horse riding and hiking (lightweight, quick-drying pants, long-sleeved shirt or T-shirt, windbreaker).
Warm jacket (synthetic or down). Remember, the weather can be unpredictable.
Transportation and Storage
Backpack or travel bag.
Small pouches or garbage bags for organizing and protecting items.
Heavy-duty polyethylene bags with a volume of 160–180 liters (for extra protection against dirt).
Personal Items Checklist
Before heading out on the tour, we recommend consulting your doctor, especially if you have chronic illnesses or other health concerns. This will help avoid unpleasant situations and ensure a more comfortable trip.
Packing List
For Clients
Tours
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