The bridges on the direct route are currently missing. xBike takes the long detour via Assy Plateau and Don-Zhailau, which requires experienced riders. After the bridges are restored, the guide will inspect the direct route and reassess the level. Until then, Kairak is not a first ride.
Turgen Gorge begins roughly 90 km east of Almaty. The Bear Waterfall is close to the road, while the route to Kairak continues deep into spruce forest and takes a full day. Bridges, fords and the dirt road can change after floods and heavy rain, so an old trail report is not a guarantee of access. Check with Ile-Alatau National Park before an independent hike. Before an xBike tour, the guide checks the route and changes the programme if conditions are unsafe.
At a glance
- A regular car can reach the lower part of Turgen Gorge.
- Kairak is much farther than the Bear Waterfall, along a forest road and riverside trail.
- Rain brings mud, wet roots and deeper fords.
- The Kairak tour is a full-day ride rated 5 out of 10 (experienced riders) and priced at KZT 55,000.
How to get there
From Almaty, follow the Kuldja road to Turgen and continue up the gorge. The route to the popular lower stops is straightforward; farther up, the surface turns to dirt. Save an offline map because reception is unreliable in the forest. The river is fast and cold, so do not improvise a crossing where a bridge is damaged or missing.
Photo from xBike rides. Exact location is unverified.
What the photo archive shows
The trip is more than one waterfall viewpoint. Reaching the upper section means a long forest track, loose stones and sustained climbing. Several valleys open from the high points, but cloud can hide the ridges within minutes.
Photo from xBike rides. Exact location is unverified.
A high viewpoint on 27 May 2026; mountain weather differs from the forecast for Almaty
Riding an electric bike
An electric bike reduces the effort of a long climb, but it does not remove the rider's job. Wet rock, ruts and water call for steady throttle, body position and a clear line. The group receives a briefing, then the guide sets the pace and chooses the safe passage.
The tour programme includes a bike, helmet, protective equipment, guide and transfer. Its published difficulty is 5 out of 10 (experienced riders), although the same ground can become harder after a downpour. If a section is unsafe, the team does not promise to reach a specific point at any cost.
FAQ
Can I hike to Kairak? That depends on the current trail, bridges and water level. Ask the national park for a fresh update and never enter a fast channel without a safe established crossing.
When is the best time to go? The usual window runs from late spring to early autumn. Spring has more water and harder fords; summer storms can quickly turn the track to mud.
Is the tour suitable for a beginner? Not while the bridges are missing: off-road experience and stamina are required. If you have never ridden, start with training and an easy guided ride. Learn the controls, get comfortable on dirt and work towards Kairak and more demanding routes. Your guide helps choose each next step based on your skills.
How much does it cost? The published price of the Kairak tour is KZT 55,000 per person. The date and route condition are confirmed before payment.
Can I combine Kairak with the Assy Plateau? The bridges on the direct Kairak route have been washed away. The programme including the waterfall goes via Assy and Don-Zhailau and currently requires experience. Once the bridges are restored, the guide will inspect the route and reassess its difficulty. For a first ride without experience, start with training and an easy route.
