Kazakhstan Launches Central Asia’s Largest All-Season Tourism Project Near Almaty
Kazakhstan is embarking on the largest all-season tourism initiative in Central Asia with plans to develop a world-class ski resort near Almaty. The expansive project will stretch from Talgar in the east to Kaskelen in the west, creating an integrated mountain tourism corridor. Ambitious Plans for the Almaty Mountain Cluster The plan for the Almaty Mountain Cluster (AMC) envisions up to 700 kilometers of ski trails, 58 lifts, modern hotels, glamping sites, biking paths, and cable cars. By 2029, the project aims to accommodate up to 34,000 visitors daily and create more than 10,000 jobs, positioning the AMC as the region’s premier year-round destination. International collaboration is central to the project, with concepts presented by global firms including Horwath HTL (U.S.), Stem International (France), and PGI Management (Andorra). French consultant Vincent Tassard stressed the value of year-round tourism and sustainable practices such as renewable energy and digital environmental monitoring. PGI President Joan Viladomat introduced the “Almaty SuperSki” concept, featuring 65 kilometers of trails across the Kok-Zhailau tract and Kumbel peak. Environmental Sensitivities and Renewed Approaches The inclusion of Kok-Zhailau revives a previously suspended development. In 2019, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev halted construction following strong public and environmental opposition. The land was subsequently returned to Ile-Alatau National Park to protect its biodiversity and recreational value. This time, developers promise greater environmental accountability. The AMC’s central zone, including Shymbulak, Butakovka, Kimasar, Oi-Karagai, and Pioneer, will serve as a pilot site for sustainable tourism design. Inclusive Design and Eco-Tourism Expansion The initiative also includes broader improvements to local tourist sites. The Medeu ECO Park concept has been introduced with facilities for family recreation and preserved landscapes. The Gorenlik visitor center and Jumbaq Jol trail are operational, and a suspension bridge, capable of accommodating 10,000 people daily, is slated to open in July. Almaty SuperSki project leader Thomas Tor Jensen highlighted the fact that half of the ski runs will be suitable for beginners and the entire infrastructure will be accessible to people with disabilities. Supporters such as Askar Valiev, Secretary General of the National Ski Association of Kazakhstan, and representatives from ECO Network and PANA ASIA, emphasized the importance of balancing economic goals with environmental protection. Valiev noted that Shymbulak is currently overburdened and in need of upgraded facilities for athletics training. Others stressed the need for transparency, compliance with ecological norms, and safe conditions for the increasing number of tourists. Economic Growth and Government Backing Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov underscored the project's strategic role in Kazakhstan’s modernization efforts. “This project will completely change the economic landscape not only of Almaty but of the entire country,” he stated, asserting that every dollar invested would yield double in tourism revenue. Tourism currently accounts for 3.9% of Almaty’s gross regional product and employs more than 83,000 people. In 2024, the city welcomed over 2.3 million tourists, including 680,000 international visitors. The sector is growing rapidly: tourism revenues rose 30% last year, with tax contributions doubling.
