Tamgaly-Tas Petroglyphs & City of Nomads Day Tour from Almaty
Explore riverside petroglyphs at Tamgaly-Tas and the nearby film-set City of Nomads on a full-day trip from Almaty. This guided tour mixes geology, Buddhist rock art and contemporary culture with easy walking and scenic drives.
The Experience
Before You Go
Respect the rock art
Do not touch or climb on carved panels; oils and abrasion accelerate erosion.
Sun and wind protection
Bring sunscreen and a windproof layer—the Ili River plain is exposed and can be windy.
Footwear for uneven terrain
Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip for climbing over rocky ledges and river-smoothed stones.
Stay hydrated
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person; bottled water is often provided but bring extras for the walk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kapchagay reservoir viewpoints for sunset reflections on the water
- •The film-set ‘City of Nomads’ across the river — good for contrasting photos and a short stroll
Wildlife
- •Waterfowl such as herons and ducks along the Ili
- •Small steppe mammals and occasional fox tracks on sandy banks
Conservation Note
The petroglyphs are vulnerable to erosion and human abrasion; visitors should stay on marked paths, avoid touching carvings and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Tamgaly-Tas contains Buddhist iconography and inscriptions carved into river cliffs during historic periods when Tibetan-influenced Buddhism passed through the region, later overlaid by nomadic marks and modern graffiti.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on sandstone and uneven river-cliff terrain.
Sun protection (hat/sunscreen)Essential
The open plain offers little shade and sun exposure can be intense.
Light wind shellEssential
Protects against gusts coming off the Ili and sudden temperature drops.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated during the drive and walks; bottled water may be offered but refill options are limited.
Common Questions
How long is the tour from Almaty?
Expect a full-day outing of about 6–7 hours including transport; itinerary lists approximately 420 minutes.
Are the petroglyphs accessible to children and seniors?
Yes, the visit involves short, low-impact walks; supervision for children is recommended near cliffs and river edges.
Is entrance or admission included?
Admission to Tamgaly-Tas is included in the tour as noted in the itinerary.
Can I get picked up from my hotel in Almaty?
Yes — pickup and drop-off options are typically available; confirm pickup point when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Almaty, Almaty Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in light to moderate physical condition; involves short walks on uneven ground
Ready to Explore Almaty?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now