Ile-Alatau, Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes National Park as the Top Three Destinations Defining Kazakhstan’s Tourism Growth in 2025

Published on February 14, 2026

Kazakhstan’s tourism landscape is experiencing a remarkable transformation in 2025, with three standout destinations leading the charge. Ile-Alatau, Charyn Canyon, and Kolsai Lakes National Park are not only attracting nature enthusiasts but also redefining the country’s appeal to global travelers. These stunning natural wonders are positioning Kazakhstan as a rising star in eco-tourism, offering visitors awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural experiences. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure and sustainable tourism, these three locations are set to shape Kazakhstan’s tourism future, drawing more visitors and boosting local economies.

In 2025, the region experienced a remarkable surge in foreign tourism, with the number of international visitors reaching 147,003, marking an 8.4% increase compared to the previous year. This growth positioned the region as the third most popular destination in terms of foreign tourists, following the two largest cities, Almaty and Astana. This significant increase reflects the growing appeal of the area, as more and more travelers are drawn to its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and unique attractions.

A closer look at the top tourist spots reveals the region’s natural assets as key drivers of this tourism boom. The Ile-Alatau National Park, a major attraction for nature enthusiasts, saw a staggering 945,993 visitors in 2025. This park, known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vast recreational opportunities, remains one of the most visited spots in the region. It draws tourists not only for its natural beauty but also for its well-maintained trails, stunning views, and activities such as hiking, skiing, and camping.

Similarly, the Kolsai Lakes National Park also attracted a significant number of visitors, with 600,026 people exploring its picturesque lakes and surrounding forests. Known as the “Pearls of the Tien Shan,” the Kolsai Lakes are famous for their stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountain ranges, making it a favorite among those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure. The park’s numerous trails, along with opportunities for boating and fishing, make it a highly sought-after destination for eco-tourists and outdoor lovers.

Another standout attraction is the Charyn Canyon, which experienced a massive surge in visitor numbers, with the number of tourists more than doubling from previous years to reach 249,928 in 2025. Often compared to the Grand Canyon due to its striking, dramatic landscapes, the Charyn Canyon has become increasingly popular as tourists look for unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Its awe-inspiring rock formations, rich geological history, and the presence of wildlife make it an essential part of the region’s tourism offering.

The region’s growing popularity as a tourism hub can also be attributed to its expanding infrastructure and tourism services. The region now boasts 283 accommodation facilities, catering to a wide range of travelers from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury-seeking vacationers. These accommodations, spread across various locations, provide diverse options, including hotels, guesthouses, and resorts, offering visitors a comfortable stay as they explore the region’s attractions.

The volume of services provided in the region reached 12.3 billion tenge in 2025, reflecting a remarkable 50% increase from the previous year. This surge in service provision is indicative of the growing demand for tourism-related services, ranging from accommodation and transport to guided tours and recreational activities. The expansion of services has not only helped meet the growing number of visitors but has also contributed significantly to the regional economy.

Tourism has become a key sector in the region’s economic development, with its share of the regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) standing at an impressive 5.4%. This equates to 198.5 billion tenge, a significant contribution to the local economy. The rise in tourism-related spending has had a ripple effect on various industries, including hospitality, transport, retail, and services, creating jobs and stimulating growth across the region. The increase in tourism revenues has also allowed for the reinvestment into the region’s infrastructure and services, ensuring that the area continues to develop as a prime travel destination.

The region’s tourism growth is not only measured in numbers but also in the increased recognition and reputation it has gained as a leading travel destination. Efforts to improve tourism infrastructure, enhance marketing initiatives, and promote the region’s unique attractions have played a crucial role in attracting both international and domestic visitors. As a result, the region is becoming increasingly well-known on the global tourism map, with travelers from various parts of the world eager to explore its diverse offerings.

Looking ahead, the region is poised for continued growth in its tourism sector. With a well-established base of attractions and a growing portfolio of accommodations and services, the region is in a strong position to capitalize on the increasing demand for travel experiences that combine natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. The rise in foreign tourism, coupled with the expanding infrastructure and services, ensures that the region will remain a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Ile-Alatau, Charyn Canyon, and Kolsai Lakes National Park are driving Kazakhstan’s tourism growth in 2025, offering breathtaking landscapes and fostering eco-tourism, with increased investments in infrastructure and sustainability.

the tourism sector in the region has experienced significant growth in 2025, with foreign tourism increasing by 8.4% and the region ranking third in terms of foreign visitors. The success of attractions like the Ile-Alatau National Park, Kolsai Lakes National Park, and Charyn Canyon, along with the expansion of accommodation and services, has contributed to this growth. Tourism now plays a vital role in the region’s economy, contributing 5.4% to the regional GDP. The future of tourism in the region looks bright, as ongoing investments in infrastructure and services ensure that it will remain a top destination for both international and domestic tourists in the years to come.