Kazakhstan Unveils Bold Plan to Ignite Tourism Growth with High-Impact Kok Zhailau Gorge Development Near Almaty

Published on May 24, 2025

Almaty is set to transform Kok Zhailau Gorge into a premier tourism hub, driving growth and positioning Kazakhstan as a key global destination for travelers.

Kazakhstan’s mountain skiing landscape is on the cusp of a major transformation, with significant plans to develop new resorts and enhance infrastructure, particularly in the Kok Zhailau Gorge area. Professional skiers in Kazakhstan face substantial challenges due to overcrowding at current ski resorts, which limits their ability to train effectively. This problem underscores the need for modern, purpose-built facilities that can accommodate the demands of both athletes and international competitions.

One of the central projects under consideration is the development of Kok Zhailau Gorge, a prime location for a sustainable tourism initiative. The goal is to create a state-of-the-art ski resort that is mindful of the region’s natural environment. This approach is aimed at attracting international tourists while ensuring that local athletes have the training infrastructure they need to succeed on the world stage.

Another critical aspect of the plan involves linking the nearby ski resorts of Shymbulak and Oi Qaragai, creating a seamless network of ski areas that would form a cohesive Almaty ski cluster. This interconnected resort system would not only offer greater options for both leisure skiers and professional athletes but also solidify Almaty’s status as a premier ski destination. The development would also include smaller resorts located between Shymbulak and Oi Qaragai, further expanding the region’s appeal.

A central element of this vision is the Almaty Superski initiative, a bold proposal to develop a vast resort stretching from Kumbel Peak to the Kok Zhailau Gorge. The proposed ski tracks would cover over 65 kilometers, significantly expanding Almaty’s ski offerings. This expansion is expected to create more than 5,000 new jobs in areas ranging from construction to tourism, providing a substantial boost to the local economy. Beyond creating job opportunities, this project aims to enhance Almaty’s reputation as a world-class destination for winter sports.

Almaty’s tourism sector has already shown impressive growth, with the city welcoming over 2.3 million visitors in 2024, including more than 680,000 international tourists. This surge in tourism was accompanied by a 30% increase in the volume of tourist services and a doubling of tax revenues from the sector. These figures highlight the potential for tourism to become a key driver of economic growth in the region, reinforcing the need for large-scale infrastructure investments like the Almaty Superski resort.

In addition to these major developments, the plans for expanding the ski infrastructure also include the creation of more than 35 kilometers of ski tracks designed specifically for beginner skiers. This move aims to make the sport more accessible to newcomers, offering a safe and welcoming environment for those just starting out. By catering to skiers of all skill levels, the initiative reflects a growing interest in winter sports throughout Kazakhstan and encourages greater participation in the sport.

The overarching goal of these initiatives is to establish a ski resort network that not only meets the demands of the international ski community but also promotes sustainability. The projects will integrate the latest in eco-friendly technology and practices, ensuring that environmental conservation is a priority alongside development. This combination of modern facilities and environmental stewardship will position Almaty as a leading destination for both professional athletes and recreational skiers.

With these new resorts, expanded infrastructure, and a commitment to sustainability, Almaty is on track to become a key player in the global ski market. The proposed developments promise to offer more options for both tourists and athletes, solidifying the city’s place as one of the most sought-after winter destinations in Central Asia.

As Kazakhstan continues to invest in tourism and infrastructure, the local economy is expected to benefit from the creation of thousands of new jobs and a significant increase in tourism revenue. The combined growth of the tourism and winter sports sectors will position Almaty as a regional leader in winter sports tourism.As these innovative projects progress, Kazakhstan is set to establish itself as a premier destination for skiing and tourism, promising a promising future for both global travelers and local athletes.