Ulytau: Kazakhstan’s New Hub for Sustainable Tourism and Ecological Conservation

Published on December 16, 2025

Kazakhstan is beginning a new period in sustainable development, and the Ulytau region is becoming one of the most prominent areas where both nature protection and tourism are involved. The Ulytau region is renowned for its cultural heritage and is becoming more and more popular as a destination for eco-travelers. As part of the country’s strategy in its pursuit of sustainable development, the Ulytau region is experiencing substantial investments in the promotion of its natural resources, along with the development of the local community.

Ulytau: A Region Rich in Natural and Cultural Heritage

Located in central Kazakhstan, Ulytau is often regarded as the spiritual heart of the Kazakh steppe. Historically significant as the site of political gatherings such as the kurultais (traditional councils) and the emergence of key political traditions, Ulytau is steeped in cultural heritage. The region is also home to some of the country’s most pristine natural landscapes, including mountain-steppe terrains that support a diverse range of flora and fauna. These attributes have made Ulytau a prime location for sustainable tourism initiatives aimed at balancing conservation with local development.

In 2022, Ulytau State National Natural Park was established, covering nearly 59,000 hectares of this picturesque landscape. The park is not only a haven for wildlife and a site of historical importance but also a focal point for tourism development. The creation of the park marked a significant step in Kazakhstan’s efforts to integrate environmental protection with tourism, paving the way for the region to capitalize on its natural beauty and rich cultural history.

A Systematic Approach to Wildlife Conservation and Management

Since the establishment of Ulytau National Park, the region has been developing modern systems to monitor and protect its wildlife and ecosystems. The park is staffed by 73 employees, including 22 state inspectors, who are responsible for monitoring the health of the ecosystem, ensuring the protection of endangered species, and maintaining the park’s infrastructure.

In partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Kazakhstan has introduced cutting-edge monitoring technologies such as SMART systems, camera traps, and drones to improve conservation efforts. These tools allow park officials to track wildlife populations, identify threats to the environment, and respond to incidents swiftly.

The park has also received specialized equipment to support forestry operations and wildfire prevention, ensuring that Ulytau’s landscapes remain preserved for future generations. As part of the ongoing development, landscape planning and environmental assessments will provide additional tools such as vegetation maps, wildlife habitat maps, and land-use recommendations, which will help guide sustainable development while ensuring the protection of natural resources.

Ecotourism: A Key Driver of Local Economic Development

Ulytau’s transformation into a center for sustainable tourism is set to create new economic opportunities for the region, particularly through ecotourism. As the national park expands its tourism offerings, including new tourist routes and tour packages, local communities are beginning to benefit from the growing interest in responsible travel.

The Ulytau region has already seen positive results from the development of its tourism infrastructure. The creation of a travel guide, audio and video guides, and strategic recommendations for tourism development, such as the Ulytau Region Development Plan for 2026–2028, will further boost the local tourism sector. These efforts will provide new avenues for investment, create jobs, and stimulate the rural economy. Sustainable tourism in Ulytau will not only support existing businesses but will also foster entrepreneurship, particularly for women and young people, who are encouraged to participate in training programs focused on tourism, business development, and environmental sustainability.

The collaboration between the UNDP and the Government of Kazakhstan focuses on community engagement, ensuring that local people are included in the benefits of tourism development. Information tours, roundtables, and training sessions are held regularly to help communities develop the skills they need to succeed in the tourism sector. This approach empowers local residents to take an active role in preserving their environment while benefiting from tourism growth.

Preserving Local Culture and Heritage Through Tourism

The tourism development strategy in Ulytau is designed not just to protect the environment but to preserve the local culture as well. The region’s historical significance, including its association with the Kazakh nomadic traditions and the important kurultais, is central to the tourism narrative. By incorporating local customs, traditions, and rituals into the tourism experience, Ulytau is creating a more authentic and enriching travel experience for visitors.

In addition to exploring the region’s landscapes, tourists will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture through festivals, crafts, and culinary traditions. This approach not only enhances the tourist experience but also helps sustain local traditions and cultural practices, ensuring that the benefits of tourism extend beyond economic gain to include cultural preservation.

The Future of Ulytau: A Model for Sustainable Development

Ulytau is emerging as a model for how nature conservation, sustainable tourism, and local economic development can go hand in hand. The ongoing efforts in the region are laying the groundwork for a balanced approach to tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities. By focusing on wildlife conservation, cultural heritage, and community engagement, Ulytau is becoming a beacon of responsible tourism in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

As the region continues to grow as a sustainable tourism destination, the successful implementation of monitoring tools, landscape planning, and local community development initiatives will provide a roadmap for other regions in Kazakhstan and beyond. The collaborative efforts between the government, UNDP, and local communities will ensure that Ulytau remains a thriving, sustainable destination for years to come.

Ulytau as a Gateway to Responsible Travel in Kazakhstan

Ulytau is at the forefront of Kazakhstan’s aim to ensure a sustainable tourism sector in the country and the wider region. With the emphasis on preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the country while at the same time allowing the communities to derive benefits from tourism, Ulytau is indeed the future of tourism. With the rise of tourism in Kazakhstan, the example set by Ulytau is indeed one that needs to be followed if sustainable tourism is to happen in the whole of Central Asia.