Almaty's Mountain Tourism Revolution: A 700km Trail Network and 10,000 New Jobs

Almaty Unveils Ambitious Mountain Cluster Development Plan: 700km of Trails and 10,000 Jobs Promised Almaty, Kazakhstan – The government of Kazakhstan has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Almaty's mountain region into a major tourism hub. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov recently reviewed the master plan, which includes the construction of up to 700 kilometers of new trails, spanning from Turgen to Kaskelen. This significant infrastructure project aims to boost the region's economy and create over 10,000 jobs. "This project is not just about expanding tourism; it's about creating opportunities for the people of Almaty," stated a government official involved in the project. The plan also focuses heavily on enhancing summer tourism with the addition of hiking trails, glamping sites, and cycling routes. The Almaty SuperSki project, a key component of the master plan, will encompass the Kumbel and Kok-Zhailau areas, offering over 65 kilometers of ski slopes, with half dedicated to beginner skiers. The upgrade will also increase lift capacity from 16 to 58, significantly improving the daily visitor capacity from 6,000 to 34,000. The emphasis on environmental sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity underscores the government's commitment to responsible tourism development. The successful implementation of this plan promises to establish Almaty as a leading destination for mountain tourism in Central Asia.