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Kazakhstan is making headlines in the travel sector, particularly through its stunning Almaty mountain resort. The country is rapidly strengthening its reputation as a premier destination for travelers in Central Asia. In the first quarter of 2026, Almaty emerged as the unrivaled tourism hotspot, attracting over 509,000 visitors from January to March. This staggering figure positions Almaty well ahead of rival resort areas, showcasing a surging interest in year-round mountain tourism.
Recent statistics have brought Kazakhstan tourism, Almaty tourism, and the allure of mountain resorts into focus. Data from the Bureau of National Statistics reveals that Almaty recorded nearly five times the number of visitors compared to Shchuchinsk-Borovoe, the second most visited resort area in the country. This cemented Almaty’s reputation as a leader in Kazakhstan’s evolving travel landscape.
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The Almaty mountain resort area has shifted beyond its traditional winter sporting identity, offering a broad range of activities that attract visitors year-round. Rather than depending solely on winter skiing, the region has successfully diversified its offerings to encompass a fully integrated year-round tourism destination. The region’s appeal has resulted in 509,000 visitors in just three months, reinforcing its position as Kazakhstan’s most frequented tourist site.
This impressive influx of visitors, about four and a half times greater than Shchuchinsk-Borovoe, showcases Almaty’s strength within the national tourism sphere. The diversification of activities available in Almaty has not only increased its attractiveness but also established a long-term competitive edge in tourism.
While Almaty shines brightly, several other regions have also made notable contributions to Kazakhstan’s tourism sector at the start of 2026. According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the Shchuchinsk-Borovoe area welcomed an estimated 116,700 visitors during these months, securing its spot as the second most popular destination for travelers seeking lakeside recreation and natural experiences.
Completing the list of top destinations are Mangistau, Turkistan, and Altay, each of which enriches Kazakhstan’s tourism portfolio with unique attractions, further distributing visitor interest throughout the region.
The Almaty mountain resort area’s allure extends beyond domestic travelers; it is also a prime destination for international tourists. In the first quarter of 2026, over 131,000 foreign visitors chose to stay in accommodations within the area. This represented nearly 95 percent of all international tourists visiting Kazakhstan’s recognized resort locales during this period. Almaty’s growing global reputation, robust accommodation options, and accessibility have made it the top choice for travelers looking to explore Kazakhstan.
Looking back to the previous summer, tourism figures revealed that Almaty continued its upward trajectory. From April to September 2025, the resort area attracted approximately 1.6 million visitors, accounting for more than 54 percent of the total tourist count in Kazakhstan. Notably, Shchuchinsk-Borovoe and Mangistau saw visitor numbers of around 295,000 and 255,000 respectively during the same period, further underlining Almaty’s dominance.
The success of Almaty is attributed to its transformation into a year-round leisure destination. Traditionally reliant on winter sports, the region now features extensive tourism infrastructure and diverse activities that draw visitors every season. Facilities have expanded their offerings beyond winter and remain operational throughout the year, hosting outdoor adventures suitable for any climate.
Summer brings comfortable weather, encouraging tourists to explore Almaty’s natural beauty while engaging in a variety of activities. Hundreds of hiking trails introduce adventurers to breathtaking mountain vistas, while cable cars continue to operate beyond ski season, providing stunning views for sightseeing. With opportunities for cycling, swimming, and wellness activities, the Almaty mountain resort area caters to families and luxury travelers alike.
Adventure tourism is on the rise, with glamping accommodations allowing for immersive nature experiences without sacrificing comfort. An increasing array of outdoor activities transforms conventional sightseeing into active holidays, broadening Almaty’s appeal to a wider range of visitors. This evolution supports various age groups and travel preferences, contributing to longer stays and diverse tourist demographics.
The accessibility of Almaty’s mountain resorts is another key factor in their rising popularity. Located just a few hours by road from major urban areas, these destinations are ideal for domestic travelers on short breaks. Easy travel arrangements facilitate frequent visits, making mountain recreation an attractive option paired with urban experiences for families and independent tourists.
Kazakhstan’s national tourism strategy is progressing successfully, with continuous investment in infrastructure, accommodations, and recreational activities enhancing its competitive position in Central Asia’s tourism market. The diversification beyond conventional sightseeing invites visitors to explore adventure, culture, and wellness, leading to more immersive experiences.
With the record-breaking 509,000 visitors in early 2026 and over 131,000 international tourists staying in Almaty, Kazakhstan is on the forefront of a tourism boom. The appeal of other regions like Shchuchinsk-Borovoe, Mangistau, Turkistan, and Altay showcases the country’s diverse tourism landscape. Enhanced recreational options, contemporary leisure facilities, and growing international recognition indicate that Kazakhstan is on track to establish itself as one of Central Asia’s most exciting travel destinations.
Source: The post Kazakhstan Leaves Central Asia Behind as Almaty Crushes Shchuchinsk-Borovoe, Mangistau, Turkistan and Altay in Record Tourism Boom first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
