The mountains and steppe around Almaty are extraordinarily accessible. The Ile-Alatau National Park begins at the city's southern edge; Sharyn Canyon — the red-rock gorge often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia — is three hours east; and Tamgaly's UNESCO-listed petroglyphs are two and a half hours northwest. Most sites are reachable in a day without an overnight stay.
Organised day tours operate from the city for most major destinations. Alternatively, shared taxis (marshrutki) serve many routes at very low cost, though schedules can be irregular. A private taxi or rental car gives the most flexibility.
