Kazakhstan launches Central Asia’s largest year-round mountain tourism project
Multi-billion dollar Almaty Mountain Cluster to feature 700 km of ski trails, eco-tourism sites, and global sustainability partnerships
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Kazakhstan has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop the largest all-season tourism corridor in Central Asia, centered around a world-class mountain resort near Almaty. The project, known as the Almaty Mountain Cluster (AMC), will span from Talgar in the east to Kaskelen in the west, transforming the region into a year-round destination for recreation and ecotourism.
According to The Times of Central Asia, the AMC will include up to 700 kilometers of ski trails, 58 lifts, modern hotels, glamping areas, biking paths, and cable cars. Scheduled for completion by 2029, the project is expected to accommodate 34,000 daily visitors and generate over 10,000 jobs.
International firms from the U.S., France, and Andorra are involved in designing the project. Notably, French tourism expert Vincent Tassard emphasized sustainable practices such as renewable energy use and digital environmental monitoring. Joan Viladomat, president of PGI Management, introduced the “Almaty SuperSki” concept, which will feature 65 kilometers of interconnected ski runs.
A key feature of the plan includes the revival of Kok-Zhailau, a previously controversial site. Development in the area was suspended in 2019 after then-President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev halted construction amid strong environmental opposition. The land had been returned to Ile-Alatau National Park for protection.
This time, developers have pledged a more environmentally responsible approach, with the AMC’s core area—including Shymbulak, Butakovka, Kimasar, and Oi-Karagai—serving as a testing ground for sustainable design.
New eco-tourism infrastructure includes the Medeu ECO Park, the Gorenlik visitor center, and the Jumbaq Jol trail. A suspension bridge capable of hosting up to 10,000 visitors per day is set to open in July. Thomas Tor Jensen, the SuperSki project’s lead, noted that half the ski runs will be beginner-friendly and all facilities will be disability-accessible.
Supporters of the project stress the importance of environmental safeguards. Askar Valiev, Secretary General of Kazakhstan’s National Ski Association, highlighted the overuse of existing sites like Shymbulak and the need for upgraded training facilities. Representatives from ECO Network and PANA ASIA echoed calls for transparency and adherence to ecological standards.
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov has framed the project as a strategic component of Kazakhstan’s broader economic modernization. “This project will completely change the economic landscape not only of Almaty but of the entire country,” he said, projecting that each dollar invested could return double in tourism revenue.
Tourism currently contributes 3.9% to Almaty’s gross regional product, employing over 83,000 people. In 2024, more than 2.3 million tourists visited the city, including 680,000 from abroad. Revenue in the sector grew by 30% last year, with tax contributions doubling.
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