Almaty plans to increase number of cable cars amid growing tourist flow

The mountains of Almaty have become Kazakhstan’s most popular mountain resort destination. The growing influx of visitors has created a need to expand tourism infrastructure, El.kz reports.

In the first quarter of 2026, the Almaty Mountain Resort Zone welcomed 509,300 visitors. This figure was more than four times higher than the visitor numbers recorded in the Shchuchinsk-Burabay Resort Zone. In terms of the number of guests using accommodation facilities, the Almaty mountain area ranked first nationwide.

Shymbulak is experiencing particularly high visitor pressure. During peak periods, the resort receives up to 15,000 visitors per day, although its estimated comfortable carrying capacity is approximately 6,500 people. This high level of demand has created a need to expand transport routes and visitor flows across the mountain areas.

The number of cableways is planned to increase from 16 to 48. This will connect the most popular recreation areas through an integrated infrastructure network.

Upon completion of the project, the mountain cluster is expected to have a comfortable daily carrying capacity of 30,000 visitors. The plans also include expanding ski runs and developing routes and facilities for year-round recreation.

Transport infrastructure will also undergo significant improvements. Plans include the development of park-and-ride facilities, the introduction of free electric shuttle services and the launch of new public transport routes. Inter-resort cableways are expected to facilitate travel between resorts and reduce visitors’ reliance on private vehicles.

The project also incorporates avalanche protection systems, environmental monitoring, and emergency response and medical facilities. Environmental safeguards will include the protection of water resources, preservation of wildlife migration corridors and measures to minimise the impact of construction activities on mountain ecosystems.

Infrastructure development will also support year-round sports activities. Plans include expanding ski schools, training instructors and creating facilities for mountain biking and hiking. Adaptive sports facilities are also planned at the Pioner resort.

According to project estimates, implementation of the mountain cluster could generate over 15,000 jobs. Hotels, catering businesses, transport operators and sports schools are also expected to benefit from additional economic opportunities. Almaty Tau Academy is expected to be responsible for training qualified personnel for the tourism industry.