Mountain Guides Propose Solutions for the Development of Almaty SuperSki

A meeting was held between Yerzhan Yerkinbayev, Chief Executive Officer of Private Company "Kazakh Tourism Development Ltd.", professional mountain guides and representatives of the mountaineering community to discuss the development of the Almaty SuperSki project.

The participants discussed the development of hiking trails, safety and navigation, the accessibility of mountain infrastructure, preservation of the natural environment, and the creation of modern visitor services.

The participants also proposed preserving the natural character of mountain trails by using environmentally friendly signposts, avoiding markings directly on rocks, and concentrating improvements primarily in areas where they are necessary for safety.

One of the key topics was the establishment of a structured network of hiking trails. Yulia Akkulova, a representative of the Association of Mountain Guides, noted that hiking tourism in Almaty has significant potential, but currently lacks properly developed trails, navigation, and basic infrastructure. "Navigation systems and trail markings need to be introduced, especially in areas where safe and clearly defined access is currently unavailable."

Kazakhstani mountaineer Maksut Zhumayev proposed developing an integrated hiking infrastructure, comprising signposts, footbridges, weather shelters, rest areas, and links to emergency rescue services.

"An integrated infrastructure for hiking routes is needed - signposts, footbridges, covered rest shelters, and communication with rescue services. It is also important to create a single platform consolidating information on routes and opportunities for tourists and guides. A certification system for mountain guides and hiking trails should be developed, taking into account safety requirements and environmental standards. Certified guides should also be granted free access to national parks and cableways." Yerzhan Yerkinbayev supported the proposal.

Kazakhstani mountaineer and coach Yervand Ilyinsky noted that infrastructure development would make the mountains more accessible to a broader range of residents and tourists.

"If we expand recreational opportunities, prices will fall and more people will be able to access the mountains." At the same time, in his view, increased visitor numbers should be accompanied by the development of rescue infrastructure and improved mountain safety.

Yuri Schneidmuller, a representative of the Coordination Council of the Ile-Alatau State National Nature Park, noted that visitor numbers in the Almaty mountains have already increased substantially; therefore, the objective is not to restrict access, but to manage it effectively.

"Mass tourism is already a reality. Preserving nature would require fencing it off, which is naturally impossible. The task is to manage visitor flows properly and create infrastructure that enables people to visit the mountains safely."

In this context, Almaty SuperSki is viewed as a foundation for the development of year-round mountain infrastructure - not only for winter recreation, but also for hiking, trekking, and other activities throughout the year.

Following the meeting, Yerzhan Yerkinbayev noted that the professional community's proposals would be taken into account during the further development of the Almaty SuperSki project. The parties agreed to continue structured dialogue with mountain guides and experts through the Almaty Club, headed by Yervand Ilyinsky.

Yervand Ilyinsky - a Kazakhstani mountaineer and coach who has summited Mount Everest and trained an entire generation of Kazakhstani mountaineers. He has received state decorations, including the Order of Otan, and has been awarded the title of "Hero of Labour of Kazakhstan".

_ Background information: Kazakh Tourism Development Ltd. is a private company registered in the Astana International Financial Centre. It was established to implement priority tourism projects aimed at developing year-round tourism infrastructure. Its primary objective is to build a modern and sustainable tourism ecosystem that meets international standards and supports socio-economic growth._