Almaty cracks down on mountain tourism after deadly hiking surge
Mountain tourism around Almaty is booming, but rising numbers of unprepared hikers have led to more accidents. Authorities are now planning stricter safety measures, including a registration system for mountain routes. The move follows a tragic death on Molodezhny Peak and growing concerns over inexperienced climbers relying on social media for guidance. A young man recently died while climbing Molodezhny Peak alone, lacking proper training. The incident has highlighted the dangers of amateur mountaineering, particularly among teenagers and inexperienced groups influenced by online trends.
Rescuers urge hikers to take basic precautions before heading into the mountains. They recommend informing relatives of their plans, checking weather forecasts, and carrying essentials like first-aid kits, power banks, and warm clothing. Understanding navigation is also critical, as many accidents occur due to poor preparation. The problem extends to unqualified guides operating through social media. Many overestimate their skills, leading groups without proper safety knowledge. Dussali, a local expert, advises beginners to join certified clubs or training programmes instead of relying on online advice. To improve safety, authorities have digitised over 1,000 kilometres of mountain trails. Nearly 850 kilometres now feature navigation signs, rest areas, and safety infrastructure. Despite these upgrades, the expansion of tourism into remote areas has made proper preparation even more vital. In response, Almaty’s government is working with the Department of Emergency Situations and the Almaty Mountaineering Federation. They plan to introduce a mandatory registration system for tourists entering mountain routes. The goal is to reduce accidents and streamline rescue operations.
The new registration system aims to track hikers and enhance rescue coordination. With more trails opening and tourism growing, authorities hope stricter oversight will prevent further tragedies. Experts continue to stress the importance of training and proper equipment for anyone venturing into the mountains.
