On September 26, the Left Bank Complex in Ust-Kamenogorsk hosted the annual TourEast ALTAI tourism festival, dedicated to World Tourism Day. The event, with Kazzinc as its main sponsor, reached an international level, bringing together tourism industry representatives, experts, athletes, and guests from nearly 20 countries.
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Foreign delegates from 17 countries began their acquaintance with the region by visiting the unique ethno-village, which features the traditional houses of East Kazakhstan's ethnic groups. As a gesture of friendship and the development of tourism ties, the international delegation planted memorial trees in the park of the Left Bank Complex.
From Investments to a Large-Scale Exhibition Special attention at the festival was given to the business program. According to the Department of Tourism and Investments of the East Kazakhstan Region (EKR), experts at the dialogue platform discussed the exchange of international experience, legislative improvements, and government support measures for businesses. The attraction of investments for building ski resorts, five-star and wellness hotels, as well as pantotherapy (antler therapy) facilities, was discussed as a separate topic.
In parallel, a large-scale exhibition zone unfolded, bringing together 20 specialized companies. Participants from the Altai Krai of the Russian Federation and Mongolia, along with local tourism industry representatives, showcased their tourism potential. The natural wealth of the region was presented by the West Altai and Markakol Nature Reserves, as well as the Katon-Karagay National Park.
Tour operators, hotels, and recreation bases presented their unique products, services, and accommodations. Among them were the Hyatt hotel, the Zarechye eco-hotel, Altay Mountain Resort, and companies such as Voyage, Altay-Pro.kz, Drivejeepkz, and KatonKaragay Tour. Organizers of helicopter tours, Adventure VKO, and river cruises, BELALEX, also demonstrated their capabilities.
Active Recreation and Family Activities A rich sports program was prepared for the city's residents. Outdoor enthusiasts could familiarize themselves with modern camping gear, try their hand at orienteering, and receive recommendations on how to prepare for hiking trips.
One of the most popular areas was the zone for young tourists, where the Antares club organized a family quest and a tourist obstacle course. Children navigated stages designed to test their agility and speed while learning the basics of hiking preparation.
"It is really great that the festival has a separate program for children. It's interesting for a child not just to watch, but to try passing the obstacles themselves, learn something new, and feel like a real tourist. Such events unite the whole family," shared Askhat Zhumabayev, a local resident.
At the gastronomic platform, guests could taste honey superfoods from the MEDOVAYA MARKA brand and herbal teas from Katon-Karagay, as well as participate in a tea-and-honey ceremony.
The festival concluded on the main stage with a solemn award ceremony. Winners of the regional competition in specialized categories and citizens who have made a significant contribution to the development of tourism were presented with well-deserved awards and letters of appreciation.
(Prepared using materials from the press service of the Akim of the East Kazakhstan Region).