How to get to Altay

When planning a trip to Altay, situated in the picturesque north of China, you are choosing a destination renowned for its breathtaking scenery. This city serves as a gateway to the region's amazing natural treasures, where snow-capped mountain peaks stand side by side with spacious valleys.

Discovering how to get to Altay is quite simple. You can fly here using the local airport or arrive by train and bus, enjoying the views along the way. Travellers here will find a peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to take a break from the bustle of big cities in the lap of nature.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is by air. The region is served by Altay Airport (AAT), which handles flights connecting this corner of the country with major transit hubs. The terminal is located close enough to the city limits, allowing tourists to begin exploring local beauties immediately upon arrival without unnecessary complications or long transfers.

If suitable direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider alternative routes through neighbouring settlements. The nearest airport to the destination is in Burqin County, located approximately one hundred kilometres away. Another option is flying via Fuyun, which is slightly further. When choosing alternative airports, it is recommended to plan logistics and transportation to Altay itself in advance.

Travelling to Altay by rail is a convenient and scenic way to reach the northern part of the region. The city has its own railway station that receives passenger trains, so tourists will not have to build complex routes with mandatory transfers to intercity buses in neighbouring districts. A train journey allows you to comfortably cover the significant distances characteristic of this area.

The most popular connection links Altay with the city of Urumqi. Modern trains operate on this route, including night expresses, allowing travellers to save daytime hours for excursions. Travel time varies, but the long journey is compensated by the opportunity to observe the changing landscapes outside the carriage window. Upon arrival at the station, you can reach the city centre or your hotel using taxi services or local transport.

Bus services connect Altay with neighbouring tourist hubs, opening up opportunities for comfortable exploration of the region. A trip from the picturesque city of Burqin will take only about one and a half to two hours, as the distance between points is just over 100 kilometres. If you are travelling from Fuyun County, the journey of about 250 kilometres will require approximately 3–4 hours, which will fly by unnoticed while contemplating the changing mountain landscapes.

For those planning a complex cross-border route, a service from the Mongolian city of Olgii is available. This journey is significantly longer and can take up to 7–8 hours, taking into account the time for customs procedures at the border of the two states. Upon arrival at the central bus station, tourists easily find local transport to get to hotels and rest after the road.

Travelling by car across northern China is an excellent way to see the region's wild nature in all its glory. The most popular short route runs from the city of Burqin: a distance of about 110 kilometres can be comfortably covered in 1.5–2 hours. The road from Fuyun County will take more time—approximately 3.5 hours, during which you will drive about 240 kilometres along picturesque highways.

There is also the possibility of reaching Altay from the Mongolian city of Olgii, but this cross-border transfer requires careful planning and extra time. Taxis are available in the region, but for long-distance trips, it is more profitable and convenient to arrange with private drivers or book a transfer in advance. The quality of the road surface on main highways is high, making the trip easy even for those not accustomed to local roads.

A trip to Altay promises to be an unforgettable adventure in northern China, where nature amazes with its grandeur. To ensure your trip is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations considering local specifics.

1. Clothing and Gear: The climate in the region is sharply continental. Winters here see severe frosts, so a high-quality down jacket, thermal underwear, and warm footwear are mandatory. In summer, it can be hot during the day, but evenings often bring coolness—a windbreaker or fleece jacket will be useful even in July.
2. Transport: To move around within the city, it is convenient to use taxis, which are inexpensive. However, the main natural beauties are located outside the city limits, so for long trips to lakes or mountains, it is better to hire a car with a driver or join an organised tour.
3. Finances: International Visa and Mastercard cards are not accepted everywhere. The most reliable payment method is through Alipay or WeChat Pay apps, to which you can link a foreign card. Also, always keep a supply of cash Yuan with you, especially when travelling to remote areas.
4. Health and Well-being: The city is safe for tourists, but the high-altitude sun and dry air can cause discomfort. Be sure to use sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Pharmacies are available, but it is better to translate the names of necessary medicines into Chinese in advance and save them as images.
5. Language Barrier: English is practically not used here. It is vital to download an offline translator on your smartphone that can translate voice and text from images (menus, signs). This will become your main tool for communicating with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: The region is inhabited by representatives of various nationalities with their own traditions. Behave modestly and respectfully. It is customary to remove shoes when entering a home. If you wish to photograph local residents, be sure to ask for permission first.
7. What to Avoid: Do not drink raw tap water—buy bottled water. Also, avoid planning itineraries with "tight" timing: distances here are vast, and weather conditions or document checks on the roads may delay you on the way.
8. Documents: Your passport is your main companion. It will be required not only when checking into a hotel or buying train tickets but may also be needed at checkpoints when leaving the city or entering national parks.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid domestic inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the picturesque valleys and snowy peaks of this unique region.