NATURAL POTENTIAL FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTHERN ALTAI (KAZAKHSTAN)

Abstract

The mountain regions incorporate some of the major ecosystems of the Earth. They also include most significant mineral, natural, agricultural and touristrecreational resources. A complex regionally-specific geographic evaluation is prerequisite for assessment of a perspective tourism development in a particular mountain area. The Southern Altai mountain system, being a part of the East Kazakhstan administrative district, is known worldwide for its unique natural as well as cultural heritage found across all the geographic and geomorphic zones of the territory. Its unquestionable touristic-recreational attractiveness reflects the unique natural – both geomorphic and biodiversity – characteristics, including orographic, hydrological, climatic, mineral and soil cover features, and endemic plants and wildlife, respectively, completed by many prehistoric archaeological monuments. In spite of the major biotic and geosites potential the introduction of a vital and sustainable tourism to the area is impeded by the insufficient, mostly unpaved road network, insufficient local accommodation facilities as well as the special boarder-zone entry regulations.

Keywords

• Southern Altai
• mountain ecosystems
• natural potential
• tourism and recreation
• geosites
• environmental management