From Theory to Practice: International Project Participants Visit Shymbulak Mountain Resort

6 November 2026. On the third day of the international project seminar “Regenerative Tourism Education, Climate Adaptation, and Regional Perspectives,” an off-site programme was organised for international and local participants, featuring a visit to Shymbulak Mountain Resort in the mountainous area of Almaty.

The visit provided an opportunity to explore regenerative tourism directly within a mountain natural environment. Particular interest was drawn to the area's natural and landscape characteristics, tourism infrastructure, recreational use of mountain ecosystems, and challenges associated with climate change.

The central focus was on finding a balance between the development of the tourism industry and the preservation of the natural potential of mountain areas. Participants explored how tourism activities can not only minimise their negative environmental impact but also contribute to the restoration of natural resources, biodiversity conservation and the responsible use of ecosystem services.

The practical component of the programme is directly linked to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In particular, SDG 4, “Quality Education,” promotes the development of environmental knowledge and competencies; SDG 8, “Decent Work and Economic Growth,” supports sustainable models of tourism activity; SDG 11, “Sustainable Cities and Communities,” encourages the development of environmentally responsible tourism infrastructure; SDG 13, “Climate Action,” focuses on strengthening the resilience of territories to climate-related challenges; and SDG 15, “Life on Land,” aims to protect mountain landscapes and biodiversity.

Thus, the off-site programme at Shymbulak served as a practical continuation of the discussions bringing together education, environmental protection and tourism development. It enabled participants to view regenerative tourism not only as a contemporary educational and scientific concept but also as an important tool for achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals.