The main shortcoming of the book is that it contains too few maps (2 of poor quality) and will likely have to be supplemented by additional more detailed maps before one could actually make the hikes. Having said that, the author has provided excellent reviews of the hikes (likely from extensive personal experience) and includes information about interesting sights, local history, flora and fauna and safety considerations. Each hike is rated for difficulty and an estimated hiking duration. The introduction to the book is especially informative for those wishing to travel to the area. The translation from the Russian does not generally affect comprehension although you will notice some strangely worded sections. If you're looking for a glossy, colourful, coffee table book - look elsewhere - this is a black and white technical manual heavy on detail.

I do intend to use this book, in an upcoming trip to Kazakhstan, and it will certainly be a useful and practical addition to the intelligence I will carry with me. After the trip, I'll be better able to evaluate the book's accuracy.

The main shortcoming of the book is that it contains too few maps (two of poor quality) and will likely have to be supplemented by additional more detailed maps before one could actually make the hikes. Having said that, the author has provided excellent reviews of the hikes (likely from extensive personal experience) and includes information about interesting sights, local history, flora and fauna and safety considerations. The introduction to the book is especially informative for those wishing to travel to the area. The translation from the Russian does not generally affect comprehension although you will notice some strangely worded sections.

I do intend to use this book, in an upcoming trip to Kazakhstan, and it will certainly be a useful and practical addition to the intelligence I will carry with me. After the trip, I'll be better able to evaluate the book's accuracy.