Abstract
Scientific research shows that ski resorts are particularly susceptible to climate change. To ensure their long-term viability, it is crucial to build resilience, especially through collaboration. The way managers perceive climate risks significantly impacts their adaptation strategies, yet this issue has been underexplored in areas like Kazakhstan. This study assesses the climate change resilience of ski resorts in the Almaty Mountain Cluster (AMC) using a qualitative approach. Interviews with senior managers, government officials, and industry representatives revealed that while resort managers acknowledge climate change, they do not see it as an immediate threat and expect government leadership in future planning. Most AMC resorts intend to expand year-round tourism but operate independently, lacking cooperation and shared strategies. Adaptation measures are limited, and no proactive phase has been initiated to transition to coping or adaptive responses. As a result, these resorts are not effectively resilient to climate change. This paper contributes to the broader discussion on climate adaptation in mountain tourism, offering insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders working to promote sustainable tourism development in vulnerable regions.