Big Almaty Lake: Choose Your Adventure on Foot or by Car
Overview
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Join us for an adventure to Big Almaty Lake in Ile-Alatau National Park, a "must-see" natural attraction near the city. Choose from a 12 km hike and a direct car drive.
The car option includes a comfortable ride from your hotel, 60 minutes at the lake, and a drive back to the hotel, or if you wish, somewhere else in the city.
For those who want to hike, be prepared for a moderate climb. We'll embark on a 2-3 hour trek to the lake, spend two hours there, and then retrace our steps. Hiking boots are required, but trekking poles and raincoats are provided.
For solo travelers, the tour may be canceled if no one else has booked.
For bookings within the last 24 hours, please contact us via WhatsApp before making a reservation!
We also offer hike to Big Almaty Peak, city tours, Shymbulak, Kok Tobe, Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes, Issyk Lake, hot air balloon rides, paragliding, and shooting range activities. WA: +77080767571.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Raincoat
English speaking guide
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hiking poles
Hiking boots
Snacks
Lunch
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake: A Natural Gem for Tourists Big Almaty Lake, located in the Tien Shan mountain range near Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. This alpine reservoir boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering a serene ambiance for relaxation and photography.
Options
By car all the way to the lake
Direct drive to the lake
Pickup included
Hiking Adventure
12 km walk
Pickup included
Reviews
28 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Beautiful day
Daria W,
Jun 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00I had a fantastic private hiking tour to Big Almaty Lake with Yerkin as my guide. He was perfectly on time, very knowledgeable, and provided great insights into Kazakhstan's history, nature, and culture. The hike itself was amazing — a full day surrounded by beautiful mountains and nature. There were plenty of stops to rest, take photos, and fully enjoy the breathtaking views. The picnic by the lake was wonderful. Overall, a very rewarding and memorable experience
W.O.W
Rochelle B,
Sep 7, 2024
- Viator
5.00We booked a car tour and visited the lake and the Ayusai Center. Yerkin, our tour guide, speaks excellent English! We learned a lot from him about history, culture, and he also gave us tips on other sights to see and places to eat in Kazakhstan. He even brought us chocolate and tea! Thank you! Highly recommended tour.
Thank you Yervin
Joanna T,
Sep 4, 2024
- Viator
5.00Yervin was an excellent guide, he was very helpful and informative. Trip was great, lake and surrounded area definitely a must see while in Almaty.
Amazing trip to Big Almaty
Ankita R,
Aug 23, 2024
- Viator
5.00Our guide was extremely pleasant and well spoken. He even brought us warm tea and kazakh chocolates to eat. Clicked some wonderful pictures of us and even dropped us at a pleasant doner kebab place for snacks. Will recommend this for those travelling to Almaty first time
Beautiful lake at the end of an exciting trek.
Ranjeet O,
Jul 21, 2024
- Viator
5.00The trek up the pipeline route was tough but exciting. It was totally worth it once we had reached the top.
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