Big Almaty Lake
A picturesque alpine reservoir in Ile-Alatau National Park, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic mountain peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Highest water levels, best colors
Big Almaty Lake
Best Time
Highest water levels, best colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque alpine reservoir in Ile-Alatau National Park, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic mountain peaks.
"The turquoise water and mountain backdrop are breathtaking, perfect for photos and a peaceful escape from the city. "
🚗 Taxi for the Day
Rent a taxi by the hour for a 5-6 hour trip from Almaty. Around 25 euros, it's a convenient option. :taxi:
🥾 Steep Hike Alert
The shortest hiking route is steep and can be wet. Be prepared for a challenging 3-4 hour trek. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Alpine Waters
Big Almaty Lake
Breathtaking turquoise water set against dramatic mountain peaks. A truly picturesque alpine reservoir.
Scenic Mountain Road
Road to Big Almaty Lake
The drive up offers beautiful vistas, with opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Panoramic Hilltop Views
Higher hills along the road
Climb higher on the road for potentially even more spectacular, expansive views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Big Almaty Lake
Best Time for High Water Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best way to Big Almaty Lake?
🚗 Taxi for the Day
Rent a taxi by the hour for a 5-6 hour trip from Almaty. Around 25 euros, it's a convenient option. :taxi:
🥾 Steep Hike Alert
The shortest hiking route is steep and can be wet. Be prepared for a challenging 3-4 hour trek. :athletic_shoe:
Advice pls. Anyone who DIY hiked to Big Almaty RECENTLY? How was it?
Solo and short on time: how to skip 8km climb to Big Almaty Lake?
🆔 Bring Your ID
Military personnel may ask for your ID or passport near the top. :id_card:
🧥 Prepare for Rain
The weather can change quickly. Pack a raincoat, especially if visiting during a rainy period. :umbrella:
Is almaty lake worth a visit?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Taxi for the Day
Rent a taxi by the hour for a 5-6 hour trip from Almaty. Around 25 euros, it's a convenient option. :taxi:
🥾 Steep Hike Alert
The shortest hiking route is steep and can be wet. Be prepared for a challenging 3-4 hour trek. :athletic_shoe:
🆔 Bring Your ID
Military personnel may ask for your ID or passport near the top. :id_card:
🧥 Prepare for Rain
The weather can change quickly. Pack a raincoat, especially if visiting during a rainy period. :umbrella:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The turquoise water and mountain backdrop are breathtaking. Perfect for stunning photos! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking turquoise waters and stunning mountain scenery of Big Almaty Lake, calling it a must-see natural wonder. While the journey can be challenging due to road closures and steep hikes, the views are consistently described as worth the effort. Some note restrictions on getting close to the water and advise bringing identification.
"Love many flowers and pine trees
Free entry . Need to take taxi and stop in front and only walking a lot. It is raining. prepare rain coat. Very beautiful on the top of the mountain. The bottom of the mountain can drink hot tea and coffee."
Vee Wongya
"went on a weekend and there were alot of people around. the hike all the way to the top took around 2 hours, but we hiked along the pipe and was quite a steep climb, there are stairs for half the way up, and also there's the option to go on the street, but it would take much longer time wise. It got a bit cold once we got up the lake, had a quick lunch snack and came back down, view is amazing and it's really worth the hike.
Bring your ID or passport as military personnel might ask you for it near the top."
Alex I
"Big Almaty Lake is absolutely beautiful! The turquoise water and mountain backdrop are breathtaking perfect for photos and a peaceful escape from the city. The road up is scenic, and the area is clean and well maintained. You can’t get too close to the water (it’s a protected site), but the views are more than worth it. Highly recommended!"
Marcel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The last 12 kilometers to Big Almaty Lake are closed to private cars. The most common ways are by taxi, often rented by the hour for a 5-6 hour trip (around 25 euros), or by hiking. The hike can be steep and challenging, taking 3-4 hours.
No, private cars are not allowed for the final 12 kilometers of the road leading to Big Almaty Lake. You'll need to arrange alternative transport or hike.
Public transport options are limited. Taxis from Almaty are the most practical solution for most visitors.
The shortest hiking route follows a pipe and is very steep and can be wet. It's a challenging trek that takes about 3-4 hours.
While generally free to enter, be aware that military personnel may be present and ask for your ID or passport near the top.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees for Big Almaty Lake. Entry is free for visitors.
Big Almaty Lake is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, access can be restricted at times, and it's best to check local conditions.
You cannot walk around the entire lake as it's a protected site. However, during security lunch breaks, it might be possible to get closer to the water's edge.
The best time to visit is from August to October when the water level is highest, offering the most vibrant turquoise colors. In winter, the lake freezes.
No, tickets are not required as there is no entrance fee. However, arranging transportation in advance is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains, take photos, and appreciate the natural beauty. You can also find refreshments at the bottom of the mountain.
While you can bring snacks, be mindful of the protected nature of the site. There are refreshment stands available at the bottom of the mountain.
No, swimming is not permitted in Big Almaty Lake as it is a protected reservoir.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to walk or hike. Layers are recommended as it can get cold at higher altitudes, and bring a raincoat.
Restrooms are generally available at the refreshment stands located at the bottom of the mountain.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are of the turquoise lake with the mountain backdrop. Views from higher hills along the road can also offer stunning panoramic perspectives.
Mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (August-October) ensures higher water levels for vibrant photos.
Access to the immediate shoreline is restricted as it's a protected site. However, you can still capture incredible photos from designated viewpoints.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color.
Drone usage regulations can vary and may be restricted in national parks or protected areas. It's advisable to check local rules before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While you can't walk around the lake, the views are spectacular and engaging for all ages. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes and is prepared for changing mountain weather, including a raincoat.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
Remember to carry your ID as it might be checked by military personnel. The opportunity to get closer to the lake during security breaks can be a unique experience for those who are patient and observant.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Big Almaty Lake
For the more adventurous, hiking is an option. However, be prepared for a challenging ascent. The shortest route, often following a pipe, is described as very steep and potentially wet, requiring 3-4 hours of strenuous effort. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of the physical demands.
It's also worth noting that military personnel may be present near the top and might ask to see your ID or passport. Always carry identification with you when visiting the area.
The Best Time to Visit for Stunning Views
Conversely, visiting during winter, from November to April, means the lake will likely be frozen. While it offers a different kind of beauty, it won't have the iconic turquoise color. If your goal is to capture those postcard-perfect shots, aim for the late summer or early autumn months.
Beyond seasonal considerations, visiting on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience, as weekends tend to attract more visitors. Some travelers also note that it's possible to get closer to the water when security personnel are on their lunch break, though this is not guaranteed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit