Almaty Nature Reserve
The Almaty Nature Reserve was established in 1931 and is situated in the heart of the Ile Alatau mountain range. This sanctuary encompasses a diverse landscape that includes steppe zones, deciduous forests featuring wild apple trees, apricots, and mountain ash. As you ascend in altitude, the scenery transforms, with Tien Shan spruce taking root between 1500 to 3000 meters (5000-10000 ft). Higher still, alpine meadows and junipers grace the terrain, while elevations exceeding 3500 meters (11500 ft) reveal glaciers and barren rock formations.
Remarkably, the Almaty Reserve is home to a range of rare and endangered animals, such as snow leopard, beech marten, and argali. In the realm of flora, the reserve boasts unique species like the Caucasian hackberry, Sievers apple tree, Nedzvetsky apple tree, Alatau speedwell, and the snow lotus. Additionally, the reserve harbors endemic treasures like Pastinacopsis glacialis and Jurinea almaatensis. The rocky cliffs within the reserve serve as nesting grounds for various bird species, including the ibisbill, Himalayan vulture, golden eagle, and Barbary falcon.
The reserve is crisscrossed by the Talgar, Chilik, Esik, and Turgen rivers. Spring and summer are particularly enchanting times when meadows burst into life, adorned with a tapestry of flowers. This reserve is a testament to the diverse and captivating ecosystems that thrive within the Ile Alatau mountain range.
How to get there?
The Almaty Reserve is situated just 25 kilometers (15.5 mi) southeast of Almaty. To access it, it’s advisable to use your personal vehicle or hire a taxi, as public transportation does not serve this location. To reach the reserve from Almaty, head eastward along the Talgar tract. Once you arrive in the town of Talgar, continue your journey south towards the Left Talgar Gorge. You'll need to park your car there as motorized transport is prohibited within the protected area.
Within the Almaty Reserve, there are several eco-trails that provide tourists with opportunities to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Other tourist attractions near the Almaty Nature Reserve:
- Ile-Alatau National Park
- Shymbulak Ski Resort
- Kolsay Lakes
- Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
- Lake Issyk
- Butakov Waterfalls
- Kairak Waterfall
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour")
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Kolsay Lakes Off-Road Tour")
On request
Embark on a 3-day off-road tour to the mesmerizing Lake Kaindy, stunningly beautiful Kolsay Lakes, and the extraordinary Charyn Canyon.
On request
Standing at 3680 meters, the Big Almaty Peak might give the false impression of being a formidable and challenging climb. However, ascending to the summit doesn't necessitate specialized mountaineering skills.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Alpine Meadows of Zhetisu Off-Road Tour")
On request
Little-studied and hardly visited by tourists mountain gorges and valleys with dizzying panoramas, alpine meadows, rough rivers, alpine lakes and a lot of impressions from the wild beauty of Zhetysu - all this in one adventure!
On request
Left Talgar Gorge is a scenic location adorned with flourishing meadows and dense coniferous forests. The hiking trail starts at the Medeu Skating Rink and culminates at the highest point of the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
On request
This route unveils the diverse contrasts and beauties of the Ile Alatau Mountains. Highlights include a visit to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, lunch in a traditional Kazakh yurt, crossing a glacier, witnessing the stunning Big Almaty Lake, and the unique opportunity to swim in a pond created by the Shukur Waterfall.
On request
Discover the breathtaking Kungey Alatau Mountains – one of Kazakhstan's most stunning mountain ranges. This trek is suitable for both novice and seasoned hikers, and the best part is, there's no need to carry a tent!