Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is nestled at an altitude of 2510 meters (8235 ft) in the Ile Alatau Mountains that stretch along the southeastern border of Kazakhstan. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake looks like a huge bowl with turquoise water. The lake is a popular hiking destination as it offers amazing views, crisp mountain air, and wild nature not far from the city.
Blue waters and mountainous backdrops
Big Almaty Lake was formed by an earthquake over 2,000 years ago. Water filled the newly formed crevice and created one of the world’s most picturesque lakes.
On weekends the lake gets very crowded but if you go there early in the morning on a weekday, you will likely have the lake to yourself and enjoy its beauty in peace. The color of the water changes from turquoise blue to emerald green depending on the weather. In winter, the lake decreases in size, and in August the water level rises. Regardless of the season, it is quite chilly near the lake. In summer, it’s often as low as 10 oС (50 oF), so you should take warm clothes with you on a hike.
The lake offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. In the south, behind the lake, there stands the Ozerny Peak (4110 m), and to the east rise the Soviet Peak (4100 m) and the Big Almaty Peak (3680 m). Higher up the gorge, you can see glaciers and alpine meadows. However, you cannot freely hike there because the border with Kyrgyzstan is close.
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You can look but don’t touch
In the 1950s and 1960s, a hydroelectric power station was built on the Big Almaty Lake. In the 1980s, the lake has been providing the city of Almaty with drinking water. Because of it, the lake is closed to tourists. You can admire it from a distance, but you won’t be allowed to approach it. Along the lake’s perimeter, one can see restriction signs. Do not attempt to approach the shore or you’ll most likely be fined.
However, restrictions will not prevent you from enjoying the lake’s stunning beauty. There is an observation deck 400 meters from the shore. Thousands of tourists prefer to take photos from this point. The angle allows you to capture the postcard-worthy panorama of the lake and the mountains.
Due to the proximity of the border, you need to have some kind of identity document with you while visiting the lake. But there is good news: you don’t need any special pass. Still, you will have to pay an environmental fee at the entrance to the national park. Moreover, since there are no cafes near the lake, you should take food and water with you. Camping near the lake is prohibited too.
How to get there?
Big Almaty Lake is located about 30 km (19 mi) south of the center of Almaty in the Ile-Alatau National Park. Despite the fact that the lake is located within the city limit, wild nature surrounds it. The road goes through a winding mountain gorge so check the road’s status before you depart. Sometimes the road can be closed temporarily due to heavy snowfalls and the risk of avalanches or mudflows.
As of 2022, the lake is not accessible by car – the road is being repaired and a dam is being built. You can take city buses #108 or #211 and get off at the final stop called Alma-Arasan Health Resort. From there you will have to hike or bike to the lake. At some point, you will see an ecological post where you will have to pay a fee for entering the national park. In total, the distance between the bus stop and the lake is about 10 km (6 mi). You will have to hike uphill so the air will get thinner the higher you go. Make sure you’re properly acclimatized before the hike.
The most convenient way to visit the lake is to book a tour and see other sights along the route. This way of visiting Big Almaty Lake is safer and not much more expensive than an independent trip.
Other tourist attractions near Big Almaty Lake:
- Big Almaty Peak
- Jusaly-Kezen Pass
- Tourist Peak
- Shukur Gorge
- Kok Jailau Plateau
- Moon Glade
- Ile-Alatau National Park
- Tuyuksu Glacier
- Alpine Rose Mountain Resort
- Tien Shan Astronomical Observatory
Галерея:
Recommended tours:
View all offers-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: City Tour")
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour where you'll explore Almaty's prominent attractions. Visit the Museum of Almaty, marvel at the exquisite Ascension Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of trade at the Green Bazaar.
_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.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Ultimate Almaty Day Tour")
A fantastic option for a day-long adventure that involves discovering Almaty's most fascinating landmarks. This excursion allows you to explore the best attractions of Almaty and also takes you to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, providing a delightful experience amidst the breathtaking mountain landscapes.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Butakov Waterfalls Trekking Tour")
On request
Butakov Waterfalls can be found in the Ile Alatau Mountains near Almaty. The breathtaking scenery, pristine air, and refreshing coolness have been drawing tourists to this location for quite some time.
On request
An easy trekking route suitable for all, including adults and children. Discover Shukur waterfalls and Big Almaty Lake, nestled amid towering mountains and coniferous forests.
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.