Kok-Tobe Park
Since 1965, Kok-Tobe Park has been a beloved recreation spot for residents of Almaty, a legacy from Soviet times. Perched atop the eponymous mountain at an elevation of 1100 meters (3600 ft), the park offers breathtaking views of the city and the Ile Alatau Mountains. Accessible year-round, Kok-Tobe is a popular destination for families and friends seeking a scenic getaway. With its many attractions, visitors are sure to never be bored.
Soviet legacy upgraded
Kok-Tobe Park has undergone two major renovations, in 2005 and 2014, to upgrade its infrastructure and enhance the visitor experience. The mountain slopes were fortified, engineering systems were updated, and landscaping was refreshed. The cable car and restaurant complex were also refurbished during the renovations. With its prime location atop the mountain, Kok-Tobe Park stands apart from other recreation spots, offering stunning views and iconic landmarks that have become synonymous with the city.
The cable car is a defining feature of Kok-Tobe Park, spanning 1620 meters (1772 yd). A 6-minute ride in spacious gondola cabins with panoramic windows takes visitors from the lower station to the park, with a 250-meter elevation difference. Each cabin can accommodate up to 8 people and allows for adjustable speeds, offering an immersive and breathtaking experience amidst the park's stunning surroundings.
Thrilling attractions and exotic creatures
At Kok-Tobe Park's zoo, visitors can admire a variety of beautiful creatures including fallow deer, pheasants, llamas, guinea fowl, ostriches and more. The mini-zoo showcases exotic and rare animals like civets and caravals. For those seeking more excitement, the park features a variety of attractions, including classic carousels, a Ferris Wheel, a large mirror maze, a Fast Coaster sledding experience, and more. The park also offers opportunities for adventure with a climbing wall, rope park, and shooting ranges.
Kok-Tobe Park provides ample photo opportunities, with a popular spot being the monument to The Beatles, located near the Alma Fountain and concert stage. The observation deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, mountains, and the Kok-Tobe TV tower, which is a symbol of the park and the city itself. The tower's spire is visible from many parts of the city, making it one of the tallest and most earthquake-resistant structures in Almaty.
After exploring the park's paths, taking in its beauty, and trying the various attractions, visitors can refuel at one of the many food options available. Kok-Tobe offers a selection of food courts, cafes, and restaurants serving a range of cuisines including Kazakh, Georgian, and European. Other features include a 7D cinema, karaoke, a souvenir shop, a lovers' alley, and much more, making Kok-Tobe a comprehensive destination for visitors. Kok-Tobe Park is open daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
How to get there?
Visitors to Kok-Tobe Park have several transportation options. They can drive, take a taxi, or take bus № 99 to the final stop called «Kok-Tobe». They can also walk to the park from the foot of the mountain or take a specialized bus from there. The best way to enjoy the stunning views is to take the cable car, which can be reached in a few minutes from the Arman Cinema bus stop along Dostyk Ave. This stop is serviced by buses # 5, 5A, 5B, 12, 29, 29R, 48, 121, and 141. Abay metro station is only 900 meters (984 yd) from the lower station.
Other tourist destinations near Kok-Tobe Park:
- Palace of the Republic
- Abay Square
- Palace of Schoolchildren
- Hotel Kazakhstan
- Terrainkur (a walking trail)
- Kotyrbulak Gorge
- Memorial Museum of Abylkhan Kasteyev