Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and former capital, offers travelers a surprising mix of culture, history, and adventure. Known as the “City of Apples,” this leafy green city is a fantastic place to start exploring Central Asia, with plenty of exciting things to do in Almaty itself. The city’s lively streets are lined with European-style cafes, quirky coffee shops, and some of the best dining spots in Kazakhstan. Almaty seamlessly combines modern life with its Soviet heritage, giving visitors a unique chance to experience a cosmopolitan city with a touch of history around every corner. The city’s backdrop of the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains adds to its appeal, with scenic views visible right from the heart of Almaty.
While Almaty is famous for its breathtaking surrounding landscapes, the city itself deserves to be on every traveler’s radar. This guide will walk you through all the best things to do in Almaty, so you can make the most of your time in this fascinating blend of East and West. We’ll also share helpful tips on planning your trip—like the best places to stay, ways to get around, and the ideal time to visit—to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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Quick Kazakhstan Trip Planning Essentials
TRAVEL INSURANCE
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INTERNET
Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use code AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
ACCOMMODATION
Budget ($) D’Rami ; Mid-Range ($$) Kazakhstan Hotel ; High-End ($$$) Renion Park Hotel
RENTAL CAR
DiscoverCars.com is a great and reliable platform for finding rental cars abroad. Renting a car is the best way to explore Kazakhstan’s vast & incredible landscapes.
CURRENCY
The official currency is Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) and $1 = ~ 500 KZT. Check the Xe.com app for current exchange rates.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
Check out this recommended Almaty City Tour. For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
LANGUAGE
Basic English is spoken in major cities, but knowing basic Russian comes in handy! Recently we have been loving the Ling App to pick up some language basics.
ONLINE PRIVACY
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Things to know before visiting Almaty
Is Almaty worth visiting?
Central Asia still feels like a hidden gem to many travelers. While Uzbekistan has recently gained popularity, Almaty and the rest of Kazakhstan remain mostly under the radar. But that’s a shame! Kazakhstan has much more than its famous steppe. Around Almaty, you’ll find stunning landscapes—mountains, intense turquoise lakes, canyons, and more—right at the city’s doorstep. That’s exactly what drew us to Almaty on our Central Asia trip. We planned to focus on Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities, but Almaty ended up surprising us!
Almaty may no longer be Kazakhstan’s capital (that’s now Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana), but it remains the largest city and a lively cultural hub. With countless cafes and shopping centers, Almaty has something for everyone—solo travelers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back vibe. Its café culture and fantastic food scene add to the city’s unique charm.
We were also surprised by how green Almaty is. Parks seem to pop up on every corner, offering a natural escape without ever leaving the city. And when you’re ready to explore, the breathtaking landscapes around Almaty are easily accessible. Being surrounded by mountains means you get incredible views from nearly every part of town.
As the city evolves, you can see its mix of history and modernity everywhere. Soviet-era mosaics and architecture blend with new, luxury apartments, creating a unique charm that feels both historic and cosmopolitan. Almaty is a place where the past and present coexist, making it one of the best cities to explore in Central Asia.
Is Almaty safe for tourists?
Almaty is considered a safe city, and we didn’t experience any problems during our stay. With standard travel precautions, most visitors feel at ease exploring the city. We certainly did! There weren’t any “shady” neighborhoods that gave us pause. That said, it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy spots like bazaars, where petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen. Keeping valuables secure and having travel insurance that covers health and theft can add extra peace of mind.
You might come across stories about corruption or scams online, but we think those are rare nowadays. Our experience with locals was overwhelmingly positive—most were friendly and eager to help. We did face one challenge at the Kazakh-Uzbek border, where a border guard tried to take some cash by slipping a bill up their sleeve while counting. But that’s another story for another day!
If there’s one thing to watch out for, it’s the occasional overcharging from taxi drivers. This isn’t unique to Almaty, though, and it’s easy to avoid. Agree on a fare before setting off, or better yet, use the Go Yandex app (Kazakhstan’s version of Uber) for fair prices every time.
The best time to visit Almaty
Almaty has something to offer year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities around the city. Summers in Almaty can get hot, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C, but it’s also a great season if you’re into hiking and want to experience the beautiful nature around Almaty.
Of course, when to visit depends on what you’re looking to do. If winter sports are more your style, consider visiting from December to February. Almaty transforms into a winter playground, offering fantastic skiing and ice skating opportunities in the nearby Medeu ice arena and Shymbulak ski resort. Just be prepared for chilly weather, as winters in Almaty can be quite harsh!
How to get to Almaty in Kazakhstan
Getting to Kazakhstan is straightforward, with options for flying in or traveling overland from nearby countries like Uzbekistan or Kyrgyzstan.
By Plane
Flying into Almaty International Airport is the most common way to reach the city, especially from international destinations. As the biggest transportation hub in Central Asia, Almaty connects to various cities worldwide with daily flights. Often it’s the most budget-friendly option to fly into Almaty, and travel to neighboring countries overland. That’s exactly what we did when we headed to Uzbekistan later in our trip. We recommend using Skyscanner to book flights to Almaty; it’s user-friendly and offers plenty of airline options and competitive prices.
By Train
If you’re traveling within Kazakhstan, the Kazakh railway system connects major cities like Shymkent and Astana (Nur-Sultan) with Almaty. Even traveling to cities in neighboring countries is easy with the railway system. The main train station in Almaty sits on the northern edge of the city, near Raiymbek Batyr Metro Station. Summer is a busy travel season for locals, so be sure to book tickets early, as trains can fill up fast. You can find schedules and make bookings for the Kazakh Railway easily via 12Go.Asia these days!
By Bus
Long-distance buses also connect Almaty with key cities in Kazakhstan, as well as Tashkent, Uzbekistan (about 16 hours), and Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (around 4 hours). Buses arrive at Sayran Bus Station, where you’ll need to catch a bus or taxi into the city center.
By Car
For those seeking an adventure, a road trip is a fantastic way to explore Kazakhstan’s incredible landscapes. Renting a car in Almaty allows you to discover the country’s hidden gems at your own pace. It’s time-saving, comfortable, and often the best way to experience Kazakhstan’s vast scenery. We recommend DiscoverCars for rentals in Almaty; they offer good service, additional insurance options, and affordable prices.
How to get from Almaty International Airport to the city
Getting from the airport to the city center is easy. Local buses run every 15 minutes between 06:00 and 21:00, offering a budget-friendly option. But for the quickest and most convenient choice, we recommend downloading the Yandex app to request a taxi. The ride will cost between 1,500 and 2,500 KZT ($3 – 5). Get an eSIM from Airalo before the start of your trip so you have an immediate internet connection upon arrival to get a Yandex taxi.
Be cautious of unofficial taxis at the airport, as they often charge tourists much more, sometimes $10–$20. Official airport taxi drivers wear yellow vests and typically charge around 3,500 KZT ($7).
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How to get around Almaty?
Almaty is a pleasant city to explore on foot, especially the historic center also known as the Golden Quarter. The city surprised us with its green spaces and wide sidewalks, making walking a great option for getting around. However, if you need to cover longer distances, there are several transportation options.
Bus | Almaty has an efficient bus system that runs across the city. You can plan your routes on citybus.kz for up-to-date bus information. For frequent travel, consider getting an Onay Card, which works for both buses and the metro. You can get an Onay card at a newsstand but nowadays there is also a mobile app available. If you’re only using the bus occasionally, you can pay in cash directly on board.
Metro | The Almaty Metro is small, with a single line and eleven stations, but it’s convenient and affordable for getting to major spots around the city. Many top sights are just a short walk from a metro stop. If you’re just making a single trip, tokens are available for purchase at the metro station offices.
Ride-Sharing Apps | For a more convenient and often faster way to get around, ride-sharing apps like YandexGo and Indrive are widely used in Almaty. YandexGo taxi is similar to Uber, letting you know the fare before you even start, so you avoid any surprises. Indrive works on a bidding system, where you can offer a price, and drivers accept or counter with their own.
TIP | Download the 2GIS app, which also works offline and is the go-to navigation tool for Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries. It’s often more accurate than Google Maps in this region and even shows public transport routes offline.
Where to stay in Almaty?
Choosing the right area to stay in Almaty can make a big difference in your experience. Staying close to the city center lets you explore much of Almaty on foot while staying farther out might mean more time on buses or using Yandex. Golden Quarter is a top spot to base yourself—it’s safe, well-connected by metro, and filled with trendy cafes, restaurants, and many of the best things to do in Almaty.
Accommodation in Almaty ranges from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so there’s something for every traveler. If you’re planning to visit during the peak season (June to September), book a bit in advance as spots can fill up quickly. We stayed in two different areas and enjoyed each for different reasons. Here are a few recommendations based on our experience and what we found online.
HIGH-END – Renion Park Hotel
Located right by Panfilov Park, Renion Park Hotel offers spacious, modern rooms with a great price-to-quality ratio. This hotel has an in-house restaurant, fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, and a fantastic breakfast spread—perfect if you’re after extra comfort and convenience.
MID-RANGE – Kazakhstan Hotel
Kazakhstan Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in Almaty. Set along Dostyk Avenue, it provides stylish rooms with stunning views of Almaty and the Ile-Alatau Mountains. The location is perfect for sightseeing, with many landmarks within walking distance. For those wanting a taste of Soviet-style charm, Kazakhstan Express offers budget rooms on floors that still feature the hotel’s original design. We stayed here during our first week and loved the character of this hotel.
BUDGET – D’Rami
For a cozy yet budget-friendly stay, D’Rami hits the mark. Located centrally, it offers classic rooms that feel comfortable and welcoming—a great place to unwind after exploring Almaty’s sights.
HOSTEL – Хостел 689CapsuleHotel&Coffee
Right near Zhibek Zholy Street and Panfilov Park, 689CapsuleHotel provides both private rooms and comfortable capsule stays. It’s peaceful yet centrally located, making it ideal for budget travelers. The shared kitchen and lounge with lockers near the dorms add a nice touch for backpackers.
Best things to do in Almaty
Almaty is filled with unique experiences and is well worth a few days of exploration before heading into the nearby landscapes. The variety of things to do in Almaty, from wandering local markets to admiring diverse architecture, means there’s something for every type of traveler. The city reflects a strong Soviet influence mixed with stunning natural surroundings, creating a memorable backdrop for exploring. You will find plenty of parks, green spaces, and broad avenues alongside Soviet memorials and striking brutalist architecture when wandering around. In many areas, Almaty exudes a European flair with its vibrant streets and cozy cafes, especially in the charming Golden Quarter.
Fun Fact | Almaty is known as the birthplace of modern apples! Its former name, Alma-Ata, translates to “Father of Apples” in Kazakh. Look out for apple-inspired art and murals throughout the city.
1. Wander around the Golden Quarter
Start your journey with a stroll around the historic center also known as the Golden Quarter. This tree-lined district feels calm and inviting, making it hard to believe you’re in the middle of a big city. The Golden Quarter is a hub of charming cafes, local shops, and restaurants tucked into quiet streets. For a great route, begin at Abay Avenue near Abay Square and the iconic Hotel Kazakhstan, then meander through the side streets toward the Abay Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, heading north toward Astana Square and ending at Zhibek Zholy, the Green Bazaar, and Panfilov Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter Soviet-era architecture, interesting mosaics, and unusual monuments—definitely a highlight among things to do in Almaty.
2. Walk around Panfilov Park & War Memorial
Panfilov Park is one of Almaty’s most popular green spaces. With its peaceful atmosphere, the park is perfect for a stroll, and you’ll often see families, couples, and children feeding pigeons here, having a picnic or relaxing. Keep an eye out for chipmunks as they dart through the trees—watching them can be a fun break!
Panfilov Park honors 28 soldiers from Almaty who gave their lives in WWII. In their memory, the park features the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Monument, along with an eternal flame dedicated to all Kazakh soldiers who fell in both World Wars. Unveiled in 1975, the monument stands as a powerful tribute. It features a group of bronze soldiers posed on a granite pedestal, each one uniquely positioned to show a different emotion, symbolizing unity and courage. The monument’s massive brutalist design is impressive in scale—a photo alone can’t quite capture its striking impact.
3. Admire the colorful Zenkov Cathedral
In the center of Panfilov Park stands the colorful Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral. For us, it was the most impressive structure in the city, with beauty from every angle. Its vibrant exterior truly sets it apart from Almaty’s grey, brutalist buildings. This remarkable wooden Russian Orthodox church was built in 1904 and was crafted entirely without nails. Standing 56 meters tall, it ranks among the tallest wooden structures globally. Amazingly, it even survived a major earthquake. As one of the few Russian Orthodox churches that outlasted the Soviet era, it holds historical significance. Originally built during the Russian Empire, it served as a place of worship for Almaty’s growing Russian community.
Opening hours | Daily from 7 AM to 7 PM
Entrance fee | Free
4. Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments
Near the entrance of Panfilov Park, the Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments displays traditional Kazakh instruments like the dombra and kobyz in a beautifully crafted wooden building from 1908. The museum is a must for anyone interested in Kazakhstan’s musical heritage, allowing you to listen to examples of each instrument and learn about their unique significance.
Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 – 19:00, Monday closed
Entrance fee | 350 KZT (~$0,70)
5. Explore the artistic metro stations
Unexpectedly, riding the metro is one of the best things to do in Almaty. With intricate Kazakh-style decorations and symbols, each station feels more like a gallery than a transit stop. Every station has its own character, showcasing Kazakh patterns, colors, and cultural elements that make it an artistic journey through the city.
Our favorites include the Jibek Joly station, named after the Silk Road, featuring motifs inspired by Kazakh nomadic culture, and the Auezov station, which showcases a beautiful mural of traditional Kazakh life. At Abay station, dedicated to the famous Kazakh poet, you’ll find paintings and quotes honoring his legacy.
Though construction began in 1988 during the Soviet era, the project stalled when funding dried up after the USSR’s collapse. It wasn’t until 2011 that the Almaty Metro finally opened, now with one line and eleven stations. Each stop is unique, bringing Kazakhstan’s heritage to the city’s everyday rhythm. The metro is also affordable and efficient, with popular attractions just a short walk from several stations, making it one of the most convenient—and surprising—ways to explore Almaty.
6. Stay at the Kazakhstan Hotel
Almaty is brimming with remnants of the post-Soviet era, and the Kazakhstan Hotel is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If you’re a fan of Soviet architecture, this is a must-see. Built in 1977, this Brutalist structure, with its grand façade and unique crown design, is a must-see for anyone interested in Soviet architecture.
Inside, you’ll find a blend of outdated elegance and nostalgic charm. Once the premier stay in Almaty, it still hints at its former glamour—perfect for those who enjoy a little character in their accommodations. In its glory days, the Kazakhstan Hotel was the most prestigious place in the city, welcoming celebrities and politicians. In the same way, you have the famous Hotel Uzbekistan in Tashkent, which is also worth stopping by and snapping a picture of!
Almaty’s not cheap, especially for Central Asia, and often has prices on par with Europe. But for something a bit different, the Kazakhstan Hotel is a solid choice for a memorable stay. The budget rooms keep their old-school vibe, offering a quirky experience that takes you back in time.
7. Sample local cuisine at Navat Restaurant
If you’re looking to explore Central Asian cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting, Navat Restaurant is a must-visit. We loved it so much that we went back multiple times! Here, you’ll find Central Asian classics like Plov, Laghman, and Manti. Navat also serves Beshbarmak, a traditional Kazakh dish of chopped boiled meat mixed with square-cut egg noodles and onion in a mutton broth. Traditionally, this dish is served on communal platters to share. The name “Beshbarmak,” means “five fingers.” as it was originally eaten by hand by nomads. You will notice that Kazakh cuisine is mostly hearty and meat-orientated.
Navat’s warm atmosphere, set in Central Asian decor with colorful fabrics and furniture, makes the dining experience even more memorable. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a traditional dance by the staff! Almaty also has plenty of excellent international cuisine restaurants, including several Georgian spots for even more variety.
8. Get lost in the Green Bazaar
For a taste of local life, head to the bustling Green Bazaar. Exploring an authentic market is one of our favorite things to do to experience a new place, and the Green Bazaar in Almaty is no exception. Here, you’ll pass stalls packed with everything you can think of, from fresh herbs to vibrant fruits to home goods. Walking through the bazaar is an experience in itself—especially the fruit displays, which we found exceptionally arranged!
Established in the heart of Almaty, this covered market overflows with Central Asian flavors. In the main hall, vendors offer a wide range of goods with signs in Russian (plus helpful symbols) that guide you to each section. Beyond typical produce, you’ll find Central Asian specialties like kumys (fermented mare’s milk), horse meat, and unique snacks perfect for a road trip. And if you’re after souvenirs, this is a great spot to pick up mementos of your trip. You can also find restaurants serving up some of Almaty’s best Laghman and Beshbarmak, along with treats like Kurt (fermented dairy), Samsa, and kymyz.
Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 – 19:00, Monday closed
9. Stroll down Zhibek Zholy Pedestrian Street
Zhibek Zholy Street, also known as Arbat, is Almaty’s most popular pedestrian zone. Created in the late 1980s as the city’s first pedestrian street, it remains a lively spot for shopping and people-watching. The street is lined with street artists, boutique shops, and cozy cafes, making it the perfect place to relax, enjoy a coffee, and take in the local scene.
10. Stop by Almaty Central Mosque
If you’re coming from the Green Bazaar, make sure to stop by the Central Mosque nearby. This impressive structure is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. It was opened in 1999, replacing the original mosque that burned down, and it’s one of the largest in Kazakhstan, with space for up to 7,000 worshippers. The mosque combines traditional Islamic design with contemporary elements, crafted entirely from white marble and adorned with gilded domes, ceramic calligraphy, and a towering minaret.
Visitors are welcome to explore the peaceful interior, decorated with mosaics and calligraphy. Just remember to dress respectfully, as it’s an active place of worship. Unfortunately, we arrived during prayer and couldn’t go inside, but the view from outside is worth a stop.
Opening hours | Daily from 5 AM to 10 PM
11. Appreciate Almaty’s Brutalist Architecture
Almaty is a fantastic destination for fans of mid-20th-century Soviet-era architecture. Its bold examples of brutalist design make it one of the most interesting cities to explore for this unique style. Characterized by raw concrete, sharp lines, and minimalist forms, brutalism reflects a sense of power and stability, popular across post-Soviet countries. While some may find the style harsh, it’s an essential part of the city’s architectural landscape.
Some must-see examples of brutalism in Almaty include the Central State Museum, Hotel Kazakhstan, the Palace of the Republic, and the intricate bas-relief at Arman Cinema.
12. Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
For a deep dive into Kazakhstan’s history, the Central State Museum in Almaty is one of the must things to do. It’s the largest museum in Central Asia, and the building alone is impressive enough to merit a stop. If you only have time for one museum in Almaty, this should be it.
Inside the grand entrance hall with its glass dome, you’re greeted by a massive map of Kazakhstan. The museum’s impressive entrance was for us already one of the highlights. The museum covers everything from the Bronze Age to modern times, displaying artifacts from ancient nomadic life, WWII relics, and interesting displays of Kazakhstan’s independence. Near the entrance, you’ll spot a mannequin of the “Golden Man,” a warrior from the 3rd century whose gold-clad remains were discovered in the 1960s and became a symbol of Kazakhstan.
Across three floors, over 200,000 artifacts bring Kazakh history to life. Seven exhibition halls showcase archaeology, paleontology, and traditional artifacts, including folklore costumes, Silk Road items, and relics tied to Genghis Khan. Our favorite area was the floor displaying a yurt with traditional clothing—complete with giant fur boots from Mongolia, embroidered shoes from Turkmenistan, and elaborate festive headwear.
Opening hours | Wednesday to Monday, 9 am – 6 pm (closed on Tuesday)
Entrance fee | 500 KZT (~$1)
13. Soak up art at the Kasteev State Museum of Arts
If you’re interested in local art, the Kasteev State Museum of Arts is a gem. Opened in 1935, this is Kazakhstan’s largest art museum, featuring over 25,000 pieces from Kazakh folk crafts to Western European paintings, with a dedicated room for traditional Kazakh handicrafts.
The museum’s collection balances historical and modern art. You’ll find intriguing Soviet-era paintings alongside works by Russian and Asian artists. There are also a few notable pieces from Western Europe, including some striking works from the Netherlands. One highlight is the portraits of Kazakhstan’s poet Abay Kunanbaev, along with various modern sculptures that add a contemporary flair. The museum also hosts workshops and events, and during our visit, we spotted art students practicing on easels, which was fantastic to see!
Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm (closed on Monday)
Entrance fee | 500 KZT (~$1)
14. Wander Through First President’s Park
A bit further from the city center, First President’s Park is a peaceful escape, around a 15-20 minute bus ride away. Opened in 2010, this beautiful park commemorates the contributions of Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. Spanning an extensive area, it’s popular for leisurely walks, with pathways, fountains, and gardens creating a relaxed atmosphere—especially during golden hour as the sun sets.
The entrance colonnade, surrounded by flower beds, is an impressive sight on its own. Sadly, during our visit, the park was closed for maintenance, so we could only admire this view. The main reason we wanted to visit the First President’s Park was a gazebo-shaped structure with a blue dome on a hill, framed by mountain views in the background! One charming aspect was seeing wedding parties arrive to take photos, even though they could only capture shots by the entrance. During our short time there we spotted 3 groups, the park seems to be a popular photo spot!
15. Take the gondola up to Kok-Tobe Hill (or not)
Kök-Töbe Hill stands 1,100 meters tall on Almaty’s southeast edge, with a six-minute cable car ride lifting you above the city to stunning views. On clear days, you can see the Tien Shan mountains surrounding Almaty, making this a popular spot for local families. There’s a small zoo at the top, although the conditions looked sad with small cages, which we didn’t enjoy. The hill also has a small amusement park, a ferris wheel, an aerial adventure course for kids, and a few fun photo spots like a throne where you can dress up in traditional Kazakh clothing, a popular Beatles statue, and an upside-down house.
To reach the hill, you can take a cable car from Dostyk Avenue near Abay Subway Station, with one-way tickets costing 2500 KZT (~$5). Alternatively, take bus #99 to the lower park entrance, where a short hike brings you to the top. Honestly, Kok-Tobe Hill was underwhelming for us; we’d recommend it more for local families looking for a weekend outing. If you’re a tourist, you might not feel you’re missing out by skipping it. Other viewpoints around Almaty offer better mountain vistas, as Kok-Tobe’s platform mostly faces the city. That said, if you’re looking for souvenirs, Kok-Tobe has more variety and better prices than what we found elsewhere in the city, especially compared to the limited selection at the Green Bazaar.
Incredible trips outside Almaty City
Even though Almaty City completely surprised us with plenty of things to do for a couple of days, the real reason we came here was for its incredible landscapes. We’d seen photos of some of these places, but nothing prepared us for the variety of landscapes around Almaty. There’s everything from turquoise lakes with snowy mountain backdrops, to haunting forest lakes, an immense canyon (second only to the Grand Canyon in size), and even sand dunes right within Kazakhstan’s famous steppe—all just a few hours away from the city. So if you’re coming to Almaty, you simply can’t miss visiting these places. The scenery around Almaty is undoubtedly the most beautiful in Kazakhstan, and it’s home to some of the most spectacular sites you’ll ever see.
Tourism here isn’t as developed as in other countries, so tours to these places are relatively new. Joining a tour is one of the best ways to reach these spots, but another option is to rent a car and explore the national parks on your own. That’s what we did, and we had an unforgettable adventure—highly recommend it!
The most popular and accessible day trips from Almaty:
- Big Almaty Lake: This natural alpine reservoir sits high in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, making it one of the region’s highest lakes. The views here are stunning, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
- Shymbulak: The largest ski resort in Central Asia, Shymbulak is located in the upper part of the Medeu Valley. While it’s a popular spot for snow sports, it’s also great for hiking outside of ski season.
- Kolsai Lakes & Kaindy Lake: These are a series of three crystal-clear lakes surrounded by lush forests and mountain peaks. Kaindy Lake, with its eerie submerged forest, is especially unique.
- Charyn Canyon: Often compared to the Grand Canyon, Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder. You can hike through the canyon floor or enjoy the unique rock formations and views from above.
- Altyn-Emel National Park: This area is famous for its “singing dunes” and the Aktau Mountains. It’s a bit harder to reach as it was without a road for a long time, and you’ll need a 4×4 to navigate the terrain.
- Issyk Lake & Turgen Gorge: Issyk Lake, one of the two accessible mountain lakes within an hour’s drive from Almaty, sits in a scenic mountain gorge with a clear river flowing beside it. Turgen Gorge is another breathtaking spot, with evergreen trees, fast rivers, and rugged cliffs forming the local landscape.
Practical Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | The easiest way to travel around Kazakhstan is by railway. For hassle-free bookings, we recommend using the user-friendly platform 12go.Asia. Skip the queues and reserve your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
ACCOMMODATION | Booking affordable accommodations in Kazakhstan is effortless with Booking.com. This platform is perfect for discovering budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and hotels tailored to your preferences.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Kazakhstan on Skyscanner. Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and check for flights to different cities.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | Ensure comprehensive and reliable coverage for your journey in Kazakhstan with Heymondo. Prioritize peace of mind with their trustworthy travel insurance options. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Guarantee reliable internet access throughout your Kazakhstan trip by using Airalo. Install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey for convenient connectivity. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Or use the code AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
RENTAL CAR | DiscoverCars.com is a great and reliable platform for finding rental cars abroad.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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