Big Almaty Lake: Choose Adventure on Foot or by Car

Big Almaty Lake Tour with Scenic Drive or Mountain Hike in Almaty, Kazakhstan

This tour offers two options: a comfortable car trip including hot springs or a challenging mountain hike to Big Almaty Lake, suited for varying fitness levels.

Tour Highlights

• Drive to Big Almaty Lake
• Choose between a scenic car tour with hot springs or a mountain hike
• Visit the turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake
• Short 4-hour trip option featuring top nature sights
• Relaxation at Alma-Arasan Hot Springs (car option)

Description

Car Option: Ideal for travelers seeking mountain beauty without strenuous activity. Visit Big Almaty Lake surrounded by alpine peaks and turquoise waters, with about 60 minutes for sightseeing and photos.

After the lake, continue to Alma-Arasan Gorge. A scenic 20-minute walk along a mountain river through forest leads to the hot springs. Enjoy free time to relax before returning to Almaty.

Car Option Schedule

• 9:00 AM – Departure from meeting point
• 10:00 AM – Checkpoint and vehicle change (300-meter walk)
• 10:15 AM – Arrival at Big Almaty Lake (1 hour for sightseeing and photos)
• 11:30 AM – Departure for Alma-Arasan Gorge
• 12:00 PM – Start 20-minute walk to hot springs along mountain river
• 12:20 PM – Free time at hot springs
• 1:00 PM – Return to Almaty
• 2:00 PM – Drop-off at meeting point

Hiking Option: This 14 km mountain trail reaches 2,511 meters altitude with panoramic viewpoints including a traditional Kazakh Altybakan swing. Spend about 2 hours at Big Almaty Lake before hiking back via Moon Valley.

This option requires good physical condition; hiking boots are mandatory. Trekking poles and raincoats are provided.

Hiking Option Schedule

• 8:00 AM – Departure from meeting point
• 8:30 AM – Start hike
• 10:30 AM – Arrive at Big Almaty Lake and free time
• 12:00 PM – Arrive at second panoramic viewpoint
• 1:00 PM – Return hike via Moon Valley
• 3:00–4:00 PM – Return to meeting point

What to Bring

• Passport (required for border zone access)
• Water and light snacks
• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Hiking boots (required for hiking option)
• Swimsuit and towel (recommended for hot springs visitors)

Important Information

• Route and timing may vary due to weather and road conditions
• The walk to hot springs is about 20 minutes each way along a mountain trail beside the river
• The lake is usually frozen from November to May
• Clear mountain views cannot be guaranteed
• Solo travelers: tour may be canceled if minimum group size is not met
• For last-minute bookings (within 24 hours), please contact via WhatsApp: +7 708 076 7571 before booking

Includes

• Environmental fee
• English-speaking guide
• Transfer

Excludes

• Lunch
• Snacks
• Water

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance, wear suitable footwear, and bring essentials based on your chosen option.