While being in Almaty, this picturesque lake is an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts! It’s a natural protected area, though reaching it can be a bit tricky.
How to get there?
To enter the national park, you’ll need to pay an entry fee, which is 590,000 KZT (around 1.17 Euros). You can get there by bus, taxi, or hitchhiking, which surprisingly is quite easy.
Starting from the presidential park, one road leads the way, and many people are willing to help. It’s important to make it clear that you’re hitchhiking, not searching for a taxi, as I’ve learned from my travels in Central Asia for a better experience.
After arrival, some shared taxis offer rides. There’s another gate separating the entry and the lake itself.
The second gate
There were two options that were a bit confusing for us:
- Pay locals for transportation.
- Walk
Language barriers left us unsure about the transportation cost, but the locals kindly offered us a free ride, opting for the first choice.
Walking is an option, but be prepared—it’s a lengthy and somewhat challenging hike into the mountains. The reward is worth it, but choose an option that suits your comfort level. If saving money is a priority, consider walking; the surrounding nature is quite amazing as well.
The Azure Beauty
Yes, the lake is as blue, if not bluer, than in the pictures! The mesmerizing turquoise-blue of the Great Almaty Lake comes from the sun reflecting off minerals in the water.
Arriving at the lake was a truly stunning moment. Personally, I was amazed, and a big “wow” echoed in my mind. Natural places captivate me more than cities, and this was no exception.
Good to know
Swimming isn’t allowed as the water serves Almaty’s drinking supply—let’s respect that. I had swimming clothes with me, but I didn’t go in.
Keep the area clean by avoiding plastics; although trash bins are scarce, it’s possible to dispose of waste responsibly.
It’s wise to have local currency handy, just in case. There’s only an outhouse, so don’t expect deluxe facilities! Drones are seen but flying them might have regulations, so proceed at your own risk. The journey can take time due to mountainous terrain, but it’s not overly challenging.
There are no toilets, just outhouses!
Consider winter limitations; frozen roads might hinder access, so check conditions before planning a winter visit.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely! Among the 87 countries I’ve visited, the Great Almaty Lake stands out as the most stunning. During my visit, it wasn’t crowded, but that might differ in summer. The lake’s unique color and ambiance make it a definite must-see when in Kazakhstan’s largest city.
