Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is one of the must-see places for visitors to Almaty. It is a stunning mountain lake located at an altitude of 2511 metres in the Trans Ile-Alatau mountains and is the most recommended place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Like a majority of lakes in the Tien Shan mountains, the lake was formed as a result of a series of earthquakes. The lake is fed by melted glacial water and varies in colour from light green to turquoise blue depending on the time of year. The lake is surrounded by three peaks: Sovetov (4317 m), Ozerny (4110 m) and Tourist (3954 m), which can be seen from the northern end of the dam.

The lake is made up of glacial water and is 1.6 km long, 1 km wide and about 40 m deep. The 3681m high Tourist Pyramid is the top of the Big Almaty Peak and is visible from the city centre. Because of the lake’s altitude, the area remains cool throughout the year.

Big Almaty Lake is part of the Ile-Alatau National Park, which aims to preserve the region’s unique flora and fauna. Here you can enjoy activities such as trekking, picnicking, photography and simply soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. It is also a popular spot for astrophotography due to its clear night skies.

Swimming is forbidden in the Big Almaty Lake as it is the main source of water for the people of Almaty. Pipes carry water from the reservoir down the mountains to the city. Several guards walk around to make sure no one crosses the border and goes down to the shores of the lake. From the south, the lake flows into the Big Almaty River. It is part of the Ile-Alatau National Park.

The lake is about an hour’s drive from Almaty and is accessible all year round. Almaty Expeditions Team offers you a one-day excursion to Big Almaty Lake, where you will be accompanied by local guides and get to know the best of Big Almaty Lake. The tour also includes a visit to the Alma Arasan hot springs, where you can enjoy great hiking and horse riding.

Hope to see you!