Big Almaty Lake

About Big Almaty Lake

About Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake (also known as BАО or Большое Алматинское Озеро in Russian) is one of the most stunning natural attractions near Almaty, Kazakhstan. Located in the Ile-Alatau National Park, this alpine lake is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Big Almaty Lake:


Overview
  • Location: About 30 km south of Almaty, in the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains.
  • Altitude: 2,511 meters above sea level.
  • Size: Approximately 1.6 km long and 1 km wide.
  • Water Source: Fed by glacial meltwater, the lake’s color changes depending on the season and weather, ranging from deep blue to emerald green.

Getting There

  1. By Car
    • Drive Time: About 1–1.5 hours from Almaty.
    • Route: Take the Big Almaty River Road south from the city. The road is paved but becomes steep and winding as you approach the lake.
    • Parking: There’s a small parking area near the lake.
  2. By Taxi or Tour
    • Taxi: Hire a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go or InDriver. Negotiate a round-trip fare, as there’s no cell service at the lake.
    • Tour: Many local tour operators offer day trips to Big Almaty Lake, often combined with other nearby attractions.
  3. Public Transport
    • Bus: Take a bus or marshrutka (minibus) to the village of Kokshoky, then hike or hire a taxi for the remaining 10 km to the lake. This option is less convenient and time-consuming.

What To Do

  1. Enjoy the Scenery
    • The lake’s turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks make it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
  2. Hiking
    • Short Walks: Explore the area around the lake, but be cautious as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
    • Longer Hikes: For experienced hikers, trails lead to nearby peaks like Peak Tourist or Big Almaty Peak.
  3. Picnicking
    • Bring a picnic and enjoy the serene environment. Note that swimming is not allowed, as the lake is a protected water source for Almaty.
  4. Visit the Observatory
    • The Tien Shan Astronomical Observatory is located nearby. While it’s not always open to the public, the surrounding area offers great views.

Some Tips

  1. Permits
    • The lake is located in a border zone, so you may need a permit to visit. Check with your tour operator or local authorities beforehand.
  2. Dress Appropriately
    • The weather can change quickly in the mountains. Bring warm clothing, even in summer, and wear sturdy shoes for walking.
  3. Bring Supplies
    • There are no shops or facilities at the lake, so bring water, snacks, and any other essentials.
  4. Respect Nature
    • The lake is a protected area, so avoid littering and follow local guidelines to preserve its beauty.
  5. Altitude Awareness
    • The lake is at a high altitude, so take it easy if you’re not used to the elevation. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.

Best Time To Visit

Summer (June–September): The weather is mild, and the lake is accessible. The water is at its most vibrant turquoise during this time.

Autumn (September–October): The surrounding forests turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lake.

Winter (November–March): The lake freezes, and the area is covered in snow, offering a completely different but equally beautiful experience. However, the road may be icy and difficult to navigate.