Big Almaty Lake

Большое Алматинское озеро

A high-mountain dammed lake at 2,511 meters, whose water shifts between blue-green shades with the light. Backed by 4,000-meter snow peaks, it is Almaty's most classic half-day trip.

Big Almaty Lake (locally called BAO) lies in the Big Almaty River valley about 28 km southwest of the city center, at an altitude of 2,511 meters. It was formed by an earthquake-induced landslide dam. Its water comes from glacier meltwater, and suspended minerals make it appear turquoise, deep blue or milky white at different times. It is surrounded by Sovetov Peak (4,317 meters), Ozerny Peak and Turist Peak, creating a postcard-perfect view of Almaty. The lake supplies drinking water to the city, so swimming and going near the shore are prohibited. Visitors can only take photos from the viewing platform above the road, about 200 meters above the lake. Continuing 6 km further up the road brings you to the Kosmostantsiya Observatory and Cosmic Ray Station at 3,300 meters. Beyond that is the border with Kyrgyzstan, so there are border checkpoints along the way, and you must carry your passport.

Getting there: there is no direct bus. The most common option is a taxi (Yandex, about 6,000 to 8,000 tenge one way). Return traffic is scarce, so ask the driver to wait or arrange a round trip. You can also take a half-day tour. Fit hikers can walk up from the Kokshoky terminus, a 15 km one-way trip with a 1,000-meter climb, taking 4 to 5 hours. Entry to the national park costs about 900 tenge per person.

Visitor notes: mountain weather changes quickly, and temperatures vary widely between morning and evening. Watch for altitude sickness above 2,500 meters. In the afternoon, the lake is backlit, so the best photos are taken between 10 a.m. and noon. On busy summer weekends, private cars may be restricted, and you may need to transfer to scenic area shuttle buses.

Big Almaty Lake

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby