Big Almaty Lake
A turquoise mountain lake in the national park – one of the region’s signature views.
The lake sits at about 2,500 m in Ile-Alatau National Park. Its colour shifts from turquoise to emerald through the season. It supplies drinking water, so swimming is forbidden; check access rules and road conditions before going.
When to go
| Winter | Spring | Summer | Autumn |
|---|---|---|---|
Routes
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Big Almaty Lake?
The lake is 28 km south of central Almaty in Ile-Alatau National Park. Since August 2025 the national park has closed the road to private vehicles; visitors walk from the upper checkpoint. We check access before every trip.
Can you swim in Big Almaty Lake?
No. The lake is a drinking-water reservoir for the city and swimming is prohibited.
How high is Big Almaty Lake?
About 2,510 m above sea level. It is cool there even in summer, so bring warm clothes.
When is the best time to visit Big Almaty Lake?
Spring and summer. The water changes colour with the season, from turquoise to emerald.
Updated 7 Nov 2026
Want to go?
Send us your dates and group size – we put together a programme and get the exact price from a licensed local partner. The enquiry is free and non-binding.