Short description (for tour card) A half-day escape to one of Almaty's most iconic alpine lakes — with a stop at a scenic apple orchard on the way back.

Full description

Just an hour from the city centre, Big Almaty Lake sits at 2,510 metres above sea level, framed by snow-capped peaks and fed by glacial meltwater. Its colour shifts from deep turquoise to emerald depending on the season — one of the most photogenic spots in all of Kazakhstan, and surprisingly easy to reach.

This tour takes you directly to the lake by vehicle — no long trek required. After time at the water's edge, the route passes through Alma-Arasan Gorge and stops at the Ayusay Visitor Centre before heading back to the city. On the return, there's a visit to a traditional apple orchard — Almaty's name literally means "father of apples," and this is a nod to that heritage.

A perfect choice for travellers with limited time who still want to experience the mountains.