
Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Almaty, Almaty, Kazakhstan
1. Medeu Gorge
Medeu Gorge offers stunning views of a glacier-fed lake and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
- Natural Beauty: Features a breathtaking glacier-fed lake
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty
- Picnic Spots: Provides picturesque locations for a relaxing picnic
2. Kensai-Raika Caspian Beach
Kensai-Raika is the closest beach to Almaty, offering a unique experience with the Caspian Sea's sand dunes.
- Unique Landscape: Features unique sand dunes along the Caspian Sea
- Accessibility: It's the closest beach to Almaty, making it easily reachable
- Recreational Activities: Offers activities like horse riding and picnicking
3. Shymbulak Waterfall
Shymbulak Waterfall is a hidden gem in the Shymbulak Ski Resort. It's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Enthusiast Destination: Ideal for those who love hiking and exploring hidden gems
- Seasonal Attraction: Accessible during the summer season when the ski resort is closed
- Natural Beauty: Features a picturesque waterfall and surrounding mountain views
4. Almaty Central Park
Almaty Central Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It features a beautiful lake and various recreational activities.
- Urban Retreat: Provides a tranquil urban retreat amidst lush greenery
- Recreational Activities: Offers boating, cycling, and picnicking opportunities
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Almaty, making it easily accessible
5. Kaindy Lake
Kaindy Lake is famous for its sunken trees submerged in the crystal-clear water. It's a unique and fascinating sight.
- Natural Wonder: Features unique sunken trees in the crystal-clear water
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the lake
- Seasonal Attraction: Accessible during the summer season when roads are passable
6. Kolsai Lakes
The Kolsai Lakes offer a series of scenic alpine lakes nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains. They are perfect for hiking and camping.
- Natural Beauty: Features a chain of beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by mountains
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty
- Camping Destination: Provides picturesque locations for camping and stargazing
7. Bozkol Valley
The Bozkol Valley offers a scenic drive along the Chilik River, with opportunities for fishing, camping, and horse riding.
- Scenic Drive: Provides a picturesque drive along the Chilik River
- Recreational Activities: Offers fishing, camping, and horse riding opportunities
- Natural Beauty: Features lush greenery, mountains, and the Chilik River
8. Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains. It's a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
- High-Altitude Lake: Located at a high altitude, offering stunning mountain views
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty
- Picnic Spots: Provides picturesque locations for a relaxing picnic
9. Zailiysky Ala-Too Square
Zailiysky Ala-Too Square offers a beautiful view of the mountains and is a great spot for people watching.
- Urban Landmark: Features impressive architecture and mountain views
- People Watching: Ideal for observing the local culture and lifestyle
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Almaty, making it easily accessible
10. Turgen Gorge
Turgen Gorge offers a breathtaking view of the Turgen River cascading through towering cliffs.
- Natural Beauty: Features a stunning waterfall and canyon landscape
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty
- Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for picnicking and photography
11. Almaty Zoo
Almaty Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.
- Wildlife Viewing: Provides an opportunity to view a variety of animals up close
- Educational Experience: Offers educational programs and workshops about wildlife conservation
- Family-Friendly Attraction: Ideal for families with children who love animals
12. Kok Tobe Fun Park
Kok Tobe Fun Park offers panoramic views of Almaty from the tallest TV tower in the world. It also has amusement park rides and cafes.
- City Views: Offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Almaty city
- Amusement Park: Provides various amusement park rides for all ages
- Cafes and Restaurants: Offers a range of cafes and restaurants with beautiful views
13. Panfilov Park
Panfilov Park is a large city park dedicated to the memory of the Panfilov Heroes. It features a beautiful rose garden and various monuments.
- Historical Significance: Honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Panfilov Heroes
- Rose Garden: Features a beautiful rose garden with various varieties
- Monuments and Memorials: Includes various monuments and memorials dedicated to national heroes
14. Race Horses Almaty Club
The Race Horses Almaty Club offers horse racing and riding lessons. It's a unique experience for horse lovers.
- Horse Racing Experience: Offers an opportunity to participate in horse racing
- Horse Riding Lessons: Provides lessons for both beginners and advanced riders
- Unique Experience: Provides a unique horse racing and riding experience in Almaty
15. Almaty Green Bazaar
The Almaty Green Bazaar is a vibrant market selling fresh produce, spices, and traditional Kazakh handicrafts.
- Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts
- Traditional Crafts: Sells traditional Kazakh handicrafts like felt carpets, embroidery, and jewelry
- Local Culture Experience: Provides an immersive experience into local Kazakh culture