Big Almaty Lake, Ile Alatau National Park

Big Almaty Lake (BAL) is a high-altitude gem of the Trans-Ili Alatau and the main natural attraction of the Ile-Alatau National Park. Situated at an altitude of 2,511 meters above sea level, the lake is famous for its mesmerizing water color, which changes from turquoise to deep sapphire. On this private tour, we will show you the majesty of the mountains in an atmosphere of complete comfort.

• 10:00 — Departure to the lake from Almaty

  • We meet you at your hotel or apartment doors, get acquainted, and head up the picturesque Alma-Arasan Gorge. The road winds through centuries-old Tien Shan fir trees and rapidly gains altitude.

• Transfer to local mountain transport

  • The ascent to the lake itself has its own logistical features. To ensure maximum safety on the steep mountain serpentine, we make an organized stop and transfer to a special local taxi (prepared mountain vehicles) that officially carry out the ascent to the observation decks.

• 12:00 — Arrival at BAL. Walk and free time

  • We ascend to the very heart of the gorge. A light, pleasant walk to the best viewpoints awaits us (about 1 km). We will tell you why descending strictly to the water is prohibited (the lake is a strategic source of drinking water for Almaty and is under strict protection), and allocate plenty of free time for the perfect panoramic photoshoot.

• 13:30 — Lunch

  • We descend slightly lower into the gorge and arrange a hearty lunch. At your request, we can stop by a colorful mountain cafe or organize an outdoor picnic with fresh air and views of snow-capped peaks.

• 16:00 — Birds of prey show at the "Sunkar" falconry center

  • On the way back to the city, we visit the unique, one-of-a-kind in Kazakhstan ornithological center "Sunkar". A spectacular theatrical show awaits you, where golden eagles, falcons, vultures, and eagle owls demonstrate elements of real hunting, flying right over the heads of the audience. This spectacle leaves incredible emotions.

• Arrival in the city

  • After the show concludes, we drive you back and carefully deliver you straight to your hotel doors.