Things to Do in Almaty, Kazakhstan: A Complete Travel Guide

Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and former capital, offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, modern culture, and delicious food. Located at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains, Almaty’s stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. At the same time, the city life and cultural heritage are perfect if you’re interested in exploring Kazakhstan’s history and traditions.

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Tips for Visiting Almaty

1. Best Time to Visit

Almaty is a great destination year-round, and the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:

• Summer (June to August): Great for hiking, exploring nature, and outdoor activities in the mountains. The weather can be hot, but the scenery is lush and green.
• Winter (December to February): Great for skiing at Shymbulak Ski Resort and ice skating at the Medeu Ice Rink – one of Almaty’s most famous activities.

2. Currency in Kazakhstan

The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Most places accept credit cards, but you should order some cash at your local bank or exchange some at the airport when you arrive. My rule of thumb is to always have $200 in local currency on-hand – that way you can use it in local markets and small businesses.

3. Getting Around

• Public Transport: Almaty has a reliable public transport system, including buses, trams, and metro, but it can be confusing and time-consuming if you’re short on time or trying to go to multiple destinations in one day. The metro is inexpensive and you can use it to travel to most of the major tourist destinations.
• Taxis: Although I usually try to use public transit when I travel, I used Yandex Go taxis every day during my stay in Almaty. It’s very affordable, safe, and more convenient than public transit.

4. Language

Kazakh and Russian are the main languages spoken in Almaty. While many younger people speak some English, it’s helpful to learn basic Russian or Kazakh phrases for smoother communication. And if you’d like to learn and practice a new language while in Kazakhstan, you can bring a Russian phrasebook with you.

5. Dress Code

Almaty is fairly modern and cosmopolitan, so any regular casual clothing should be fine in most places. However, if you’re visiting religious sites like mosques or cathedrals, dress modestly and bring a headscarf.

6. Try Local Food

Almaty blew me away with its cuisine. Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), baursaki (fried dough), and traditional Kazakh tea. Visit local restaurants (especially the ones owned by ABR) and stop by the Green Bazaar for an authentic food experience. I have a full section with more Kazakh food below.

7. Visit the Mountains

A trip to Almaty is not complete without a trip to the mountains. If you do, remember to wear comfy shoes and bring some warm clothing. Also, be mindful of altitude changes, especially when visiting high-altitude spots like Shymbulak.

8. Safety

Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but as in any large city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and use common sense when walking at night.

Bonus tip #1: Get ready for A LONG Flight!

If you’re traveling from the United States (like I was), you’re in for a loooong flight. Here are some of my tips for making long flights a lot more comfortable:

• Getting rest: Bring comfortable noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a neck pillow to help you rest. If you’re trying to fall asleep, take some melatonin or sleep aid.
• Staying comfy: Wear loose, layered clothing to adapt to changing cabin temperatures. To prevent stiffness, try to move around and stretch every few hours.
• Staying hydrated: Bring a water bottle onboard and by drinking plenty of water and avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can cause dehydration.
• Staying entertained: Download your favorite movies, music, or books ahead of time to keep yourself entertained and make the hours fly by, and make sure to grab a rechargeable battery for your phone.

Bonus tip #2: Pack These Essentials

• Air Tags: I keep track of all my belongings with air tags! I put them in my wallet, keys, and suitcase when I travel and if anything gets lost or I accidentally leave a bag on the plane, I can track it directly from my phone.
• Travel Adapter: Get a reliable travel adapter that won’t burn your expensive electronics abroad.
• Band-aids and blister cushions: Since I always walk more when traveling.
• Emergen-C: I try to take vitamin C before going on a trip and always have it with me to boost my immune system.
• Daypack or large purse: You’ll need something to carry your phone, camera, and water while you’re out exploring. Here is the one I love, it’s the perfect size for all the necessities and can be converted into a backpack.
• Travel Umbrella – nice to have a small and durable umbrella in case it rains.

What to See and Do in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Here are the top destinations in Almaty and my personal experiences to help you make the most of your trip.

Visit Ile-Alatau National Park

As I’ve mentioned, a trip to the mountains is a must. If you’re visiting during the winter months, don’t miss a trip to Shymbulak Ski Resort and Medeu Ice Skating Rink, both located just a quick ride away from the city.

Medeu Ice Skating Rink: Located at an altitude of 1,691 meters above sea level, the ice rink is the highest in the world.

Shymbulak Ski Resort: At an altitude of 2,260 meters (7,415 feet), Shymbulak is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering excellent slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

During the summer, you can ride the scenic cable car, hike, or mountain biking. Here, the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks are simply breathtaking.

Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Visiting the Botanical Garden in Almaty is a must for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city. Located in the heart of Almaty, the garden covers a vast area of over 100 hectares and is home to a stunning variety of plants from across Kazakhstan and around the world.

The garden is divided into different sections, showcasing alpine plants, tropical species, and a diverse array of trees and flowers, making it a beautiful place to explore year-round. There are also ponds and walking paths, allowing for a leisurely stroll through nature. If you’re interested in photography, the garden offers plenty of opportunities to capture vibrant landscapes, especially in the spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

Visit Ascension Cathedral

Located in Panfilov Park, Ascension Cathedral is one of Almaty’s architectural gems. This Russian Orthodox church, built entirely of wood without using nails, is a unique structure, special for its vibrant colors and intricate design. Dating back to the early 20th century, it’s one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. Plus, the peaceful park surrounding the cathedral is great for a leisurely walk!

Ascend Kok-Tobe Hill

One of Almaty’s most popular attractions, Kok-Tobe Hill offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The best way to reach the top is by taking the scenic cable car from downtown Almaty, which provides stunning panoramic vistas along the way. Once at the top, stroll through the park, dine at a café with mountain views, and see the Beatles statue. Kok-Tobe is also home to a horror room, a small free zoo, amusement rides, and souvenir shops.

Shop at Green Bazaar

For a true taste of local culture, head to Almaty’s Green Bazaar. This bustling marketplace is a sensory overload, with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, spices, and traditional Kazakh delicacies like kurt (dried cheese) and shubat (fermented camel milk). Whether you’re looking to sample local cuisine or shopping for souvenirs, the Green Bazaar offers a lively atmosphere and a glimpse into everyday life in Almaty.

Discover Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

To delve into Kazakhstan’s rich history, visit the Central State Museum. This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including displays on the Silk Road, the nomadic lifestyle, and Kazakhstan’s path to independence. Highlights include a replica of the Golden Man, an ancient Saka warrior adorned with gold armor, and exhibits showcasing traditional Kazakh culture.

Take a Stroll Down Arbat Street

Almaty’s Arbat Street is a pedestrian-friendly area lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors. This lively street is a great spot for people-watching, browsing local art, and enjoying a cup of coffee at one of the many outdoor cafés. Street performers and musicians often add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a fun place to explore.

Learn About Kazakhstan’s Space History at Baikonur Museum

For space enthusiasts, the Baikonur Museum offers fascinating insights into Kazakhstan’s role in space exploration. Located in the heart of the city, this small museum is dedicated to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest space launch facility. The exhibits include space suits, models of rockets, and displays on cosmonauts, showcasing Kazakhstan’s contributions to space science.

Bonus: Day Trip to Big Almaty Lake

Surrounded by towering peaks, the turquoise glacial lake sits at an altitude of 2,511 meters and is especially stunning in summer. While swimming in the lake is not allowed, the area offers numerous hiking trails and picnic spots, making it a perfect day trip.

Quick History of Almaty

Almaty’s history stretches back over a millennium. Its name comes from the Kazakh word for “apple,” reflecting the region’s claim as the ancestral home of the apple. Here’s a look at Almaty’s historical evolution:

Ancient Roots

The Almaty region has been inhabited for thousands of years, with early settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. The area’s fertile land and strategic location made it an important stop on the Silk Road, with traders passing through the region to exchange goods between Asia and Europe.

Verny: Russian Influence

In 1854, the Russian Empire established a military fort named Verny in the area to secure its southern border. The fort quickly grew into a town, becoming a center of Russian influence in Central Asia.

Soviet Era

In 1921, the city was renamed Almaty, and in 1929, it became the capital of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic. During the Soviet period, Almaty underwent rapid urbanization and industrialization. The city’s population grew significantly, and it became a center for culture, education, and industry in the region.

Post-Independence

After Kazakhstan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Almaty continued to play an important role as the country’s largest city and financial hub. Though the capital was moved to Astana in 1997, Almaty remains the cultural and economic heart of Kazakhstan.

Food to try in Kazakhstan

When visiting Almaty, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a variety of traditional Kazakh dishes, as well as influences from Russian, Uighur, and Central Asian cuisines. Here are some must-try foods while exploring the city.

Beshbarmak

Considered Kazakhstan’s national dish, Beshbarmak translates to “five fingers” because it’s traditionally eaten by hand. This hearty meal consists of boiled meat (lamb, beef, or horse meat) served over wide, flat noodles and topped with an onion broth. It’s a must-try dish for a taste of Kazakh tradition and is one of my favorite dishes of all time.

Kazy

Kazy is a traditional Kazakh horse meat sausage, often served during special occasions. It’s made from horse rib meat and fat, seasoned with garlic and spices, and encased in horse intestine. Kazy can be eaten on its own or with Beshbarmak.

Lagman

Lagman is a flavorful noodle dish with Uighur origins, made with hand-pulled noodles and topped with a rich stir-fry of meat (usually lamb or beef), vegetables, and a savory broth.

Manty

Manty are large, steamed dumplings filled with minced lamb or beef, seasoned with onions and spices. Often served with a dollop of sour cream or a light tomato sauce.

Kurt

Kurt is a traditional Kazakh snack made from dried, salty cheese. It has a hard texture and is often enjoyed as a snack during long journeys or hikes. Though it may be an acquired taste, it’s a staple in the Kazakh diet.

Plov

Plov is a rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, onions, carrots, and spices. Sometimes dried fruits like raisins or apricots are added, giving it a sweet-savory balance.

Baursak

Baursak are fluffy, fried dough balls that are slightly sweet and served as a snack or dessert. They are often enjoyed with tea or dipped in honey!

Samsa

Samsa are savory pastries filled with meat, usually lamb or beef, along with onions and spices. These triangular pastries are baked in tandoor ovens, giving them a crispy exterior and soft, flavorful filling. They’re a perfect on-the-go snack.

Shubat

Shubat is fermented camel’s milk, a traditional Kazakh drink known for its slightly sour taste and creamy texture. It’s often consumed for its health benefits, it’s worth trying for an authentic Kazakh experience.

Tary Tea

Kazakhstan has a strong tea-drinking culture, and you’ll find that meals are often accompanied by black or green tea, typically served with sweets like baursak or dried fruits. Enjoying tea with locals is a great way to experience Kazakh hospitality.