Spotted by Locals x Almaty

Thanks to a fruitful collaboration between Almaty Tourism Bureau and Spotted by Locals, this summer on 1st August, we launched the city guide curated by real Almaty locals in the city. As part of our collaboration, we are happy to share a nature and outdoor guide, selected by our Spotters’ recommendations.

Almaty is surrounded by stunning mountains and breathtaking natural scenery. With our local team of Spotters, we’ve collected a range of remarkable outdoor locations you can enjoy throughout the season in and near the city of Almaty. From a locally beloved ski resort to hiking routes and mountain cafés, there is a wide variety of outdoor activities to recharge.

To get the full guide, download the app for free with this link. Enjoy!

Outdoor Guide in Almaty

Outdoors in Almaty: Turquoise Waters, Snowy Peaks

If you are arriving in Almaty expecting a view of turquoise waters, surrounded by the snowy Zailiyskiy Alatau peaks, choose Sairan Reservoir as your first destination in the heart of Almaty, easily reached by public transport.

It’s an urban lake with beaches, bike and skate parks, sports zones, playgrounds, food courts, and plenty of green space for picnics or walks.

Evenings are especially atmospheric as the lake glows with sunset reflections and street musicians play along the paths, while families, joggers, and friends gather by the water.

Address: 6VW8, Sairan Reservoir, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Pictures and recommendations by Raj Gire

Top Hiking Routes Near Almaty

Hike, Camp & BBQ at Koklaisay

Ready to leave the city buzz behind and enjoy the wild forest near Almaty? Grab your gear, pack some snacks, and head to Koklaisay! Koklaisay is a quick drive from the city, with pine forests, green meadows, and riverside locations to take a break. It’s an easy trail for a light hike or a quiet stroll in nature.

In spring and summer, it’s alive with green hills, wildflowers, and the sound of streams. Locals love it for picnics, BBQs, and laid-back afternoons with friends or family. You can even camp overnight if you bring a tent and warm clothes; nothing beats the mountain air and starry skies.

Address: 4Q6Q+WXV Kemping, 4Q6Q+WXV Kemping, Koklaisay, Kazakhstan

*Recommendation and Pictures: Dheeraj Pandey*

Thermal spring Almarasan

If you are a hiker looking for something truly unique, hike up to Almarasan Thermal Springs, just 20 minutes from Almaty. Soak in warm, mineral-rich waters with forested slopes and river views all around. Rustic pools and the peaceful setting make Almarasan a wonderful place to recharge in any season, especially during the winter months, when the snow adds a special touch.

On your way to Almarasan, don’t miss Great Almaty Lake on the same route.

P.S.: The GPS tag is limited by the city’s boundary. Walk about 2000 metres ahead to reach the spot where the photos were taken.
Link & Address: 3WP4+RHP Alma-Arasan Sanatoriy

Birch Groove: Hike into the mountain wilderness

Birch Grove (Ak-Kaiyn) is located a short drive from central Almaty. You can also get here by public transport, followed by a short hike. Ak-Kaiyn is famous for its striking white birches and fresh mountain air. Locals love it year-round: green and lively in spring and summer, golden in autumn, and a snowy wonderland in winter. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

The walk inside the grove and beyond can be challenging, especially if you venture deeper into the wilder trails. Besides the marked trails, you can find picnic areas and eco-tourism spots along the way, but the terrain becomes steep and rocky the farther you go. Appropriate shoes, snacks and plenty of water are recommended. For more remote treks, we advise you to go with a companion or local guide.

Coordinates: 43.166203, 76.991181
Use the app 2gis.kz

Shymbulak: Where Mountains Touch Clouds

Nestled in the majestic Alatau mountains near Almaty, at 2,200 meters above sea level, Shymbulak Ski Resort is a true paradise for winter lovers. The resort is easily accessible thanks to a seamless cable car ride from Medeu Station or electric cars from Medeu Sports Arena. It connects three levels of snow-covered slopes dotted with restaurants and cozy cafés.

The view is something hard to forget when visiting Shymbulak: clouds below, peaks above, and panoramic snowfields that feel like stepping into a dream. The resort doubles as a base for hiking in warmer months, but winter is when it truly shines.

Recharge with a warm drink in the warm restaurants and enjoy multi-cuisine meals at reasonable prices. From traditional Kazakh flavors to international comfort food, the variety is perfect for après-ski indulgence. Keep an eye on their website and socials for snowboard school and events.

Link: https://shymbulak.com/
Address: Shymbulak Mountain Resort, Kerey and Zhanibek Khans St, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Great Almaty Lake Trail

Perched at 2,510 meters in the Ile-Alatau range, Big Almaty Lake is among the city’s most photographed places. Its surreal turquoise waters shift hues with the changing light, perfectly framed by snow-capped peaks. Short, easy-to-moderate hikes around the upper ridges reveal even more dramatic views of the valleys below.

Plan for half a day for this trip. Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Pictures and recommendation: Raj Gire

Parks in Almaty

South Park — Quiet paths and squirrel sightings: ‘This park feels like it was made for walking slowly, thinking, or saying nothing at all.’

Kurmangazy–Abylai Khan Park: ‘I come here often to play ping pong, take slow walks among the flowers, or simply sit and enjoy the blooming trees in spring.’
28 Panfilov Park: ‘more than just a green space — it’s surrounded by so much life.’

Outdoor exhibition: Ratushnogo, 100 — One man’s art, a kids’ paradise: ‘The city’s most vibrant art is often found in the most unassuming of places—a simple residential courtyard, for example.’

After the hike: Cafes with beautiful views

Hike up to the Almaty mountains near the Gorelnik Visitor Centre and take in the memorable view at Café Apa Katya. Get a fresh coffee with warm breakfasts, or Plov on weekends. The coffee hits differently when sipped in the crisp mountain air. Here, you can discover a wooden sky bridge, a nearby stream, and a natural hot spring just a short walk away. Whether you hike all the way up or take the convenient eco-taxi from Medeu, the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by towering pines, wooden decks, and breathtaking alpine views.

It’s a spot for hikers to refuel, remote workers to unwind, and travellers to reconnect with nature.

Address: Cafe Apa Katya / Gorelnik Visit Center, Керей Жанибек хандар, Almaty, Kazakhstan 43R8+MMM