Things to Do in Almaty Zoo, Қазақстан

Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city and former capital, sits majestically at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in the country's southeast. This cosmopolitan hub seamlessly blends Soviet-era architecture with modern developments, creating a unique urban landscape where traditional Kazakh culture meets contemporary Central Asian life. The city serves as Kazakhstan's commercial and cultural heart, offering visitors stunning mountain views, vibrant bazaars, and a thriving arts scene. Once known as Alma-Ata, meaning 'father of apples,' Almaty is renowned for its tree-lined streets, parks, and proximity to natural wonders. The city's location makes it an ideal base for exploring both urban attractions and outdoor adventures, from the bustling Green Bazaar to the nearby Shymbulak ski resort. With its mix of European café culture, Central Asian traditions, and modern amenities, Almaty provides visitors with an authentic taste of contemporary Kazakhstan while serving as a gateway to the country's diverse landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Almaty Zoo

Explore Kok-Tobe Hill and Park

Take the cable car up to Almaty's highest point for panoramic city views and visit the iconic Beatles monument. The hilltop park features restaurants, souvenir shops, and walking trails with spectacular vistas of the Tian Shan mountains. Evening visits are particularly magical when the city lights create a stunning backdrop.

Booking Tip: Cable car tickets cost around 2,000 KZT ($4-5) round trip. Best visited during sunset for optimal photos. No advance booking needed, but arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.

Visit the Green Bazaar (Zeleny Bazaar)

Immerse yourself in local culture at this vibrant covered market, one of Central Asia's most authentic bazaars. Browse stalls selling everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and souvenirs. The market offers an excellent opportunity to taste local delicacies like kurt (dried cheese balls) and fresh fruits.

Booking Tip: Free to enter, open daily 8 AM-6 PM. Bring cash in small denominations for bargaining. Early morning visits offer the freshest produce and fewer crowds.

Discover Big Almaty Lake

Journey to this stunning alpine lake located 28 kilometers south of the city at 2,500 meters above sea level. The turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks create one of Kazakhstan's most photographed landscapes. The area also houses an astronomical observatory and offers excellent hiking opportunities.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $50-80 including transport and guide. Best visited May-October when roads are accessible. Book through local tour operators who provide necessary permits for the border zone area.

Experience Medeu Ice Rink and Shymbulak Resort

Visit the world's highest skating rink at Medeu, famous for its Olympic-standard ice surface and mountain setting. Continue up to Shymbulak ski resort via gondola for year-round mountain activities including skiing in winter and hiking in summer. The journey offers breathtaking alpine scenery.

Booking Tip: Medeu entry costs 1,500 KZT, gondola to Shymbulak adds 3,000 KZT. Winter ski passes start at $30/day. Book equipment rental in advance during peak season (December-March).

Tour Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

Stroll through this historic park dedicated to WWII heroes and marvel at the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world's tallest wooden buildings constructed without nails. The park also houses the Memorial of Glory and offers peaceful walking paths lined with monuments and mature trees.

Booking Tip: Free entry to park and cathedral. Open daily sunrise to sunset. Guided tours available for $15-20 focusing on Soviet history and architecture. Photography is permitted but be respectful during services.

Getting There

Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the main gateway, located 15 kilometers northeast of the city center with connections to major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The airport is served by Kazakhstan's national carrier Air Astana, as well as Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and several regional carriers. Ground transportation includes airport buses (200 KZT), taxis (2,500-3,500 KZT), and ride-sharing services. Almaty is also accessible by train from major Central Asian cities, with the main railway station connecting to Nur-Sultan (Astana), Tashkent, and other regional destinations.

Getting Around

Almaty offers various transportation options including an efficient metro system with two lines covering major areas (150 KZT per ride), extensive bus networks (150 KZT), and affordable taxis through apps like Yandex.Taxi and inDriver. The city center is walkable with wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas, particularly around Republic Square and Arbat Street. For mountain excursions, marshrutkas (shared minivans) run to popular destinations like Medeu and Shymbulak. Car rentals are available but parking can be challenging in the city center, and winter driving requires experience with mountain conditions.

Where to Stay

City Center (Almaly District)

Medeu District

Bostandyk District

Alatau District

Auezov District

Turksib District

Food & Dining

Almaty's dining scene reflects its position as a cultural crossroads, offering everything from traditional Kazakh cuisine to international fare. Sample national dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with pasta) and manti (steamed dumplings) at restaurants like Kishlak or Daredzhani for Georgian cuisine. The city boasts numerous upscale establishments along Dostyk Avenue and Furmanov Street, while the Green Bazaar area offers authentic street food and local specialties. International options include Italian, Japanese, and European restaurants, with many establishments staying open late to accommodate the city's vibrant nightlife scene.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Almaty is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and mountain access is easiest. Summer (July-August) can be hot in the city but perfect for mountain activities and lake visits. Winter (December-March) attracts ski enthusiasts to nearby resorts, though city temperatures can drop below -20°C. Spring brings blooming apple trees that give the city its name, while autumn offers clear skies and stunning mountain views. Weather can change quickly due to the mountain location, so pack layers regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian phrases as it's more widely spoken than English, though younger locals often speak some English

Always carry cash (Kazakhstani tenge) as many smaller establishments don't accept cards, and ATMs are readily available

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and removing shoes when entering homes or certain traditional restaurants

Things to Do in Almaty Zoo