Things to Do in Almaty in September

September Weather in Almaty

24°C (76°F) High Temp

12°C (53°F) Low Temp

28 mm (1.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather - daytime temperatures of 20-24°C (68-76°F) are ideal for Kok-Tobe Hill and Big Almaty Lake without the summer heat exhaustion
Apple harvest season brings fresh fruits to Green Bazaar at 40% lower prices than winter, plus traditional apple festivals in surrounding orchards
Clear mountain views - September has the lowest air pollution levels of the year with 60% fewer hazy days than summer months
Shoulder season pricing saves 25-35% on accommodations compared to peak summer and winter ski season rates

Considerations

Unpredictable weather swings - temperature can drop 15°C (27°F) between day and night requiring layered clothing strategy
Rainy afternoons disrupt outdoor plans on 10 days of the month, typically 2-4pm when most tours are scheduled
Tourist services begin reducing hours as summer season ends - some mountain huts close after mid-September

Best Activities in September

Big Almaty Lake Alpine Hiking

September offers perfect hiking conditions to this turquoise mountain lake at 2,511m (8,238 ft) elevation. Daytime temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F) at altitude prevent overheating, while morning frost creates stunning photography opportunities. Apple trees along lower trails are heavy with fruit. Road conditions are still excellent before winter closures begin in October.

Booking Tip: Book day tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators, typically 8,000-12,000 KZT ($18-27). Early morning departures (7-8am) avoid afternoon rain and provide best lighting. Ensure operator provides warm beverages as temperatures drop quickly at altitude. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Almaty Central Park and Kok-Tobe Cable Car Adventures

September's moderate temperatures make the 1,100m (3,609 ft) cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill comfortable during peak afternoon hours. The park below transforms with autumn colors, and the observation deck offers crystal-clear views of snow-capped peaks. Evening temperatures around 12-15°C (54-59°F) are perfect for the hilltop restaurants without summer's oppressive heat.

Booking Tip: Individual cable car tickets cost 1,500-2,000 KZT ($3-4) each way. Combined park and observation packages typically range 4,000-6,000 KZT ($9-14). Best visited 10am-2pm before afternoon rain likelihood increases. Book combination tickets through hotel concierges for small discounts.

Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Mountain Tours

The famous outdoor rink at 1,691m (5,548 ft) begins test operations in late September, offering a unique opportunity to skate outdoors in crisp mountain air. Even if not operational, the stadium architecture and mountain backdrop are spectacular. Cable car continues to Shymbulak at 2,260m (7,415 ft) where early snow sometimes appears, creating dramatic contrast with valley's autumn colors.

Booking Tip: Transportation and cable car packages typically cost 6,000-10,000 KZT ($14-23). If skating is operational, add 2,000 KZT ($4-5) for rental and admission. Book through established tour operators as independent transport can be unreliable. Morning departures essential to avoid afternoon weather changes.

Green Bazaar Cultural and Culinary Exploration

September brings the year's best produce to Almaty's main market. Apple varieties from Almaty region (the city's name means 'father of apples') are at peak ripeness and lowest prices. Traditional preserves and dried fruits are prepared for winter, creating unique shopping opportunities. Indoor sections provide refuge during afternoon rain showers while maintaining cultural authenticity.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits are free, but guided cultural tours cost 3,000-5,000 KZT ($7-12) and provide valuable context about regional foods and bargaining customs. Morning visits (8-11am) offer best selection and avoid afternoon crowds. Budget 2,000-4,000 KZT ($5-9) for quality produce purchases.

Charyn Canyon Full-Day Expeditions

September provides ideal conditions for this 200km (124 mile) journey to Kazakhstan's 'Grand Canyon.' Temperatures in the canyon remain comfortable 18-25°C (64-77°F) during midday, while summer heat can reach dangerous levels. The 80m (262 ft) deep Valley of Castles offers dramatic photography without the harsh shadows of peak summer sun.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 KZT ($35-58) including transport and guide. Book at least 10-14 days ahead as September is popular for this excursion. Tours depart early (6-7am) for the 3-hour drive. Ensure operator provides lunch and adequate water supplies. Current tour options available in booking section below.

Almaty Museum and Cultural District Walking Tours

September's mild weather makes extended walking tours through the historic center comfortable. The 28°C (82°F) days are perfect for exploring outdoor architectural sites, while indoor museums provide climate-controlled relief during the 10 rainy days. Cultural centers extend their outdoor programming through September before winter restrictions begin.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free using downloadable maps, while guided cultural tours range 4,000-8,000 KZT ($9-18). Museum admission typically 500-1,500 KZT ($1-3) per site. Afternoon tours (2-5pm) work well as many museums close Mondays. Book cultural packages that include multiple sites for best value.

September Events & Festivals

Mid to Late September

Apple Festival at Regional Orchards

Traditional harvest celebrations occur in orchards around Almaty region, featuring traditional Kazakh music, horseback demonstrations, and fresh apple tastings from dozens of heritage varieties. Many festivals include traditional fermented mare's milk (kumys) tastings and felt-making demonstrations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - pack base layer, fleece, and wind jacket for 15°C (27°F) temperature swings between day and night

Waterproof hiking boots - trails can be muddy after rain, and early morning frost makes surfaces slippery above 2,000m (6,562 ft)

Light rain jacket with hood - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes but can be heavy, umbrellas ineffective in mountain winds

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 at altitude, and reflection off early snow increases exposure significantly

Warm hat and gloves - early morning temperatures drop to 5-8°C (41-46°F) in mountains, essential for sunrise photography

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries 40% faster, critical for GPS navigation on hiking trails

Cash in small denominations - many mountain vendors and transport don't accept cards, budget 20,000-30,000 KZT ($45-70) daily

Thermal underwear for high altitude activities - temperatures at Big Almaty Lake and Shymbulak can feel like 5°C (41°F) with wind chill

Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration - cobblestone areas become slippery when wet during afternoon showers

Light scarf or neck warmer - evening temperatures around 10°C (50°F) make dining at outdoor mountain restaurants chilly without protection

Insider Knowledge

Local families begin preserving apples in September - ask at Green Bazaar about traditional drying techniques and buy 'sushka' (dried apple rings) directly from producers at 60% below winter prices

Morning glory phenomenon at Big Almaty Lake occurs only in September - arrive by 7am to witness fog lifting off the turquoise water creating mirror-perfect reflections before tour groups arrive

Many Almaty residents take their annual mountain hiking vacations in September before snow closes high passes - join informal hiking groups at Kok-Tobe base station on weekends for local route knowledge

Traditional felt-making workshops restart in September as nomadic families prepare winter goods - visit craft centers in Kok-Tobe village for authentic experiences not available during tourist season

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating altitude effects - even fit travelers experience shortness of breath above 2,000m (6,562 ft), plan extra time for activities and bring altitude sickness medication

Scheduling outdoor activities for afternoon - 60% of September days have rain between 2-5pm, book morning tours and plan indoor alternatives for afternoons

Wearing cotton clothing in mountains - cotton retains moisture and becomes dangerous in temperature drops, synthetic or wool base layers essential for any high-altitude activities