Big Almaty Lake with Horseback Riding Day Tour: A Complete Guide

Exploring Kazakhstan’s breathtaking natural scenery is a dream for many travelers, and the Big Almaty Lake with Horseback Riding Day Tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of what makes this experience special. Expect stunning mountain views, a relaxed pace, and a taste of local rural life—all accessible without strenuous hikes.

What really stands out are the spectacular turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake, the knowledgeable guides who add context and humor, and the unique horseback riding through apple orchards. Keep in mind, this is a relatively easy day trip suited for most fitness levels, but those with altitude sickness or mobility issues might want to consider their comfort. This tour is a perfect choice for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from the city without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Convenient and accessible: No long hikes, just a scenic drive to the lake
Expert guides enrich the experience with local insights and humor
Horseback riding through orchards offers a genuine connection to the landscape
Stunning views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise waters
Flexible itinerary including sightseeing, shopping, and lunch
Ideal for most travelers, especially those seeking a relaxed, natural experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Almaty City

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Easy Access to the Iconic Big Almaty Lake

The highlight of this tour is visiting Big Almaty Lake, one of the most photographed spots in the region. Thanks to a well-planned itinerary, you’ll spend about 75 minutes at the lake, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, take photos, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air. The lake’s vivid turquoise waters, set against snow-capped peaks, are as stunning as they sound—truly an alpine postcard.

Unlike many mountain excursions, this trip avoids strenuous hikes—your journey involves a comfortable car ride up scenic mountain roads. This makes it accessible for most, including those who prefer a more relaxed nature experience. The drive itself offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and lush valleys, setting the perfect mood for a day immersed in nature.

The Journey and Transportation

Starting from one of four pickup points in Almaty, the group boards a van and then a jeep or SUV for the final stretch to the lake. The total travel time from the city center to Big Almaty Lake is approximately 1 hour by van, followed by 30 minutes in a jeep or SUV. This combination of transportation ensures a comfortable ride, avoiding any fatigue from long travel.

The logistics of the tour are straightforward—no surprises here, just efficient transportation that gets you to the highlights without unnecessary fuss. For many, the ease of access is a big plus, especially when combined with the stunning vistas en route.

More Great Tours Nearby

Horseback Riding in the Mountain Foothills

One of the more unique parts of this tour is the horseback riding experience through the apple orchards at the mountain’s base. No riding experience is necessary, which makes it welcoming for beginners or those simply curious about trying it out.

The ride lasts around 30 minutes and offers a chance to connect with the landscape in a quiet, peaceful way. Several reviews mention how this activity enriches the day, providing a different perspective on the rural life and natural beauty of the region. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photos, especially with the orchards and mountain backdrop.

There's plenty more to explore in Almaty City

Visiting the Ayusay Center

After the lake, the tour stops at the Ayusay Center, where visitors have a chance to browse local crafts and souvenirs. This quick 15-minute break provides a nice opportunity to stretch, shop, or grab a quick snack before heading to the next highlight.

Lunch and Relaxation at Ile-Alatau National Park

Following the cultural stop, the tour includes a one-hour lunch in Ile-Alatau National Park. The setting here is tranquil, with options likely featuring local dishes—perfect for recharging after the morning’s adventures. While specific menu details aren’t provided, the emphasis on enjoying the scenery and local flavors makes this a memorable meal.

Final Stop and Drop-offs

The day concludes with a relaxing one-hour return journey to central Almaty, with drop-offs at the start points. The entire experience runs for about 7 hours, balancing sightseeing, activity, and downtime.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

Reviews consistently mention guides like Kassym and Aika as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous. One reviewer appreciated Kassym’s effortless performance, joking and sharing insights throughout the day. Aika’s fluency in English and energetic attitude kept the group engaged and comfortable. These guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they add personality and context, making the experience more meaningful.

Authentic and Photogenic Settings

From the colorful lake to the apple orchards, each stop offers incredible photo opportunities. Traveler photos showcase vivid landscapes, snowy peaks contrasting with turquoise waters, and charming rural scenes. The guides’ local tips often help travelers find the best angles and moments to capture.

Comfort and Convenience

Because the tour doesn’t involve strenuous hikes, it’s accessible to a wide audience. The transportation arrangements are efficient, and the stops are well-paced. The small group size (usually around 15 people) ensures a more intimate experience, making it easier to ask questions or enjoy conversations.

Authentic Rural Experience

Horseback riding through apple orchards is more than just a fun activity; it’s a glimpse into local life and landscape. Many reviews highlight how this activity enriches the trip, connecting visitors to the land in a way that’s both peaceful and memorable.

Practical Considerations

Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, many find that the combination of transport, guided tour, horseback riding, and lunch offers good value, especially given the quality of scenery and guides. The flexible booking allows you to reserve without immediate payment, adding convenience.

What to Bring

Expect to spend time outdoors, so pack comfortable shoes, a hat, and rain gear just in case. Remember to bring your passport for identification, particularly if you want to purchase souvenirs or visit certain sites. Luggage or large bags are discouraged to keep the experience smooth.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is considered low difficulty, making it suitable for most travelers. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with altitude sickness, motion sickness, or high blood pressure. The activity’s relaxed pace and short walking times make it a stress-free way to see the region.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a gentle escape from the hustle and bustle of Almaty. If you’re after stunning scenery without strenuous effort, this is a solid choice. The horseback riding adds a fun, authentic touch—perfect for travelers wanting a bit of rural Kazakh flavor in their trip.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer a relaxed day with varied activities, this tour offers a good mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and gentle adventure. It’s also great for first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of the region’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Big Almaty Lake with Horseback Riding Day Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, easy accessibility, and engaging guides. The stunning views of the lake, combined with the chance to ride through orchards and learn about local life, make it a memorable day out.

The tour’s affordability and convenience make it a compelling choice for travelers who want a low-stress, high-reward experience. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate beautiful landscapes but prefer to avoid strenuous hikes or long drives.

While the tour is straightforward and comfortable, it still delivers a genuine connection with the Kazakh landscape—something many travelers cherish in their journeys.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, since the tour is considered low difficulty with no long hikes, most children and older travelers should find it comfortable. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll get about 75 minutes at Big Almaty Lake, a 30-minute horseback ride, 15 minutes at the Ayusay Center, and one hour for lunch. The rest of the day involves transportation and short stops.

Do I need any riding experience for the horseback riding?
No, the horseback riding is suitable for beginners, and no prior experience is required. The activity is designed to be accessible and enjoyable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring passport, comfortable shoes, hat, and rain gear if needed. It’s best to avoid large luggage or bags to keep the experience smooth.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this tour offers a taste of Kazakhstan’s natural splendors with just the right amount of activity and cultural insight. It’s a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, beautiful, and authentically Kazakh experience, all wrapped into a manageable day trip.

Big Almaty Lake with Horseback Riding Day Tour