Almaty , Kazakhstan

Private City Tour of Almaty by Car

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About this experience

Hi and welcome to Almaty!
I’m Dulat - your guide for this private city tour. In the warmer months, I run Cycling Almaty, a bike tour agency, and when it’s not cycling season, I host private city tours by car.

Before starting my own tours, I worked internationally with the UN and MSF, and in the diplomatic sector, which gave me a global perspective and strong experience working with people from different cultures. At the same time, Almaty is my second home - I know its hidden corners, stories, and flavors beyond the guidebooks.

On this tour, you’ll discover the best of Almaty: from the world’s largest high-mountain skating rink Medeu and the scenic Shymbulak ski resort, to panoramic views atop Kok-Tobe Hill. We’ll explore history at Panfilov Park and the colorful Ascension Cathedral, and dive into local life at the bustling Green Bazaar.

This tour combines the city’s natural beauty, rich history, and authentic tastes — with plenty of room to adapt the itinerary to your interests.

Available options

Private City Tour of Almaty by Car

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

A new crossover SUV

Entrance fees for Shymbulak, Kok Tobe

Detailed itinerary

On the way to the mountains, we’ll pass by the famous Medeu skating rink, the world’s largest high-altitude ice rink, located at 1,691 meters above sea level. From there, we’ll take the cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort — the biggest resort in Central Asia — and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

At 1,130 meters above sea level, Kok-Tobe offers one of the best panoramic views of Almaty. The park also features fun attractions: playgrounds, a wishing fountain, a small zoo, and even a Beatles monument. Afterward, we’ll head to a Kazakh national restaurant with a panoramic view to taste traditional local dishes.

Dedicated to the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen who fought in WWII, this memorial park features monuments honoring soldiers from across the Soviet Union. It’s one of Almaty’s most important historical landmarks

Located inside Panfilov Park, this colorful wooden Orthodox cathedral was built between 1903–1907 — without using a single nail. A true masterpiece of Almaty’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Almaty’s main market, where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and delicacies. A great spot to try dried fruits, nuts, and buy authentic souvenirs.
(Closed on Mondays)

We’ll finish with something sweet — a stop at the Rakhat chocolate factory shop, where you can pick up local chocolates, candies, and biscuits to take home.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN TR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Almaty

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and stunning natural beauty. Known for its apple orchards, scenic mountain backdrop, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience with its bustling markets, Soviet-era architecture, and nearby outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, featuring a TV tower, a small amusement park, and a restaurant.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free to enter, fees for attractions

Zenkov Cathedral

Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral, is a wooden Russian Orthodox church located in Panfilov Park. It's one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and a notable example of Russian architecture.

Historical/Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Green Bazaar

Green Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kazakh cuisine.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Medeu Skating Rink

Medeu Skating Rink is a popular destination for ice skating and ice hockey. Located in the mountains, it offers stunning views and a unique sporting experience.

Sports/Adventure 2-3 hours Entrance and rental fees vary

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Ile Alatau National Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint Half-day to full-day trip Free to enter, fees for parking and guided tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) and noodles, served with a broth.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich broth.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and no meat.

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baursaks

Deep-fried dough balls, often served as a snack or breakfast item.

Snack Vegetarian, can be vegan if made with vegetable oil.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Snowboarding Ice skating Spa treatments Tea house visits Park picnics

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Almaty for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kazakh, Russian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Time Zone

ALMT (Almaty Time, GMT+6)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution at night and in poorly lit areas. Political protests and demonstrations can occur, so it's best to avoid large gatherings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Almaty International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Almaty-2 Railway Station

By bus

Sayarnaya Bus Station, Sairam Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Almaty. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Kok Tobe Saryarka Zhetysu

Day trips

Charyn Canyon

200 km (124 miles) • Full-day trip

Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about 200 km east of Almaty. Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,' it offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a unique desert landscape.

Kolsai Lakes

300 km (186 miles) • Overnight trip

The Kolsai Lakes are a series of three stunning alpine lakes located in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. They offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a serene mountain setting.

Issyk Glacier

60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day trip

Issyk Glacier is a unique glacier located about 60 km east of Almaty. It's one of the few glaciers in the world that can be reached by car, making it a popular destination for day trips.

Festivals

Almaty Apple Festival • September Almaty International Film Festival • September Almaty Jazz Fest • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Visit the Green Bazaar for an authentic taste of local life and to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine
Take the cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
Explore the nearby mountains and lakes for a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, and shashlik at local restaurants and markets