Ile-Alatau national park
The Ile-Alatau National Park, also known as Ile-Alatau State National Natural Park, is a protected area located in the northern Tien Shan Mountains of Kazakhstan. This national park is known for its diverse and stunning natural landscapes, including alpine meadows, mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and unique flora and fauna.
Ile-Alatau National Park: Explore the Wild Beauty Near Almaty, Kazakhstan
Geography: The park covers an extensive area that includes the northern slopes of the Tien Shan Mountains. It extends from lower elevations, including the Ili River Valley, up to high alpine regions. The park encompasses a wide range of landscapes, from forests to alpine meadows and glaciers.
Flora and Fauna: Ile-Alatau National Park is rich in biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, snow leopards, brown bears, and numerous bird species. The park is also known for its unique and colorful alpine flowers that bloom during the summer months.
Hiking and Trekking: The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails and trekking routes. Hikers can explore the diverse landscapes, with routes of varying difficulty levels to accommodate both beginners and experienced trekkers. Some popular destinations include Big Almaty Lake, Turgen Gorge, and the Assy Plateau.
Mountaineering: Ile-Alatau National Park is a destination for mountaineers, offering numerous peaks to conquer, including the 4,000-meter-plus peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau range.
Glacial Lakes: The park is home to several glacial lakes, which are not only beautiful but also serve as water sources for the region. Big Almaty Lake is one of the most famous and easily accessible glacial lakes in the park.
Botanical Garden: The Almaty Botanical Garden, located within the park, showcases a wide variety of plants, including both native and exotic species. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and to learn about the region's flora.
Skiing and Winter Activities: During the winter months, Ile-Alatau National Park offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Shymbulak Ski Resort is one of the main ski areas in the park and is easily accessible from Almaty.
Preservation Efforts: The park is vital for the preservation of the region's natural and cultural heritage. Efforts are made to protect the park's ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism.
Access: The park is easily accessible from Almaty, with a short drive from the city. Visitors can reach the lower areas of the park by car and then continue on foot for more remote and higher-elevation destinations.
Ile-Alatau National Park is a natural treasure for Kazakhstan and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, trekking, and skiing make it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the Tien Shan Mountains.
ust 20 minutes from downtown Almaty, Ile-Alatau National Park is a spectacular natural reserve that stretches across the northern slopes of the Tien Shan mountains. Covering over 200,000 hectares, the park is known for its glaciers, alpine lakes, forested valleys, and biodiverse wildlife, making it one of the most popular weekend getaways and ecotourism destinations in Kazakhstan.
Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or nature photography, Ile-Alatau offers world-class outdoor experiences within easy reach of the city.
Where Is Ile-Alatau National Park?
📍 Location: Directly south of Almaty, in southeastern Kazakhstan
⛰️ Part of the Zailiyskiy Alatau range (a subrange of the Tien Shan mountains)
🛣️ Easily accessible by car, public transport, or tours from the city
Top Attractions in Ile-Alatau National Park
🏔️Shymbulak Ski Resort & Medeu Ice Rink
Located in the Medeu Gorge
Shymbulak is Central Asia’s most advanced ski resort
Medeu is the highest-altitude speed skating rink in the world
A great base for year-round activities
💎Big Almaty Lake (BAO)
A striking turquoise alpine reservoir at 2,500 m
Surrounded by snowy peaks and pine forests
No swimming (it’s a water source), but great for photos
Best seen in spring and early summer when the water is brightest
⛲Butakovka Waterfall & Ayusay Gorge
Easy half-day hikes through scenic valleys
Great for family picnics or beginner trekkers
Access by taxi or local bus from Almaty
🌲Kimasar, Prokhodnoye, and Left Talgar Gorges
Offer more remote and less touristy hiking trails
Pine forests, glacial streams, and chances to spot wildlife
🐆Wildlife Watching
The park is home to rare and endangered species such as:
Snow leopards
Tian Shan brown bears
Siberian ibex
Golden eagles and bearded vultures
Things to Do in Ile-Alatau National Park
🥾 Hiking & trekking: Hundreds of marked and unmarked trails
🚴 Mountain biking in summer
🏔️ Mountaineering & glacier tours
⛷️ Skiing and snowboarding (winter months)
📸 Photography of landscapes, lakes, flora, and fauna
🏕️ Camping and eco-tourism in designated zones
Best Time to Visit
✅ Spring & Summer (May to September): Best for hiking, green valleys, and lake views
❄️ Winter (December to March): Excellent skiing, snow hiking, and winter landscapes
🍂 Autumn (October): Golden forests and fewer tourists
Getting There
🚗 From Almaty:
Medeu & Shymbulak: ~25-minute drive
Big Almaty Lake: ~1.5-hour drive (permit required)
🚠 Cable Cars: Connect Medeu to Shymbulak and Talgar Pass
Park Entrance & Tips
🎟️ Entry Fees: Small fee per person + per vehicle
🪪 Permits required for Big Almaty Lake and border zones
🧭 Guided tours available for more remote treks
🧃 Bring water, snacks, and layers (weather changes fast)
📵 Limited mobile coverage in upper zones
Combine With Nearby Experiences
🏙️ Almaty City Tour (Panfilov Park, Green Bazaar, museums)
💧 Thermal springs and eco-lodges outside the park
📸 Photography trip to Big Almaty Peak or Talgar Pass
🍽️ Local cuisine in nearby mountain cafés
Final Thoughts: Wild Nature at Almaty’s Doorstep
Ile-Alatau National Park is the perfect blend of accessibility and alpine adventure. Whether you’re looking for a gentle walk to a waterfall, a serious hike into snow-capped terrain, or simply a breath of fresh mountain air, this national park offers a stunning escape from city life — all within an hour of Almaty.