Weather in Almaty

About Almaty

Almaty's backdrop of the Tian Shan mountains rising vertically from the city creates a scenic drama unique in Central Asia—the Pan-American Park stretches beneath peaks. Apple orchards surround the city (almaty means 'apple place'); the Ala-Archa gorge cuts through mountains north of the city. Almaty remains Kazakhstan's cultural capital despite Nur-Sultan taking political primacy.

Country

Kazakhstan

Best months to visit

June, July, August, September

Currency

KZT

Language

Kazakh, Russian, English

Things to do in Almaty

Hiking Ala-Archa gorge trails from 1,600 to 3,600 metres through mountain scenery Visiting the Turgen gorge for alpine meadows and mountaineering base camps Riding the Assy Plateau and Big Almaty Lake for high-altitude views Exploring the Central Asian Institute and Soviet-era museums Shopping Barakholka Market for antiques, souvenirs, and Kazakhstan crafts Eating horse meat (kazy) and laghman (noodles) at traditional restaurants

Weather by month

Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.

January

Cold, with occasional showers.

February

Cold, with occasional showers.

March

Cold, with some rainy days.

April

16C

Cool, with some rainy days.

May

21C

Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.

Recommended

June

25C

Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.

Recommended

July

29C

Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.

Recommended

August

27C

Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.

Recommended

September

22C

Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.

October

14C

Cool, with some rainy days.

November

Cold, with occasional showers.

December

Cold, with occasional showers.

Almaty sits at the foot of the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains, giving Kazakhstan's largest city a backdrop unlike almost any other — ski slopes and alpine lakes are less than an hour from leafy Soviet-era boulevards and a thriving cafe culture. It's a green, increasingly cosmopolitan base for exploring the mountains, with the Medeu skating rink and Shymbulak ski resort both a short drive away.

Best areas to stay in Almaty

City Centre (Almaly)

Tree-lined streets, Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral and the central Green Bazaar.

Kok-Tobe

A hilltop park reached by cable car, offering panoramic views over the city and mountains.

Medeu & Shymbulak

The skating rink and ski resort just outside the city, popular year-round for outdoor activities.

Big Almaty Lake area

A protected mountain area with the turquoise lake and hiking trails into the Tian Shan.

Getting to Almaty

✈

Flights

Almaty International Airport has direct flights from several European hubs and connections across Asia.

⏱

From London

~7-8 hours direct from London.

🚕

Getting around

A modern metro line, buses and ride-hailing apps cover the city; a car or tour is needed for the mountains.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Almaty?

Summer (June-August) is ideal for hiking and the Big Almaty Lake, while winter (December-March) draws skiers to Shymbulak resort.

What is Big Almaty Lake?

A striking turquoise alpine lake about an hour from the city, popular for hiking and mountain views — a permit is sometimes required for the final approach.

Can I ski near Almaty?

Yes — Shymbulak is one of Central Asia's best ski resorts, reached via a gondola from the Medeu skating rink just outside the city.

Is Almaty a good base for exploring Kazakhstan?

Yes — it's well connected for trips into the Tian Shan mountains, Charyn Canyon, and Kolsai Lakes, all popular day or multi-day excursions.

What food should I try in Almaty?

Try plov, beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), and the city's growing range of modern Kazakh restaurants blending traditional and contemporary dishes.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

Big Almaty Lake's colour has to be seen to be believed, and it's astonishing that it's less than an hour from a city of two million people. Kok-Tobe at sunset was a great way to end the day.

Nurlan B. · July 2024

★★★★★

Skied Shymbulak in the morning and was back in the city for dinner by evening — incredible to have proper alpine skiing this close to a major city.

Charlotte E. · February 2024

★★★★☆

Loved the mix of Soviet-era architecture and new cafes popping up everywhere. Green Bazaar was great for trying local produce and snacks.

Aigerim T. · September 2023