Issyk lake tour
Tour overview
Nowdays, when the road to Big Almaty Lake is closed for private cars, Issyk Lake is the closest to city Alpine lake. Answering to the question which lake is better, I always say that both similar as they are located high in the mountains and different at the same time, and both worth visiting. Well I like Issyk Lake more.
Issyk Lake is one of the main attractions nearby Almaty. It was the most popular recreational place for communist party elite and general public during Soviet periond.
The lake is located at the height of 1800 meter in the gorgeous Alatau mountains. In 1963 the lake was almost destroyed by a glacial mudflow. But today it has been restored to its full glory and is loved by many local people and foreign tourists for beautifull views, clean air, nice easy hiking trails behind the lake and some specific atmosphere the lake gives you.
The road to the Lake takes about 2 hour from Almaty. Trip distance is about 100 kms.
On the way, there are several popular places to buy delicious tandoor samsa and drink “airan” for a picnic on the Lake.
If you have choice, it is better to go to Issyk Lake tour on an ordinary weekday, so that you enjoy quiet nature to yourself. On some weekends several hundred people could go to see the Lake while on ordinary day it is a quiet and tranquille place.
Tour on the map
Issyk Lake tour gallery
