In short
- Pedestrian fee is 865 to 1,000 KZT ($2 USD).
- Passenger cars cost an extra 2,595 KZT.
- Hot springs access is free after entry.
In this article
Big Almaty Lake and Alma-Arasan Gorge are located inside a protected national park. You pay the entrance fee at the eco-post gates on your way up the mountain. Bring local cash (KZT) to pay these fees quickly.
How much are Ile-Alatau National Park tickets for individuals?
The environmental fee for one adult is roughly 865 to 1,000 KZT, which is about $2 USD.
You pay this fee at the park checkpoint. The exact rate can fluctuate slightly, so carry small KZT bills. This fee applies to all pedestrians and passengers inside a vehicle.
Do I need a separate ticket for a vehicle?
Yes, bringing a car into the park requires an additional vehicle fee on top of the individual passenger fees.
The charge for a standard passenger car is currently around 2,595 KZT. This fee is paid at the same eco-post gate. Keep in mind that driving all the way to Big Almaty Lake is sometimes restricted.
Are the Alma-Arasan hot springs free?
Access to the Alma-Arasan thermal pools is free once you are inside the national park.
You do not need to buy a separate ticket for the hot springs. The initial 865 to 1,000 KZT park entry fee covers your hike and your time at the pools.
Are park fees included if I book a tour?
Many guided tours include the national park entry fees in their total price, but you should check your specific booking.
Tour prices start from $49 USD and vary by platform. Check the inclusions list when booking. If the eco-fee is not included, you will need to pay it in cash at the gate.
How do I pay the eco-fee?
You pay the fee at the official park checkpoints on the road leading south from Almaty.
Card terminals at the mountain checkpoints often lose signal. Always bring cash in local currency (KZT) to avoid delays. You only pay once per entry.
Do I need to pay to hike to Big Almaty Lake?
Yes, walkers and hikers still must pay the 865 to 1,000 KZT environmental fee.
Even if you take bus #108 or #211 and walk from the final stop, you pass through the park boundaries. The eco-fee is mandatory for all visitors entering the Ile-Alatau National Park.
Questions travellers ask
What is the entrance fee for Ile-Alatau National Park?
The fee is roughly 865 to 1,000 KZT per person, or about $2 USD.
Is the road to Big Almaty Lake open to cars?
Private car access directly to the lake is sometimes restricted or closed. You may need to park and hike the final 8 to 11 kilometers.
How to get to Big Almaty Lake from Almaty?
You can take a guided tour, hire a taxi, or take public bus #108 or #211 to the Alma-Arasan Resort stop and hike from there.
