How to get to Almaty

Almaty is the largest metropolis and the cultural heart of Kazakhstan, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. When planning how to get to Almaty, travellers will discover the convenient accessibility of the "Southern Capital": bustling air, rail, and road routes lead here.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is to take a flight to Almaty International Airport (ALA). This is the main air gateway, welcoming millions of passengers annually and connecting the city with many countries around the world.

Alternatively, one can consider flying into neighbouring Bishkek (about 193 km away) or taking seasonal flights to the airports of Tamchy and Karakol. However, a direct flight to the "City of Apples" remains the most convenient option for the majority of tourists, as the airport is well-connected to the city's infrastructure.

Rail transport plays a significant role in the region's transport system: the city is served by two major stations — Almaty-1 (transit) and Almaty-2 (located closer to the city centre). Both modern high-speed trains and international services arrive here, making the journey comfortable and scenic.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers sometimes plan their route via neighbouring Bishkek, although direct railway connections to the Southern Capital are well-developed and cover major directions.

Bus services remain an accessible and budget-friendly option for trips from neighbouring regions and border cities. Regular routes connect the metropolis with major settlements in the region, allowing arrival at the Sairan or Sayakhat bus stations.

A trip by bus is an opportunity to view picturesque landscapes, from endless steppes to mountain ranges. It is recommended to check the current schedule, travel time, and ticket availability directly at the bus station ticket counters before departure.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and reveals stunning views of the Tian Shan mountains. The most popular route runs from the city of Bishkek: the distance is about 236 km, and the drive takes approximately 3.8 hours barring any delays at the border.

For tourists driving from the direction of Lake Issyk-Kul, it is convenient to travel via Karakol (about 365 km, 5.3 hours on the road) or from the village of Tamchy, covering around 420 km in 5.6 hours. The roads in this direction are scenic but require attention and adherence to speed limits, especially on mountain sections.

When planning a visit to the country's largest city, it is worth considering a few nuances that will make your stay comfortable and safe. Almaty is a hospitable metropolis, combining Eastern traditions with a modern rhythm of life.

1. Clothing and Climate. The weather here is continental and changeable. Summers can be hot, but evenings bring coolness from the mountains. For trips to Medeu or Shymbulak, be sure to bring a warm jacket and comfortable shoes, even in summer.
2. Transport. The city has a developed network: metro, buses, and trolleybuses. Use the "Onay" card or SMS for payment. It is best to order taxis via official apps (such as Yandex Go) to avoid inflated prices.
3. Finances. The national currency is the Tenge. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in supermarkets, cafes, and shopping centres. Cash will be useful at bazaars or in small shops.
4. Health and Safety. There are many 24-hour pharmacies in the city. Drinking tap water is not recommended; it is better to buy bottled water. The city is generally safe, but keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded places.
5. Communication. The Russian language is widely spoken and used everywhere, so there will be no issues with understanding. In the centre and tourist spots, staff often speak English.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to treat elders with respect and give up your seat for them on public transport. Upon meeting, men usually exchange handshakes.
7. What to Avoid. Do not use the services of pushy private taxi drivers at the airport terminal exit — their prices are often inflated several times over.

Following these simple recommendations will help you avoid minor hassles and fully focus on exploring the unique culture and natural beauty of the region.