We’re launching direct flights to Almaty – here’s everything you need to know

This July, Cathay Pacific is introducing an exciting new destination to the route map: Almaty. As Kazakhstan’s largest city, Almaty opens up this vast country and the wider Central Asia region to our passengers.  

Located close to Kazakhstan’s southern border and in the shadow of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, Almaty is the country’s largest city and a destination worth exploring in its own right. Unlike the more modern capital of Astana, the city has many visible traces of the past, including the colourful wooden Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral), the bustling Green Market and the imposing Soviet-modernist Arasan Baths. It’s also long been a major stop on the Silk Road and a hub for the surrounding area.  

Here are just a few of the remarkable destinations that Almaty puts within your reach.  

Big Almaty Lake, Kazakhstan 

Just 15km south of Almaty is this pristine alpine reservoir nestled in the Tian Shan mountains, close to the source of the Almaty River. Depending on the time of year, the glacial water can appear light green or vivid turquoise blue. This is a popular day trip from Almaty, with tourist buses leaving from Almaty Stadium every morning. It's advisable to bring a raincoat as weather conditions can change quickly. Be sure to also take your passport with you, as this natural wonder is close to a border area.  

Shymbulak Ski Resort, Kazakhstan 

Visiting in winter? Less than an hour southeast of the city is the largest ski resort in Central Asia. Located in the upper part of the Medeu Valley, Shymbulak has modern facilities and slopes for all levels of experience. It also has majestic views of the Tian Shan Mountains and is packed with great hiking and mountaineering trails, so even a visit in the summer months is worth the trip. While you’re there, don’t miss Auyl , one of Almaty’s most celebrated restaurants, serving “neo-nomadic” cuisine. 

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan 

A short flight away (or a four-hour drive) is the capital of Kyrgyzstan and the gateway to some of the world’s most under-explored hiking trails, including the Ala-Archa National Park, Karakol and Jyrgalan, and Song-Kul Lake in the Central Highlands. Mid-June to mid-September is ideal for trekking, but Kyrgyzstan’s highly walkable capital is rewarding year-round. Expect a laid-back vibe and attractions such as the bustling Osh Bazaar, the greenery of Oak Park (Dubovy Park), and the drama of Ala-Too Square with its mountain backdrop.

Ili, Chinese Mainland 

Driving in the opposite direction is the city of Ili (Yining), in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of the Chinese Mainland. Visit Six Star Street, a hexagonal-shaped historic district radiating from a central hub that features Russian-style architecture, wall art and cafés. On the other side of town, you’ll find the Kazanqi Folk Village, a vibrant Uyghur neighbourhood notable for its brightly painted blue and yellow traditional houses, cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages.  

Samarkand, Uzbekistan  

Prepared to venture a little further? Why not experience Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road. Less than a two-hour flight from Almaty, this enchanting city in Uzbekistan has been known for centuries as both a legendary trading hub and a centre of culture and learning since at least the time of Timur (Tamerlane) in the 14th century. Here you can see some of the finest Islamic architecture in the world, including the famous Registan Square, the colossal Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the vibrant Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. 

Travel requirements 

While Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and the Chinese Mainland all offer short-stay visa-free access to citizens from a number of countries, some passport holders will need to apply for a visa before their trip. Be sure to check the latest visa regulations and ensure you have the necessary documentation before departure.