Big Almaty Lake & Falconry Show Tour: A Detailed Review

Okay, so you’re possibly thinking about checking out the Big Almaty Lake and Falconry Show tour, right? Very, very cool! It’s quite a day trip from Almaty, Kazakhstan, which has you soaking in both unbelievable views and experiencing some traditional Kazakh culture. Here’s what you actually might want to know, including some little tips and tricks I just happened to pick up along the way.

Getting There and Back Again

Alright, first off, you actually have got a few choices on how to reach Big Almaty Lake. You could, conceivably, rent a car. The drive is said to be relatively straightforward, but so you know the road can be a bit winding as you climb higher up. Also, in some respects you might find that hiring a driver is way less stress. Many local tour companies provide transport as part of a package deal, which also takes the headache out of, you know, potentially getting lost, particularly if you are a bit directionally challenged – like yours truly. That stated, a taxi might also be an option, too it’s almost guaranteed to be more costly than the group tour thing. A group tour usually works out cheaper and gives you other perks, as a matter of fact like having someone there to let you know about the area. As a matter of fact I almost got on the wrong bus!

Bear in mind, that, very recently, there were times the road right up to the lake might just be closed off to private vehicles, especially during busy periods or when they might just need to do maintenance. Tour buses, might be exempt, so that is just a little something to keep in mind while planning.

Big Almaty Lake: Beauty That Bites (Sometimes)

First off, wow! Big Almaty Lake? Totally lives up to all the hype, doesn’t it? The water? It is this striking turquoise color, that looks almost surreal on a bright, sunny day. The surrounding mountains actually give you this kinda amazing sense of being utterly dwarfed by nature. But anyway, a few things you should keep in mind. The altitude could be something, very. Big Almaty Lake is just shy of 2,500 meters above sea level. Take it slowly when you first arrive, is that what you ought to do. Give yourself a few minutes to actually get accustomed to the thinner air. When I got out of the bus, like, I felt out of breath for, seemingly, no reason!

Now, I do hear that swimming is pretty much a no-no. Mostly just since the lake actually serves as a water source. Instead, many people, that said, just are happy to take pictures and, you know, basically, just soak in the views. Speaking of photos, you should know, that, in that case, the lighting may just be, kinda, tricky, especially at midday. So really early morning or late afternoon, probably are likely to give you more pleasing results.

The Falconry Show: Birds of a Feather, Amazing Show Together

The falconry show really is a highlight, by the way. Getting to witness these superb birds of prey up close really is rather exceptional. You actually get to find out about the history of falconry in Kazakhstan, plus how they are used, traditionally, for hunting. That stated, the demonstrations really are really impressive. You get to watch falcons, eagles, plus other birds actually display their skills. It is actually really something to see them soar and swoop, right?

You might actually find the shows are arranged at slightly different times. Just you should really make sure you check the schedule ahead of time. Plus, it would almost seem respectful to be on time! So too it’s almost certainly important to keep in mind the comfort of the animals; that is to say following any directions from the handlers to minimise disturbances during the demonstration, and be respectful of the birds and the space that they require. Usually there’s opportunities after the show for photos, and such.

What to Pack and Wear

Okay, let’s actually chat gear. The weather, at times, in the mountains, tends to be totally unpredictable. So arguably, layering really is the secret. A light fleece, is that what you may want to do, even in the summer. And maybe a waterproof jacket really is just always a very good call. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots also would actually seem vital, especially if you might just plan on doing any walking around the lake or maybe on some nearby trails.

Do not actually forget your sunscreen, or a hat, right? That mountain sun, like, is intense! Oh, and actually bring a bottle of water. Staying hydrated definitely does help, apparently, with altitude. A small backpack just to keep everything could actually be genuinely useful, too.

Food and Drink Situations

Alright, food. What you can certainly find varies just a little. I would say bringing along some snacks definitely may just be the thing to do. A few tours will include lunch, still it is very worth just checking when you’re booking. If lunch isn’t included, a few places near the lake and by the falconry center usually provide some basic food, basically Kazakh dishes. Having your own snacks, means you basically do not just rely on, like, potentially very limited options. But anyway, make sure to sample some authentic cuisine if given the chance.

Photo Opportunities (Galore!)

You’ll pretty quickly come to realize this tour really does feel like it was actually made for Instagram. I would say Big Almaty Lake? Incredible backdrop. The falconry show actually gives you chances to grab action shots and close-ups of the birds. So I’m saying, don’t actually forget your camera or phone. And conceivably think about a portable charger, for instance if you actually use your phone quite a lot. You might want to snap a photo with those trained falcons too.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Book Ahead: Very, very vital, particularly during peak season. This really does basically help to guarantee a spot and get slightly better prices.
Check the Weather: Okay, so really keep an eye on the weather conditions the day before. Mountain weather, again, you should really know, may just be unpredictable, and this really does perhaps affect visibility and really your overall experience.
Be Respectful: When I consider this you’ve got to Remember to be thoughtful of the local customs and also the environment. Do not litter, arguably. Do try to just be mindful of the noise levels.
Ask Questions: Get in touch with tour guides. And take any opportunity just to ask your guide or the falconry handlers stuff. Actually finding out more definitely will improve, like your experience, too.

This Big Almaty Lake and Falconry Show tour almost feels like a combo of, almost, like, natural beauty with some cultural experiences. Basically be equipped, is that what I am getting at, stay mindful of the altitude, plus, of course, prepare to, very, fill up your camera roll with tons of outstanding pictures!

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