Public Transportation: Almaty

Metro and Bus System

Almaty's public transit system an efficient and affordable way to explore the city. The network includes a metro, numerous bus routes, and trolleybuses.

The metro is modern, clean, and efficient, with one line (Line 1, Green Line) running north-south from Raiymbek Batyr to Bauyrzhan Momyshuly. Route maps are available within stations and online.

Metro Details

System: One modern, clean, efficient metro line (Line 1, Green Line) running north-south.
Route Maps: Available within stations and online.
Important Hubs: Alma-Ata station near Green Bazaar. Abay station city center. Alatau station transfer point for Medeu/Shymbulak buses.
Hours of Operation: Approx. 06:20 to 23:30 daily. Buses generally run 06:00 to 23:00.

Oñay Card

Recommended contactless smart card. ₸400 purchase, ₸80 rides. At metro stations, kiosks.

Cash Payments

Pay ₸100 per ride directly to driver on bus/trolleybus. Not accepted on metro.

Contactless Payment

Newer buses and all metro stations accept contactless bank cards for payment.

Bus & Trolleybus Overview

Extensive Network

An extensive network covers the entire city. Crowded during peak hours.
Use 2GIS for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
Learn names of stops in Russian or Kazakh.

Efficiency Tips

Purchase an Oñay card for convenience and cost savings.
Metro trains run every 5-10 minutes. Bus frequency varies.
Accessibility: Metro stations escalators and elevators. Newer buses low-floor access.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Yandex Go

Dominant ride-sharing app. Reliable and widely used.

InDriver

Popular app where passengers propose fare. Drivers accept or counter-offer.

Fares

Most rides within city ₸700 - 2,000. Payment: cash or linked card.

Safety

Ride-sharing apps safest option: rides tracked, details known, transparent fares.

Rental Options

For greater independence, consider renting a car or bicycle.

Car Rental

Requirements: Minimum age 21-25, valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP), credit card for deposit.
Major Companies: International chains like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, local companies. DiscoverCars.com
Considerations: Driving can be challenging due to traffic and local habits. Parking difficult.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits: 60 km/h urban, 90 km/h rural, 110 km/h highways. Zero tolerance for alcohol.

Bicycle & Specialty Rentals

Bicycle Sharing: Almaty Bike public system. Register via app/kiosk. Private shop rentals also available.
Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common for tourists. Not recommended without experience.
Specialty Vehicles: Almaty does not feature unique local vehicle options.
Road Conditions: Main roads generally good. Outside city, conditions differ. Caution needed, especially at night or adverse weather.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: City center, especially Arbat (Zhibek Zholy street) and Panfilov Park.
Parks: Central Park, Fantasy World Park, Kok Tobe Park offer good walking paths.
Dostyk Avenue & Abay Avenue: Wide sidewalks, pleasant for strolling.

Walking Tours: Guided (historical, culinary, architectural) and self-guided routes available. Free walking tours start from city center.
Bicycle Infrastructure: Bicycle lanes on newer roads and in parks. Traffic heavy, drivers may not expect cyclists. Wear a Helmet.
No-Go Areas: City generally safe. Caution on busy roads without pedestrian areas. Avoid unlit areas late at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Limited. Some private tour operators city sightseeing tours by bus.

Water Transport

Not applicable in Almaty. No significant waterways.

Accessibility

Newer infrastructure (metro, some buses) accessibility. Uneven sidewalks, stairs, older buildings challenges.

Unique Local Transport

Almaty also offers unique transportation for specific experiences.

Scenic Lifts

Kok Tobe Cable Car: Connects city center (near Abay metro) to Kok Tobe Park, panoramic views.
Shymbulak Gondolas: Series of gondola lifts and chairlifts transport visitors up the mountain to ski resort and Talgar Pass.
Ski/Snowboard Lifts: Extensive lift system within Shymbulak for winter sports access.
Stunning mountain vistas from higher elevations.

Getting Around Tips

Download the 2GIS app before you arrive. It detailed maps and public transport routing.
Purchase an Oñay card for public transport savings.
Have small denominations for cash payments on buses.
Basic phrases in Russian or Kazakh enhance interactions.

Public Transport Access Points

Metro Stations

Efficient access to major city points and attractions.

Fast & Reliable

Bus Stops

Extensive network covering all neighborhoods.

Broad Coverage

Trolleybus Routes

Eco-friendly option, good for main avenues.

Eco-Friendly

Taxi & Ride-Share Considerations

App-Based Convenience

Always use Yandex Go or InDriver for transparent fares and driver details.
Payment flexibility: cash or linked credit card through the app.
Real-time tracking of your ride for added security.

Traditional Taxis

If hailing a street taxi, negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Avoid unmarked cars or unmetered taxis, especially late at night.
Cash typically needed for traditional taxis.

Driving & Road Safety

Driving in Almaty is for experienced drivers due to traffic density.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory for driving.
Road conditions vary; main roads are good, secondary roads may differ.
Observe local driving habits; defensive driving is recommended.

Be aware of unmarked potholes and potential livestock on rural roads.
Police checkpoints are common, especially on intercity routes.
Parking in the city center can be challenging; use paid apps or hotel parking.
Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving.

Public Transportation Navigation

Mastering Almaty's public transport system for efficient and cost-effective travel.

Metro System

A single, modern line connecting areas from north to west.
Use the Oñay card for discounted fares (₸80 per ride).
Operates from early morning (06:20) until late evening (23:30).
Station maps clearly indicate routes and connections.

Bus & Trolleybus Networks

Extensive network reaching all city parts. Can be crowded during peak hours.
Download the 2GIS app for real-time tracking and route planning.
Cash payment (₸100) directly to the driver or use Oñay card.
Be mindful of local customs regarding personal space on crowded transport.

Walking Routes

Explore pedestrian-friendly areas like Arbat and city parks on foot.

Cycling

Utilize bike lanes and Almaty Bike share for a different perspective.

Local Apps

2GIS and Yandex Go are indispensable for navigation and transport.

Health & Safety for Getting Around

Pedestrian Safety

Stay on designated sidewalks; avoid walking in traffic lanes.
Exercise caution and avoid unlit areas if walking alone at night.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded market areas for pickpockets.

Transport Hygiene

Carry hand sanitizer for use after public transport.
Consider wearing a face mask during peak hours on crowded buses or metro.
Maintain awareness of personal belongings on all forms of transport.

Local Navigation Tip

Download the 2GIS app before you arrive. It offers detailed maps and public transport routing, often better than international map apps for local Almaty navigation.

This application real-time bus tracking and route planning, making city travel smoother.

Public Transportation