Almaty has a humid continental climate with hot summers and no
dry season. The temperature typically varies from 9°F (-13°C) lows
in the winter (December to February) to 88°F (31°C) highs in the
summer (June to August) and is rarely below -6°F (-21°C) or above
95°F (35°C). July to September are the hottest and driest months,
while November to March can be quite cold. Spring (March to June)
experiences the most rainfall, with nearly 10 wet days per month.
Almaty's proximity to the mountain ski resorts make it a year-round
destination, with plenty to do no matter when you visit.
Almaty International Airport
Location: The airport is situated 10 miles (16km) north of the city
centre.
Time: GMT +6.
Getting to the city:
Local buses run regularly from the airport terminal to the city,
as do taxis, and private car hire is available at the airport.
Car Rental:
Avis provide rental services at Almaty Airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are easily available at the airport. Remember that,
because not all taxis have meters it is wise to agree on a fee
upfront, or book with one of the popular companies beforehand.
Fascilities:
Facilities include bureaux de change, cafeterias, bars,
duty-free shopping and an information desk, as well as a chemist at
the departures terminal.
Parking
There are parking facilities available at hourly rates and the
first 15 minutes are free.
Almaty is served by a network of buses and trams, which charge a
flat fare no matter the distance. These can get crowded though, and
are impractical with baggage. There is also a limited Metro service
with a single line stopping at Moscow, Sairan, Alatau, Auezov Drama
Theatre, Baikonur, Abay, Almaty, Zhibek Zholy, and Raiymbek batyr.
Additional lines are under construction.
The quickest and most direct way to get anywhere is by taxi.
These can be booked in advance, and the fare negotiated before
setting off. There is a more unofficial kind of shared taxi that
can be hailed on the street; however these are run with little
rhyme or reason and can be confusing to travellers. Almaty is laid
out in an easily navigable grid pattern, so walking can be a simple
way of getting around as well.
