Active recreation within the borders of the city of Alma-Ata -
Where to walk along the river in Almaty -
The Almaty Terraincure (Health Trail) is one of the most beloved walking and wellness areas in Almaty by citizens and tourists, which combines the beauty of nature, clean air and the healing effects of moderate physical activity. The idea is that by hiking along routes with a certain terrain and elevation difference, a person strengthens their health, trains their respiratory and cardiovascular systems, and also receives a powerful boost of energy. The route was built in 1974 and runs along the Small Almaty River, which originates in the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau and flows through the Small Almaty Gorge and then through the eastern part of the city. The route is great for walking, running or taking a leisurely stroll, throughout you will hear the sound of the river, which has a beneficial effect on the hearing aid. The mountain water in the river and its rapid flow perfectly energizes the atmosphere, promotes a good microclimate and cools pleasantly. Benches for relaxation are also installed along the entire route, there are sports areas, and various kinds of exercise equipment are installed.
The Almaty health trail "Terraincure" is 4.5 kilometers long, the trail runs through the eastern part of the city, begins at an altitude of 876 meters above sea level and leads into the mountains to an altitude of 1060 meters above sea level, the height difference is 191 meters. It is forbidden to ride bicycles or scooters here, surveillance cameras are installed along the route, violators will be fined. Table tennis tables are set up along the route, there are information stands, and squirrels that are fed nuts can be found in the trees. In 2025, the entire route of the Almaty Terraincure was completely reconstructed, new routes, new recreation and sports areas were added, special tables for playing chess were added, new trees were planted and the entire route was landscaped. There is a small but very picturesque lake with emerald mountain water on the route, on which there is a rotunda with a golden dome. There are special platforms around the lake where you can walk around the lake.
How to get there and visit -
The Terraincure in Almaty starts from the Arman cinema, between Tattimbetova Street and Dostyk Avenue, Medeu district, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°13'23"N 76°58'03"E
History, significance, health effect -
The city of Almaty, surrounded by the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau, is ideal for a tour. Outdoor walks have long been used here for recuperation and treatment. In Soviet times, the city began to officially arrange routes that would meet medical recommendations. The most famous of them was created on the slopes of the mountainous area along the Malaya Almatinka River. The Terraincure route in Almaty starts near the Kazakhstan Hotel and stretches up the mountainside, passing through picturesque forests, shady alleys and open areas with magnificent views of the city.
Terraincure Almaty is a real green oasis within the metropolis. Walking along its trails, you can admire the mixed forests where spruce, birch, poplar, mountain ash grow. In spring and summer, flowers are fragrant here, birds can be heard singing and streams murmuring, and in autumn the mountains turn into bright gold and red shades. The clean air, filled with the scent of pine needles and mountain herbs, has a healing effect, and the height differences make walking an easy workout. Walking along Terraincure is recommended for people of all ages as a gentle way to promote health. The road has different sections: from easy ascents to steeper slopes, which allows you to choose the load according to your strength. The route is equipped with benches for relaxation and observation decks where you can stop, breathe in the fresh air and admire the panorama of Almaty, spread out at the foot of the mountains.
Today, Terraincure in Almaty is not just a health trail, but a popular place for walks, dates, photo shoots and family vacations. Both locals and tourists come here to feel harmony with nature, escape from the noise of the city and at the same time strengthen the body. Terraincure acquires a special charm in the morning hours, when fog is spreading over the city and the sun is just beginning to rise above the mountains. In the evening, it is crowded both in winter and summer, people are engaged in active recreation or leisurely strolling with children.
Terraincure is an integral part of the life of many Almaty residents, especially in the warmer months. On weekends, the trails are filled with families, friendly companies, and athletes who combine walking with socializing and admiring nature. It is an affordable and enjoyable way to keep fit, relieve stress and enjoy the unique combination of urban landscape and majestic nature that Almaty offers. Thus, the Terraincure is an important element of cultural and recreational leisure, reflecting the love of the inhabitants of the southern capital for the mountains and an active lifestyle. It has become a kind of "pulmonary artery" of the city, a place of strength and inspiration, where you want to return again and again.
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