Private Trip to Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

If you’re dreaming of a day set in the mountains near Almaty, this private trip to Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, unique activities, and cultural insight. It’s a well-rounded experience perfect for those who want to see the highlights of the mountains without the hassle of planning or navigating public transport.

What really stands out about this tour are three things: the chance to skate at the largest alpine skating rink in the world, the breathtaking scenery of Shymbulak, and the expertise of the guides who make the trip both educational and enjoyable. A potential drawback? The tour’s pace might feel a bit tight for those wanting more leisure time at each site. Still, for anyone eager to pack a full day into a manageable itinerary, this is an excellent choice.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of outdoor activity, gorgeous views, and cultural exploration. It’s especially good for those who prefer a private, guided day out that maximizes comfort and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery surrounds both Medeu and Shymbulak, making for memorable photo opportunities.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with detailed local insights and responsiveness to questions.
• Ease of access via cable car to Shymbulak and a dedicated transfer makes logistics straightforward.
• Includes all entrance tickets, removing any surprise costs at key attractions.
• A well-paced 7-hour day allows you to see top sights without feeling rushed.
• Good value for money, considering the private nature and included transportation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Transportation and Logistics

Starting from Baytursynova Street in Almaty, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned minivan, a comfortable way to start your day. The tour includes a transfer to Medeu, which is about 20 minutes from the city — a short, stress-free ride that gets you quickly into the mountains. Throughout the day, your guide handles all the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.

The highlight in terms of transportation is the cable car ride to Shymbulak. You’ll ascend from the base station to the higher levels, enjoying panoramic views of the rugged peaks and lush slopes. The cable car ride itself is an experience, with travelers noting the impressive views of the surrounding ridges and fir-covered slopes.

First Stop: Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Surroundings

Arriving at Medeu, you’re greeted by the world’s largest alpine skating rink, built in the 1970s in the picturesque Medeu Gorge. This place isn’t just for travelers — it’s a living sports hub, where 120 world records have been shattered by top athletes. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to walk around, soak in the atmosphere, and even climb to the dam via the Stairs of Health.

One reviewer praised the guide for sharing interesting facts about Medeu’s history and significance, which adds depth to the visit. It’s worth noting that, while the skating rink is the main attraction, many visitors also enjoy exploring the surrounding gorge, taking in the crisp mountain air and scenic views.

The Dam and Stairs of Health

A real highlight here is the walk up the Stairs of Health, which leads to an impressive dam. This spot isn’t just Instagram-worthy; it’s also a symbol of local health and wellness culture. The dam itself is a striking feature, and climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the gorge, making it a favorite among visitors.

Transition to Shymbulak Ski Resort

At around 12:30 pm, it’s time to hop onto the cable car heading to Shymbulak. The ride is typically about 30 minutes, with the chance to marvel at the towering peaks and thick fir forests covering the slopes. The higher station, at 2260 meters above sea level, offers sweeping vistas and a peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Shymbulak: Mountain Beauty and Relaxation

Once at Shymbulak, you’re free to explore the area for about 2.5 hours. The resort is renowned for its stunning setting, surrounded by towering ridges and fir-covered slopes. While the tour doesn’t include skiing or skating, the scenery alone makes it worth the trip. You can wander around the different levels, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and take plenty of photos.

One reviewer shared that guides often point out the unique flora — like the massive Tien Shan firs — which add to the charm of the landscape. The resort’s higher stations offer sweeping views of the Talgar Pass, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

Return and Reflection

Around 3:30 pm, it’s time to descend back to the base station and head back to Medeu for the return journey to Almaty. The total time spent at Shymbulak is just enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The entire day wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to your starting point in the city.

What We Loved About the Tour

Knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a cultural and historical journey. The guide on this tour, as one reviewer pointed out, is incredibly articulate and responsive, enhancing every stop with valuable insights.

Stunning landscapes are everywhere — from the rugged peaks and fir forests to the picturesque dams and sprawling ski slopes. It’s a feast for the eyes and camera.

Efficient logistics mean you won’t waste time figuring out how to get between sights. The cable car rides and private transport streamline the experience, making it all feel smooth and effortless.

All entrance tickets are included, which means no unexpected costs, and you can focus fully on enjoying each moment.

Things to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers great value, it is somewhat fast-paced. If you love lingering at each stop or want to try snow activities like skating or skiing, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, the tour is primarily about sightseeing and scenery, so if you’re hoping for active snow sports, you’ll need to plan those separately.

Plus, the tour costs $215 per person, which is a fair price considering private transportation and guided tours in such a scenic setting. It’s a balanced expense for travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and a comprehensive view of these iconic mountain spots.

The Sum Up

This private trip to Medeu and Shymbulak offers a well-packed day of mountain scenery, historical sites, and cultural insight. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided experience that covers the highlights without the fuss of planning. The knowledgeable guides, combined with breathtaking landscapes, make it a memorable outing.

While not suitable for those seeking long leisure periods or snow sports, the tour excels at giving a solid overview of Almaty’s mountain treasures in a manageable time frame. You’ll leave with plenty of stunning photos, new insights, and a greater appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding Almaty.

For anyone eager to combine active sightseeing with scenic relaxation, and who values expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, as it’s a private tour, you can tailor it to suit children, especially considering the shorter duration and manageable pace.

Do I need to bring my own skating or skiing gear?
No, the tour does not include skiing or skating activities, only visits to the sites. You would need to arrange your own gear if you wish to skate or ski.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned minivan is provided for transfers between Almaty, Medeu, and Shymbulak.

Can I take the cable car alone?
While you’re guided during the trip, the cable car ride itself is part of the organized experience. You can enjoy the views as part of this package.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car takes you from the base station to the higher levels of Shymbulak, with the ride lasting around 30 minutes.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets are included in the price, which helps avoid unexpected costs.

Is this tour private or group-based?
It’s a private tour exclusively for your group, offering a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor walking, and bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 22 days ahead, but sooner is recommended during peak seasons or holidays.