Almaty: Shymbulak, Medeu, Kok Tobe by cable cars and tickets

Planning a visit to Almaty and looking for a way to hit the highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own? This private tour, offered by Felicity Tours Almaty, promises an engaging day with personalized attention, stunning mountain vistas, and a taste of local culture. With a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural sites, and panoramic views, it’s an experience that suits travelers eager to see the city’s best in one seamless package.

What really makes this tour shine are three key aspects: the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, the chance to explore Shymbulak ski resort on cable cars, and the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views from Kok Tobe. Plus, the inclusion of local sweets and water adds a welcoming touch. That said, an important consideration is the need for warm clothing since some destinations reach high altitudes. It’s perfect for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and interested in authentic, hassle-free exploration.

In general, this tour is an excellent fit for visitors who want to see the iconic spots of Almaty with expert guidance and don’t mind a bit of altitude. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic rides and cultural stops will find plenty to love. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s natural beauty and local charm.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off make for stress-free logistics.
• Multi-level Shymbulak Experience: Explore all three levels of the ski resort via cable cars, with stunning mountain vistas.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Zenkov’s Cathedral, a beautiful and historic Orthodox church in the city.
• Breathtaking Panoramas: Ride the cable car up Kok Tobe to enjoy spectacular city views from 1100 meters above sea level.
• Authentic Local Touches: Enjoy complimentary sweets and water, adding a cultural flavor to your day.
• Flexible and Informative: A knowledgeable guide helps make the experience engaging and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Introduction

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome as your guide from Felicity Tours meets you at your hotel lobby. This personal touch sets a relaxed tone, and it’s a huge bonus that transportation is arranged—either a personal vehicle or a group van—making travel between sights smooth and comfortable. The tour generally kicks off around 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to soak in every stop without rushing.

First Stop: Medeu Ice Skating Rink

The journey’s first highlight is Medeu, renowned as one of the world’s highest ice skating rinks, perched in the mountains at roughly 1,691 meters above sea level. You’ll get tickets to skate inside, or if skating isn’t your thing, simply enjoy the photo opportunities of this iconic venue. As several reviews mention, the beautiful setting adds a special charm to this popular spot. It’s a chance to see a piece of Almaty’s winter sports history and snap some memorable pictures.

Second Stop: Shymbulak Ski Resort

Next, you’ll head to Shymbulak, a mountain resort famed for its sweeping slopes and stunning alpine scenery. What sets this part of the tour apart is the cable car ride that takes you through all three levels of the resort. The cable cars offer awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain, making the ascent itself an attraction.

The tour’s price includes tickets that cover all three levels of Shymbulak, giving you access to different elevations and vistas. One reviewer, Anne, described her experience as “amazing,” emphasizing how much she enjoyed the trip. The highest point at Shymbulak reaches 3,200 meters, so packing warm clothes is essential. The altitude can be a surprise for some travelers, especially those with altitude sensitivity.

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Lunch and Rest Options

There are plenty of restaurants and snack spots at Shymbulak, allowing you to grab a quick bite or relax with a warm drink. While lunch is not included in the tour price, the variety of options means you can choose something that suits your appetite and budget. Many visitors appreciate having the flexibility to dine at their own pace, either enjoying local cuisine or grabbing familiar snacks.

Third Stop: Kok Tobe Park

After descending from the mountains, you’ll visit Kok Tobe, the highest point in Almaty at 1,100 meters. The cable car ride up offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you’ll have time to explore the park, take photos of the spectacular cityscape, and see the famous Kok Tobe Tower.

This area is also home to Zenkov’s Cathedral, a beautifully painted wooden Orthodox church built without nails. Visitors often comment on how picturesque and peaceful the church is, making it a great cultural stop before heading back to the city.

Tour Wrap-Up: Return to Your Hotel

The day wraps up around 5:00 pm with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel, completing a full and enriching exploration of Almaty’s highlights. Having all logistics handled means you can focus on enjoying each moment without the stress of navigation or planning.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert, friendly guides are a recurring theme in reviews, with guests appreciating their knowledge and willingness to share local insights. Walking you through each site, guides like Felicity Tours’ staff help you understand the history and significance of places like Zenkov’s Cathedral and Medeu, adding depth to your visit.

The cable car rides are a highlight, especially at Shymbulak and Kok Tobe, providing unrivaled views. Travelers consistently praise how these rides transform sightseeing into a visual feast, making every photo opportunity memorable.

The inclusion of local sweets and water is a thoughtful touch that adds a cultural flavor and keeps you refreshed during the day. Such small details elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Weather and Clothing: Since parts of the tour reach high altitudes, packing warm clothes, hats, and sturdy shoes is highly recommended. The highest point at Shymbulak can hit 3200 meters, and temperatures there can be significantly cooler.
• Altitude Sickness: The tour notes that it might not be suitable for those with altitude sickness or over 95 years old, so consider your health before booking.
• Timing and Flexibility: The 9:00 am start and 5:00 pm finish give ample time to enjoy each stop, but be prepared for a full day of activity.
• Cost vs. Value: At $175 per person, including all cable car tickets and Medeu skating, the price offers good value, especially considering the personalized guide and hotel transfers.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day tour with minimal hassle. It suits those interested in outdoor scenery, mountain views, and cultural sites—all in a well-organized package. Families with children (who are comfortable with the altitude), couples seeking a romantic mountain adventure, and solo travelers eager to meet friendly locals will all find something to enjoy.

People who enjoy scenic cable car rides and are prepared for a full day of exploration will love this tour. It’s especially perfect for first-time visitors to Almaty who want a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural highlights, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient to start and end your day without worrying about transportation.

What does the ticket include?
Your ticket covers all three levels of the Shymbulak ski resort via cable cars, tickets to Kok Tobe park including the cable car ride up and down, and Medeu ice skating tickets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour begins around 9:00 am and concludes approximately at 5:00 pm, providing a full day of sightseeing.

Do I need to bring warm clothing?
Absolutely. Since the highest point is 3,200 meters above sea level, bringing warm clothes, hats, and sturdy shoes is highly recommended.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include ice skating at Medeu, riding cable cars at Shymbulak and Kok Tobe, visiting Zenkov’s Cathedral, and enjoying panoramic mountain and city views.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with health issues?
It’s not recommended for those with altitude sickness or for travelers over 95 years old, due to the high-altitude locations.

Can I customize my lunch plans?
While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of restaurants at Shymbulak to choose from, offering flexibility for your meal.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in Kazakh, Russian, and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Almaty’s top sights offers a wonderful balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. With knowledgeable guides, stunning cable car rides, and a flexible itinerary, it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to maximize their time and see the best of what the city and mountains have to offer.

The combination of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and local hospitality creates an experience that’s both memorable and authentic. The small touches—like sweets and water—show that the tour is thoughtfully designed to make guests feel welcomed and cared for.

For those who enjoy scenic landscapes, mountain air, and cultural insights, this tour provides a full day of enriching discoveries. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a hassle-free, guided experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, all at a reasonable price point.

This tour strikes a great balance between value, comfort, and authentic sights, making it a fantastic option for exploring Almaty’s highlights with ease and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: