Almaty: Shymbulak Ski Resort and Medeu Skating Rink Tour

Getting a true sense of Almaty often means venturing beyond the city limits, where the mountains provide both a breathtaking backdrop and a playground for outdoor adventures. This 6-hour tour offers an impressive snapshot of the region’s highlights, combining natural beauty with iconic landmarks. From riding a cable car through soaring peaks to gliding on one of the world’s most famous skating rinks, it’s a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Almaty’s mountainous charm.

What we love most about this tour is how it effortlessly blends adventure with sightseeing, offers incredible panoramic views, and provides insights into local culture. The chance to see Asia’s top ski resort and the famous Medeu skating rink in one day makes for a memorable trip. Plus, the professional guide ensures you get local tips and interesting facts along the way.

A possible consideration is the altitude, as the cable car reaches 3,200 meters above sea level. While most travelers cope well, those with altitude sickness or mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly. The tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate spectacular scenery and authentic experiences but isn’t designed for wheelchair users.

In short, this tour suits travelers who want a compact yet immersive glimpse of Almaty’s mountain treasures, with plenty of photo opportunities and chances to relax in nature.

Key Points

• Stunning Mountain Views: Expect panoramic vistas from high-altitude cable cars and scenic stops.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the renowned Medeu skating rink and Asia’s leading Shymbulak ski resort.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy hot tea or coffee in a Kazakh yurt, adding a cultural touch.
• Professional Guide: Benefit from expert insights and local knowledge throughout the day.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice.
• Private Group: Experience a personalized tour tailored to your interests and pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup in Almaty and Journey to the Mountains

The tour begins with a pickup from your designated location in Almaty, setting the stage for a day immersed in nature. You’ll travel in a private vehicle, allowing for a comfortable and relaxed ride through the city’s outskirts before entering the Ile Alatau mountains.

The Cable Car Ride and Shymbulak Ski Resort

The highlight of the trip is the ride on several cable cars climbing to 3,200 meters above sea level. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into a stunning tableau of jagged peaks, snow-covered slopes, and dense forests. The cable car ride alone is worth the trip, with many reviews mentioning how the views make your jaw drop.

Once at Shymbulak, you’ll have about four hours to explore this modern, well-equipped ski resort. It’s considered one of Asia’s top ski destinations, with a reputation for excellent snow, well-maintained slopes, and stunning scenery. The resort caters to all levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers, and offers opportunities to simply enjoy the mountain air even if you’re not hitting the slopes.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to sip hot tea or coffee at mountain-side restaurants, some even in traditional Kazakh yurts, which adds a cultural twist. The views from the resort’s terraces are exceptional, offering sweeping vistas of snow-capped mountains and pine forests. A few reviews highlight that the resort feels surprisingly luxurious and modern, considering its mountain setting.

Visiting Medeu: The World’s Famous Skating Rink

After descending from Shymbulak, the tour continues to Medeu, just 20 minutes from the city. This rink isn’t just any ice skating spot — it’s a national symbol of Almaty and a site where numerous world records have been set. Surrounded by towering mountains, Medeu’s open-air but heated ice surface is a unique experience, especially in crisp winter air.

Visitors often comment on how surreal it is to skate in such a scenic setting, with many taking advantage of the chance to try ice skating even if they’re beginners. The site also offers a glimpse into local sports culture, with some reviews mentioning the energy of skaters and the historic importance of the rink.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return to Almaty

After about 30 minutes at Medeu, the group will head back to the city, arriving within a 6-hour span. The return journey offers additional opportunities for photos and reflections on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and What You’ll Need

The tour is designed for active travelers, so bringing warm clothing is essential, especially as mountain weather can change rapidly. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with altitude sickness, given the high elevations involved.

Transportation is private, which means flexibility and comfort, and the group size tends to be small or private, allowing for a personalized experience. The tour is offered in English with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into each location, history, and culture.

The price includes the guided tour, transportation, and entry to the attractions, providing good value considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. Cancelation is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is handy if your plans are not yet firm.

Authentic Experiences to Expect

While exploring the ski resort, you might find yourself enjoying traditional Kazakh hospitality, such as hot drinks in yurts, which adds a cultural touch to the mountain adventure. The views are genuinely breathtaking, with many reviews emphasizing how the scenery makes the journey worthwhile. One reviewer specifically noted, “The cable car ride alone is worth the trip — the mountains look like they’re straight out of a movie.”

The visit to Medeu is equally memorable, not just for skating but for the chance to stand amidst towering peaks that surround the rink, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Many visitors comment on how the atmosphere is lively yet peaceful, with the high-altitude air invigorating and refreshing.

Analyzing Value and Suitability

This tour offers a solid value for those wanting a compact yet rich experience of Almaty’s famed mountain attractions. With a professional guide, you avoid the hassle of navigating solo, especially when dealing with mountain roads and high-altitude environments. The inclusion of the iconic Medeu skating rink adds a fun, energetic element, contrasting with the serene mountain scenery of Shymbulak.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and cultural touches. The tour’s private nature means you can tailor your experience to your interests, whether that’s more photo stops, a leisurely lunch, or extra time exploring the resort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking an immersive day in the mountains with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is perfect. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions with expert guides that focus on authentic experiences. Ski enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to see one of Asia’s best resorts, while those simply wanting to soak in mountain views will find it equally rewarding.

It’s a great choice for travelers who value comfort, insight, and a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing. However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or altitude sensitivities.

This tour offers a balanced and authentic taste of Almaty’s mountain highlights in just half a day. From riding the cable cars through snow-dusted peaks to skating at Medeu, it’s packed with iconic sights and memorable moments. The private group setting and knowledgeable guide ensure a personalized experience, making it perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort.

Whether you’re after stunning landscape photography, a cultural adventure, or simply a break from city life, this tour’s combination of natural beauty and iconic landmarks delivers real value. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the most breathtaking scenery Kazakhstan has to offer without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if children enjoy outdoor activities and snow. However, the high-altitude cable car ride may not be ideal for very young children or those sensitive to altitude.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car takes you through the Ile Alatau mountains, ascending to 3,200 meters. Multiple cable cars are included, providing continuous scenic views during the ascent.

Can I enjoy skiing during this tour?
While the tour includes a visit to the ski resort, activities like skiing depend on your own arrangements or equipment rentals. The tour primarily focuses on sightseeing and enjoying the scenery.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, especially layers, as mountain temperatures can be cooler, even in summer. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around the resort and the skating rink.

Is food included?
Not explicitly, but you’ll have opportunities to buy hot drinks or meals at the resort or in the yurts, which many travelers appreciate.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the high-altitude environment and terrain.

Will I feel the altitude?
Most travelers handle it well, but some might notice slight effects due to the elevation of up to 3,200 meters.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour is conducted in English, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights and answering questions.

How big are the groups?
The experience is offered as a private group, ensuring a more personalized and flexible itinerary.

This tour provides a fantastic way to experience Almaty’s mountain scenery, iconic landmarks, and local culture all in a manageable half-day outing. Perfect for those who want a memorable, scenic adventure without the logistical hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: