Yurt Based Shymbulak 4-day ski-touring and split-boarding trip

Almaty , Kazakhstan

Yurt Based Shymbulak 4-day ski-touring and split-boarding trip

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(5 reviews)

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Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You will feel the spiritual power of ancient Nomads when get to the Shymbulak Yurt Backcountry Camp located an altitude of 3163 meters and surrounded by the impressive glaciers with panoramic view to Almaty city. It’s a unique chance to test yourself in the backcountry with altitudes reaching 4000 meters and leave your tracks on the wild slopes of Tien Shan mountains. National dishes and beverages, stunning sunsets and sunrises, apre-ski above the clouds, nights under the starry sky, ski-touring and split-boarding and acquaintance with local culture will make this experience impressive and unforgettable.

This trip is suitable for for fit skiers and snowboarders with off-piste experience and confident riding on piste.

Available options

Yurt Based Shymbulak 4-day ski-touring and split-boarding trip

Pickup included

What's included

Drinking water

Private transportation

All Fees and Taxes

3 nights in Yurta Shymbulak Base Camp & Restaurant

Dinner

Skiing guide services

Breakfast

Daily ski-passes at Shymbulak for 4 days

Detailed itinerary

Medeo Gorge (1690 meters above sea level) well known due to the highest mountain skating rink in the world and the dam, protecting the city from the mudflows.

Mountain resort “Shymbulak” is located in famous Small Almaty gorge of Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in Kok Ashyk valley at an altitude of 2260 meters above sea level, 30 minutes drive from center of Almaty. The resort was founded in 1954. Since mid-1950s, Shymbulak served as training base for Soviet skiers, the USSR and Kazakhstan championships were held on its slopes. Every year in the beginning of February skiers competed for “Alexandra Artemenko Prize”, 11-time champion of the USSR, master of sports, participant of the Olympic Games 1956.

Ascent to the Talgar pass (altitude 3163 meters) by cable car. Yurt Lodge check-in. There is a traditional yurt, so the sleeping places will be arranged on the floor in the sleeping bags. Pillows and mats will be provided. The whole yurt and the floor are heated. It has electricity and outlets. Meals are served in seperate Yurt-Restaurant located nearby. There is a seperate bathroom near the Yurt-Restaurant with hot tab water and toilet seat. There is no shower or sauna, only wet wipes and snow (but for those who will be suffering too much it will possible to boil the water and wash from the bucket).

Hiking to the Baiseitova peak (3450 meters) for acclimatization. Coming back to the Yurt. Short avalanche safety training. Dinner in the Yurt-Restaurant, rest.

Breakfast in the Yurt-Restaurant.
Ski-touring or split boarding in the area close to the Shymbulak resort with elements of sidecountry. Depending on snow, weather conditions and skill level of the participants we will choose the most suitable slopes. There are few interesting spots nearby, such as: Shkol’nik, Edelweiss, Chkalov, Abay peaks. Elevation range: 3200-3800 meters.
Coming back to the Yurt and rest. Dinner in the Yurt-Restaurant in traditional style. Overnight in the sleeping Yurt.

Breakfast at 05:00.
Ski-touring or split-boarding in the area of Bogdanovich glacier to the Karlytau peak. Elevation range: 3200-4100 meters. Duration: 6-8 hours.
Coming back to the Yurt.
Dinner in Kazakh national style.
Overnight in the yurt.

Breakfast at 06:00.
Ski-touring or split-boarding in the surroundings of Bogdanovich glacier to Fizkul’turnik, Til' or Pioneer glaciers. Elevation range: 3200-4000 meters. Duration: 4-6 hours. Coming back to the Yurt.
Packing and check-out.
Descent to the Medeu.
Transfer to the hotel in Almaty.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Snacks

Insurance policy

Lunch

Rental of avalanche safety and ski-touring gear

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meeting point at the parking lot of "Ritz-Palace" shopping center near the main entrance.
Address: Samal-3 micro-district, building 1.
The guide will be standing with nameplate "Powder Nomads".

About Almaty

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and stunning natural beauty. Known for its apple orchards, scenic mountain backdrop, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience with its bustling markets, Soviet-era architecture, and nearby outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, featuring a TV tower, a small amusement park, and a restaurant.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free to enter, fees for attractions

Zenkov Cathedral

Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral, is a wooden Russian Orthodox church located in Panfilov Park. It's one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and a notable example of Russian architecture.

Historical/Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Green Bazaar

Green Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample traditional Kazakh cuisine.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Medeu Skating Rink

Medeu Skating Rink is a popular destination for ice skating and ice hockey. Located in the mountains, it offers stunning views and a unique sporting experience.

Sports/Adventure 2-3 hours Entrance and rental fees vary

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Ile Alatau National Park. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint Half-day to full-day trip Free to enter, fees for parking and guided tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) and noodles, served with a broth.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich broth.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and no meat.

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef.

Main course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baursaks

Deep-fried dough balls, often served as a snack or breakfast item.

Snack Vegetarian, can be vegan if made with vegetable oil.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Snowboarding Ice skating Spa treatments Tea house visits Park picnics

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Almaty for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kazakh, Russian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Time Zone

ALMT (Almaty Time, GMT+6)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Almaty is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution at night and in poorly lit areas. Political protests and demonstrations can occur, so it's best to avoid large gatherings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Almaty International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Almaty-2 Railway Station

By bus

Sayarnaya Bus Station, Sairam Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Almaty. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Kok Tobe Saryarka Zhetysu

Day trips

Charyn Canyon

200 km (124 miles) • Full-day trip

Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about 200 km east of Almaty. Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,' it offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a unique desert landscape.

Kolsai Lakes

300 km (186 miles) • Overnight trip

The Kolsai Lakes are a series of three stunning alpine lakes located in the Kolsai Lakes National Park. They offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a serene mountain setting.

Issyk Glacier

60 km (37 miles) • Half-day to full-day trip

Issyk Glacier is a unique glacier located about 60 km east of Almaty. It's one of the few glaciers in the world that can be reached by car, making it a popular destination for day trips.

Festivals

Almaty Apple Festival • September Almaty International Film Festival • September Almaty Jazz Fest • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Visit the Green Bazaar for an authentic taste of local life and to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine
Take the cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
Explore the nearby mountains and lakes for a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, and shashlik at local restaurants and markets