Full Day Private Tour in Medeu Ice Skating & Shymbulak Ski Resort
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7h
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About this experience
Experience our Full Day Private Tour in Medeu Ice Skating & Shymbulak Ski Resort!
Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of Kazakhstan as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Medeu and Shymbulak.
Experience mountain life near Almaty with a day trip. Visit Medeu Ice Skating Rink, the world's largest alpine skating rink in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. It has broken 120 world records. Then, explore Shymbulak Ski Resort with its stunning scenery and chairlifts leading up Talgar Pass. Enjoy the beauty and recreational activities outside the city.
We'll greet you directly at the city center or hotels and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day.
Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!
Available options
Private Tour for 6 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 4 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 7 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 3 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center
<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 5 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 2 passengers
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center
<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 1 passenger
Private transfer: Includes private transportation to and from Almaty hotels or city center<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide in Medeu and Shymbulak<br/>Pickup included
Driver-Only Tour
No guide, fixed 7:30 AM pickup: Private transportation only. No guide, no entry tickets. Available on Tuesdays with a fixed 7:30 AM pick-up.
<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and drop off at the Almaty city center or hotels
1 hour of free time for shopping and dining
Modern, air-conditioned private transportation
Professional local tour guide in Medeu and Shymbulak
Detailed itinerary
1
This captivating Medeu and Shymbulak excursion commences at the center of Almaty city or hotels. Step into a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle, embarking on a 1-hour journey through the scenic beauty of Kazakhstan.
2
The mountainous region of Medeu, located 20 minutes from Almaty, is known for its alpine skating rink. It is particularly popular in winter among residents of the city and visitors. Famous athletes have set over 120 world records here.
The first stop in the Medeo Gorge is the largest high mountain skating rink in the world and a huge dam. The next destination is Shymbulak ski resort, which is located at an altitude of 2230 meters above sea level. Shymbulak is popular for its mild climate, abundance of sunny days, and snowy winters. It also offers remarkable mountain scenery and has a unique atmosphere.
3
At Shymbulak, there are skiers who enjoy groomed slopes and snowboarders who prefer challenging downhill runs with jumps and turns. On sunny days, Shymbulak attracts a large number of visitors. The chairlift can take you to Talgar Pass, which is 3163 meters above sea level. This pass is only suitable for experienced skiers due to its steep descent. Alpinists also begin their climbs from this point, as it is the starting point for many mountaineering expeditions. The only thing higher than this point are the stars.
4
After the guided tour, relish in 1 hour of free time. Your guide will drop you off at a convenient location, allowing you to savor lunch and indulge in some retail therapy.
5
After a day filled with delights, our comfortable private vehicle will whisk you back to your hotel or city center, brimming with cherished memories. Trust our decade-long expertise in organizing private tours and exploring the city view with utmost comfort and peace of mind.
What's not included
Entrance fees (Optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
