Almaty , Kazakhstan

Private Day Hike to Bogdanovich Glacier

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About this experience

Hiking to the Bogdanovich Glacier is one of the best and most affordable ways to visit glaciers in 1 day from Almaty. Starting in the morning from the city, you reach an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level by cable car. This significantly reduces the approach time and allows you to move deeper into the glacier. The route is also available in winter - it is in the cold season that you can visit the ice cave, which has become popular in recent years - it is also called Oktyabrskaya.

Get inspired!
- Almaty is surrounded by mountains - if you are an active traveler and hiking enthusiast, do not miss the opportunity to find yourself at an altitude of 3500 meters surrounded by glaciers, in just 1 day
- We take care of your safe hike and smooth logistics: pick you up in the city, transfer you comfortably to Medeo and further to the pass. Professional mountain guide follows you all the day.

Available options

Private Day Hike to Bogdanovich Glacier

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Cable car tickets

Private guiding

Detailed itinerary

We pick you up in the morning in Almaty and drive up to the Medeo skating rink. Here we take a cable car, which will delivers us to the Talgarsky pass (3200m above sea level) via Shymbulak ski resort.

The trail to the Bogdanovich glacier passes the zone of alpine highlands and then the zone of glaciers with almost no vegetation. In the beginning it goes along the left side of the gorge, by the ground track. Then comes to the left side moraine of the glacier. Here the path becomes almost invisible. After about 1 hour of hike, the path comes to the middle of the gorge, crossing around a large rocky ledge from the left. Then it leads to the tongue of the glacier by the right side of the mountain valley.

Along the way you will admire the views of Chkalov and Fizkulturnik peaks, covered by "hanging" glaciers called Ayak and Til. The tongue of the glacier offers a stunning panorama of the northern walls of the peaks Komsomol, Amangeldy and Pioneer.

In winter, we can add a visit to Oktyabrskaya ice cave (if it is safe).

Having reached the height of 3600 meters, we start hiking back to the pass. Take a cable car down to Medeo and then drive to the city.

Way back to Almaty may take another 1 hour

What's not included

Snacks/lunch and drinks for a hike

personal clothes, shoes/boots or hiking gear

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Reviews breakdown

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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

Important notes

Please refer to the pick up time and place accepted both sides during booking!
If you do not mention the exact address or hotel name in Almaty, where you prefer to be pickup up, we will not be able to find you.
Pick up time will be advised by a tour provider, it must be set and confirmed both sides at least 48 hours before a tour. It depends on a season, weather forecast and/or time of your arrival in Almaty (if you come to the airport or train station).

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