Group: Medeu, Shymbulak, Cathedral, 28’s park, Market, Koktobe

Exploring Almaty in a Day: A Practical Tour of Top Attractions

This six-stop tour of Almaty offers a fantastic glimpse into the city’s most iconic sights, blending natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and lively local markets. Whether you’re short on time or want to get a broad overview, this experience packs in diverse highlights with the convenience of organized transportation and a friendly guide.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances immersive moments—like walking around Medeu or snapping photos from Koktobe—with easy-paced sightseeing at each stop. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide makes a big difference, ensuring you get meaningful insights without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is that some attractions, like the cable car to Shymbulak, are not part of the main tour price, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want to ride the cable car or visit certain spots. Also, since entry tickets and lunch aren’t included, you’ll want to plan for additional expenses.

Perfect for first-time visitors, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day out, this tour suits travelers who prefer a structured, informative way to explore Almaty’s highlights.

Key Points

• Convenient and well-structured: All six main attractions are covered in roughly 6-8 hours with transportation included.
• Expert guiding: The tour features an English-speaking guide, providing insights and answering questions about Almaty’s culture and history.
• Flexible exploration: From walking around Medeu to taking photos at Shymbulak and Koktobe, there’s plenty of opportunity for personal discovery.
• Cost considerations: Entry tickets and some activities like cable cars and lunch are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Authentic local experience: Visiting Green Bazaar and walking through parks provides a glimpse of local life and traditions.
• Ideal for small groups: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off promptly at 9:00 am from Gostinitsa “Kazakhstan” on Dostyk Avenue. The inclusion of pickup service and small group size (maximum of 12) makes for an intimate experience, minimizing waiting times and maximizing sightseeing opportunities.

Stop 1: Medeu Skating Rink and Ski Resort

Medeu, perched at 1,691 meters above sea level, is a highlight for its status as the highest outdoor ice skating rink in the world. While the rink itself is currently closed, you can still walk around this vast complex and enjoy scenic views.

We loved the way this stop offers options—some visitors climb the dam via the “Stairs of Health,” a steep but rewarding path, while others rent skates (availability until April) to glide on the ice. Walking around the stadium often reveals local wildlife, particularly squirrels, which seem quite accustomed to visitors.

A review from Jason_T notes that the tour was “not rushed” and that the guide, Yerkhin, was “promptly responsive,” adding value to this stop. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the mountain scenery and experiencing the fresh alpine air.

Stop 2: Shymbulak Ski Resort

Next, you’ll ascend to Shymbulak, one of Kazakhstan’s premier ski destinations, via a cable car (note: the ticket isn’t included in the tour price). The views of snow-capped peaks and lush mountain meadows are undeniably stunning and make for fantastic photos.

Shymbulak is more than just winter skiing; it transforms across seasons into a landscape of beauty. The resort’s three levels (Base, Middle, and Upper Station) give ample spots for photos and short walks. At each level, you’ll find cafes or restaurants where you can grab a quick lunch or a warm drink (lunch not included).

Travelers should be aware that from May 12–31, 2025, the cable car will undergo maintenance, and an eco-taxi will operate instead. This might slightly alter your ascent experience but also offers a chance to explore differently.

Stop 3: Ascension Cathedral

The wooden Ascension Cathedral, built in the early 20th century, is a striking structure that combines impressive craftsmanship with vibrant colors. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for appreciating religious architecture and understanding more about local faith traditions.

A reviewer mentions that the guide shared interesting stories about the cathedral’s architecture, enhancing the visit’s depth. Expect around 30 minutes here, enough to admire the intricate woodwork and take some photos.

Stop 4: 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Park

This historic park is dedicated to WWII heroes, and its statues and memorials offer a quiet moment of reflection. The Eternal Flame and well-kept greenery make it a pleasant break from more bustling sites.

The park’s atmosphere is contemplative, and it’s a favorite for those interested in Kazakhstan’s wartime history. The 30-minute visit allows plenty of time to walk around, snap pictures, and appreciate the park’s serenity.

Stop 5: Green Bazaar

No visit to Almaty is complete without experiencing the Green Bazaar, a lively marketplace brimming with local produce, nuts, dairy, and crafts.

While the market is closed on Mondays, on other days it offers a vibrant slice of everyday life. Sampling fresh fruits or trying local cheeses, you get a genuine taste of Kazakh culture. A reviewer loved browsing here, noting how “it’s a great place to experience Kazakh cuisine and culture first-hand.” Expect around 30 minutes for this colorful stop.

Stop 6: Koktobe Hill

Finally, a ride up Koktobe Hill offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the city and beyond. The ascent is facilitated by shuttle buses from the parking area, making it accessible for all.

On top, you’ll find various attractions, souvenir shops, and cafes, along with an observation deck that overlooks Almaty, the steppe, and the mountains. The hour-long visit is perfect for soaking in the scenery and taking memorable photos, as one reviewer notes the view “washes over you like a postcard.”

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps everyone comfortable as you move between sites. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized commentary and fewer crowds.

Pricing-wise, at $55 per person, the tour offers good value considering the number of attractions visited and the local guide’s insights. Still, keep in mind that entry tickets, cable car rides, and lunch are extra, with the cable car costing around 6,500 tenge for adults. Budgeting an additional 3,000-5,000 tenge for meals or snacks is recommended.

Timing is flexible enough to allow for a relaxed pace, with each stop lasting between 30 minutes to an hour. The tour wraps up at the original meeting point, making it convenient for travelers to continue exploring or heading back to their accommodation.

Guides and Local Insights

Reviewers consistently highlight the guide’s knowledge and responsiveness. Yerkhin, the guide mentioned, was commended for being prompt and sharing valuable insights into Kazakhstan’s culture and history. This adds a layer of authenticity and helps travelers connect more deeply with the sights.

Cost and Overall Value

Considering the tour’s overall cost, it offers a well-rounded, affordable way to see key highlights of Almaty without the stress of planning individual tickets or transportation. The small group format and guided commentary make it especially suitable for first-timers or those who want a curated experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience hits the sweet spot for those who want to cover a lot of ground in a single day—from natural scenery and adventure to cultural landmarks and local markets. It’s particularly suitable for travelers with limited time, first-time visitors, or anyone interested in a structured yet flexible overview of Almaty.

If you’re keen on photography, you’ll love the vistas from Shymbulak and Koktobe. Those curious about local architecture or history will find the stops at the Ascension Cathedral and Panfilov Park enriching.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to include specific activities like riding the cable car or sampling local cuisine extensively, you might want to plan some extra time or consider customizing your day.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You can buy food at cafes or restaurants at the Shymbulak base station or other stops, which typically costs around 3,000 to 5,000 tenge.

How much does the cable car to Shymbulak cost?
The cable car fare is approximately 6,500 tenge for adults and 4,500 for children, with tickets not included in the tour price.

Can I visit Medeu outside the skating season?
Yes, you can walk around the Medeu complex and take in the views, even when the ice rink isn’t operational. You might also enjoy the dam area and the chance to see local wildlife.

Is the Green Bazaar open on all days?
The Green Bazaar is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly if you want to experience this lively market.

How long is the Koktobe Hill visit?
The visit to Koktobe Hill lasts about an hour, giving ample time for photos, exploring souvenir shops, and enjoying the view.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the small group size and variety of attractions make it suitable for families, especially those interested in cultural and scenic experiences. Be mindful of walking distances and altitude.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Almaty offers a balanced and enjoyable way to see the city’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed. From the snowy peaks at Shymbulak to the historical charm of Panfilov Park and the bustling Green Bazaar, each stop complements the others, creating a well-rounded experience.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and convenient logistics makes this tour an excellent choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a practical introduction to Almaty. Plus, the flexible options for exploring each site mean you can tailor your day to match your interests and pace.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic day out with good value, this tour delivers—just be prepared for some extra costs if you want to ride the cable car or enjoy a proper Kazakh meal during the day. It’s a perfect way to soak in Almaty’s natural beauty and cultural treasures in just one day.