Private Trip to Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

Exploring Almaty’s Mountain Treasures: Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

This private tour offers a fantastic day out in the mountains surrounding Almaty, Kazakhstan. It combines the thrill of ice skating at the world’s largest alpine rink with the breathtaking scenery of Shymbulak Ski Resort — a must-see for anyone wanting a taste of high-altitude adventure without straying too far from the city. The tour is tailored for those looking for a mix of sport, stunning nature, and local culture, all wrapped into a roughly 7-hour package.

What we really love about this experience is its ability to blend active fun with sightseeing in one seamless trip. The guides are knowledgeable, making the journey both informative and engaging, while the scenery — especially at Shymbulak — is a genuine highlight. One potential consideration is that activities like skating and skiing are not included in the price, so if you’re eager to hit the ice or slopes, you’ll need to plan for extra costs. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic mountain adventure, outdoor enthusiasts, and those short on time but eager to explore Almaty’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Authentic mountain experience close to Almaty, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
• Expert-guided trip with insightful commentary on local sights and history.
• Stunning scenery at Shymbulak, one of the most picturesque ski resorts in Central Asia.
• Flexibility to explore at your own pace during the stops.
• Cost-effective for the included transportation, guide, and entry tickets.
• No included activities, so budget for skiing or skating if desired.

A Detailed Look at the Day Trip

Starting Off: Smooth Transfers and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins at a central meeting point on Baytursynova Street in Almaty, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ready to whisk you away. We appreciated the efficiency of the pickup process and the smooth ride into the mountains, which takes roughly 20 minutes from the city center. The small, private group setting ensures personalized attention, making it easy to ask questions or request specific photo stops.

First Stop: Medeu Skating Rink and Mountaineering Marvels

Our first destination was the legendary Medeu Ice Skating Rink, famous for being the largest outdoor alpine skating rink in the world. Surrounded by towering peaks in the Trans-Ili Alatau, this spot is a must for visitors who appreciate impressive engineering and history. Over 120 world records have been broken here, adding a sense of accomplishment to the air.

The guide took us on a 1 hour 20-minute walk around the area, which included a climb to the top of the dam through the Stairs of Health — a series of steps with scenic views and a workout that many reviewers find rewarding. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained the history of Medeu and shared insights about the athletes who set records here.” The dam itself is an impressive feat of engineering, offering viewpoints that make for excellent photo opportunities.

Although the skating rink is free to walk around, if you want to glide on the ice yourself, you’ll need to rent skates (not included). For many, just soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos of the stunning mountain backdrop is enough, and it’s a genuinely unique setting for a walk. The high altitude (around 1,700 meters) means the air feels crisp — pack layers accordingly.

Ascending to Shymbulak by Cable Car

Next, we boarded the cable car for a scenic ride up to Shymbulak Ski Resort. The cable car journey is a highlight in itself; expect panoramic views of the rugged ridges and dense Tien Shan firs. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the third-level station at an altitude of 2,860 meters, where you can enjoy the crisp mountain air and stunning vistas.

While the tour’s price includes the cable car tickets, it’s worth noting that the resort itself is primarily a skiing hub, not a comprehensive sightseeing destination. The guide points out the surrounding peaks and explains how the resort is one of the oldest and most popular in the region. Several reviewers have commented on how “beautiful the slopes are, and the views are absolutely breathtaking,” making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

At the top, we had roughly 2.5 hours to explore. Many visitors enjoy walking around the different levels, admiring the mountain scenery, or just relaxing at a café. While skiing and snowboarding are popular activities here, these are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget if you want to hit the slopes.

Visiting the Dam and the Stairs of Health

One of the tour’s lesser-known highlights is the visit to an impressive dam in the Medeu Gorge, accessible via the Stairs of Health. This feature is more than just a functional structure; it’s a popular spot for local fitness enthusiasts and visitors alike. Climbing the stairs offers a sense of achievement and stunning views of the dam and the surrounding landscape.

A review mentions how “the guide shared interesting tidbits about the dam’s role in the region’s water supply and its connection to local health traditions,” which adds an enriching layer to the visit. It’s a relatively short stop but one that adds a sense of adventure and insight into the local infrastructure.

Returning to Almaty

After exploring Shymbulak and the dam area, the group boards the cable car back down to the base station, followed by a transfer back to the city. The entire return trip lasts about 40 minutes, giving you some time to rest and reflect on the day’s sights.

Evaluating the Value

At $215 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the highlights of Almaty’s mountain scenery. The price covers transportation, guide, entrance tickets, and the cable car rides — key elements that contribute to its value. Keep in mind, activities like skating or skiing are extra, so if you’re eager to participate in those, budget accordingly.

Reviewers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with one describing Miras as “incredibly knowledgeable about the history, architecture, nature, and people of Almaty.” The small group size and private nature of the tour mean you get a personalized experience, which many find more engaging than large group excursions.

However, some travelers have faced issues, such as last-minute cancellations. One reviewer shared, “We booked for a Sunday, but no one showed up,” though these seem to be isolated incidents, and the provider promptly promised a refund. It’s always wise to confirm your booking and keep contact details handy.

Practical Tips

• Wear layers: The altitude and mountain climate mean it can be chilly, especially at Shymbulak.
• Budget for extras: Skating, skiing, and food are not included.
• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 3 weeks in advance.
• Bring your camera: The scenery and photo opportunities are incredible.
• Consider physical readiness: Climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain may require moderate fitness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to experience Almaty’s natural beauty without long hikes or complex logistics. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking to combine sightseeing with a bit of active fun will find it especially rewarding. It also suits visitors short on time but eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning mountain scenery.

While not an adventure-packed ski trip or a full-day hike, it offers a balanced mix of viewpoints, light activity, and cultural insight. If you’re traveling with family or in a small group, the private nature of the tour makes it flexible and personalized.

The Sum Up

This private tour to Medeu and Shymbulak offers a compelling glimpse into Almaty’s mountain environment. The combination of the legendary skating rink, the stunning cable car ride, and the picturesque slopes is hard to beat for those seeking scenic beauty and authentic local experiences. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and well-organized itinerary make it a good value for the price.

While activities like skating and skiing require additional costs, the sights, scenery, and atmosphere alone justify the trip. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, photography, and simply soaking in panoramic mountain views. The small-group, private setup ensures an intimate experience, perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting personalized attention.

In short, if you want a taste of Kazakhstan’s mountainous charm and enjoy a mix of light adventure and sightseeing, this tour is a solid choice. It captures the essence of Almaty’s outdoor offerings in a manageable, one-day package that balances fun, scenery, and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and exploration time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guide driver, entrance tickets, and cable car rides. Meals and activities like skating or skiing are not included.

Can I participate in skating or skiing?
While the tour visits the sites where these activities are popular, the actual skating or skiing is not included in the price. You will need to rent equipment and pay extra if you want to participate.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Baytursynova Street 100 in Almaty and ends back at the same point after the day’s activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider physical ability. Climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain might be challenging for some.

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 3 weeks ahead, as it’s a popular choice among visitors wanting a mountain escape near Almaty.

What should I bring?
Layers of clothing for variable mountain weather, a camera, and some extra money for optional activities or snacks. Don’t forget your sense of adventure!

Is the tour refundable?
Yes, there is a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the tour, offering full refunds if plans change unexpectedly.

This tour delivers a scenic, comfortable, and culturally engaging way to explore some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic mountain sites. Whether you’re after unforgettable views, a fun day outdoors, or a chance to learn about local landmarks, you’ll find plenty to love here.