Almaty: Shymbulak, Medeu, Kok Tobe, Zenkov's Cathedral

Almaty Region, Kazakhstan



Experience winter fairytale in Shymbulak ski resort, Medeu Ice Skating, Kok Tobe Park and Zenkov's Cathedral on a private trip! Private trip with personal experienced tour guide. ✨️✨️

Winter tour of Shymbulak, Medeu, Kok Tobe, and Zenkov's Cathedral in Almaty

This private guided tour suits visitors seeking a full-day winter experience covering Almaty’s ski resort, ice skating rink, mountain park, and cathedral.

Highlights

  • Private guided tour
  • Hotel pick up and drop off included
  • Explore Shymbulak ski resort and Kok Tobe mountains
  • Visit Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral and Medeu ice skating rink

Description

An English-speaking experienced guide will welcome you with traditional Kazakh hospitality, including sweet treats. The tour visits four key locations in Almaty: the Shymbulak ski resort, Medeu ice skating rink, Kok Tobe park, and Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral.

The first stop is Shymbulak ski resort, which has three levels accessible by cable car. The guide will take you through all three levels using the cable car. Cable car tickets can be purchased with your booking or directly at the resort. There are numerous on-site restaurants for lunch or snacks.

Next is Medeu ice skating rink, followed by Kok Tobe park, located 1100 meters above sea level. At Kok Tobe, you will enjoy panoramic views of the city either by cable car or bus, depending on your selected option.

The final location is Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral, a notable wooden cathedral in Almaty.

Program

  • 10:00 - Hotel pick up in the city
  • Visits to Shymbulak ski resort and Medeu ice skating rink
  • Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral
  • Kok Tobe park
  • 17:00 - Drop off at your hotel in the city

Important Information

  • Wear jackets and warm clothing due to cold temperatures.
  • The highest point reached during the tour is 3200 meters above sea level.
  • The tour operates from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
  • After completing the visits, you will be dropped off at your hotel or a nearby preferred address.

Seasonal Notice for September and October

  • The 1st cable car will be closed from 6 October to 17 October for maintenance.
  • The 3rd cable car will be closed from 10 September to 1 November.
  • The 2nd cable car operates fully during September, October, and November.
  • During cable car closures, travel includes an electric car ride instead of the 1st cable car, and a visit to hot water springs replaces the 3rd cable car section.

Includes

  • Pick up and drop off from your hotel
  • Entrance to Shymbulak mountain resort
  • Visit to Kok Tobe park
  • Medeu ice skating rink access
  • Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral visit
  • Water provided
  • English-speaking experienced guide
  • Private car with driver for groups of four or more

Excludes

  • Cable car tickets if not included in your booking option
  • Lunch expenses

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Book in advance for cable car tickets and dress warmly. The best time to visit is during stable weather from September to November when the alternative routes operate smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour covers Shymbulak ski resort, Medeu ice skating rink, Kok Tobe mountain, and Zenkov's Ascension Cathedral in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
An English-speaking private guide leads the tour, providing local insights and hospitality.
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off within Almaty are included in the tour package.
Yes, Shymbulak has three ski levels suitable for beginners and experienced skiers alike.
Kok Tobe is the city's highest point, situated at 1100 meters above sea level.
Visitors can explore and enjoy the Medeu ice skating rink, one of the largest high-altitude rinks in Kazakhstan.
Yes, non-skiers can still enjoy sightseeing, ice skating, and cultural visits to landmarks like Zenkov's Cathedral.
The tour is designed for winter months when snow and ice conditions are optimal for skiing and skating.
Ski equipment rentals are typically available at Shymbulak; check with the tour provider for rental options.
The private guided tour usually lasts a full day; check the booking details for exact duration.

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