Almaty: 1-Day Tour to Shymbulak, Medeo, Kok-Tobe Hill & Zoo

What’s on Offer: A Quick Look at the Almaty Day Tour

This Almaty 1-Day Tour takes you through some of the city’s most famous sights — Medeo skating rink, Shymbulak ski resort, Kok-Tobe Hill, and the local zoo — all for around $45 per person. Starting early, expect a busy day of sightseeing that hits both natural beauty and urban charm.

Two aspects we appreciate immediately are the stunning mountain vistas you’ll enjoy at Shymbulak and Medeo, and the convenience of transportation that puts these scattered attractions within easy reach. The guides are described as knowledgeable, providing insight into each location, which helps bring the experience to life.

However, a potential downside is the mixed quality of the attractions, especially the zoo, which according to reviews, falls short in terms of animal welfare and ethical standards. Also, some travelers complain about disorganization or unmet expectations, such as the absence of a tour guide at the meeting point.

This tour works best for budget-minded visitors eager to tick off multiple sights in a single day, particularly those interested in natural landscapes and city views. It might not be ideal for travelers who prioritize animal ethics or a highly curated experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse attractions: From mountain resorts to city views and wildlife, this tour offers a broad taste of Almaty.
• Affordable price: At $45, it provides decent value for a full day of sightseeing with transportation and guide services included.
• Natural beauty: Expect impressive vistas at Medeo and Shymbulak, making it a good choice for nature lovers.
• Mixed reviews on attractions: While some highlights impress, the zoo experience has been criticized for animal welfare issues.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, helping you understand the significance of each site.
• Logistical considerations: Be prepared for a busy schedule and some variability in the overall experience based on reviews.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Medeo: The World’s Highest Skating Rink

Your day kicks off at Medeo, renowned for its vast ice rink set against a backdrop of towering mountains. We loved the spectacular scenery here — it’s not just a skating rink but a symbol of Almaty’s sporting heritage. According to some reviews, guides provide insights into Medeo’s history and its significance to the city.

But note: Medeo is often visited in winter for skating, so if you’re visiting in warmer months, you might only appreciate the view and the atmosphere. The tour includes the transfer to Medeo, making it easy to access without hassle.

Shymbulak Ski Resort: Mountain Views and Fresh Air

Next, you’ll head up to Shymbulak, a ski resort famous for its crisp mountain air and breathtaking vistas. The tour provides time to enjoy the scenery and perhaps take some photos of the expansive mountain landscape. While the tour does not include the cable car ride to Shymbulak, you’ll get an outside look at the resort, which is perfect for those who want a quick alpine experience without the ski lift costs.

Travelers frequently mention the spectacular views and the chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air. This stop is particularly appealing in winter or early summer, when snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon.

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Lunch Break and Free Time

After sightseeing at Medeo and Shymbulak, the tour typically includes a lunch break — though not included in the price — giving you a chance to relax and soak in the mountain ambiance. Be prepared to pay for your own meals, and consider trying local Kazakh dishes if available.

Exploring the Almaty Zoo

The visit to Almaty Zoo is where opinions diverge. Some travelers enjoy the chance to see local wildlife, especially with kids in tow. However, reviews highlight significant concerns: cages are described as small and inadequate, and animals sometimes exhibit strange behavior. One traveler expressed frustration: “In 2025 a zoo shouldn’t be part of any tour — especially not one for adults!”.

Plus, some visitors have observed loud and disruptive visitors feeding animals ice cream or yelling, which impacts the animals’ well-being. If animal welfare matters to you, this stop might give you pause.

Final stop at Kok-Tobe Hill: City Views and Relaxation

The tour concludes at Kok-Tobe Hill, a beloved local spot for panoramic city views. The cable car ride is not included in the tour, but you’ll have the opportunity to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps grab a snack or drink. It’s a laid-back way to end a busy day, with some optional sightseeing or shopping at the hilltop.

According to reviews, the views from Kok-Tobe are stunning, making it a worthwhile stop despite the extra cost for the cable car. It’s a perfect spot for unwinding after a packed day.

Navigating the Practicalities: What to Expect

This tour is designed for convenience — transportation is included for the entire route, making it easier to see dispersed attractions without renting a car or navigating public transport. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest some disorganization, so be prepared for a possibly varied experience.

Guide services are included, and guides are generally considered knowledgeable, helping you understand the significance of each site. However, there have been reports of no show or confusion at the meeting point, so it’s wise to confirm your reservation and arrive early.

The price point of $45 seems attractive for visiting four major attractions, but keep in mind that additional costs (like the cable car rides and food) are not included, which could add to your expenses.

Timing and Duration

Expect a full-day commitment, starting early and leaving plenty of time at each stop. The exact itinerary may vary, but the goal is to cover a wide swath of Almaty’s highlights in one day — perfect if you’re limited on time but eager to get a broad overview.

Additional Considerations

• Language options include English, Russian, and Kazakh — check in advance if you prefer a specific language.
• Flexible booking is available with a “reserve & pay later” option, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance.
• Be mindful that food is not included, so bring snacks or plan to eat at your own expense.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for budget travelers or first-time visitors who want a quick, guided overview of Almaty’s highlights. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in mountain scenery, city views, and some wildlife, but perhaps less so if you prioritize animal welfare or a highly curated experience.

Nature lovers will enjoy the vistas at Medeo and Shymbulak, and those looking for a relaxed way to see the city’s skyline will find Kok-Tobe charming. However, if you’re concerned about disorganization or the ethics of visiting a zoo with poor animal conditions, you might want to consider alternative options or do additional research.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In the end, this $45-day tour offers a snapshot of Almaty’s most famous sights, with the advantage of guided commentary and easy transportation. The scenery at Medeo and Shymbulak is genuinely impressive, making it a good choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

However, reviews suggest that not all attractions impress equally — especially the zoo, which has raised ethical questions. The tour’s disorganization and extra costs for rides and food mean you should set your expectations accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who want a quick, affordable overview and are okay with some variability in quality. If you’re okay with the potential downsides and value seeing the highlights in a manageable timeframe, this tour could be a practical way to get a taste of Almaty.

FAQs About the Tour

Is transportation included for the whole day?
Yes, the tour includes transfer services along the entire route, making it easy to move between sites without extra hassle.

Are the cable car rides included?
No, the cable cars to Kok-Tobe and Shymbulak are not part of the tour price, so you’ll need to pay separately if you want to ride.

What is the price of $45 meant to cover?
It covers guide services, all the transportation during the tour, and tickets to the zoo. Additional expenses like food and cable car rides are extra.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it can be enjoyable for families, keep in mind the concerns about the zoo’s conditions. If animal welfare is a priority, consider this before booking.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, some snacks or water, and cash for extra costs like meals or rides.

Is the guide helpful?
Most reviews mention knowledgeable guides, but some travelers experienced a lack of guidance or disorganization at the meeting point. Confirm your reservation to avoid surprises.

Final Word

This Almaty day tour delivers a straightforward way to see some of the city’s most notable sights, especially if you’re curious about its mountain scenery and city views. It’s a practical choice for those on a budget or short on time, with the bonus of guided insights along the way.

However, be aware of the mixed reviews about the zoo and organizational hiccups. If you’re passionate about animal welfare or seeking a high-end, smoothly run experience, this may not be your top pick.

All in all, if you’re flexible, open-minded, and ready for an active day with some breathtaking vistas, this tour can serve as a solid introduction to Almaty’s natural beauty and bustling atmosphere—just go with realistic expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here: