Private Trip to Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

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

Imagine stepping away from the bustling city streets of Almaty to breathe in crisp mountain air, taking in some of Central Asia’s most stunning scenery. This private day trip offers exactly that—visiting the world’s largest alpine skating rink in Medeu, and then riding a cable car up to the breathtaking Shymbulak Ski Resort. For $215 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring, with comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see 120 world records set at Medeu, which isn’t just a skating rink but a piece of sports history. Second, the views from Shymbulak, where the cable car glides over rugged ridges and lush fir forests—truly a feast for the eyes.

A potential consideration? The itinerary involves several transitions—walking, cable cars, and some uphill climbs—so travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a leisurely, relaxed experience might want to plan accordingly. But for those eager for authentic mountain scenery and active sightseeing, this trip hits the mark.

This tour appeals most to travelers who love nature, mountain vistas, and outdoor activities. It’s perfect if you want a well-organized, private experience with expert guidance, especially if you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Almaty’s surrounding mountains in a single day.

Key Points

• Authentic Mountain Experience: Visit Medeu and Shymbulak, two iconic mountain destinations near Almaty.
• Unique Historical Spot: Medeu is the largest alpine skating rink in the world, renowned for setting 120 records.
• Spectacular Views: The cable car ride to Shymbulak offers panoramic vistas of snow-capped ridges.
• Guided Convenience: Enjoy a private tour with a guide and driver, making navigation and logistics simple.
• Active Exploration: Walks around Medeu and Shymbulak provide immersive encounters with nature.
• Value for Money: All entrance tickets, transportation, and guiding included, making this a straightforward, all-in-one experience.

Detailed Tour Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at Baytursynova Street 100 in Almaty, where your private vehicle awaits. The tour is designed for comfort, with air-conditioning and a dedicated guide and driver ensuring you’re well cared for throughout the day. The journey to Medeu is approximately 20 minutes, striking a good balance between travel time and sightseeing.

First Stop: Medeu Ice Skating Rink and Ski Resort

Arriving at Medeu, the first thing you’ll notice is the massive ice rink, surrounded by towering mountains. Open since the mid-20th century, Medeu is more than just a skating rink—it’s a symbol of sports achievement, with over 120 world records being set here.

The highlight is walking up the Stairs of Health to the dam, which offers a spectacular view of the gorge and provides a sense of the area’s engineering ingenuity. One reviewer, Nigel, praised their guide Miras for his extensive knowledge of local history and nature, enhancing the experience with stories and insights.

You’ll have about an hour and 20 minutes here to stroll, take photos, and soak in the mountain atmosphere. Keep in mind that, while skating or skiing aren’t included in the tour, you can always observe or try your hand at these activities if you decide to return on your own later.

Second Leg: Cable Car to Shymbulak

Next, you’ll hop onto the cable car that whisks you up to Shymbulak. This ride is a highlight in itself—climbing over ridges with sweeping views of the Tien Shan mountains. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the third-level station, where the landscape opens up dramatically.

Shymbulak, at 2,260 meters elevation, is one of the oldest and most famous ski resorts in the region. The resort is surrounded by towering peaks and dense fir forests, making every view Instagram-worthy. You will have about two hours here to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the alpine scenery.

While skiing and skating aren’t included in the tour price, the setting alone offers plenty of photo opportunities, and the crisp mountain air is invigorating. If you have extra time or are interested in outdoor sports, this might be a good spot to return on your own.

Returning to Base and Travel Back to Almaty

Around 3:30 pm, you’ll descend back to Medeu’s base station via cable car, then transfer back to Almaty. The total time away from the city is roughly seven hours, making this a manageable day trip that packs in a lot of sights without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and Insights

This tour’s true value lies in the combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and guided insight. One review mentions their guide Miras as “incredibly knowledgeable about the history, architecture, nature and people of Almaty,” which can be a real bonus if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of the region’s culture and landscape.

Another traveler noted the stunning scenery and the way the guide responded to requests and questions, making the trip both educational and enjoyable. The experience is designed to give you a taste of mountain recreation and Kazakh history without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What to Expect in Terms of Value

For $215, the tour includes transportation, all entrance tickets, cable car rides, and a guide/driver. While meals and activities like skating or skiing are extra, the overall package offers good value for a full day of sightseeing with minimal hassle. It’s a chance to see top sights with a professional guiding you, which is especially helpful if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the area.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—there’s some uphill walking involved, especially at Medeu.
• Dress appropriately for mountain weather—layers are wise, as temperatures can vary.
• Bring water and perhaps a snack—you’ll be on the move most of the day.
• Be aware that skating and skiing are not included, but you can observe or try these activities independently.
• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as this tour is popular—on average, travelers book it about 22 days ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a straightforward way to experience Almaty’s mountain scenery, this trip is perfect. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility, since the guide handles logistics and transportation. Nature lovers, sports fans, or anyone wanting a quick escape from city life will appreciate the fresh air, stunning views, and the chance to step into a piece of sports history.

However, if you’re seeking a more active or inclusive ski experience, you might need to plan additional days or separate activities. This tour focuses on sightseeing and appreciating the scenery, not on participation in winter sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Do I need to bring my own skating or skiing equipment?
No, skating and skiing are not included, and equipment isn’t provided. You can choose to do these activities on your own if desired.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a guide/driver makes the journey smooth and enjoyable.

What should I wear?
Layers are best, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip, providing flexibility if plans change.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, making this suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Will I see real snow?
During winter months, snow is guaranteed at Shymbulak and Medeu, creating a truly wintry mountain atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This private trip to Medeu and Shymbulak offers a well-rounded experience of Almaty’s breathtaking mountain environment. It combines the thrill of visiting the world’s largest alpine skating rink with scenic cable car rides over rugged peaks, all guided by locals who love sharing their home.

Perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free, informative day out, it’s especially valuable if you prefer a private, flexible schedule rather than a large group tour. While it doesn’t include winter sports, the views, fresh air, and sense of adventure more than make up for it.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply after a scenic escape, this tour delivers a taste of the majestic landscapes surrounding Almaty that will stay with you long after you leave.