Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)

Outty Ranking 60 5.0 · 6 traveler reviews7 hoursFrom $266
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) worth booking?

Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) is a 7-hour experience in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from $266 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
5/5 (6)
Duration
7 hours
From
$266 per person

Almaty has such natural diversity as mountain ranges, coniferous forests, rough rivers, picturesque deserts, ancient canyons and many other natural wonders. This tour includes visiting some of the top must-see places and activities in Almaty during one day. We will start our trip with Medeo and Shymbulak mountain sights. While lifting up on a cable car through the gorge you will enjoy mountain peaks in snow and amazing nature of Trans Ili Alatau. After that we will move to Big Almaty Lake. We will stop for lunch at the mountain cafe on the way. Big Almaty Lake is definitely one of the brightest sights of the city. Its pristine water changes colour depending on season, astonishing mountain peaks encircling the lake from all sides. Falcons and golden eagles were one of the most important animals for nomadic culture back in the days. We will finish our trip with dynamic hunting birds show at Sunkar center!

What you get

    About this experience

    Almaty has such natural diversity as mountain ranges, coniferous forests, rough rivers, picturesque deserts, ancient canyons and many other natural wonders. This tour includes visiting some of the top must-see places and activities in Almaty during one day. We will start our trip with Medeo and Shymbulak mountain sights. While lifting up on a cable car through the gorge you will enjoy mountain peaks in snow and amazing nature of Trans Ili Alatau. After that we will move to Big Almaty Lake. We will stop for lunch at the mountain cafe on the way. Big Almaty Lake is definitely one of the brightest sights of the city. Its pristine water changes colour depending on season, astonishing mountain peaks encircling the lake from all sides. Falcons and golden eagles were one of the most important animals for nomadic culture back in the days. We will finish our trip with dynamic hunting birds show at Sunkar center!

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Bottled water
    • All tickets
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Guide service

    Not included

    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Medeu Skating Rink and Ski resort

      Famous skating rink where hundreds of world records were set. Located in 20 mins drive from Almaty city center, and surrounded by high peaks of Trans Ili Alatau mountains, this place became a must-see

      30 minutes here

    2. One of the most modern and professional ski resorts of Central Asia. We will lift up by cable car to an altitude of 3200m above sea level. Astonishing mountain views will create an unforgettable impression for you.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Big Almaty Lake

      You will visit one of the most popular and key sights of the city - Big Almaty Lake. Breathtaking mountain views and pristine lake in between high peaks is a must-see. You will have free time to enjoy and relax on the lake.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Falcon Farm Sunkar

      Predator birds always accompanied nomadic hunters during the history. These beautiful animals in action are breathtaking to watch. In Sunkar bird center you will see falcons, golden eagles, vultures, etc.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    NEOmad

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 2Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 3Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 4Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 5Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 6Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour), photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    The guide

    1 mention

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    1 mention

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Food and drink

    1 mention

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Good for families

    1 mention

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    Christopher_C · July 2025

    Nursultan was great and...

    Nursultan was great and the trip was good overall! He was attentive and flexible. Give good suggestions!

    via Viator

    Adventurers049 · August 2023

    Great day out

    There is a great gondola ride to the ski resort up the mountain. When there, there is a lovely view of the valley below. A good day out.

    via Tripadvisor

    100miledrive · March 2023

    EXCELLENT

    The weather was superb, with great scenic beauty all around and the sight of people skiing on the slopes was really invigorating for us !!

    via Tripadvisor

    KingWilliamII · October 2022

    Shymbulak or Bust!

    October 2022 was my 3rd trip to Shymbulak and it was another amazing adventure. A 12% grade is not for sissies, so take your Camelbak’s, trail mix, hiking boots and trekking poles for a time to remember! We made it to about 3,100M, and the scenery was spectacular! If you’re ever in the area of Almaty, KZ, you really need to set aside some time to hike the big mountains! You won’t regret it!

    via Tripadvisor

    327aijanm · August 2022

    An efficient way to see the main sights in the mountains of Almaty!

    My fiancé and I had the pleasure of going on the Shymbulak/Medeu/Big Almaty Lake tour with Nursultan in August 2022. It was my fiancé’s first time in Kazakhstan and this tour was the perfect opportunity to let him see several of the major sights of Almaty and the surrounding areas conveniently, with an English-speaking guide! When our flight to Almaty was delayed and we realized we would not be able to do the tour on the originally scheduled date, Nursultan patiently and kindly worked with us to reschedule the tour for a time that would work for us. During the tour he answered any and all questions we had and provided many interesting facts about the history and functions of the areas we were visiting. After seeing the beautiful sights at Shymbulak and Medeu, we ate at a new Georgian restaurant on the way to the lake with very tasty food. Nursultan also brought some tea for us to share at the lake while enjoying the view, which was awesome! He also let us borrow an umbrella when it unexpectedly started to rain, which was appreciated. We had a great day and we believe the tour was very much worth the price. I will definitely refer any friends/family who travel to Kazakhstan to this tour and other tours provided by Nursultan and the NEOmad team.

    Response from the operator: This is one of the most detailed and kind reviews that we received! Thank you a lot Aijan! Appreciated. Always welcome!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    7 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $266 to $472
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by NEOmad, who run 14 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.9.

    See everything NEOmad runs

    Why this scores 60

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)90
    Review evidence (18% weight)36
    Booking momentum (14% weight)25
    Value for money (12% weight)23
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour): questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Almaty.

    How much does Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) cost?

    +

    Prices start at $266 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Almaty usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) take?

    +

    Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Almaty is not rushed.

    Is Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Almaty, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Almaty can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Almaty and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Almaty within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Almaty?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Almaty experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Small Group Tour, Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons 2-day tour, Kolsai, Kaindy lakes & Charyn canyon with Yurt stay and Campfire. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Almaty?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Almaty?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)?

    +

    Included: Private transportation; Bottled water; All tickets; All Fees and Taxes; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 202 listed pickup locations in and around Almaty. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour) if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour)?

    +

    Across 6 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Medeu and Shymbulak + Big Almaty Lake and Falcon show (Private day-tour).

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