Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour

Outty Ranking 56 5.0 · 3 traveler reviews4 hoursFrom $159
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Outty Ranking

56/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour worth booking?

Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour is a 4-hour experience in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from $159 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
56 / 100
Rating
5/5 (3)
Duration
4 hours
From
$159 per person

Want to visit top sights in Almaty in one day?! Then do it to us! We visit the world-famous Medeo high mountain ice rink at an altitude of 1691 meters above sea level. Next, we make a mini ascent up the Health Mountain Staircase to Medeo Dam - 842 steps. From here you can enjoy a fantastic panorama of the mountain peaks of the Ile-Alatau National Park. Afterwards, we drive to the Medeo – Shymbulak gondola road and take the high-altitude cable car to the Shymbulak ski resort. Here you will understand why this Resort has been officially added to the Guinness Book of Records, and you will be greatly impressed by the beauty of the peaks and glaciers of the Tien Shan Mountains. All three locations in one day as part of a luxurious, action-packed excursion!

What you get

    About this experience

    Want to visit top sights in Almaty in one day?! Then do it to us! We visit the world-famous Medeo high mountain ice rink at an altitude of 1691 meters above sea level. Next, we make a mini ascent up the Health Mountain Staircase to Medeo Dam - 842 steps. From here you can enjoy a fantastic panorama of the mountain peaks of the Ile-Alatau National Park. Afterwards, we drive to the Medeo – Shymbulak gondola road and take the high-altitude cable car to the Shymbulak ski resort. Here you will understand why this Resort has been officially added to the Guinness Book of Records, and you will be greatly impressed by the beauty of the peaks and glaciers of the Tien Shan Mountains. All three locations in one day as part of a luxurious, action-packed excursion!

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Bottled water
    • Accompanied by a mountain guide
    • anding and/or facility fees
    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Carbonated beverages
    • Snacks

    What you'll see and do

    1. Medeu Skating Rink and Ski resort

      We visit the most important architectural attraction of Almaty - the highest open ice skating rink in the world - Medeu Ice Rink. Located at an altitude of 1,691 meters above sea level, the Medeu ice rink is still the highest ice rink in the world. You will learn about the monumental architecture of the USSR. The rink is also the absolute record holder in the world in terms of the number of world speed skating records set here. Above the ice rink is the world-famous Medeu health staircase of the same name, which consists of up to 842 steps. At your request, we can climb the health ladder on foot (a popular place for Kazakh and foreign tourists for mountain fitness) or take a mountain taxi to the highest point of the Medeu ladder. From here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Medeu area and the mountains of the Ile Alatau National Park. In winter we can also visit the ice rink and go ice skating ourselves

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Mud Dam at Urochishhe Medeu

      After the Medeo ice skating rink, we continue to the high mountain marble dam Medeu (on foot along the health ladder or by mountain eco-taxi). The dam is the largest architectural structure in Almaty since the times of the USSR and to this day protects the city from mountain mud flows. There are fantastic views of the entire Medeu area and the Tien Shan Mountains. You will receive interesting information about the history of the largest high mountain construction site in the world and will be amazed by the size of the architectural structure

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    3. After descending from the dam to the rope lift station, we begin a climb on a high-altitude cable car to the world-famous Shymbulak ski resort. On the way we admire the wonderfully beautiful nature of the mountain town of Almaty. After reaching the Shymbulak base station, we take a short break to rest. We then take the cable car even higher to enjoy the real mountain scenery. Here you will understand why Shymbulak is in the Guinness Book of Records and a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If we are lucky and another cable car route opens at this time of year, we will go even higher - to the Talgar Pass, which is at an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level. Here you can admire the views of the Bogdanovich Glacier and the mountain ranges of the Tien Shan Mountains. During ski season you can also rent ski equipment and go skiing (an additional fee is required).

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Almaty

    Gornaya street 465, Medeu skating rink

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Gornaya street 465, Medeu skating rink

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, ru, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Incredible Kazakhstan

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 2Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 3Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 4Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 5Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 6Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour in Almaty, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 3 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    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.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    3 verified traveler reviews for Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
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    Scott_E · March 2026

    Outstanding. Had a great day

    This was a great tour and such a difference from the city which is only 20 minutes away Ilyas was a brilliant and knowledgeable tour guide showing me all sorts of things and was especially patient as I had poor shoes for the conditions. Shymbaluk has to be visited and the cable car rides are great. If you are heading to Almaty make sure you take this tour

    via Viator

    Sutwil · September 2024

    Excellent Day Tour

    Had a wonderful tour of Medeo and Shymbulak, Kazakhstan with Ilyas. He set an excellent pace and had great ideas for the sightseeing. The ice rink is awesome and the mountain lifts and views were incredible. Thanks for such a fabulous day!

    Response from the operator: Thanks a lot for your review! Come back to Almaty sometime. We'll definitely show you the coolest spots! Have a great time and all the best!

    via Tripadvisor

    Enrique_R · November 2023

    Amazing tour around Almaty

    It was a magnifique experience of something you cant miss in Almaty. Our guide Elias was very good, csrong, concerned about our necesities and times and good at explaining rhings within or outside the tour. Totally recomended tour.

    Response from the operator: Enrique, thank you very much for your feedback. We are really glad that you enjoyed the tour. Be sure to come visit us again. I wish you a good rest and a great weekend! All the best and happy travels! Sincerely, Ilyas!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    4 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Incredible Kazakhstan, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 49.7.

    See everything Incredible Kazakhstan runs

    Why this scores 56

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)87
    Review evidence (18% weight)25
    Booking momentum (14% weight)16
    Value for money (12% weight)21
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)53
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour cost?

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    Prices start at $159 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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour take?

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    Plan for about 4 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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour?

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    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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour?

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    Around 1 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?

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    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 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour start and how do I get there?

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    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?

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    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?

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    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?

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    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?

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    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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour?

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    Included: Private transportation; Bottled water; Accompanied by a mountain guide; anding and/or facility fees; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; Alcoholic beverages; Carbonated beverages; and Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 99 listed pickup locations in and around Almaty. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour offered in?

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    It is offered in German, Russian and 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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour?

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    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 Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Almaty. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Private high mountain ice rink Medeo and ski resort Shymbulak tour?

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    Across 3 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

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