Ski Adventure Kazakhstan
On this week-long ski or snowboard adventure in Kazakhstan you can experience both the city and mountain cultures of this Central Asian country. You’ll experience the buzz of the city of Almaty, and the nearby ski areas are surprisingly modern, unlike some of the Soviet era ski resorts that you find in some other “stan” countries. Away from the hubbub of the city, you’ll experience cat skiing, the valley of castles, a natural hot spring, and the majesty of the mountains.
Highlights
- 8 days Kazakhstan, 7 nights, 5 days skiing
- Inclusive tour with full hosting and guiding and all the logistics looked after
- 2 days of cat skiing in the remote Karkara mountains near the Kyrgyzstan border
- Ski resorts of Shymbulak, Ak Bulak, and Lesnaya Skazka
- Stay 2 nights in a mountain lodge near Karkara where the local cooks will prepare fresh and local food and make sure the vodka is flowing
- Hike the majestic Charyn Canyon, which is the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan” with its vibrant red rocks, cliffs and deep gorges
- Spend 1 night in bungalows adjacent to a natural hot spring
- Stay in the city of Almaty for 4 nights & enjoy its vibrant nightlife if you wish
- City tour of Almaty
- Working with local guides and local partners - local experiences whilst supporting tourism in a developing country
If you have any questions or want to double check availability, you can
make a booking request.
Your Kazakhstan Ski Adventure
Almaty
The former capital of Kazakhstan and the largest city, Almaty, is the gateway to some of the high profile ski resorts in Kazakhstan. The city of
Almaty is incredibly scenic considering its backdrop of the snow-covered Trans-Ili Alatau Mountain Range that has peaks of over 4,000 metres. Almaty has some nightlife and a rich cultural heritage.
Shymbulak
Shymbulak is the largest ski resort in Central Asia and it’s also quite modern. It was the host of the 2017 Winter Universiade (the Olympic Winter Games for students), various FIS competitions, and a Freeride World Tour. The top elevation is at 3,250 meters, and it offers over 1,000 metres of vertical drop. On a clear day, you can enjoy the view of the metropolis of Almaty during your descent.
Lesnaya Skazka (Oi Qaragai)
Lesnaya Skazka or Oi Qaragai is the most recent ski resort to open in Almaty. The resort is nicknamed the ‘fairytale forest’ national park, because of its quiet slopes nestled between deciduous trees. The surroundings are beautiful, but Lesnaya Skazka is still waiting for discovery. The lifts go like a rocket allowing ample time for many tree runs and more at this ski area.
Ak Bulak
Ak Bulak is further afield from the city of Almaty. A new gondola takes you up to the mid-station at 2,200 metres. Below this are gentle slopes for beginners and intermediates whilst further up is prime for freeriders and experienced skiers.
Cat Skiing
The tour includes 2 days of snowcat accessed skiing/riding in the remote Karkara mountains near the Kyrgyz border. The Kazakh driver will drop the group off at various peaks in the area. Around 14 people fit in the machine, and you will drop till you need to stop.
Charyn Canyon
The deepest point of the journey will be the Charyn canyon. The gorge is called the Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan, and during a short hike, you will understand why. Stretching over 90 km, this majestic canyon features vibrant red rock formations, intricate cliffs, and deep gorges sculpted by the Charyn River over millions of years. The most famous section, the Valley of Castles, boasts towering rock structures that resemble ancient fortresses. You will explore the canyon on foot, taking in the breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
Groups
Solos and small groups are welcome to join the fixed date mixed group trip (minimum 5 guests) or if you have a group of at least 5 people, you can
make a booking request for a tailor-made trip, pending availability.
Ryce Travel
Ryce Travel is a foundation dedicated to supporting Community Based Tourism (CBT) and they work predominantly with local partners and guides. As a non-profit tour agency, Ryce supports tourism in developing countries, providing you with an authentic local experience while ensuring that locals earn a decent income. Additionally, Ryce helps to foster local initiatives to grow winter tourism.