Private Tour
A private Shymbulak-Medeu on a cable car
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
- will see from above the highest mountain skating ring in the world and will speak of its history
- will discuss the mud protection systems on the rivers near Almaty with the view of the first dam of this kind that saved the city in 1973 from a tremendous mud flow that was ready to ruin it.
- if the weather is clear (and its often clear in Almaty) we will get panoramic view of the whole city and far away steppes that start right behind Almaty
-Finely we will get to the altitude of 3200 m above the sea level and will admire the greatness of glaciers that seem to be at hand from the top point of the cable road. We will speak about the history of exploring of Tian-Shain and the peculiarities of this wonderful mountain chain.
- Upon your wish we can have a cup of tea or other traditional drink in authentic yurta-café with the view of Talgar gorge or if you prefer European style, there are plenty of restaurants at the second stop of the cable road – Shymbulak ski resort
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Proffessional guide services
Cable car fee
Medeu fee
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Novotel Almaty City Center
Dostyk Avenue 104 A Almaty Kazakhstan
What To Expect
Medeu Skating Rink and Ski resort
will see from above the highest mountain skating ring in the world and will speak of its history - will discuss the mud protection systems on the rivers near Almaty with the view of the first dam of this kind that saved the city in 1973 from a tremendous mud flow that was ready to ruin it. - if the weather is clear (and its often clear in Almaty) we will get panoramic view of the whole city and far away steppes that start right behind Almaty
Left Talgar Gorge
We will take a cable car ride to the Talgar pass We will have time to take photos Enjoy tea drinking in the traditional yurta cafe
Options
A private Shymbulak-Medeu on a cable car
Pickup included
Reviews
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Perfect Journey of Culture and Stunning Mountain Views!
Powei K,
Jun 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00這趟行程讓我對阿拉木圖有了全新的認識。Irina 是位極具深度的導遊，不僅知識豐富，也很樂意分享關於阿拉木圖的歷史、俄羅斯族與哈薩克族之間的文化融合，以及她個人的生活經驗。透過她的講解，我對這座城市與這個國家的文化背景有了更多理解。 景色更是遠超乎我的想像——搭乘方便的纜車就能輕鬆抵達海拔3200公尺的高處，俯瞰壯麗的天山山脈與冰河，而這一切竟然離市中心只有25公里！非常推薦給想要在短時間內深入了解當地文化與自然美景的旅人。 This tour gave me an entirely new perspective on Almaty. Irina is an incredibly insightful guide—knowledgeable, articulate, and generous in sharing not just the history of the city, but also the cultural blending of Russian and Kazakh communities, along with her own personal experiences living here. The scenery was beyond anything I expected—thanks to the convenient cable car, we easily reached 3,200 meters above sea level to take in breathtaking views of the Tien Shan mountains and glaciers. And the fact that all of this is just 25 kilometers from the city center is truly mind-blowing. Highly recommended for travelers who want both cultural depth and stunning landscapes in one day.
Super Worth the money! Amazing
Paulo R,
May 3, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a super awesome day with Maria! Maria came on time and was super knowledgeable and enthusiastic throughout the tour, she was like a long time friend! I had an amazing day at Shymbulak and is a great way to see the Tian Shan mountains! The view from the the very top feels like Switzerland and the traditional cafe in a yurt is a must! Highly recommend this tour! Thank you so much Maria!!
Glaciers at your feet
Mary M,
Jul 10, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00I came to Almaty for a business trip and I didn’t really expect anything special from these few days, but as I saw the mountains as soon as my plane landed so I decided to see them closer when I got a half day break and that was the best decision! My partners helped me to book the tour so I’m very thankful. I was picked up from my hotel by a charming tour guide, the way by car took us about 30 min but she managed to use this time to tell me about the city (I didn’t even know that Almaty has such an interesting history!!). The mountains themselves are just stunning! By the modern cable road we easily got to the altitude of 3200m right to the very glaciers! The view and the air was absolutely unbelievable! Maria (the guide) was very attentive, friendly and her knowledge about history and culture of the region was absolutely great ! We even got a chance to drink horse milk in traditional tent of the nomads called Yurta with the Mountain View! I’ve got to know a lot about the traditions and life of this wonderful country. So it happened to be one of the best tours I’ve ever had. Highly recommended !!
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