Hike from Shymbulak to Bogbanovisch Glacier

Overview

Available languages

Russian

English

Mobile ticket

We meet at the Medeu Cable Car station, located about 30 minutes from the city. You can reach it by taxi, or by bus №12, 21.

From Medeu, we will take the cable car up to the third station of Shymbulak Ski Resort at an altitude of 3,200 meters.

From the upper station, we begin a 2 km hike (1–1.5 hours one way). After reaching the Bogdanovich Glacier, we spend approximately 2 hours exploring the area, enjoying the views, and taking photos.

We then return to Shymbulak, where the guided part of the hike ends. You are welcome to stay at Shymbulak and enjoy your time there.

If we lucky we can visit Oktyabrskaya Ice Cave, the hidden gem of Bogdanovich Glacier— a secluded ice cave nestled deep in the mountains.

We provide helmets, hiking poles, and spikes for safety. Feel free to bring snacks such as sandwiches, chocolate, nuts and etc.

Difficulty: Below average, suitable for sporty and active individuals.

Additional Info

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

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

Spikes for shoes

English-Speaking Guide

Helmet

Air-conditioned vehicle

Hiking poles

Snacks

Lunch

Bottled water

Shymbulak Cable Car

What To Expect

Shymbulak is a modern ski resort located in the stunning Medeu Valley in Almaty. From Medeu, you take a cable car up to the third station at an altitude of 3,200 meters. The resort is known for its high-quality slopes, mild climate, and breathtaking mountain views. It offers excellent facilities, including equipment rental, cozy cafés, and hotels, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced skiers.

40 minutes • Admission Not Included

Bogdanovich Glacier is a picturesque mountain glacier located near Almaty, on the northern slopes of the Trans-Ili Alatau range. Known for its impressive alpine scenery, the glacier sits at an altitude of around 3,500 meters and offers stunning views of surrounding peaks. It is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts exploring the high-mountain landscapes above Shymbulak.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Bogdanovich Glacier

Reviews

5.00

1 review

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Moderate Hike, Great Views, Exceptional Guide!
Low E,
Mar 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I went on this hike on a sunny day (5-10C), which was pretty ideal for the hike as visibility was good and it was not too cold or windy. The hike goes from the combi-2, the top of Shymbulak ski resort via an unmarked path to the glacier. The hike was manageable (for a non-sporty guy like me), but there is a section with a steep incline that will quite tiring to complete, especially with the thinner air. The hike is absolutely worth it though, as the inside October cave is truly a unique and beautiful. My guide, Yerkin is an exceptionally helpful and friendly guy, as well as a great drone photographer.