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Spend a day moving from Almaty’s broad city squares to the high-altitude ice of Medeu and the panoramic gondola of Shymbulak. This private tour mixes urban history, alpine geology, and accessible mountain time for a compact, scenic escape.
Spend a day moving from Almaty’s broad city squares to the high-altitude ice of Medeu and the panoramic gondola of Shymbulak. This private tour mixes urban history, alpine geology, and accessible mountain time for a compact, scenic escape.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SKYWAY · Almaty, Almaty Region
You step out of an air-conditioned van into a city that smells faintly of apples and diesel — Almaty’s wide boulevards open to the Zailiysky Alatau range rising like a raw edge behind the skyline. The morning moves through Panfilov Park and the timbered Zenkov Cathedral, then pushes higher: Medeu’s skating arena sits at 1,691 m with the mountains breathing cold air down the ravine. Later the gondola climbs above the treeline to Shymbulak, where rocky ridges and wind have their own blunt conversation.
easy.
7 hours.
Suitable for people in normal physical condition; involves short walks and standing at viewpoints; tolerance for moderate altitude recommended.
Shymbulak’s upper gondola points near 3,163 m; many people feel only mild shortness of breath—move slowly, hydrate, and mention any heart or respiratory issues when booking.
Yes — the tour includes private air-conditioned transport; specify pickup point when booking.
Medeu admission and the gondola ride are included in this tour according to the itinerary; confirm with your operator at booking.
The tour is rated easy and suitable for most ages, but those with serious cardiovascular conditions should avoid high-altitude exposure and consult a physician first.
Almaty served as Kazakhstan’s capital until 1997; Soviet-era planning and monuments mingle with Kazakh cultural revival across the city and squares.
The Zailiysky Alatau faces pressure from seasonal visitors; stick to marked paths, avoid single-use plastics, and support local businesses to reduce your footprint.
SKYWAY operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
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