5 Days: Kazakhstan Winter Adventure
Day 1 —Almaty – Shymbulak, Medeu & Gorelnik
Arrival into the snowy mountains of the Tian Shan
After breakfast, begin your winter adventure with a drive to the famous Shymbulak Mountain Resort, Kazakhstan’s premier alpine destination. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and crisp mountain air, enjoy breathtaking panoramas, take the cable car to higher elevations, or simply experience the lively atmosphere of the resort.
Continue down to the legendary Medeu, the world’s highest mountain skating rink, nestled among towering fir forests and spectacular mountain scenery.
The journey continues to Gorelnik Gorge, a peaceful winter valley where frozen streams, snow-covered pines, and quiet mountain landscapes create a perfect setting for a relaxing walk and unforgettable photographs.
After returning to Almaty, enjoy free time in the evening.
Overnight: Almaty
Day 2 —Almaty – Altyn Emel National Park – Aktau & Katutau Mountains
Discover Kazakhstan’s ancient desert landscapes
Depart Almaty early in the morning for Altyn Emel National Park, one of Kazakhstan’s most remarkable protected areas.
Explore the extraordinary Aktau Mountains, famous for their colorful layers of white, red, yellow, and orange sedimentary rocks. These dramatic formations were once the floor of an ancient sea and today resemble an otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else in Central Asia.
Continue to the nearby Katutau Mountains, shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Their dark volcanic cliffs, deep canyons, and rugged formations create a striking contrast with the surrounding desert.
As the sun sets over the vast steppe, arrive in the village of Basshi.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Basshi
Day 3 —Singing Dune – Charyn Canyon – Saty Village
From the singing sands to Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon
This morning visit the legendary Singing Dune, an enormous sand dune rising over 150 meters above the surrounding desert. Under the right conditions, the sand produces a deep, mysterious humming sound that has fascinated travelers for centuries.
Continue toward the magnificent Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s greatest natural wonders. Walk through the famous Valley of Castles, where millions of years of erosion have sculpted spectacular sandstone towers, cliffs, and rock formations glowing in warm shades of red and orange.
In the evening, arrive at the peaceful mountain village of Saty, surrounded by snow-covered forests and mountain peaks.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Saty
Day 4 — Kaindy Lake & Kolsai Lake
The frozen jewels of the Tian Shan
After breakfast, travel by 4WD vehicle to the magical Kaindy Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and the haunting trunks of submerged spruce trees rising above the surface. During winter, the snowy forest and frozen shoreline create an unforgettable fairytale landscape.
Later, continue to beautiful Kolsai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tian Shan.” Surrounded by dense pine forests and majestic snow-covered mountains, the lake offers peaceful walking trails, spectacular winter scenery, and exceptional opportunities for photography.
Spend the day immersed in the tranquility of Kazakhstan’s alpine wilderness.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Saty
Day 5 —Issyk Lake – Almaty
A scenic farewell to Kazakhstan
After breakfast, depart for Almaty.
Along the way, stop at picturesque Issyk Lake, a beautiful alpine lake nestled among snow-covered mountains. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning winter scenery make it a perfect final stop before returning to the city.
Arrive in Almaty for a memorable farewell dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, where you will enjoy authentic national cuisine, warm hospitality, and celebrate the unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan’s winter landscapes.
End of Tour
Price includes:
All accommodations (guesthouses & local stays)
All meals
Drinking water throughout the trip
All entrance fees to national parks and attractions
Comfortable transportation
English-speaking driver-guide
All guide’s expenses (food, accommodation, fuel, etc.)
Not Included:
Optional activities (hot springs, casinos, etc)
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Flexible & Customizable Experience
This tour can be fully customized depending on your interests, time, and travel style.
You can easily:
• Add skiing experiences in the beautiful mountains around Almaty
• Add ice skating experiences in the famous Medeu skating area.
• Visit a traditional ethno-village .