Kazakhstan is a land of great steppes, rich culture and sceneries full of drama. To those who want to have an unforgettable experience in the very core of Central Asia, the mountain resorts and skiing excursions in Kazakhstan provide the best mix of nature, winter sports, and the exploration of the culture. When you are planning a tour to Kazakhstan, you will be shocked to know that the alpine destinations that the country has can compete with some of the most popular skiing destinations in Europe and Asia. Kazakhstan, with its clean slopes, state-of-the-art resorts and breathtaking scenery of the Tien Shan mountains, is increasingly becoming a popular winter holiday destination among international adventurers.

Why Choose Kazakhstan for Mountain Resorts and Skiing Trips

When the majority of the people mention Kazakhstan what comes to mind is the infinite plains, and the nomadic culture. However, the dramatic mountain ranges, especially the Tien Shan and Altai, are also found in the country, and the peaks are covered with snow and exceed the height of 7,000 meters. These are the mountains enabling the best skiing, snowboarding and mountain retreats.

The mountain resorts and skiing trip in Kazakhstan is characterized by a peculiar mix of low prices, slopes free of congestion, and quality infrastructure, which delineates the difference. In contrast to most of the resorts in Europe, which are rather commercialized, Kazakhstan provides a quiet and natural alpine experience. The country has resorts that offer any type of skier, whether experienced or a beginner.

Shymbulak Ski Resort – The Jewel of Almaty

The well-known winter resort in Kazakhstan is the Shymbulak Ski Resort and it is only 25 kilometers away in Almaty. Shymbulak is a contemporary world-class modern resort located in the range of the Tien Shan Mountains, the Zailiyskiy Alatau, where one can find ski schools to a luxury hotel.

Having the gentle terrain of novice skiers and others with advanced skill levels, Shymbulak will appeal to the local and foreign audience. The resort has contemporary cable cars, a free-style park where snowboarders can play, and off-piste skiing is available to those who want to be more adventurous. Visitors can relax to fine dining, warm cafes and overlook the snow-covered mountains after spending a day at the slopes.

Medeu Ice Rink- This is a special addition to your skiing holiday.

Medeu, the highest outdoor ice skating rink in the world is just below Shymbulak. A large number of tourists visit this landmark during their skiing vacation. Skiing in Medeu under the snow-white peaks and fresh alpine air is like heaven. This is what the mountain resorts and skiing trips of Kazakhstan are not just about skiing but also about experiencing something special during the winter.

Other Mountain Resorts Worth Exploring

Although the crown jewel is still Shymbulak, other resorts and destinations that could worth a place in your itinerary are:

1. Tabagan Ski Resort (near Almaty): It is a smaller and popular resort which is perfect in terms of family and beginners.
2. Altai Mountains (East Kazakhstan): Ideal place to find slopes that are not so commercialized as well as wilderness skiing.
3. Ak-Bulak Resort: Well maintained piste and accommodation services are a few minutes out of Almaty.

All these places underline the variety of the alpine scenery of Kazakhstan and a skiing vacation here is really an original one.

Activities Beyond Skiing

It is one of the finest things about the mountain resorts and skiing trips in Kazakhstan that it is not confined to skiing. Visitors will be able to take part in a great selection of winter and cultural activities:

• Snowboarding and Freestyle Parks: The ones who enjoy tricks and jumps will appreciate the fact that such resorts as Shymbulak have a special area of freestyle.
• Heli-Skiing Adventures: This is a must for people with a high level of adventure; the backcountry slopes within Kazakhstan are truly immense and may be explored via helicopters, including heli-skiling.
• Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing: Hike down snowy mountain trails, avoiding the masses.
• Cultural Experiences: Add to your skiing vacation, tours of Kazakh traditional villages, yurts and local markets.

This combination of sporting activities and culture transforms a ski holiday in Kazakhstan into a lot more than a ride up and down the slope.

Best Time to Visit

Kazakhstan ski season usually takes place between November and April with peak season being between December and March. The snow is best during these months and the resorts are very active. Nevertheless, the slopes are not so congested as in the European ski resorts, and you have plenty of space and freedom to enjoy your adventure.

Pre-Travel tips to your Skiing Holiday

• Base Yourself in Almaty: The majority of resorts can be easily accessed by Almaty, the cultural and economic center of the nation, namely Shymbulak and Medeu.
• Hire Equipment locally: Every big resort has the option of modern ski and snowboard renting.
• Layered Dressing: The mountain weather is unpredictable and it may change drastically and hence warm and loose clothes are necessary.
• Sample Local Food: You should not miss such traditional dishes of the Kazakh cuisine as beshbarmak and kumis (fermented mare milk).
• Book with Experts: A reliable travel firm will guarantee easy transfers, hotels and tours.

Why Book With Go Kite Tours

We, Go Kite Tours, are experts in creating an unforgettable experience of adventure and cultural experience. You want a family-friendly ski vacation, a mountain luxury vacation, or an heli-skiing trip that gets your adrenaline pumping: we customize your trip plans to what you desire. We know our way around and thus we won’t just take you skiing but also show you the true beauty of Kazakhstan.

Conclusion

Kazakhstan mountain resorts and skiing trips are an unbelievable surprise to travelers seeking to venture out of the ordinary. The winter holiday in this region has something really unique, even in terms of world-class slopes at Shymbulak, or the cultural diversity of Almaty and further. Think of how it feels to slice through snowy powder with the Tien Shan Mountains in the backdrop followed by the enjoyment of Kazakh cuisine and cozy fireplace.

Then, when you are ready in enjoying a memorable winter vacation, book your Kazakhstan Tour with Go Kite Tours. You will have as smooth a time of it as you will exciting in the snowy mountains of Central Asia with us.