Discover Almaty's Mountain Landscape
Few cities sit as close to high mountains as Almaty. From the foothills around Samal, the valley climbs toward ice rinks, ski slopes, and alpine meadows, and a warm resort makes a good counterweight to all that fresh air.
Medeu
Medeu is famous for its open-air, high-altitude skating rink, set in a bowl of forested slopes. Even without skates, it is a striking place to see the mountains up close.
For current schedules and events, see the Visit Almaty destination guide (opens in a new tab).
Shymbulak and Alpine Exploration
Above Medeu, Shymbulak opens onto higher terrain. In winter it draws skiers and snowboarders, and in warmer months the same slopes become a place for walks and wide views.
Lifts, trails, and activities depend on the season and local conditions. Check before you go.
The Wider Almaty Region
Beyond the valley, the Almaty region stretches into canyons, lakes, and steppe. Many visitors combine a few mountain days with time in the city itself, with its leafy avenues and markets.
The official Kazakhstan Travel guide to the Almaty region (opens in a new tab) is a good starting point for planning.
Practical Planning
Mountain weather changes quickly. Before setting out, confirm transport arrangements, attraction schedules, and seasonal conditions. The front desk can help with questions, and a shuttle is available for an additional charge.