Ski Touring in Shymbulak, Kazakhstan

Carve fresh lines in the untouched backcountry of Shymbulak, Kazakhstan with the help of seasoned, local guides. Conquer Shymbulak's hidden gems on this epic 5-day freeride adventure; dive into couloirs and secluded valleys on the Maloalmatinsky ridge, accessible by modern gondolas from Talgar Pass. Leave your mark on first descents and experience breathtaking views of Almaty and the Tien Shan peaks.

Private

+1 Days

Mar - May

High

Intermediate

Highlights

Carve your own path in pristine valleys of Shymbulak
Start from 3,150m Talgar Pass, accessible by gondola lifts
Conquer Ak-Bulak, unveil Almaty's gems, or explore natural wonders.

Description

Carve your own path in the pristine backcountry above Shymbulak ski resort. This 5-day freeride program will take you beyond the resort boundaries, exploring untouched couloirs and hidden valleys on the Eastern and Western branches of the Maloalmatinsky ridge.

Start your ascent from Talgar Pass, 3,150 meters high, reached by state-of-the-art gondola lifts. The base station itself sits comfortably at 2,260 meters, offering a convenient starting point. Enjoy early and late season skiing on the numerous pistes.

Venture beyond the crowds and discover hidden freeride spots scattered around the resort. These areas boast**** breathtaking views of Almaty and the Tien Shan peaks, offering an unforgettable off-piste experience.

Looking to explore beyond the slopes? We've got you covered with exciting optional excursions:

Conquer Ak-Bulak (until mid-March): Join local freeriders on a one-day adventure to this popular resort. Shred untracked powder, test your skills, and soak in the stunning scenery.
Unveil Almaty's Gems: Embark on a guided tour of Almaty city's must-see attractions. Explore vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide.
Explore Almaty's Natural Landmarks: Discover the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding Almaty. Hike to the pristine waters of Big Almaty Lake, marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Charyn Canyon, or choose from other stunning destinations.

Join us on this 5-day trip to discover Shymbulak from a new perspective. Book your spot on this exciting skiing tour with us today!

Price includes

Accommodation included
Guiding fee
Breakfast
Dinner
Transportation start and back
Lifts tickets

Price details

The price covers:
Guide services
Round-trip transfer from Almaty
Cable car transfer from Medeu to Shymbulak
Shymbulak lift pass for the first day of the program
Overnight stay in a yurt on the Talgar Pass (3,150m)
Breakfast and dinner in the yurt
Please note that lunch is not included, but can be purchased at the various bars and restaurants at Shymbulak.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization Tour in Shymbulak

Transport from your hotel (Almaty International Airport) to the Medeu cable car station. Ride the cable car to Shymbulak and then take two gondola lifts to the Talgar Pass. Engage in an acclimatization tour (the big couloir below Peak Shkolnik or the ‘Cone’, depending on conditions).

There will be an option to ski the pistes at Shymbulak before ascending to the mountain hut.

Day 2 to 4: Ski touring in Shymbulak

Throughout the following days we'll be ski touring or splitboarding in the couloirs surrounding the peaks of Peak Shkolnik, Peak Edelweis, Peak Abay, Peak Fizkulturnik, and Peak Chkalov.

Our route selection will be determined by the weather, snow conditions, and the group's skill level.

Day 5: Return to Almaty

Ski down from the Talgar Pass to Shymbulak and then transfer from Shymbulak to Medeu and back to Almaty.

Day 6 to 7: Optional ski tours in Ak-bulak ski resort

We are pleased to arrange an optional, one-day excursion to the Ak-bulak ski resort (a popular destination for local freeriders) available until mid-March, a guided tour of Almaty city's most popular attractions, or a sightseeing tour of the Almaty region, visiting the stunning natural sites around Almaty like Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon.

Details

Accommodation

Lodging will be provided in a traditional yurt located on the Talgar Pass at an elevation of 3,150 meters.

Meeting point

We will transport you from your hotel (Almaty International Airport) to the Medeu cable car station.

Equipment you will need to bring

Helmet

Ski equipment

Goggles

Avalanche eqmnt

Climbing skins

What to bring: - Transceiver - Avalanche probe - Avalanche shovel - Ski or alpine crampons - Helmet - Skis, snowboard, or snowshoes - Ski boots or snowboard boots - Ski poles or splitboard poles - Goggles - Climbing skins - Backpack - Sleeping bag - Flashlight (with spare batteries) - First aid kit - Down jacket or vest - Waterproof shell (jacket and pants) - Ski gloves - Thermal underwear - Fleece or midlayer - Thin gloves for climbing or wearing at base camp - Balaclava - Hat - Ski or trekking socks - Regular socks - Thermos - Sunscreen - Sunglasses - Personal snacks - Travel insurance that covers backcountry skiing in remote mountain areas.

About the guide

Frozen Rocks

Aspirant Guide

We are the team of aspirants of KMGA (Kyrgyz Mountain Guides Association) guides which is a part of IFMGA.

We are passionate about outdoor activities such as ski-touring, freeride skiing, mountaineering, trekking, mountain biking!

We would happy to show you all the beauty and diversity of our stunning mountains.

Languages

Russian | | English

Certificates

KMGA

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