Almaty: City tour and Medeu, Shymbulak and Kok-Tobe

Embarking on a tour of Almaty through Joinme Asia promises a day filled with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and scenic adventures. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, the reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to combine city exploration with mountain landscapes without breaking the bank.

Three things we particularly love about this experience are the stunning mountain views from Medeu, the engaging visit to local markets like Green Bazaar, and the picturesque cable car ride to Shymbulak. Plus, the scenic walk around Kok-Tobe offers a relaxed way to soak in city panoramas. A potential drawback? The day is quite packed, so if you prefer more leisurely pacing, some stops might feel rushed.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of urban culture and outdoor scenery. It suits those with a limited time in Almaty who wish to see the highlights efficiently, or anyone eager to experience both the mountains and the city’s charms in one day.

Good To Know

• Natural and Cultural Mix: Combines mountain scenery with city sights
• Great Value: At $49, includes transportation, guide, and key attractions
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Alina, Zhibek, and Dilnaz enhance the experience
• Scenic Highlights: Medeu, Shymbulak, and Kok-Tobe offer breathtaking views and photo opportunities
• Active Elements: Climbing the Health Staircase is a fun fitness challenge
• Ideal for Short Stays: Perfect for maximizing a single day in Almaty

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A Day in the Life of an Almaty Tour

This tour covers many of Almaty’s must-see sights, blending urban exploration with mountain adventures. The experience kicks off early at a designated meeting point on Abai Street, where you’ll find a bus decorated with the Joinme Asia logo and guides dressed in green uniforms. From there, the journey begins with a visit to Medeu, the world’s highest ice skating rink, perched at 1,691 meters above sea level.

Medeu: The Mountain’s Crown Jewel

Medeu is more than just an ice rink; it’s a marvel of engineering balanced amidst towering mountains. Whether you’re skating or just soaking in the views, this spot is a highlight. Many reviewers mention that the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. One traveler, Ywain, noted, “The views from Medeu are breathtaking,” emphasizing how this altitude and landscape provide an unforgettable backdrop.

The rink is popular among both travelers and locals, especially in winter, but in summer, the surrounding mountains and crisp air make it equally appealing. The experience is about more than skating; it’s about standing amid mountain grandeur, feeling the cool breeze, and appreciating the altitude.

The Health Staircase: A Local Fitness Tradition

Next, you’ll get to test your calves on the Health Staircase, which consists of 842 steps connecting Medeu to Shymbulak. This route offers a workout with a payoff—spectacular views of the mountains and the valley below. Many reviewers find climbing this staircase to be a fun challenge. Tu appreciated the effort, mentioning, “Our tour guide Alina gave us a lot of information, and the climb was fantastic.”

The staircase isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s an opportunity to see the terrain up close, making you feel more connected to the landscape. Expect a bit of a burn, but the vistas at the top wash out any fatigue.

Shymbulak: Skiing, Summer or Winter

After conquering the stairs, you’ll hop onto a cable car that whisks you from Medeu to Shymbulak, one of Central Asia’s largest ski resorts. Even if skiing isn’t your thing, the ride itself offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush slopes. In summer, Shymbulak transforms into a hiker’s paradise, but in winter, it’s bustling with ski enthusiasts.

Many guests rave about the spectacular scenery during the cable car ride, with some comparing the experience to flying over a postcard. The resort offers activities year-round, making it a versatile stop. One reviewer, Abhijeet, called it “the real highlight” of the tour, noting the breathtaking views from the cable car.

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Exploring the City: Markets, Monuments, and Churches

No visit to Almaty is complete without a taste of local life. The tour stops at Green Bazaar, a lively market full of fresh produce, spices, and local treats. Many travelers enjoy sampling the food or picking up souvenirs here. The Company store of Rakhat chocolates is also a favorite, especially for those with a sweet tooth — reviewers like Ali mentioned, “Thank you very much for the delicious chocolates!”

Further, the Park of 28 Panfilov Guards and Zenkov Cathedral offer insight into Kazakhstan’s history and architecture. The wooden cathedral impresses visitors with its intricate construction, while the park’s monuments provide a sense of national pride. Tu called the park “a fantastic place to learn about local history,” highlighting its cultural significance.

Kok-Tobe: The Viewpoint and Leisure Spot

The final stop is Kok-Tobe, a hill that offers sweeping views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. Here, you can relax, take pictures, and enjoy the various attractions—mini-zoo, amusement rides, and the famous Beatles statue. Visitors often find this a peaceful conclusion to their busy day, with one reviewer noting, “Kok-Tobe is a fun place to unwind and enjoy the city from above.”

The hill’s vantage point makes it an ideal spot for sunset photos or a leisurely walk. The cable car ride up and down adds to the overall scenic experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $49, this tour offers excellent value considering it covers transportation, a guide, and entry to Kok-Tobe. The guide services are highlighted as a major positive, with many reviews praising guides like Alina, Zhibek, and Dilnaz for their knowledge and helpfulness. The cable car ride to Shymbulak is included if you select that option, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

However, travelers should budget extra for personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional activities. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks in the vehicle, so it’s wise to bring snacks and water along.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes since there’s a lot of walking and stair climbing.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a jacket, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• An umbrella and snacks are useful for comfort and convenience.
• Carry your ID or a copy, as it might be needed for certain stops.
• The tour starts early at 8:00 am, so plan to arrive on time for a full day of exploration.

Meeting Point and Duration

The meeting point is at Abaya 50, Circus parking lot—look for the Joinme Asia bus or guide in green uniform. The tour runs from 8:15 am until around 8 pm, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Alina and Dilnaz, for their extensive knowledge and friendly attitude. One said, “Alina had a really good knowledge and answered all our questions,” which shows how personalized and informative the experience can be.

Many highlight the scenic beauty of Medeu and Shymbulak and emphasize the value for money. One reviewer summed it up, “You get a lot of great sights and activities in just one day, and the guides make it all smooth and fun,” which speaks volumes about the tour’s efficiency and quality.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a quick but rundown of Almaty and its surroundings. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the city’s highlights and enjoy some mountain scenery.

Outdoor lovers, first-time visitors, and families with active kids will enjoy the variety of stops and easy accessibility. However, if you’re sensitive to heights or have mobility challenges, some parts like climbing the Health Staircase or walking around Kok-Tobe may require extra effort.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the itinerary involves walking and stair climbing, active children who enjoy outdoor activities would find it fun. However, those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, umbrella, snacks, a jacket, and your ID are recommended. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Most outdoor activities are weather-dependent, so it’s best to check the forecast and dress accordingly. Some stops might be affected by weather, but guides typically adapt the schedule.

Are there any restrictions for this tour?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or anyone with vertigo due to the mountain terrain and heights involved.

How long does the cable car ride last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the ride itself offers sweeping views and is considered a highlight of the day.

What is the tour’s ending time?
The tour wraps up around 8 pm, returning to the starting point on Abaya Street.

Can I reserve this tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can book now and pay later, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and Russian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Almaty city and mountain tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day for those eager to see the city’s highlights and experience its stunning natural beauty. The combination of scenic cable car rides, mountain climbs, lively markets, and cultural landmarks makes it a versatile option for many travelers. Guided by knowledgeable and friendly guides, you’re in good hands to navigate the busy day while learning about local life.

If you value authentic experiences, spectacular views, and efficient sightseeing, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories of Almaty’s diverse charms. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want an active, engaging, and hassle-free way to explore this vibrant city and its breathtaking surroundings.

Enjoy your adventure in Almaty, and don’t forget your camera—these moments are truly picture-perfect.

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