About this experience
The majestic mountains are visible from any point in Almaty. But it's one thing to admire them from a distance, and another to find yourself on snow-capped peaks three kilometers above sea level, seeing ancient glaciers and enjoying views that open up from the very mountains. Adventurers will find a small mountain route awaiting them, while gourmets can enjoy national drinks in an authentic yurt cafe.
What to Expect
Medeu Skating Rink and Protective Structures
⛸ Before heading to the cloud-capped peaks, you will see the highest-altitude skating rink in the world - 'Medeu' at an altitude of 1700 meters, and our guide will share the history of this 'factory of sports records'.
🗻 Let's not forget that high mountains, while beautiful, can be dangerous for the city: you will learn about protective structures on rivers and see the very first protective dam on the Small Almatinka River, which protected Almaty from a massive flood in 1973.
Ascending by Cable Car to 3200 meters
🚡 Racing upwards in a cabin at a speed of 5 m/sec. And here we are at the highest point of the cable car - Talgar Peak, where you can almost touch the eternal glaciers. Among the peaks, we'll talk about the history of exploring the Tien Shan mountain range and the peculiarities of this mountain range.
🧊 For those who are not content with just admiring and taking photos, there is a short mountain trail that offers a view of the crevasse in the glacier and the lake that formed there. If you're lucky, you might see chunks of ice falling into the water.
🛖 Feeling cold? Then it's time to have tea in the authentic 'Yurt' cafe overlooking Talgar Gorge. And for fans of European cuisine, the doors of the Chimbulak Resort restaurants at an altitude of 2200 are open.
Sample Itinerary
09:30-10:30 transfer from the hotel to the Medeu Gorge cable car
10:30-11:15 ascent by cable car to Talgar Pass
11:15-11.40 photo time
11:40-12:10 tea in the 'Yurt' cafe
12:30-13:15 descent by cable car to Medeu
14:00 return to the city
Organizational Details
We will travel to the cable car on a comfortable minibus.
How to Prepare for the Trip
- The trail has sections with steep inclines and partially runs on unstable rocks, comfortable trekking shoes and water supply are mandatory, trekking poles are not required but recommended.
- During this excursion, we will ascend to an altitude of over 3000 meters, so consider individual physiological characteristics: some people may experience discomfort, dizziness, headaches, nausea, fainting spells when ascending to high altitudes. People with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are strictly advised against prolonged exposure at high altitudes.
- It is not recommended to consume strong coffee and alcohol at high altitudes.
Additional Expenses
- Drinks and food in cafes and restaurants
- Tickets for the cable car 'Medeu - Talgar Pass - Medeu'
- Adult ticket - 4000 tenge (550 rubles)
- Youth ticket (11-23 years) - 3000 tenge (400 rubles)
- Child ticket (6-10 years) - 2500 tenge (350 rubles)
- Children under 6 years old - free of charge
