Seven days through Kazakhstan's winter landscapes — from alpine slopes at Oi-Qaragai and Shymbulak to the frozen canyons of Charyn and the icy shores of Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and mountain stays, all within easy reach of Almaty.
This seven-day winter journey brings together Kazakhstan’s alpine resorts, frozen lakes, snow-covered canyons and cultural landmarks in and around Almaty.
Begin with a night in the mountains at Oi-Qaragai, where forested slopes, snow-covered trails and a range of seasonal activities offer a gentle introduction to Kazakhstan in winter. From there, return to Almaty and spend time among the peaks of Shymbulak, the open-air setting of Medeu and the panoramic views from Kok-Tobe.
The journey then moves beyond the city into the landscapes of Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake and Kaindy Lake. Winter transforms these places into quiet, dramatic environments, with frozen shorelines, white valleys and mountain roads leading towards the village of Saty.
Designed for travellers who enjoy active days but still value comfort and breathing space, this itinerary balances guided exploration with optional skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and resort activities. A heated Premium A-Frame in Saty adds a more intimate mountain stay without giving up the convenience of returning to Almaty afterwards.
A carefully paced winter journey through Kazakhstan’s mountains, canyons, frozen lakes and cultural landmarks, with private transport, an English-speaking guide and a balance of adventure and leisure.
Travel period: December to March
Departure type: Private departure
Travel dates: Available on selected dates, subject to hotel, weather and road conditions.
2 pax USD 1,850
4 pax USD 1,255
6 pax USD 1,155
Single Supplement: USD 300
Final pricing will depend on group size, room arrangements, travel dates and seasonal availability.
Arrive at Almaty International Airport, where your professional adventure guide will meet you for the private transfer to Oi-Qaragai Mountain Resort.
The road gradually leaves the city behind and climbs towards the snow-covered foothills. On arrival, check in and take time to settle into the mountain surroundings.
The rest of the day is left open so you can enjoy the resort at your own pace. Walk through the snow, explore the scenic viewpoints or relax over a warm drink in one of the resort’s restaurants.
This first evening offers a quieter start to the journey, with time to adjust to the winter climate before the more active days ahead.
Overnight at Oi-Qaragai Mountain Resort.
Enjoy breakfast at the resort before spending the morning at leisure.
Oi-Qaragai offers a range of seasonal winter, leisure and wellness experiences. Activities may include snow-based adventures, scenic walks and resort facilities, depending on weather and operational availability.
You are free to choose how active or relaxed you would like the morning to be. All optional resort activities are available at an additional cost.
Later, check out and transfer privately back to Almaty.
On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. You may wish to rest, explore the surrounding area or ask your guide for a local restaurant recommendation.
Overnight in Almaty.
Accommodation option, subject to availability:
After breakfast, travel to Medeu and board the cable car towards Shymbulak Mountain Resort.
The journey offers increasingly wide views over the surrounding peaks and valleys as you rise above Almaty. On arrival, spend the day enjoying the mountain atmosphere.
Guests who wish to ski or snowboard may arrange equipment rental, lift passes and lessons at an additional cost. Those who prefer a slower day can enjoy the alpine cafés, viewing areas and walking spaces.
There is no need to rush. The purpose of the day is to experience the mountain setting at your own pace, whether that means several hours on the slopes or a quieter afternoon taking in the scenery.
Return to Almaty later in the day.
Overnight in Almaty.
Accommodation option, subject to availability:
After breakfast, leave your main luggage at Holiday Inn Almaty and travel with a small overnight bag.
Begin the drive towards Charyn Canyon, which takes approximately three and a half to four hours depending on road and weather conditions.
On arrival, explore the Valley of Castles on a guided winter walk. Snow settles between the canyon walls and across the valley floor, creating a quieter atmosphere than during the warmer months.
Continue towards Lower Kolsai Lake. In winter, the surrounding forest and frozen shoreline create a still, open landscape. Enjoy a guided walk along the lakeside, with time for photography and quiet observation.
Later, travel to Saty Village and check in to your heated Premium A-Frame accommodation.
The evening is yours to slow down, enjoy the mountain surroundings and rest after the day’s journey.
Overnight in Saty Village.
Accommodation option, subject to availability:
After breakfast, travel towards Kaindy Lake by off-road four-wheel-drive vehicle.
The final route is subject to snow levels, road accessibility and local weather conditions. Your guide and driver will adjust the plan where necessary to keep the journey safe.
Kaindy Lake is known for the tree trunks rising from its water. In winter, the frozen surface and surrounding forest give the landscape a quiet, striking character.
Spend time exploring the area, walking to suitable viewpoints and photographing the submerged forest.
Begin the scenic return journey to Almaty, with a stop at the Black Canyon viewpoint if weather and road conditions permit.
On arrival in the city, collect your main luggage and check back in to the hotel.
Overnight in Almaty.
Accommodation option, subject to availability:
After breakfast, visit Medeu, the high-altitude outdoor ice rink set in the mountains above Almaty.
Those who wish may enjoy an optional ice-skating session. Skate rental is available at an additional cost and is subject to operating conditions.
Return to the city before continuing by cable car to Kok-Tobe Hill.
From the top, enjoy panoramic winter views over Almaty and the surrounding mountains. There is time to explore the cafés, walking paths and leisure attractions before returning to your hotel.
The rest of the evening is at leisure.
Overnight in Almaty.
Accommodation option, subject to availability:
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin your final sightseeing programme.
Visit Panfilov Park, one of Almaty’s best-known green spaces, before exploring Zenkov Cathedral. The colourful wooden cathedral remains one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.
Continue to Green Bazaar, where you can browse local produce, dried fruit, spices, gifts and regional specialities.
Before leaving the city, stop at Rakhat Chocolate Shop for locally made sweets and souvenirs.
Transfer privately to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight.
As the journey comes to an end, you leave with memories of frozen lakes, mountain roads, alpine air and a side of Kazakhstan shaped by winter.
