Almaty in Winter: Skiing, Skating and Snowy Mountains
Almaty is one of the few big cities where you can ski world-class slopes and be back for dinner downtown. From roughly December to March, the mountains fill with snow and the city becomes a winter-sports base — and the crowds of summer disappear. Here's how to make the most of it.
Skiing at Shymbulak
Shymbulak (Chimbulak) is Kazakhstan's top ski resort, perched above the city at around 2,200 m with runs climbing much higher. Groomed pistes suit all levels, there are rentals and instructors, and you can be on the slopes within an hour or two of breakfast in town. Lift access runs up from Medeu by gondola. (See our Shymbulak guide.)
Skating at Medeu
Just below Shymbulak sits Medeu, the world's highest Olympic-size skating rink at 1,700 m. In winter you can rent skates and glide on the huge open-air rink, ringed by snowy peaks — a genuinely special experience and a local tradition. (See our Medeu guide.)
A snow-dusted Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon in winter is quiet and dramatic — the red rock of the Valley of Castles dusted with snow, and almost no other visitors. The canyon itself is very doable in the cold; the mountain road onward to the Kolsay Lakes is the tricky part, so winter suits Charyn on its own best. (See our Charyn day-trip guide.)
The city in winter
Almaty wears winter well: frost on the trees of Panfilov Park, steaming cafés, and the mountains gleaming white at the end of every avenue. It's a fine time to lean into the indoor pleasures too — the food, the bazaars, the museums — between mountain days. (See our Kazakh food guide.)
What to know before you go
- It's cold. Expect temperatures well below freezing; bring proper winter clothing, gloves and warm footwear.
- Days are short. Plan mountain trips for the daylight hours.
- Roads and altitude. High mountain roads can close with snow; a local driver who knows the conditions is invaluable.
- Layers still matter. The sun can be strong on the slopes even in deep cold — sunglasses and sunscreen help.
Do it with us
We run private winter transfers and tours — up to Medeu and Shymbulak, or out to a snowy Charyn — with hotel pickup and drop-off, priced per vehicle. We adjust to the day's roads and weather. Browse the tours or message us on WhatsApp — we usually reply within about 15 minutes.
Quick questions
Can you ski near Almaty? Yes — Shymbulak, Kazakhstan's leading ski resort, is right above the city and open roughly December to March.
Can you skate at Medeu in winter? Yes — the world's highest Olympic skating rink opens for public skating in winter, with skate rental on site.
Is Charyn Canyon open in winter? Yes, and it's beautifully quiet under snow. The onward road to the Kolsay Lakes is harder, so winter suits Charyn alone.
How cold is Almaty in winter? Cold — regularly below freezing from December to February — so pack proper winter gear.