Kazakhstan offers a multitude of ski resorts and natural attractions located just a few hours away, making it an ideal destination for both short trips and extended vacations. Here, one can find magnificent ski slopes, high-altitude ice rinks, unique natural parks, and wellness complexes with hot springs, which particularly attract families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ak-Bulak
One of the most popular winter vacation spots is the Ak-Bulak resort, located in the picturesque Soldatskoye Gorge. Sheltered from strong winds, the resort offers favorable weather conditions for relaxation. It features cable cars, several skiing trails, an ice palace, and a skating rink, as well as a tubing slope, making it ideal for family recreation. The local spa center offers cedar barrels and salt caves, while the surrounding coniferous forests and birch groves create an atmosphere of harmony and solitude for yoga and walks.
Medeu
In winter, Almaty becomes a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, and one of its main attractions is the high-altitude ice rink Medeu. Opened in 1972 and located at an altitude of 1691 meters, it is famous for its unique ice freezing system, allowing for world records to be set. The clean air and mountain landscapes create a magical atmosphere for winter sports. Nearby is the thermal spring Gorelnik, with a year-round temperature of 22-27 degrees, making it a popular spot for relaxation after training.
Shymbulak
Located in the heights of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, the Shymbulak resort is famous for its ski slopes suitable for both beginners and professionals. Modern cable cars take guests to the slopes, where the highest point is located at the Talgar Pass. Here, one can find trails for various skiing styles, including slalom and freestyle. Many tourists combine skiing with exploring the surroundings, where the largest cave in Kazakhstan, the October Cave, is located.
Tabagan
The Tabagan resort, located near Almaty, offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing, an ice rink, and snowy slopes for sledding. It features a shooting range, an equestrian center, and a climbing wall, as well as Finnish gazebos for relaxation. Yeti Park, with its scenic trails, makes this place ideal for winter hiking. Tabagan is also known for its night skiing—illuminated trails operate until late in the evening.
Borovoe
For those who prefer a more tranquil vacation, Borovoe is worth considering—one of the most picturesque corners of Kazakhstan. In winter, this region transforms into a fairy-tale landscape with snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Here, one can engage in hiking, leisurely skiing, and family relaxation. Nearby is the residence of the Kazakh Grandfather Frost - Ayaz Ata, which particularly attracts families with children. The region's sanatoriums offer balneological treatments, making Borovoe a suitable place for health recovery.
Altai Alps
The Altai Alps resort, located in Eastern Kazakhstan, is known for its high-quality service and long winter season. The snow cover here reaches one and a half meters as early as November, allowing for natural snow without artificial enhancement. With twelve slopes of varying difficulty and cozy cafes, this resort is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. Guests also have access to wellness treatments, including massages and herbal baths.
Nurtau
The Nurtau resort, also known as the "Prince's Mountains," is located 35 kilometers from Ust-Kamenogorsk. It attracts family tourists due to its calm atmosphere and numerous activities. Despite having two main slopes, it also offers snowmobiling, tubing, horseback riding, and a Russian bath. Nurtau represents a small mountain village where one can rent a cabin and enjoy beautiful winter landscapes. The skiing season here starts in December and lasts until April.
Natural Destinations and National Parks
In addition to well-known ski resorts, Kazakhstan also offers delightful natural landscapes that are particularly beautiful in winter. The Ministry of Tourism recommends visiting Ridder and the "Western Altai" reserve, where the winter taiga and snowy slopes create ideal conditions for ecotourism and photo expeditions. The Katon-Karagai National Park transforms into a fairy-tale world in winter, featuring hot springs and historical monuments. Bayanaul, with its picturesque cliffs, attracts winter photography enthusiasts, while Zhetysu and the Junggar Alatau are suitable for those seeking outdoor adventures. Borovoe and the lakes Shalkar and Imantau offer an atmosphere of quiet, romantic relaxation among the forests.
Winter Kazakhstan is a unique combination of accessibility, diversity, and natural beauty. For residents of Kyrgyzstan, this country remains an attractive and close destination that reveals its unusual facets in winter. Here, everyone can find what they are looking for: whether it’s active sports, family vacations, wellness treatments, or simply enjoying beautiful winter landscapes. Winter is the perfect moment to rediscover Kazakhstan and see how diverse this country can be just a few hours from home.
