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Adventurous 7-Day Car Trip in Almaty

Tuesday, December 26: Exploring Turgen Gorge

Embark on your adventure by heading to Turgen Gorge, a picturesque valley located about 90 kilometers from Almaty. In the morning, enjoy a hike through the beautiful forest trails, leading you to mesmerizing waterfalls such as the Bear Waterfall and the Forest Fairy's Tears. After a packed lunch amidst nature, continue exploring the gorge in the afternoon, visiting the Turgen Observatory and taking in the breathtaking views. As the evening approaches, make your way back to Almaty.

  • Turgen Gorge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 8 hours
  • Turgen Observatory: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Skiing at Shymbulak Ski Resort

Kick off the day with an exhilarating skiing experience at Shymbulak Ski Resort, located in the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. Spend the morning gliding down the slopes and enjoying the stunning winter scenery. After a hearty lunch at one of the resort's restaurants, continue skiing in the afternoon or try out other activities like snowboarding or tubing. In the evening, relax and unwind at the resort before heading back to Almaty.

  • Shymbulak Ski Resort: Estimated cost - $50 (lift pass), Time spent - 8 hours
Thursday, December 28: Ice Climbing in Medeo

Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day of ice climbing at Medeo, a high-altitude sports complex. In the morning, take a guided ice climbing tour and challenge yourself on the frozen walls. After a thrilling adventure, warm up with a hot drink and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, explore the Medeo Skating Rink, known as the highest-altitude ice rink in the world. Wrap up the day by returning to Almaty and relaxing at your hotel.

  • Ice Climbing in Medeo: Estimated cost - $100 (including guide), Time spent - 8 hours
  • Medeo Skating Rink: Estimated cost - $8 (entrance fee), Time spent - 2 hours
Friday, December 29: Canyon Exploration in Charyn National Park

Embark on an adventure to Charyn National Park for a day of canyon exploration. Start your morning by hiking through the stunning Charyn Canyon, often referred to as Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon. Admire the unique rock formations and enjoy a picnic lunch in the midst of this natural wonder. In the afternoon, visit the Valley of Castles and witness the breathtaking erosion structures. As the evening approaches, return to Almaty with unforgettable memories.

  • Charyn National Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 8 hours
Saturday, December 30: Paragliding in Kok-Tobe

Take your adventure to new heights with a thrilling paragliding experience in Kok-Tobe, a popular recreational area overlooking Almaty. In the morning, soar through the sky while enjoying panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. After landing, explore Kok-Tobe Park and take a ride on the famous Kok-Tobe Cableway. Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. In the evening, return to your hotel and relax.

  • Paragliding in Kok-Tobe: Estimated cost - $100, Time spent - 4 hours
  • Kok-Tobe Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Sunday, December 31: Snowshoeing in Big Almaty Lake

Embrace the winter wonderland by snowshoeing around Big Almaty Lake, located in the Tian Shan Mountains. Begin your day with a snowshoeing adventure through the snow-covered landscape, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature before exploring the area further in the afternoon. As the day comes to an end, head back to Almaty to celebrate the New Year's Eve festivities.

  • Snowshoeing in Big Almaty Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 6 hours
Monday, January 1: Mountain Biking in Tamgaly Gorge

Start the new year with an exciting mountain biking experience in Tamgaly Gorge, known for its stunning rock formations and petroglyphs. In the morning, gear up and hit the trails, riding through the beautiful gorge and discovering ancient rock art. Take a break for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before continuing your biking adventure in the afternoon. Return to Almaty in the evening, marking the end of your adventurous journey.

  • Mountain Biking in Tamgaly Gorge: Estimated cost - $30 (bike rental), Time spent - 8 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers looking to explore off the beaten path, consider visiting Altyn-Emel National Park. This vast park offers unique landscapes, including the singing sand dunes of Aktau and the stunning rock formations of Katutau and Koktobe. It's a haven for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Another local favorite is the Altyn Arashan Valley, renowned for its hot springs and scenic trekking routes. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of these hidden gems and make unforgettable memories.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check out this link.

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