Skiing in Kazakhstan is one of the best-kept winter secrets you can still enjoy before the crowds arrive. You ski in the wild Tien Shan mountains, with huge peaks around you, deep snow under your skis, and space everywhere you look.

The ski season runs from late autumn to early spring, usually from November or December until March or April. Thanks to the high altitude, many resorts build up an impressive snow base, often one to three meters deep at the heart of winter. That means reliable conditions and long, powerful ski days.

What makes this even better is how fast Kazakhstan has modernized its ski resorts. You ride modern European-style lifts, ski well-groomed slopes, and enjoy solid facilities — but without European prices. A full day lift pass often costs only $20 to $30, so you ski more and spend less.

If you want more than just resort laps, a ski tour Kazakhstan lets you explore untouched terrain, quiet valleys, and big mountain lines far from the crowds — all with great value and authentic local culture. Curious to see what makes this destination so special? Discover more below and dive deeper into skiing in Kazakhstan.

Kok‑Zhailau and Kumbel Peak are being developed as part of the ambitious Almaty Superski project, aimed at expanding Kazakhstan’s ski infrastructure. The comprehensive master plan envisions 65 km of ski tracks linking Kok‑Zhailau Gorge with Kumbel Peak and adjoining resorts. Located between the Small and Big Almaty gorges, the site lies just 10 km from the city of Almaty.

Once complete, this integrated ski area will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple lifts and varied terrain suitable for all skill levels . The project aims to transform the region into a premier winter destination while generating substantial economic and tourism growth. 👉Read more about Kok‑Zhailau and Kumbel Peak….

Tabagan is a versatile ski and entertainment complex just 20  km from Almaty (bolded as requested), located in the Talgar region within the Ile‑Alatau National Park. Built in 2005, it spans about 91 ha and is beautifully arranged across two terraces connected by paved roads and stairways.

The resort offers six main slopes—three easy and three advanced—with a total slope length of 37 km, including the longest run of roughly 2.1 km and a vertical drop of around 400 m. Facilities include two drag lifts, a chairlift, a toboggan run, and a variety of winter and summer recreational options—from sledding to paragliding. 👉Read more about the ski resort Tabagan…..

Oi‑Qaragai (Lesnaya Skazka) is a charming all‑season family resort located within Ile‑Alatau National Park, offering a peaceful mountain escape. Situated approximately 40  km from Almaty (roughly a 40‑minute drive), it features a total slope length of 13 km across 11 lifts, with terrain ranging from beginner to advanced (8 km easy, 4 km intermediate, 1 km difficult).

Perched between 1,550 m and 1,820 m elevation, the resort blends skiing with comforts like ski‑in/ski‑out lodging, spa facilities, and diverse year‑round activities including zip‑lining, mountain biking, and wellness services. Its tranquil, forested setting makes it a thoughtful alternative to busier resorts. 👉Read more about the ski resort Oi-Karagay…..

Nurtau – East Kazakhstan (near Oskemen).

Nurtau is a quaint, family-friendly ski resort in East Kazakhstan, nestled around 35 km from Ust‑Kamenogorsk, the nearest regional hub. It offers a total slope length of approximately 3.8  km, comprising a few gentle runs ideal for beginners and leisurely skiers.

The resort opened in 1999 and is set in a scenic valley surrounded by fir forests, offering relaxed winter recreation including snowmobiling, horseback riding, and snow tubing.

Facilities include ski rentals, a ski school, cozy accommodations, and a café—all designed to deliver a serene getaway amid nature’s tranquility. Perfect for family outings or calm solo getaways.

Tau Samaly (Central Kazakhstan).

Tau Samaly is a small, inviting ski resort located approximately 80 km northwest of Almaty—a cozy option for beginners and families seeking a quiet mountain escape.

It offers a total slope length of 1.9 km, comprised entirely of gentle beginner terrain, served by three lifts across an elevation range from 1,340 m to 1,589 m.

Despite its modest size, Tau Samaly delivers a warm, accessible environment with ease of access to its runs and a serene alpine setting—perfect for ski newcomers or a relaxed day trip close to Almaty’s borders.

Kumbel Hotel – Talgar Gorge.

Kumbel Hotel is a charming alpine lodge located in the Kok‑Shoky gorge, approximately 20 km from Almaty, making it a peaceful yet accessible mountain getaway. While not a full ski resort, it offers direct access to a small local slope with a total slope length of around 1 km, perfect for beginner skiers or families.

The hotel features traditional wooden interiors, an indoor pool, sauna, restaurant, and ski storage. Guests can enjoy winter walks, cozy evenings by the fire, and fresh mountain air. Its location in Ile‑Alatau National Park provides a scenic backdrop year-round, making it ideal for both winter sports and tranquil nature escapes.

Yelikty – Northern Kazakhstan.

Yelikty is a modest ski resort situated in Akmola Region, approximately 25 km from Kokshetau and not near Almaty. It features five prepared runs served by a 1.3 km drag lift, with a total slope length of approx. 4 km—varied in difficulty from gentle beginner slopes to lengthier, more technical forest runs up to about 1.3 km long.

The mountain reaches around 502 m in elevation and offers a nice height differential for regional skiing. Resort amenities include on-site lodging, a restaurant, and rental facilities, designed tEach of these resorts has a unique flavor, but they all share modern lifts and well-groomed trails – all while remaining much cheaper than similar resorts in Europe.

Overall, Kazakhstan offers roughly 45 km of ski slopes across the country, served by about 34 lifts. In other words, you can ski new terrain every day of your trip.

Ski touring in Western Altai, Kazakhstan is a unique winter adventure that takes you into one of Central Asia’s most spectacular mountain regions. Based near the town of Ridder in the Altai Mountains, this multi-day guided tour shows you pristine powder slopes, open alpine terrain, and forested freeride zones few skiers ever see.

Each day blends rewarding uphill skinning with long, quiet powder descents in deep Siberian snow that fills the landscape from November through March. You ski with experienced, certified mountain guides who handle route choice, safety, and avalanche awareness so you can focus on enjoying the backcountry. Lodging is in cozy lodges and guesthouses near Ridder, with local meals and warm hospitality after full days outdoors.

What makes this trip special is the all-inclusive experience: transport, guiding, accommodation, meals, and daily transfers into the ski zones are included, giving you a hassle-free way to explore Kazakhstan’s wild Altai. If you’re looking for deep powder, vast skiable terrain, and an authentic mountain adventure off the beaten path, this ski touring tour shows you Kazakhstan at its very best.

Skiing in Kazakhstan becomes both exciting and comfortable on this fully guided 6-day ski adventure based in Almaty. This trip combines modern ski resorts, dramatic mountain scenery, and smooth organization, making it ideal if you want to experience Central Asian skiing without going off-grid. With a German-speaking guide and all logistics handled, you focus fully on skiing and enjoying the mountains.

You ski at three of the best resorts near Almaty: Shymbulak Ski Resort, Oi-Qaragai Ski Resort, and Ak-Bulak Ski Resort. Each offers a different experience, from high-altitude alpine terrain and panoramic cable-car rides to forested slopes and freeride routes. Ski passes, lift tickets, and full ski or snowboard equipment are included, so every ski day is seamless and stress-free.

You stay in a comfortable 4-star hotel in Almaty and return to the city each evening, blending active ski days with relaxed nights. Transfers, accommodation, breakfasts, guiding, and resort access are all included, making this an easy and well-rounded way to discover skiing in Kazakhstan. If you want variety, comfort, and reliable organization, this tour offers a perfect introduction to the country’s growing ski scene.

Ski touring in Kazakhstan’s Alatau Mountains becomes a true backcountry adventure on this 5-day guided programme departing from Almaty. This tour takes you far beyond lifts and crowds into wild, snow-covered terrain where untouched powder, steep bowls, and thrilling freeride lines await. With experienced mountain guides choosing daily routes matched to your skill level, you ski untouched fields, explore couloirs and tree runs, and enjoy the deepest powder Kazakhstan’s winter has to offer.

Each day blends rewarding ascents with satisfying descents, all in the dramatic setting of the Zailiyskiy Alatau range — a rugged extension of the Tian Shan mountains just hours from the city. Meals, guiding, safety gear, and transfers into the backcountry are included, so you can focus entirely on exploring new lines and improving your backcountry skills.

What makes this tour special is the combination of remote powder terrain, expert guidance, and the freedom of ski touring far from pistes and ski lifts. If you’re seeking deep snow, big mountain terrain, and a true sense of ski adventure, this 5-day programme showcases Kazakhstan’s high-alpine skiing at its best.

A single day in the Almaty backcountry becomes an unforgettable ski experience on this guided off-piste tour into the mountains surrounding Kazakhstan’s largest city. Far from crowded resort slopes, this adventure takes you into wide, open terrain where untouched snow and natural scenery are the focus. You ski with experienced guides who know the high-alpine winter landscape and lead you through safe, satisfying powder runs.

This full-day outing includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Almaty, transport into the backcountry zones, guiding, and all safety equipment — so you can focus entirely on skiing. Throughout the day you’ll enjoy long, quiet descents in deep snow, surrounded by dramatic peaks, forests, and wide valleys that feel truly wild. What sets this tour apart is its simplicity and immersion: one full day of professional support and spectacular terrain without the planning or stress.

If you want to taste real backcountry skiing near Almaty — with expert local guides, stunning landscapes, and plenty of fresh snow — this tour delivers a perfect introduction.

Skiing near Almaty, Kazakhstan becomes easy and fun on this beginner-friendly guided ski tour designed for first-timers and those wanting to improve their skills. Starting from the city, you’re taken to the snowy slopes of Shymbulak Ski Resort — one of Central Asia’s best known winter spots — where gentle runs and expert instruction make your first ski experience comfortable and memorable.

You’re guided by a professional English-speaking instructor who leads a private 2-hour lesson tailored to your pace, teaching you the basics of skiing or helping refine your technique. All ski or snowboard gear, lift passes, and round-trip transfer from Almaty are included, so you don’t have to worry about anything but having fun. Between lessons you can soak in the alpine views and explore the resort at your leisure.

This tour makes starting a new winter hobby simple and enjoyable. If you’ve ever wanted to try skiing or take your confidence to the next level in a stunning mountain setting with expert support and all logistics handled, this beginner ski experience delivers just that.