Winter Kazakhstan is a contrast of majestic mountains and calm snow—capped forests, bright skating rinks of megacities and quiet natural parks. This season, the country combines the best for winter holidays – from relaxing ecotourism to dynamic ski adventures.
SkyWay offers a selection of the best winter destinations in the Almaty and Akmola regions, so that you can easily find the perfect vacation destination. These regions attract thousands of travelers every year with their modern resorts, national parks and a variety of entertainment options.
Almaty is traditionally considered the main winter holiday destination in Kazakhstan. There are the best ski resorts in Central Asia, unique natural locations, and outdoor skating rinks.
Shymkent is the most famous resort in Central Asia with trails of all levels of difficulty, freeride zones, modern ski lifts and panoramic views. It is ideal for both beginners and professionals.
Akbulak is a cozy alpine resort with a chamber atmosphere. Great for family trips and the first steps in skiing.
Tabagan is a combination of ski slopes, tubing and photo locations. It is popular for large companies and corporate trips.
Oi Qaragai – houses in the pine forest, SPA, sauna, hiking trails. An ideal place for peace and family relaxation in the middle of nature.
Pioneer is a family—run resort with safe slides, easy trails, and convenient infrastructure.
Eight Lakes is a European–level country resort with chalets, thermal pools and scenic trails.
Kok Zhailau is a popular winter hiking route with snow-covered glades and panoramas of the city.
Kolsai and Kaindy are one of the most beautiful winter routes with snow–covered forest and turquoise lake.
Turgen gorge – comfortable trails, frozen waterfalls and winter silence.
The ice volcano and Butakov Waterfall are spectacular natural phenomena. The waterfall turns into an ice wall, and Kapchagai's "volcano" becomes a natural ice tower.
Kapchagai reservoir – spacious steppe panoramas, bright sunsets, offering atmospheric photo shoots.
There are many skating rinks in Almaty in winter, from free outdoor playgrounds to indoor and seasonal arenas.
Free skating rinks: Abai Square, Halyk Arena, Almaty Arena, 28 Panfilovtsev and First President Park, Gulder Park and other locations throughout the city.
Indoor skating rinks: Olimpic Arena, MegaIce, Sunkar, Dimash Arena, Alem Park.
Tubing: professional Gorki trails.kz and Gorky.Almaty for cheesecake riding.
The Astana region has a completely different winter aesthetic: pine forests, clear frost, lakes, packed trails and a real New Year's atmosphere.
Burabai National Park (Borovoe) is the main winter destination near Astana. Skiing, skating rinks, hiking trails, and photo walks through the snow-covered forest are available here. And nearby is the residence of Kazakh Santa Claus, Ayaz Ata, which is especially welcome for families with children.
Kokshetau National Park (Lakes Shalkar and Imantau) is a peaceful, eco–friendly vacation with walks in the winter forest, ice fishing and cozy lake houses. The region is quieter, more spacious and more intimate than Burabay — ideal for a reboot.
In Astana, winter turns into a real city holiday — ice rinks, snow slides and bright winter installations are operating in many parts of the city.
The Presidential Park is the longest slide in the city (1b Baitursynova St.).
Zhastar Palace is a slide and an ice rink for outdoor activities.
The embankment by the Yesil River is a skating rink with New Year's installations.
Kazak eli Square — ice spaces for family holidays.
The Triathlon Park and the Park behind the Pyramid are ice areas outside the city center.
We create customized winter vacation programs, from family trips and corporate events to exciting adventures in the mountains.
With us you can:
Winter in Kazakhstan is not only about world—class ski resorts, but also an opportunity to discover the unique nature, get acquainted with the hospitality of local residents and get impressions that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Contact SkyWay today and we will arrange the perfect winter vacation for you in the heart of Central Asia!
Morning excursion to the medieval mausoleum, and in the evening — rocket launch at Baikonur. This is only possible in Kazakhstan! It is a land of majestic mountains, emerald lakes, ancient legends and the most sincere hospitality. Discover the land of endless steppes, rich culture and space technology. Kazakhstan is waiting to surprise you.
When exactly is the best time to visit Kazakhstan and how to get the most out of your stay in this country?
Kazakhstan cordially invites you! And it offers the best places and locations in Almaty that will appeal to lovers of history and modernity, adults and children, youth and mature travelers.
