Skiing in Kazakhstan
Our 10 years of experience
The undiscovered snow paradise of Central Asia!
Dreaming of endless powder fields, rugged mountains, and an adventurous blend of skiing and culture? Then Kazakhstan is your next winter playground. Far from the crowds of the Alps, this vast country offers untouched freeride terrain in the mighty Tien Shan Mountains — where every turn feels like a first descent.
Ski Touring in the Tien Shan – Endless Freedom
In southeastern Kazakhstan, the towering Tien Shan peaks rise dramatically above the steppe. Here, nature still rules, and silence stretches as far as the horizon. Long ski touring routes take you through deep valleys, steep couloirs, and wide-open powder fields that few have ever touched. Along the way, you will pass shepherd huts and remote mountain villages where time stands still and hospitality runs deep. Well-known areas around Almaty, like Shymbulak and the Kok-Zhailau Plateau, are the perfect base for unforgettable climbs and descents. Up here, you will hear nothing but the soft crunch of fresh snow under your skis — pure, unfiltered adventure.
Shymbulak, Ak-Bulak & Oi Qaraqai – skiing among giants
Kazakhstan hides a trio of surprisingly good ski areas just outside Almaty. Shymbulak is the most famous one, with modern lifts shooting you straight into high-alpine terrain and long, satisfying descents. Ak-Bulak delivers a mix of challenging pistes and more accessible runs for every level. Prefer peace, powder and raw adventure? Then Oi Qaraqai — also known as Leznaya Skazka in Russian — tucked away in the Ile-Alatau National Park, is the place for untouched freeriding in the heart of nature.
Catskiing in Kazakhstan – The Backcountry Boost
If you want things a little wilder and a lot deeper, Kazakhstan offers some of the most unique catski opportunities in Central Asia. In the vast Tien Shan mountains, near the remote village of Karkara, a full mountaineering camp awaits — complete with a sauna, chill-out area and local Kazakh chefs who spoil you every day. From the camp, the snowcat heads straight into the mountains, taking you to descents for every level. Your local guide picks the best lines: sunny open faces, wide bowls and everything in between.
But there’s more. We also catski in eastern Kazakhstan, near the town of Ridder — once a Soviet mining outpost, now a paradise for backcountry riders. Here in the West Altai, a roaring snowcat takes you into silent forests, wide alpine bowls and steep couloirs between 1,000 and 2,500 meters. Siberian pine forests create magical tree runs, while higher up you find endless powder fields. Thanks to the continental climate, it snows here light, dry and a lot — perfect terrain to draw your own lines, day after day.
What makes it so special? You will likely share the mountain with no one but your crew. No lifts, no crowds — just endless powder, wide bowls, and steep, exhilarating lines. After each run, the snowcat pulls you back up for another drop. It’s freedom at its finest, set against the breathtaking wilderness of Central Asia.
Safe, Wild & Real
Yes, the terrain is remote and raw — but that’s the magic. With our experienced local mountain guides, you find the best lines safely. They know the snowpack, the weather, and the spirit of these mountains. With proper avalanche gear, preparation, and respect for nature, you will experience true backcountry skiing the way it’s meant to be.
Why ski in Kazakhstan?
- Untouched & Unique – Far from mass tourism, pure wilderness.
- Variety – From modern resorts to endless backcountry.
- Affordable – Incredible value compared to the Alps.
- Hospitality – Cozy guesthouses with local food, tea, and warm welcomes.
- Adventure – Catski, ski touring, freeride — there are a lot of possibilities.
Kazakhstan Awaits You!
Clip in, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and experience winter in its purest form. This is skiing with soul — wild, authentic, and unforgettable.