Ski Safari Kazakhstan
Going on a Ski Safari in the south of Kazakhstan? That means that you will spend a week in the metropolis of Almaty and that you will experience the largest ski areas of the country. Of course it’s gonna be a mix of culture and local experiences. For example, we are going to visit the Charyn Canyon, the vast steppes and bustling local markets.
Ski Adventure Kazakhstan
This coming winter we are offering several ski adventure trips to Kazakhstan. Skiing in the northern Himalayas overlooking the metropolis of Almaty! Don’t expect boring nightlife, Wiener Schnitzels or German Schlagers. So what can you expect? Well, for example, brand new ski resorts, vibrant nightlife and a visit to the Charyn Valley.
Almaty, a city of millions
Almaty, Alma-Ata or Алматы is a metropolis in many ways: more than a million inhabitants, functions, apples and names. The former capital of Kazakhstan is the country’s largest city. With its good infrastructure, it is very different from the rest of the country. That’s also good news for you as a traveler, because then you won’t have to hobble for hours to Shymbulak Ski Area, for example.
The city has changed its name numerous times. In the time of the Russian tsars, the town was called Verny. The name changed to Alma-Ata in 1921 and from 1994 the city’s official name was Almaty. Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. Now this is Astana, today’s Nur-Sultan.
Almaty in Kazakh means “rich in apples. The former Alma-Ata also has an apple in its meaning. This is not so surprising when you know that many (wild) apple orchards can be found around the city.
Out and about in Almaty
Stately buildings, open squares, many educational institutions – including several universities – and a busy economic and social life. A former capital with charisma. You certainly won’t be bored in the city; there is something for everyone.
We start our tour at the Zenkov Cathedral. This 1907 Russian Orthodox cathedral can be found in an eastern city park. She is about 56 meters high and constructed entirely of wood. The original name was Cathedral of the Ascension of Christ, but the structure is now better known by the name of the architect who designed it: Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov.
Furthermore, Almaty’s television tower also attracts attention. This tower was built around 1980 and is 371.5 meters high. Two high-speed elevators transport people inside the tower at lightning speed. Unfortunately, this special place is not open to the public.
The large Barakholka bazaar is also well worth a visit. This market attracts many people to huge amounts of clothing racks, toys and (construction) materials, among other things.
A final not-quite-ordinary sight of the city is the Beatles monument. The world-famous band is pictured on a bench at Kok Tobe Park and is definitely worth a (Instagram) visit.
Golden Tip: Visit Kok Tobe Park by gondola elevator. It does cost a bit, but you get a gigantic view in return!