Cat Ski Karkara

An incredible powder paradise awaits you in the eastern Tian Shan Mountains. Experience cat skiing in Kyrgyzstan with one of our snow cats. These machines are typically used for slope preparation but we have repurposed them to transport you to the most thrilling off-piste runs. Sit comfortably in our custom-built cabin as the driver takes you to the most stunning peaks. Once at the top, you'll carve fresh lines all day long, guided by a local expert who knows the best spots. Get ready for an exhilarating adventure in this remote corner of the world.

As always, we work predominantly with local partners and guides. As a non-profit tour agency, we support tourism in developing countries, providing you with an authentic local experience while ensuring that locals earn a decent income. Additionally, we help foster local initiatives to grow (winter) tourism.

Karkara

The Karkara Valley lies in the Tien Shan range, right where Kazakhstan meets Kyrgyzstan and China. This is one of the most remote and wild mountain regions in Central Asia, with peaks rising over 4,000 meters. The area has long been known for its dramatic landscapes, pristine rivers, and nomadic traditions — but it's only recently that cat skiing has put Karkara on the international map. The Tien Shan Mountains are perfect for it — rugged, remote, and wild.

Terrain

The cat-ski terrain around Karkara stretches across the Tien Shan foothills, from about 1,800 to 3,300 meters. It covers dozens of square kilometers of untouched slopes, open alpine bowls, and steep ridgelines.

Higher up, the landscape opens into wide, rolling alpine meadows and steep couloirs overlooking snow-covered peaks stretching into Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. Lower down, you'll find open tree runs and rolling terrain with deep, dry powder. Thanks to the continental climate, the region gets huge amounts of light, dry snow every winter — and it sticks around for months. The terrain's variety makes Karkara a true cat-skiing paradise.

The Snowcats

We use comfortable and powerful snowcats, capable of handling even the steepest ascents. The heated cabin has space for 8–12 skiers or boarders plus two guides. Skis and boards are stored on a rear rack, and when the side door opens — it's straight into the powder.

Accommodation

We stay at Karkara Base Camp, a cozy mountain lodge featuring twin rooms. Meals are served in a shared dining area, and there's plenty of space to relax.

Our Team

On site, you'll be guided by an incredible crew of experienced local guides who know the Tien Shan Mountains inside out. They've been skiing here for years and will keep you safe while leading you to the best lines.

We ask participants to bring their own avalanche gear, as equipment is still limited locally. Don't worry — the guides will run a safety briefing and make sure everyone knows how to use it properly.

Electricity & Internet

There's reliable electricity in the guesthouse, and Wi-Fi is available (though not always lightning-fast). You can also pick up a local SIM card for faster mobile internet. Standard Western European plugs work fine.

Food & Cuisine

Kazakh cuisine blends Turkish, Russian, and Central Asian influences. Expect hearty, home-cooked meals with soups, potatoes, meat, fresh vegetables, noodles, preserved vegetables, and lots of bread.

If you're vegetarian, just let us know in advance — we'll make sure special groceries are arranged.

Getting There

Transfers from Almaty International Airport are included. The easiest way to reach Almaty is via Istanbul — we usually recommend Turkish Airlines. Other options include Air Astana, Lufthansa, or Emirates via Dubai.

For the truly adventurous, you could combine this trip with a visit to China or Kyrgyzstan before or after.

Is Cat Ski Karkara for You?

- You're an advanced skier or snowboarder with off-piste experience

- You love adventure and deep powder

- You're looking for something beyond the Alps

- You don't need luxury — just great snow, good food, and a sauna with new friends

- You want to ski somewhere that still feels undiscovered

Cat ski Karkara