Itinerary
Day 1 – Your guide will meet you at your hotel at 9:00 AM, and then you'll be transported in a comfortable car to the Medeu Ski Resort. Once there, after preparing for the hike and receiving instructions, you'll embark on your journey from Medeu to Kimasar Gorge.
We will make the first stop at a spot with swings tied to a tree, providing you with an opportunity to capture beautiful photos. From there, the trail continues along the ridge to the Glade of Enthusiasts at the base of Furmanov Peak. Following this, the path leads to the scenic Butakov Gorge, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and take a rest.
The next part of the adventure involves a lengthy and occasionally steep descent into Left Talgar Gorge. Along the way, we will pause at a spring to collect water. As we progress and traverse the forest, we'll find ourselves on a spacious glade where fireweed (rosebay willowherb) blossoms. About 20 minutes later, we'll arrive at KazPI Glade, named after the Kazakh Pedagogical Institute. Here, camp will be set up. Those interested can descend to the river for a refreshing swim. In the evening, dinner will be served by the warmth of a crackling fire.
Overnight stay in the tent camp at an altitude of 2150 m (7054 ft) above sea level
Walking distance covered on this day – 12 km (7.5 mi)
Hiking time – 8 hours
Day 2 – We'll rise early, enjoy breakfast, and pack up camp. At 10:00 AM, our ascent up the gorge begins. After traversing the river via a log bridge, we'll navigate through the forest and arrive at a glade with a splendid view. From there, we commence a steep climb. Upon reaching the Small Talgar Pass at an elevation of 2,800 meters (9120 ft) above sea level, we'll take a break for rest and a snack.
Our route then leads us towards the cable car station at the Big Talgar Pass, clearly visible from this vantage point. Along the way, a captivating panorama of the four-thousander peaks Chkalov and Abai, as well as the Til and Ayak glaciers, unfolds. The journey culminates at the Talgar Pass, marking the conclusion of the hiking segment. From here, a cable car will transport you to the lower level of the Shymbulak Ski Resort. Subsequently, you'll be transferred to the Medeu Skating Rink before returning to Almaty.
Walking distance covered on this day – 7 km (4 mi)
Hiking time – 5 hours