Discovering Almaty’s Hidden Gems in the November Heat

Almaty, a city where the mountains kiss the sky and the deserts stretch endlessly, offers an exhilarating escape for thrill-seekers. This November, the city is experiencing an unseasonal heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 39.8°C on the 9th and peaking at 42.0°C on the 10th. This unexpected warmth provides a unique opportunity to explore Almaty’s stunning landscapes in a way that few have experienced before.

Start your adventure with the Charyn Canyon Tour, a custom adventure that takes you through the breathtaking scenery of Almaty’s surrounding areas. Available from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on both days, this tour offers a full day of exploration. As you traverse the steppe desert and mountains, you’ll learn about the rich history and vibrant culture of the region. The tour includes visits to the awe-inspiring Charyn Canyon, where you can walk across the national park and marvel at the newly constructed modern visitor center. The journey continues to Lake Kaindy, accessible by local jeeps, where the serene beauty of the submerged forest will leave you in awe. Finally, enjoy a leisurely walk around Kolsay Lake, where you can savor the best Kazakh national food at a local café with a stunning lake view.

“Beautiful lakes - That’s the second tour I hold with this guide. Local nature reminds me of Swiss Alps but has its own soul and wild character of unsettled valleys. It brings so warm impressions and puts you into space of calm and meditation. There was a touching moment when we met a herd of typical antelope which called ‘saygak’. No end of inspiring stories about this land from our guide Dmitri made a route filled with a deep sense. It was perfect!” - Reviewed on 2023-11-10

Thrills at Medeu and Shymbulak

For those who crave the rush of adrenaline, the Medeu and Shymbulak Excursion is a must-do. Available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days, this private excursion takes you to two of Almaty’s top attractions. Begin your day at the world-renowned Medeu skating rink, where hundreds of world records have been set. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Trans Ili Alatau mountains, this iconic location is just a 20-minute drive from Almaty city center.

Next, ascend to the Shymbulak ski resort via cable car, reaching an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with snow-capped peaks and lush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. Despite the warm temperatures, the snow depth remains at 1.6 cm, providing a unique contrast to the heat below. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes at the summit, where you can relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

“Nice day trip to the mountains - The booking did go smoothly and the tour operator contacted me immediately afterwards to confirm the details. Also my guide Bakhtiar contacted me before my arrival to Almaty, so everything was very well organized before and during the trip. It was amazing to go up the mountains so close to the city, of course it helped that weather was sunny and quite warm! The views from 3,200 meters were amazing and there are also many activities offered up there. There are also several nice restaurants and cafes up there where you could enjoy a nice meal and drinks. All in all for me a very enjoyable and relaxing day in the mountains and Bakhtiar was doing an excellent job to arrange the program to my liking.” - Reviewed on 2024-05-08

Embrace the Heat and Adventure

As the sun sets over Almaty, casting a golden glow over the city, take a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures. The unseasonal November heat has transformed Almaty into a playground for the adventurous, offering a rare chance to experience the city’s natural wonders in a new light.

Whether you’re exploring the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon or taking in the panoramic views from Shymbulak, Almaty promises an unforgettable experience. The city’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty creates a tapestry of adventure that will leave you yearning for more.

So pack your sunscreen, embrace the heat, and get ready to discover the heart-pounding thrills that await in Almaty this November. With each step, you’ll uncover the secrets of this enchanting city, creating memories that will last a lifetime.