Do we visit all three routes in one tour?
No. Choose one option: Medeu and Shymbulak, central Almaty, or Kok Tobe. The itinerary is selected according to the time you have available.
Which sights are included in the city option?
Central Almaty, Green Bazaar, the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen and Ascension Cathedral, also called Zenkov Cathedral. Visits take opening hours into account.
How much layover time do I need?
Send your arrival and onward flight details. We assess the time available after airport procedures, transfers and the buffer needed before departure, then confirm which option fits.
Are the Shymbulak and Kok Tobe ascents included?
Yes. The Shymbulak cable car or the Kok Tobe ascent is included for the respective selected option. This does not combine both routes into one tour.
Can you pick us up at the airport?
Yes. Airport or Almaty hotel pick-up and drop-off are arranged in advance. Share your flight details, group size and luggage requirements.
Is the tour available year-round?
Yes. The selected route depends on weather, opening hours and cable-car operation where relevant. The programme is confirmed for your travel date.
What is the price per person?
$90 with four guests, $110 with three, $160 with two and $320 for a solo traveller. The price is for one chosen stopover itinerary.
What happens if my flight time changes?
Contact us with the updated schedule. We will reassess which route fits the remaining time and agree any changes before departure.
Are meals included?
Yes. Meals during the selected stopover programme are included. The meal stop is arranged around your route and available time; share dietary preferences in advance.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
