Ski Touring in Altai Mountains offers a rare opportunity for adventurers to explore one of the most remote and pristine ski destinations on the planet.
Far from the crowded resorts of Europe or North America, the Altai Mountains of Kazakhstan are characterized by vast valleys, untouched powder, and long, cold winters that create perfect conditions for ski touring.
Unlike traditional alpine climbs, this experience emphasizes long, flowing tours through forested slopes and secluded powder fields rather than focusing solely on high-altitude summits.
Participants will immerse themselves in both the physical challenge of multi-day skiing and the cultural richness of Kazakhstan, beginning in the vibrant city of Almaty before venturing into the eastern Altai.
Over six days of guided adventure, Ski Touring in Altai Mountains combines deep powder skiing with comfortable evening retreats.
Each night, adventurers return to a well-equipped mountain camp, enjoy hot meals, relax in a Russian-style sauna, and share stories with fellow participants.
This blend of intense activity and cozy evenings allows skiers to recover while absorbing the breathtaking beauty of Siberian landscapes.
With certified international ski guides leading the way, participants can safely navigate deep snow, forest trails, and avalanche terrain while building their technical skills and confidence.
Ski Touring in Altai Mountains Quick Facts :
Difficulty Level: 🔴 Intermediate to Advanced – suitable for skiers with good fitness and confidence in deep powder
Age Range: 18 – 60 years
Group Size: 7 – 14 participants (with certified international ski guides)
Accommodation: 2 nights in hotel (Almaty), 5 nights in comfortable mountain camp (with sauna)
Best Season: January – March (cold Siberian winters, reliable snowpack)
Trip Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Note : If snow or weather conditions are unfavorable, the ski touring program may be substituted with an on-piste (alpine) skiing program.
Program Highlights
- Unique ski touring experience in the remote Altai range of eastern Kazakhstan
- Deep Siberian powder, forested slopes, and untouched wilderness terrain
- Comfortable base camp with hearty meals, warm lodging & daily Russian sauna
- Six full days of ski touring at lower elevations and forest zones
- Cultural immersion: from Almaty city nights to local traditions in the Altai
- Option to extend: stay longer in Kazakhstan or join our Alpine Ski Camp near Almaty afterwards
Why Choose Altai Powder Ski Touring ?
Remote wilderness: Untouched slopes far from ski resorts
Consistent powder: Long, cold winters guarantee deep snow
Comfortable camp life: Hot meals, sauna, and warm lodging every night
Authentic culture: From modern Almaty to traditional Altai hospitality
Expert guidance: Internationally certified ski guides ensure safety & quality
Who Is It For?
This program is designed for experienced ski tourers who:
- Are in good physical condition to ski tour 6 consecutive days
- Can ski confidently in deep powder conditions
- Are comfortable with avalanche terrain and safety equipment
Ski Touring in Altai Itinerary
- Day 1 : Team meeting in Almaty – hotel check-in, welcome dinner.
- Day 2: Domestic flight to eastern Kazakhstan + drive to Altai mountain camp.
- Days 3–6: Four full days of ski touring in forested zones & powder fields. Return each evening to camp for hot meals and sauna.
- Day 7: Final ski touring day, return drive + flight back to Almaty. Hotel check-in & farewell dinner.
- Day 8: End of program – departures from Almaty (optional extra stay or extension program).
Requirements
- Valid passport (min. 6 months)
Full ski touring equipment & appropriate winter clothing
Avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel)
Helmet (mandatory)
Sports accident insurance with ski coverage
What’s Included
- Professional mountain guides & international ski instructors
5 nights at mountain camp (full board)
2 hotel nights in Almaty (twin rooms with breakfast)
All meals during ski touring days (breakfast, packed lunch, hot dinner)
Access to sauna at base camp
Domestic round-trip flights Almaty ↔ East Kazakhstan
All ground transfers during the program
2 group dinners in Almaty
Travel insurance
Not Included
- International flights to/from Almaty
Visa fees (if required)
Sports accident insurance with ski coverage (mandatory to arrange personally)
Personal expenses, beverages, or meals outside the program
Important Notes
- Start and end point: Almaty, Kazakhstan (participants arrange their own flights to Almaty).
- Weather and snow conditions may require adjustments to the program. Safety decisions will always be prioritized.
- For equipment advice (ski touring gear, skis, or clothing), please contact us in advance.
- Kazakhstan’s Altai is a true skier’s frontier: vast, remote, and powder-filled. Join us for an unforgettable week in the heart of Siberian winter.
Choosing Ski Touring in Altai Mountains guarantees an unmatched winter adventure that blends extreme outdoor challenges with comfort and cultural immersion.
Participants experience six full days of backcountry skiing in untouched wilderness, supported by a professional team and a comfortable mountain camp setup.
From the forested slopes and powder fields of eastern Kazakhstan to the welcoming evenings in camp, every detail is designed to maximize both safety and enjoyment. The program also offers flexibility, with optional extensions in Almaty or Alpine-style camps nearby, ensuring that skiers of advanced ability can fully customize their experience.
Ultimately, this expedition is more than just a ski trip—it is an exploration of one of Central Asia’s hidden gems, offering an authentic winter adventure that combines remote wilderness, consistent powder, and professional guidance.
Whether seeking to test one’s skills on deep Siberian snow or to escape into the tranquil beauty of the Altai, Ski Touring in Altai Mountains delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
Equipment
1. Ski & Touring Gear
Ski touring skis (lightweight, backcountry-specific)
Ski touring bindings (tech/frameless or frame bindings)
Alpine touring / ski mountaineering boots
Climbing skins (for ascending)
Ski poles (adjustable recommended)
Ski crampons (for icy slopes, optional depending on route)
Avalanche transceiver / beacon
2. Safety & Rescue
Avalanche probe
Avalanche shovel
First aid kit
Helmet
Crampons and ice axe (if crossing glaciers or steep terrain)
Whistle & signal mirror
Personal GPS / map & compass
3. Clothing
Base layers (thermal top & bottom)
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket & pants
Gloves / mittens (light & heavy)
Warm hat / balaclava / neck gaiter
Ski socks
Sunglasses or goggles (for snow glare)
4. Backpacks & Essentials
Ski touring backpack (with gear straps for skis)
Hydration system / water bottles
High-energy snacks / lunch
Sunscreen & lip balm
Headlamp with extra batteries
5. Optional / Extras
Camera / action camera
Trekking poles (if needed for approach)
Lightweight stove & cookware (for multi-day tours)
Personal hygiene items
