KAZAKHSTAN

Shymbulak to Titov Pass Trek

A classic high-mountain trekking route above Almaty combining alpine lakes, glacier valleys, panoramic passes and wild camps in the heart of the Trans-Ili Alatau.

Geo-Tech Overview

This journey follows the upper valleys above Shymbulak and Mynzhylky, leading deep into the glacial cirques beneath the peaks of the northern Tien Shan. Over three days we hike through rocky alpine terrain, camp above 3000 meters, visit remote high-altitude lakes and cross the scenic Titov Pass before descending through the forests and waterfalls of Gorelnik Gorge.

Perfect for hikers looking for a compact but real mountain adventure close to Almaty.

June – October
3 days
intermediate, advanced
Ile Alatau
1900 — 3650 m.a.s.l.
Almaty

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE

MAP AND WEATHER

meteoblue

Things You Don’t Want to Miss

Trail Highlights

Trekking in the alpine zone above Shymbulak.
Wild camping at 3000-3300 m.
Visit to remote glacial Lake No.6.
Crossing scenic Titov Pass.
Panorama views over glaciers and peaks of the Ile Alatau.
Gorelnik waterfalls and forest descent.
Real mountain expedition atmosphere close to the city.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:

Day 1

Almaty – Medeu — Shymbulak – Tuyuk-Su Gates — Mynzhylky — Lake No.6 – Mynzhylky.

The trek starts above Shymbulak Ski Resort at the end of the asphalt road near the Medeu–Mynzhylky mountain road. We hike steadily uphill through alpine terrain toward the upper valley above the Mynzhylky dam, gaining elevation quickly as the city disappears below and the glaciers of Ile Alatau rise ahead. After 4.5 km and 680 m elevation gain, we reach our camp area above the dam at around 3050 m altitude. After tea and a short rest, we continue with a radial hike toward the famous Lake No.6 — a remote glacial lake hidden beneath the surrounding peaks and moraines near the Alpingrad area. The route to the lake climbs another 550 m, offering spectacular views of glaciers and high alpine terrain. We descend back to camp via the mountain road in the evening. Dinner and overnight in tents.

Distance: 10 km
Elevation gain: +1230 m
Elevation loss: -550 m
Camp altitude: 3050 m
Hiking time: 7–8 hours total

Day 2

Mynzhylky — Titov Pass — Titov Lakes.

Morning breakfast with panoramic mountain views before packing camp and continuing higher into glacial terrain. Today’s route leads to Titov Pass — one of the classic trekking passes in the area, located at 3650 m. The climb follows rocky alpine slopes and offers wide panoramas over the upper valleys of the northern Tien Shan. After tea and rest on the pass, we descend toward Titov Lakes, where we set up the camp at 3300 m. In the afternoon we make an optional light acclimatization walk toward the direction of Trapezia Pass, exploring nearby ridges and viewpoints. Dinner and overnight in tents.

Distance: 8.5 km
Elevation gain: +680 m
Elevation loss: -400 m
Camp altitude: 3300 m
Highest point: Titov Pass (3650 m)
Hiking time: 5–7 hours

Day 3

Titov Lakes – Gorelnik Waterfalls – Gorelnik Base – Medeu — Almaty.

Early breakfast and camp packing before starting the long descent toward the forested valleys below. The trail gradually leaves the alpine zone and enters green mountain slopes leading toward the famous Gorelnik waterfalls — one of the most scenic natural spots near Almaty. After tea and rest near the waterfall, we continue descending through spruce forests and mountain trails toward the lower valley and transfer point. End of the trek and return to Almaty.

Distance: 8.5 km
Elevation loss: -1400 m
Hiking time: 4–5 hours

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Useful Information

Tips & Resources

PRICE LIST:

850 EUR for one person
500 EUR per person for the group of 2
350 EUR per person for the group of 3
300 EUR per person for the group of 4-8
250 EUR per person for the group of 9-10

Accommodation:

Camping in the tents. We recommend to bring your own reliable and light tent for comfortable night staying. Rental is also possible upon request.

NECESSARY GEAR AND CLOTHING:

Personal clothing and accessories:

– Backpack (50–70 L) with raincover
– Sleeping bag (comfort temperature 0 to –5 °C)
– Sleeping pad
– Small sitmat
– Tent
– Trekking poles
– Headlamp with spare batteries
– Personal water bottle (1–1.5 L) + optional hydration system
– Personal first aid kit & personal medications
– Lightweight trekking pants and T-shirts
– Warm fleece or softshell jacket
– Down or synthetic insulated jacket
– Waterproof and windproof jacket + pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
– Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
– Several pairs of trekking socks
– Gloves (light + warm pair)
– Warm hat / beanie
– Neck warmer
– Cap or sunhat
– Trekking waterproof boots with a good protector sole and highlacing
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
– Sandals or light camp shoes
– Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, wet wipes)
– Small quick-dry towel
– Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)
– Power bank

Services included in the package:

Return transfer from Almaty.
Professional English-speaking trekking guide.
Entrance fee for Ile Alatau National Park.
Meals on the trek (hot breakfasts and dinners).
First aid kit and satellite communication device.
Drinking water.

Services does not included in the package:

1. Food not indicated in the program and/or not included in program price.
2. Personal expenses and other expenses not indicated in the program.
3. Accommodation in Almaty before or after the tour.
4. Visa support and registration in the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan, if required.
5. Insurance policy.
6. Rental of camping equipment (available upon request).
7. Porter’s service (available upon request).

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Depending on weather and snow conditions, the guide can make adjustments to the the program.

It is required to have appropriate insurance policy covering trekking in remote places, including rescue by helicopter.

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