T1 Glaciological Station & Tuyuksu Glacier Ice Grottos
The route brings together two very different locations. The first is the T1 station, where scientists study glaciers: wooden buildings and scientific equipment stand against the backdrop of a vast glacier, creating the feeling of being somewhere in the middle of Antarctica. The second is a series of ice grottos formed by the natural movement of the glacier. Inside, you can see a wide variety of crystalline ice formations. This is a winter route for travellers drawn to snow and ice landscapes.
Why Tuyuksu matters to science
Tuyuksu is not only one of the best-known glaciers near Almaty, but also an important scientific observation site. The Tuyuksu Observatory was established in 1957 to monitor the glacier’s mass balance, and Central Tuyuksu is one of the World Glacier Monitoring Service reference glaciers. In 1974, a meteorological station was established near the glacier at 3,438 metres; today the glacier tongue lies more than one kilometre away from it.
Meeting point: Medeo High-Mountain Sports Complex. Self-arrival to the Medeo High-Mountain Sports Complex. Medeo is conveniently located close to Almaty, approximately 30 minutes from the city. Transfer from the city is not included.
What's Included & Packing Checklist
Included in Price
- Services of a professional certified mountain guide
- High-quality photographs taken with a professional camera by your guide
Not Included
- Drinking water and snacks for the route (thermos with tea, bars, nuts)
- Transfer from the city to the meeting point at Medeo (self-arrival)
- Personal equipment (trekking boots, poles, clothing)
Recommended Packing Checklist
Apparel & Layers
- Comfortable trekking footwear with a firm sole and ankle support
- Layered clothing: thermal underwear, warm fleece and windproof jacket
- Sun protection: sunglasses, headwear and SPF sunscreen
Trail Essentials
- Trekking poles for stability on ascents and descents
- A thermos with hot tea and at least 1.5 litres of drinking water
- Nutritious snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)
Group Tiers & Transparent Pricing
Exactly 0% markup. You pay the organizers directly, with no agency commissions or hidden markups.
The more people in the group, the lower the price per person.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation terms are not published. Please clarify when submitting request.
Your Mountain Guides
Alexander Astakhov
Certified Hiking Guide • Mountain Photographer
Born and raised in Almaty, Alexander has been exploring the mountains since childhood and hiking regularly for over 9 years. Certified under international ISO 3166 safety standards (180h) with advanced 60-hour First Aid training from the Medical Academy, he combines rigorous safety credentials with an eye for aesthetics. As a passionate mountain photographer, he ensures your journey is safe, inspiring, and beautifully documented.
“The mountains are my second home, a place of pure comfort and clarity. I’m here to make you feel completely secure, share the wild beauty of Almaty, and capture unforgettable memories for you.”