The Ili river between Lake Qapshaghay and Lake Balhash is a good place for this. Over 120 world records in ice-skating and ice hockey have been set at Medeu. A comfortable hotel, restaurant and caf are located nearby. Ice hockey games can be viewed at the rink in Ust-Kamenogorsk. Skis and boots can be hired, but they are not up to Western European or American standards.
Costs are minimal.
Shymbulak is a popular ski resort, located near Medeu ice-rink, with a 1.5km chair lift. Horseriding is also popular in Kazakhstan. Visitors may either take part in or view competitions of the many Kazakh equestrian sports, such as baiga, kiz-kuu and kokpar. Terms and Conditions apply.