Ice Grotto "Dolphin" and hike to Tuyuk-Su glacier
Interesting places on Tuyuk-Su -
One-day Mountain hike to the upper reaches of the Small Almaty gorge -
The Ice Grotto "Dolphin" is a natural object located in the heart of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, not far from the T1 Tuyuk-Su glaciological station. This amazing natural object attracts both scientists and tourists with its unique shape and icy beauty. The grotto got its name due to the similarity of its arch with the silhouette of a dolphin. Nearby is another ice cave called "Whale". The formation of this natural landmark occurs due to the movement of glaciers and melting ice, which creates impressive underground ice vaults. Inside the grotto, you can see complex patterns formed by many frozen streams of water and ice crystals that shimmer in the light. This ice grotto is an important object for scientific research. Given its location in an active glaciological zone, scientists use it to study glacier melting processes, ice dynamics and climate change. In addition, the grotto serves as an indicator of environmental changes, since its structure and size depend on temperature fluctuations.
For tourists and mountain adventure lovers, the Dolphin Grotto has become a real pearl of the region. Excursions here usually include the accompaniment of experienced guides, since access to the grotto can be difficult due to the complex mountain terrain and the need to observe safety measures. But those who have visited this place are invariably impressed by its cold splendor and mystical atmosphere.
A visit to the Dolphin Ice Grotto is not just a journey into the depths of the mountains, but also an opportunity to touch the secrets of nature, understand the fragility of glacial ecosystems and the importance of preserving them for future generations.
photo: Natalia @nataliia52006
How to get there and visit -
The Dolphin Ice Cave (Grotto) is located near the T1 Tuyuk-Su glaciological station on the
Tuyuk-Su Mountain Glacier in the upper reaches of the Small Almaty Gorge, Medeu district,
Almaty region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°03'37"N 77°05'07"E Safety -
When hiking in the Dolphin Ice Grotto, be sure to use the services of certified mountain guides. Mountain guides will prepare you for the hike, instruct you and safely lead you along the route. Do not go to the mountains alone, do not leave the trail (route), do not come close to rocky cliffs, snow cornices, turbulent rivers and mountain lakes. Correctly calculate your physical strength for staying in the mountains, if you feel unwell, know how to stop and turn back in time, inform the mountain guide about your condition. Watch the weather and choose clear sunny days for your trip. During the hike, always stay in a group so that everyone is always in sight of each other, always wait for those who lag behind. Do not walk in the mountains at night and in the dark. Correctly calculate your time in the mountains, try to return in the afternoon before dusk and complete darkness, be sure to consult with mountain guides about this. For hiking in the mountains, use special sportswear and equipment. Do not go to the mountains in flip-flops, slippers and light soft shoes, take care of your feet, your feet should be protected by reliable mountain shoes for trekking and hiking with ankle fixation. Do not forget about altitude sickness and the need for acclimatization in a mountainous area, for a further comfortable stay in the mountains. Also, in the spring (May) there are ticks in the mountains, we recommend not visiting the mountains during this period.
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