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.
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
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