8-Day Family Road Trip Exploring Kazakhstan's Stunning Natural Parks and Lakes

Day 1: Arrival & Lake Visit

Almaty, Kazakhstan on September 10, 2025

9:00am

Big Almaty Lake

A scenic alpine lake just south of Almaty, perfect for gentle walking trails ideal for families. The lake is known for its vibrant turquoise water surrounded by stunning mountains. Visit early to avoid crowds and for best photo conditions.

CURRENCY0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Zheti Kazyna

Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine in a family-friendly setting. Try the beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and local salads.

CURRENCY15 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Almaty City Walk

Explore Panfilov Park and the Ascension Cathedral for some cultural insight and light walking opportunity in the city center.

CURRENCY0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Line Brew

Family-friendly restaurant with hearty grilled dishes and local beers, ideal for relaxing after travel.

CURRENCY20 per person, 1h30m

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Day 2: Travel To Kolsai Lakes

Kolsai Lakes National Park, Kazakhstan on September 11, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Kolsai Lakes

Approximately 3.5-hour drive from Almaty. The road mixes paved and gravel sections - a suitable SUV rental is recommended for comfort and safety.

CURRENCY40 fuel approx., 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at local guesthouse

Dine on freshly prepared local dishes and enjoy the village ambiance near the park entrance.

CURRENCY10 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Hike Lower Kolsai Lake

An easy 2 km walk to Lower Kolsai Lake, suitable for adults and kids, with beautiful panoramic views.

CURRENCY0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check-in to Saty Guesthouse

Family-friendly accommodation offering traditional hospitality and comfortable rooms with stunning nature views.

CURRENCY70 per family, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at guesthouse

Home-cooked Kazakh meals ideal for families; try kurt (dried curd) and fresh bread.

CURRENCY15 per person, 1h0m

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Day 3: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes

Kolsai Lakes National Park, Kazakhstan on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Traditional breakfast with eggs, bread, and local honey will energize for the day ahead.

Included in stay, 1h0m

9:30am

Hike Middle Kolsai Lake

Moderate 3 km trail, great for families wanting a scenic setting with river and forest views.

CURRENCY0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch picnic

Enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside with fresh local ingredients, perfect for a relaxing family break.

CURRENCY10 approx., 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kaindy Lake

Drive 30 minutes to Kaindy Lake famous for its submerged forest and crystal-clear waters. Easy flat trails suitable for children offer surreal photo opportunities.

CURRENCY5 entrance fee, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Saty Guesthouse

Relax after the day’s exploration.

0, Evening

7:30pm

Dinner at guesthouse

Hearty Kazakh-style soups and roasted meats, perfect to replenish energy after hiking.

CURRENCY15 per person, 1h0m

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Day 4: Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan on September 13, 2025

7:30am

Drive to Charyn Canyon

Approximate 3 hour drive. Jeep or SUV recommended for rough terrain near the canyon entrances.

CURRENCY40 fuel approx., 3h0m

11:00am

Valley of Castles Hike

A 3 km moderate trail exploring the remarkable rock formations with spectacular views and photo ops. Suitable for older children with some hiking willingness.

CURRENCY5 entrance fee, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Canyon Restaurant

A family-friendly venue offering tasty local BBQ and fresh salads in a shaded outdoor setting.

CURRENCY15 per person, 1h0m

3:00pm

Optional Horseshoe Bend or Relax

Explore a nearby horseshoe-shaped canyon bend or relax in the picnic area with children-friendly spaces.

CURRENCY0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in to Aktau Yurt Camp

Unique family accommodation in traditional yurts with modern comforts, providing an authentic experience near Altyn Emel National Park.

CURRENCY100 per family, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at the camp

Enjoy traditional Kazakh meals and storytelling by campfire, a special cultural experience for the family.

CURRENCY20 per person, 1h0m

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Day 5: Explore Altyn Emel NP

Altyn Emel National Park, Kazakhstan on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at yurt camp

Begin your day with fresh bread, cream, and tea complimenting the natural surroundings.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Singing Dune Visit

Experience the famous singing dune, an acoustic natural phenomenon. Located about 60 km into the park; easy walking and fascinating geology.

CURRENCY5 entrance fee, 2h0m

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Park

Lunch amid nature with prepared picnic baskets from camp. Enjoy the peaceful environment.

CURRENCY15 approx., 1h0m

1:30pm

Aktau Mountains and Katutau Mountains Visit

Short hikes (1-3 km) offering colorful rock formations and moderate walking suitable for family groups. Opportunities to spot local wildlife and unique flora.

CURRENCY0, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to yurt camp

Rest and refresh before dinner.

0, Evening

7:00pm

Dinner at camp

Delicious Kazakh pilaf and fresh vegetables, sharing stories under the starry sky.

CURRENCY20 per person, 1h0m

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Day 6: Leisure & Travel Back

Altyn Emel National Park to Almaty, Kazakhstan on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Morning Stroll

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and optional gentle walk in the nearby areas of the camp.

Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Drive back toward Almaty

Approximately 5-hour drive back. Plan breaks for refreshments and photo stops.

CURRENCY50 fuel approx., 5h0m

3:00pm

Check-in at Hotel Kazakhstan Almaty

Comfortable family hotel with good amenities and central location for final days.

CURRENCY120 per family, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Gakku Restaurant

Modern Kazakh cuisine with family-friendly atmosphere; enjoy hearty soups and meat dishes.

CURRENCY20 per person, 1h30m

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Day 7: Leisure Day Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan on September 16, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relax and prepare for a calm day with a rich breakfast buffet.

Included, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Medeu & Shymbulak

Drive 30 minutes to Medeu ice rink and take the cable car to Shymbulak ski resort for stunning mountain views and easy walking. Great for fresh air and a family picnic.

CURRENCY15 cable car round trip per person, 4h0m