14-Day Family Trip to Almaty and Surroundings

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty & City Introduction

Morning: Arrive in Almaty and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to relax after the journey.

Afternoon: Explore Panfilov Park, visit the impressive Zenkov Cathedral, and enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk along Abay Avenue to see the city lights.

Day 2: Medeu Skating Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort

Morning: Take a trip to Medeu– the world's highest ice skating rink with stunning mountain views.

Afternoon: Visit Shymbulak Ski Resort for sightseeing and enjoy cable car rides suitable for children.

Evening: Return to Almaty and relax at your hotel or explore local cafes.

Day 3: Almaty Museum & Green Bazaar

Morning: Discover the Almaty Museum to learn about regional history.

Afternoon: Walk through Green Bazaar to experience local food markets and buy souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant.

Day 4: Big Almaty Lake & Surroundings

Morning: Drive to Big Almaty Lake, one of the most scenic spots surrounded by mountains.

Afternoon: Have a picnic and take easy hikes suitable for children near the lake.

Evening: Return to the city and relax.

Day 5: Kok Tobe Hill & City Views

Morning: Take the cable car to Kok Tobe for panoramic views and enjoy the amusement park for kids.

Afternoon: Explore the area, visit the statue of The Beatles, and relax in the park.

Evening: Dine at a cafe overlooking the city.

Day 6: Local Art & Cultural Experience

Morning: Visit Central State Museum for Kazakh history and culture.

Afternoon: Explore local galleries or attend a cultural show if available.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed family evening at your hotel or a nearby park.

Day 7: Day Trip to Charyn Canyon

Morning: Embark on a full-day trip to Charyn Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia."

Afternoon: Explore canyon trails and enjoy scenic viewpoints, suitable for families.

Evening: Return to Almaty for rest and dinner.

Day 8: Relax & Leisure Day

Morning: Enjoy leisure time, perhaps at a local park or shopping mall.

Afternoon: Optional visits or rest at your hotel.

Evening: Try local dishes or relax at your accommodation.

Day 9: Visit Issyk Lake & Kurchatov Observatory

Morning: Travel to Issyk Lake, a peaceful mountain lake with options for boat rides.

Afternoon: Visit the Kurchatov Observatory for a family-friendly science experience.

Evening: Return to Almaty for the evening.

Day 10: Family Fun & Parks

Morning: Spend time at Rain Park or other family-friendly attractions.

Afternoon: Visit Almaty Zoo to see local wildlife with children.

Evening: Dinner at a family restaurant.

Day 11: Day Trip to Tamgaly Gorge & Petroglyphs

Morning: Explore the Tamgaly Gorge with ancient petroglyphs.

Afternoon: Walk the trails and discover historical carvings.

Evening: Return to Almaty and relax.

Day 12: Last Sightseeing & Shopping

Morning: Revisit favorite spots or explore new ones like Ascension Cathedral.

Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at Sapar Shopping Mall.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner with Kazakh specialties.

Day 13: Relax & Pack

Morning: Relax at your hotel or visit a nearby park.

Afternoon: Pack souvenirs and prepare for departure.

Evening: Casual evening with family activities.

Day 14: Departure from Almaty

Morning: Final leisurely breakfast and check-out.

Afternoon: Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your flight back home.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral – 2 hours, $0
• Medeu Skating Rink – 2 hours, $20 (per person)
• Shymbulak Ski Resort – 3 hours, $30 (cable car and activities)
• Almaty Museum – 1.5 hours, $10
• Green Bazaar – 1 hour, $20
• Big Almaty Lake – 3 hours, $15 (transportation)
• Kok Tobe Hill & Park – 2 hours, $25 (cable car and attractions)
• Charyn Canyon Day Trip – Full day, $80 (including guide and transport)
• Issyk Lake – 3 hours, $40 (transport & activities)
• Almaty Zoo – 2 hours, $8
• Tamgaly Petroglyphs – 3 hours, $50 (guided tour and transport)

Total Estimated Cost: $298 (excluding meals and personal expenses)

Tips

For a more relaxed pace, consider extending your trip by a few days to fully enjoy outdoor activities and leisure time with your family. If pressed for time, you can prioritize the most scenic natural spots like Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon, while skipping some cultural sites. Be sure to carry warm clothes for mountain excursions and plenty of snacks for day trips with children.