A Week in Almaty

Saturday September 16, 2023: Arrival and City Exploration

Start your trip by arriving in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. In the morning, take a walk through Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, a unique wooden Orthodox church. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the architectural beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan's history and culture. As the evening sets in, head to Kok-Tobe Hill for breathtaking views of the city and enjoy a ride on the cable car. Finish off the day by exploring the vibrant Almaty Arbat, a pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.

• Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: Entrance is free, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Central State Museum: Entrance fee - 500 KZT ($1.17), estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kok-Tobe Hill: Cable car fee - 2000 KZT ($4.68), estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Almaty Arbat: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday September 17, 2023: Charyn Canyon Exploration

Embark on a day trip to Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty. In the morning, drive to the canyon and marvel at its stunning rock formations, resembling the Grand Canyon. Take a hike along the marked trails and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, have a picnic by the Charyn River and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Return to Almaty in the evening, feeling refreshed and inspired by the natural beauty of the canyon.

• Charyn Canyon: Entrance fee - 1000 KZT ($2.34), estimated time spent - full day

Monday September 18, 2023: Big Almaty Lake and Almaty Botanical Garden

Start your day by visiting Big Almaty Lake, located in the Tian Shan mountains. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning views of the turquoise lake surrounded by mountains. Take a hike around the lake and soak in the natural beauty. In the afternoon, head to Almaty Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, explore the different sections, and learn about the local flora. End the day with a visit to the Zenkov Botanical Museum within the garden.

• Big Almaty Lake: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - half day
• Almaty Botanical Garden: Entrance fee - 700 KZT ($1.64), estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Zenkov Botanical Museum: Entrance fee - 500 KZT ($1.17), estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday September 19, 2023: Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

Experience some winter fun in Almaty by visiting Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort. In the morning, start at Medeu, the highest and largest outdoor ice rink in the world. Rent skates and glide on the smooth ice, surrounded by picturesque mountain views. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort, a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Enjoy the slopes or simply admire the winter scenery. End the day with a warm beverage at one of the cozy mountain cafes.

• Medeu Skating Rink: Skating fee - 2000 KZT ($4.68), estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: Cable car fee - 5000 KZT ($11.70), estimated time spent - half day

Wednesday September 20, 2023: Almaty Zoo and Green Bazaar

Spend the morning exploring Almaty Zoo, home to a variety of animals from around the world. Take a leisurely walk through the zoo and observe the different species. In the afternoon, visit the bustling Green Bazaar, a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, traditional crafts, and more. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, try some local snacks, and shop for souvenirs. End the day with a visit to the nearby Ascension Cathedral, a beautiful Russian Orthodox Church.

• Almaty Zoo: Entrance fee - 700 KZT ($1.64), estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Green Bazaar: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ascension Cathedral: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - 30 minutes

Thursday September 21, 2023: Almaty Central Mosque and Arasan Baths

Begin the day by visiting the Almaty Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about Islamic culture. In the afternoon, relax and rejuvenate at the Arasan Baths, a traditional bathhouse known for its therapeutic hot springs and various spa treatments. Enjoy a steam bath, indulge in a massage, or try a local healing technique. End the day with a delicious traditional Kazakh meal at a local restaurant.

• Almaty Central Mosque: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Arasan Baths: Entrance fee - 4000 KZT ($9.36), estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday September 22, 2023: Almaty Opera House and Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

Spend your last day in Almaty exploring the cultural side of the city. In the morning, visit the Almaty Opera House, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the theater and its performances. In the afternoon, relax in the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, a beautiful park dedicated to the soldiers who fought in World War II. Admire the eternal flame monument and the iconic Monument of Independence. Reflect on your trip and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before bidding farewell to Almaty.

• Almaty Opera House: Entrance fee for guided tour - 1500 KZT ($3.51), estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen: No entrance fee, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking to explore off the beaten path attractions, visit the colorful Zelyony Bazaar, also known as the Green Market. It's a vibrant market where you can discover traditional Kazakh food, spices, and local products. Another hidden gem is the First President's Park, a beautiful park with sculptures, fountains, and manicured gardens. Locals love to spend time here relaxing with their families or enjoying a picnic. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Kazakh cuisine, such as beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kurt (dried salty cheese balls), at local restaurants and cafes.