Morning: Arrive in Almaty and start your trip by exploring the city's vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan's rich history and culture. Take a leisurely walk through Panfilov Park, home to the Zenkov Cathedral, a beautiful wooden Orthodox church. In the afternoon, head to the Medeu Skating Rink, the highest altitude ice skating rink in the world, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Central State Museum: Cost estimate: 500 KZT ($1.17), Time spent: 2 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe de Paris. This charming French-style cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 KZT per person.
For lunch, try Navat Restaurant. This traditional Kazakh restaurant serves authentic Kazakh cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy dishes like beshbarmak and kuyrdak. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 KZT per person.
For dinner, visit Mamamia Pizza. This popular pizza place offers a wide selection of mouthwatering pizzas with fresh toppings. They also have salads and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 2500 KZT per person.
Saturday, October 14: Almaty Explorations
Morning: Start your day by visiting the Kok-Tobe Hill, accessible by a cable car ride offering panoramic views of Almaty. Explore the Kok-Tobe Park, home to the famous "Love Lock" sculpture and the Almaty TV Tower. In the afternoon, take a trip to Big Almaty Lake, a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Enjoy a picnic by the lake and soak in the tranquility.
Big Almaty Lake: Cost estimate: 5,000 KZT ($11.72) for transportation, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Saski, a charming and cozy café known for its delicious pastries and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 KZT per person.
For lunch, try Jelsomino, a popular restaurant offering a variety of Kazakh, European, and Asian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 KZT per person.
For dinner, visit Navat, a traditional Kazakh restaurant offering an authentic dining experience with a menu featuring regional specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 5000 KZT per person.
Sunday, October 15: Almaty to Shymkent
Morning: Take a domestic flight from Almaty to Shymkent. Upon arrival, visit the Shymkent Park named after Abay, a beautiful green space perfect for a morning stroll. Explore the Old Town area, with its historical buildings and monuments. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Shymkent Central Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods.
Domestic Flight: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 1.5 hours
Shymkent Park named after Abay: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Shymkent Central Market: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Yummy Bites Cafe: A cozy cafe located near Shymkent Park, offering a delicious selection of breakfast items including pastries, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 800 tenge per person.
Biryani House: A popular restaurant in the Old Town area, serving flavorful and aromatic Indian biryanis for lunch. With a diverse menu and friendly atmosphere, it's a must-visit for those craving authentic Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 tenge per person.
Sultan's Grill: Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Sultan's Grill, known for its appetizing kebabs, grilled meats, and traditional Kazakh dishes. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 3500 tenge per person.
Monday, October 16: Shymkent Cultural Experience
Morning: Visit the Shymkent Regional History Museum to delve into the region's history and heritage. Explore the Zhety Kazyna Ethno-Botanical Garden, showcasing the diverse flora of Kazakhstan. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Shymkent Regional History Museum: Cost estimate: 500 KZT ($1.17), Time spent: 2 hours
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve: Cost estimate: 5,000 KZT ($11.72) for transportation, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Sweet & Salt for a delightful start to the day. They offer a range of delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 KZT per person.
For lunch, try the local favorite restaurant Uzgen Baursak. They serve traditional Kazakh cuisine with a variety of meat and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 KZT per person.
For dinner, dine at the elegant Rakhat Palace Restaurant. Indulge in their fine dining menu featuring a fusion of Kazakh and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 8000 KZT per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Shymkent Exploration
Morning: Take a trip to the Turkestan city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Explore the nearby Hazret Sultan Mosque, the largest mosque in Kazakhstan. In the afternoon, visit the Shymkent Zoo, home to a variety of local and exotic animals.
Turkestan City: Cost estimate: 5,000 KZT ($11.72) for transportation, Time spent: 3-4 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Sadu, located near the city center. They offer a selection of traditional Kazakh dishes as well as international breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 KZT per person.
For lunch, try Alasha, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Uzbek cuisine. They serve a variety of kebabs, pilaf, and other Central Asian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 3000 KZT per person.
For dinner, dine at Safron, an upscale restaurant offering a fusion of Kazakh and European cuisine. They are known for their warm ambiance and innovative dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 6000 KZT per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Departure from Shymkent
Morning: If time allows, visit the Shymkent Circus, known for its entertaining performances. Alternatively, explore the Mega Center shopping mall for some last-minute souvenirs. In the afternoon, depart from Shymkent and head back home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Almaty and Shymkent.
Mega Center shopping mall: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Room, located near Shymkent Circus. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 KZT per person.
For lunch, head to Beshbarmak House, a popular restaurant in Shymkent known for its traditional Kazakh cuisine. Try their signature dish, beshbarmak, a hearty meat and pasta dish. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 KZT per person.
End your day with a dinner at Икра (Ikra) Restaurant, situated in the Mega Center shopping mall. Enjoy a wide range of seafood dishes including caviar, sushi, and grilled fish. Average cost for a meal is about 5000 KZT per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Almaty, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan." Its unique rock formations and breathtaking views are worth the day trip. In Shymkent, be sure to explore the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, one of the oldest and most diverse nature reserves in Central Asia, offering incredible hiking opportunities and a chance to spot rare wildlife.