Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 53 travelers

Exploring the Adventurous Side of Kazakhstan

Saturday December 23: Arrival in Almaty

Welcome to Kazakhstan! Start your adventure in Almaty, the country's largest city. In the morning, explore the bustling Green Bazaar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local produce. In the afternoon, visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan's rich history and culture. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through Panfilov Park, where you can admire the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral.

  • Green Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Central State Museum: Cost Estimate - $3-5, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Panfilov Park: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday December 24: Charyn Canyon

Embark on an exciting day trip to Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder located about 200 kilometers from Almaty. Start your morning with a scenic drive to the canyon, where you can marvel at the stunning rock formations and hike along the trails. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic surrounded by the breathtaking views. As the evening approaches, head back to Almaty and relax at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Kazakh cuisine.

  • Charyn Canyon: Cost Estimate - $30-50 (including transportation), Time Spent - Full day
Monday December 25: Shymbulak Ski Resort

Experience the thrill of winter sports at Shymbulak Ski Resort. Spend your morning skiing or snowboarding down the slopes of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains. In the afternoon, take a break and enjoy a warm beverage at one of the resort's cozy cafés. As the evening arrives, treat yourself to a relaxing session at a local spa.

  • Shymbulak Ski Resort: Cost Estimate - $50-100 (including equipment rental), Time Spent - Full day
Tuesday December 26: Almaty National Park

Explore the natural beauty of Almaty National Park. Start your morning with a hike through the scenic trails, surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Big Almaty Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful picnic while watching the sunset over the mountains.

  • Almaty National Park: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Full day
Wednesday December 27: Baikonur Cosmodrome

Embark on a thrilling adventure to Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest operational space launch facility. In the morning, take a guided tour of the complex, learning about the history of space exploration. In the afternoon, witness a rocket launch if the schedule permits. As the evening approaches, return to Almaty and unwind at a local café.

  • Baikonur Cosmodrome: Cost Estimate - $100-150 (including transportation), Time Spent - Full day
Thursday December 28: Kolsai Lakes

Discover the serene beauty of the Kolsai Lakes. Start your morning with a scenic drive to the first lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful hike around its shores. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the second and third lakes, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains. As the evening sets in, savor a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local guesthouse.

  • Kolsai Lakes: Cost Estimate - $50-100 (including transportation), Time Spent - Full day
Friday December 29: Astana City Tour

Experience the modern side of Kazakhstan with a visit to Astana, the capital city. In the morning, explore the futuristic architecture of Nur-Astana Mosque and Bayterek Tower. In the afternoon, visit the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a unique pyramid-shaped building. As the evening arrives, stroll along the Ishim River embankment and enjoy the beautifully illuminated city skyline.

  • Nur-Astana Mosque: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Bayterek Tower: Cost Estimate - $5-10, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: Cost Estimate - $5-10, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Altyn-Emel National Park, home to the unique singing sand dune known as "Singing Barkhan." Another off the beaten path destination is the Karkaraly National Park, offering scenic hiking trails and picturesque lakes. Locals also love visiting the Turgen Gorge, where you can find stunning waterfalls and enjoy outdoor activities such as horseback riding and camping.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version