7-Day Itinerary in Kazakhistan

Start your Kazakhistan adventure on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Get ready to explore this beautiful country filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Check hotel and flight prices here.

Saturday, January 6: Nur-Sultan (Astana)

Begin your trip in the capital city, Nur-Sultan. In the morning, visit the iconic Bayterek Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Ishim River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Nur-Astana Mosque and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. In the evening, enjoy a delicious traditional Kazakh dinner at one of the local restaurants.

• Bayterek Tower: Estimated cost - 1000 KZT ($2.50), Time spent - 2 hours
• Nur-Astana Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: Estimated cost - 500 KZT ($1.25), Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, January 7: Almaty

Fly to Almaty, the cultural capital of Kazakhistan. Start the day by taking a cable car to Kok Tobe, a hill offering breathtaking city views. In the afternoon, visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakh history. For the evening, explore the vibrant Panfilov Park and the Zenkov Cathedral.

• Kok Tobe: Estimated cost - 2000 KZT ($5), Time spent - 3 hours
• Central State Museum: Estimated cost - 1000 KZT ($2.50), Time spent - 2 hours
• Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, January 8: Charyn Canyon

Embark on a day trip to the spectacular Charyn Canyon. Marvel at the unique rock formations and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural beauty. Take a hike through the canyon and capture memorable photos. In the evening, return to Almaty.

• Charyn Canyon entrance fee: Estimated cost - 1000 KZT ($2.50), Time spent - 6 hours

Tuesday, January 9: Shymkent

Fly to Shymkent, a city known for its history and culture. Start the day by exploring the Shymkent Regional Studies Museum and learn about the region's heritage. In the afternoon, visit the Park Abay, a beautiful green space with monuments and sculptures. Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner in the evening.

• Shymkent Regional Studies Museum: Estimated cost - 500 KZT ($1.25), Time spent - 2 hours
• Park Abay: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, January 10: Turkestan

Take a day trip to Turkestan, an ancient city with historical significance. Explore the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the rich architecture and spiritual ambiance. In the evening, return to Shymkent.

• Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: Estimated cost - 1000 KZT ($2.50), Time spent - 3 hours

Thursday, January 11: Aktau

Fly to Aktau, a coastal city overlooking the Caspian Sea. Start the day with a visit to the Karagiye Depression, a unique natural sight surrounded by breathtaking sandy landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic Bautino Bay and soaking up the sun on the beach. For the evening, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

• Karagiye Depression: Estimated cost - 2000 KZT ($5), Time spent - 4 hours
• Bautino Bay: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours

Friday, January 12: Aktau

Before departing Aktau, take a boat trip to the mysterious Boszhira Valley. Marvel at the lunar-like landscape and enjoy the serenity of this hidden gem. In the afternoon, explore the city's modern attractions, such as the Aktau City Park. Bid farewell to Kazakhistan in the evening as you depart for your next destination.

• Boszhira Valley boat trip: Estimated cost - 5000 KZT ($12.50), Time spent - 6 hours
• Aktau City Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One off the beaten path attraction in Kazakhistan is the Tamgaly Tas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. Another local favorite is the Big Almaty Lake, a turquoise-colored lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. These lesser-known attractions offer a unique glimpse into Kazakhistan's history and natural beauty.