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 68 travelers

A Week in Kazakhstan: Exploring the Land of Adventure

Monday, November 6: Almaty City Tour

Morning: Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Almaty. Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the beautiful Panfilov Park and admire the Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden masterpiece. In the evening, head to the Kok-Tobe Hill for breathtaking views of the city and enjoy a ride on the famous Almaty Cable Car.

  • Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: Entrance fee: $5. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: Free entry. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Kok-Tobe Hill: Cable Car ride: $5. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Tuesday, November 7: Charyn Canyon Excursion

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan." Explore the stunning rock formations, hike through the gorge, and enjoy a picnic in the picturesque landscape. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the Kolsai Lakes National Park and hike around the serene Kolsai Lakes. End the day with a peaceful overnight stay in a yurt, immersing yourself in the traditional Kazakh lifestyle.

  • Charyn Canyon Excursion: Day tour price: $100 per person. Time spent: Full day.
  • Kolsai Lakes National Park: Entrance fee: $10 per person. Time spent: Half day.
  • Yurt stay: Overnight price: $50 per person. Time spent: Overnight.
Wednesday, November 8: Almaty Cuisine Exploration

Morning: Dive into the local food scene by starting your day with a hearty Kazakh breakfast at a traditional eatery. Sample signature dishes such as beshbarmak and kazy while enjoying the warm hospitality. In the afternoon, visit the Green Bazaar, brimming with fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks. Join a culinary class to learn how to prepare Kazakh dishes. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at one of Almaty's top-rated restaurants.

  • Kazakh breakfast: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Green Bazaar: Free entry. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Culinary class: Price: $50 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Dinner at a top-rated restaurant: Cost estimate: $40. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Thursday, November 9: Medeo Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Medeo Skating Rink, set against the backdrop of the majestic Tian Shan Mountains. Take a leisurely skate or simply admire the breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort and have an exhilarating time on the slopes. End your day with a hot cup of tea at one of the cozy mountain cafes.

  • Medeo Skating Rink: Entrance fee: $5. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Shymbulak Ski Resort: Ski pass: $30 per person. Time spent: Half day.
Friday, November 10: Nomad's Land - Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes

Morning: Embark on an adventure to discover the enchanting Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. Take a picturesque hike to the first Kolsai Lake, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the stunning Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest. Explore the otherworldly beauty and enjoy a boat ride on the pristine turquoise waters.

  • Nomad's Land tour to Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes: Day tour price: $120 per person. Time spent: Full day.
Saturday, November 11: Baikonur Cosmodrome Tour

Morning: Embark on a truly unique experience by visiting the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest operational space launch facility. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of space exploration and witness the launch pad used for manned space missions. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the Space Museum to gain a deeper understanding of intergalactic journeys and space technology.

  • Baikonur Cosmodrome Tour: Day tour price: $150 per person. Time spent: Full day.
  • Space Museum: Entrance fee: $5. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Sunday, November 12: Almaty Botanical Garden and Big Almaty Lake

Morning: Enjoy a peaceful morning exploring the Almaty Botanical Garden, home to a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil gardens and relax in the serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Big Almaty Lake, nestled in the mountains, and marvel at the crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. End your trip with a beautiful natural spectacle.

  • Almaty Botanical Garden: Entrance fee: $3. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Big Almaty Lake: Transportation cost: $20. Time spent: Half day.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventurous travelers seeking off the beaten path attractions, don't miss the charm of the Altyn-Emel National Park, home to unique rock formations and the world's largest sand dune, Singing Dune. Exploring the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Kazakhstan's oldest protected area, offers the chance to spot rare wildlife and experience untouched natural beauty. For a taste of traditional Kazakh life, consider a homestay in one of the charming villages of the Zhetysu region.

For further assistance with hotel and flight bookings, check here.

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