Exploring Almaty in 5 Days

Day 1: Central Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Tselinnik

Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Cafe Tselinnik, known for its delicious pastries and local dishes.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Panfilov Park

Take a leisurely stroll in Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral and a monument honoring the Panfilov Heroes.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gosti Cafe

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Gosti Cafe, offering a mix of Kazakh and international cuisine in a cozy setting.
$15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Green Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Green Bazaar, where you can shop for local produce, spices, and souvenirs.
$20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Zheti Qazyna

Indulge in a dinner at Zheti Qazyna, known for its traditional Kazakh dishes and cozy ambiance.
$25, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Medeu and Shymbulak

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ritz-Carlton Almaty

Start your day with a luxurious breakfast at Hotel Ritz-Carlton Almaty, offering stunning views of the city.
$20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Medeu Skating Rink

Explore the famous Medeu Skating Rink, known for being one of the highest-altitude rinks in the world.
$5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shymbulak Ski Resort

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Shymbulak Ski Resort, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Almaty.
$30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Skiing or Hiking at Shymbulak

Spend the afternoon skiing or hiking at Shymbulak, depending on the season, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
$40, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Vero

End your day with a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vero, offering a mix of European and Kazakh cuisine.
$35, 2 hours

Day 3: Big Almaty Lake

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Pick up Rental Car

Start your day by picking up a rental car to drive to Big Almaty Lake, as public transportation is limited in this area.
$50, Full day

10:00AM

Scenic Drive to Big Almaty Lake

Enjoy the picturesque drive through the mountains to reach the stunning Big Almaty Lake, known for its turquoise waters.
Gasoline Cost, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic by the Lake

Have a picnic by the tranquil waters of Big Almaty Lake, surrounded by the majestic mountains.
$20, 2 hours

3:00PM

Hiking around the Lake

Embark on a scenic hike around the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Almaty

Drive back to Almaty and relax after a day of nature exploration.
Gasoline Cost, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mamamia Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Italian dinner at Mamamia Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic cuisine.
$25, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Charyn Canyon

Almaty, Kazakhstan

7:00AM

Depart for Charyn Canyon

Start your day early and depart for the stunning Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder known for its rock formations.
$100 (guided tour), Full day

10:00AM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Spend the day exploring the unique rock formations of Charyn Canyon and marvel at the beauty of this geological site.
Entrance Fee: $5, 4 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch at the Canyon

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery of Charyn Canyon, surrounded by the natural beauty.
$15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hike or Horseback Riding

Choose to hike or opt for a horseback riding experience to further explore the canyon's hidden gems.
$30, 2 hours

6:30PM

Drive back to Almaty

Head back to Almaty and relax after an adventurous day at Charyn Canyon.
$50 (transportation), 3 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Arba Wine Bar

End your day with a relaxing dinner at Arba Wine Bar, offering a selection of local and international wines.
$30, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Kok Tobe Hill and Almaty City Park

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Sky Restaurant

Start your day with a scenic breakfast at Sky Restaurant on top of Kok Tobe Hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
$15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Kok Tobe Hill

Take a leisurely stroll around Kok Tobe Hill, visit the observation deck, and enjoy the street performances.
$5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Alasha Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kazakh lunch at Alasha Restaurant, known for its authentic cuisine and cozy ambiance.
$20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Almaty City Park

Explore the lush greenery of Almaty City Park, take a boat ride on the lake, and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Belvedere Grill Room

Indulge in a dinner at Belvedere Grill Room, offering a mix of European and Asian fusion cuisine with a view of the city lights.
$40, 2 hours