7-Day Kazakhstan Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration in Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Navat

Start your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh breakfast at Navat, known for its fresh pastries and local jams.
Navat is located in the city center, easily accessible from most hotels in Almaty.
15 USD, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Panfilov Park

Take a leisurely stroll in Panfilov Park, home to the Zenkov Cathedral - a beautiful wooden structure and a symbol of Almaty's history.
Panfilov Park is a short walk or taxi ride from Navat.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Shashlik

Enjoy a traditional Kazakh meal of shashlik (grilled skewered meat) at a local eatery for an authentic culinary experience.
Shashlik restaurants are scattered around Almaty, offering a variety of options.
10 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Kok Tobe Hill

Take a cable car up Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views of the city and visit the observation deck and the famous Almaty TV Tower.
You can reach the cable car station by taxi or public transport from the city center.
5 USD (cable car ride), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Nomad

Indulge in a fusion of Kazakh and international cuisine at The Nomad while enjoying the lively atmosphere and live music.
The Nomad is located in the upscale district of Almaty, easily reachable by taxi.
25 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature Exploration in Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Doppa

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Doppa, offering a mix of Kazakh and international dishes to fuel your day.
Doppa is a cozy cafe located near the Almaty Central Park.
20 USD, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Hike in the Tian Shan Mountains

Embark on a scenic hike in the nearby Tian Shan Mountains, known for their stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
You can take a taxi or join a guided tour to the trailhead in the mountains.
30 USD (guided tour), 4 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Gakku

Relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Gakku, a charming restaurant offering traditional Kazakh dishes with a modern twist.
Gakku is located in the foothills of the mountains, providing a scenic dining experience.
15 USD, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Big Almaty Lake

Take a short drive to Big Almaty Lake, a picturesque alpine reservoir surrounded by mountains, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.
You can hire a taxi or join a group tour to reach Big Almaty Lake from the city center.
20 USD (round trip taxi), 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Belvedere

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Belvedere, a restaurant overlooking the city with a diverse menu of international and local delicacies.
Belvedere is perched on a hillside, offering stunning views of Almaty accessible by taxi.
30 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Charyn Canyon Day Trip

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Almaty before embarking on a day trip to Charyn Canyon for a breathtaking natural wonder.
You can book a guided tour or rent a car for a self-drive adventure to Charyn Canyon, approximately 3 hours from Almaty.
Included in tour cost, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Discover the unique rock formations and deep gorges of Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the Grand Canyon's little brother.
Follow the marked trails within the canyon for the best views and photo opportunities.
5 USD (entrance fee), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural scenery of Charyn Canyon, surrounded by the beauty of the rugged landscape.
Pack a lunch or inquire with your tour guide for local dining options in the area.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Hike to the Valley of Castles

Embark on a hike to the Valley of Castles within Charyn Canyon, a section known for its towering rock formations resembling medieval fortresses.
Follow the designated trails and signs to reach this unique geological site.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty after a day of exploration at Charyn Canyon, enjoying the scenic drive back to the city.
Retrace your route by car or tour transportation, taking approximately 3 hours.
Included in tour cost, 3 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Relaxation at Kolsai Lakes

Kolsai Lakes National Park, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Lakeside Lodge

Start your day with a tranquil breakfast overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Kolsai Lakes, surrounded by the serene beauty of the national park.
Most accommodations in Kolsai Lakes offer breakfast with panoramic views of the lakes and mountains.
Included in accommodation cost, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Kayaking on Kolsai Lake

Embark on a peaceful kayaking adventure on the pristine waters of Kolsai Lake, surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks.
Rent a kayak from the lakeside rental facilities for a serene exploration of the lake.
20 USD, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lakeside Picnic

Enjoy a scenic lakeside picnic with local delicacies, taking in the fresh mountain air and stunning natural surroundings.
Pack a picnic or ask your accommodation for a prepared meal to enjoy by the lake.
15 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Hike to Upper Kolsai Lake

Embark on a rewarding hike to Upper Kolsai Lake, a higher-altitude gem offering panoramic views and a chance to spot wildlife.
Follow the marked trails and signs leading to Upper Kolsai Lake from the base camp.
Free, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Lakeside Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner at a lakeside restaurant, indulging in fresh local produce and traditional Kazakh dishes as the sun sets over the mountains.
Most accommodations in Kolsai Lakes offer on-site dining options with scenic views.
25 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Exploring Kolsai Lakes

Kolsai Lakes National Park, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Chalet Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Chalet Cafe, a cozy spot offering freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries amidst the mountain backdrop.
Chalet Cafe is a popular breakfast spot near the lakeside accommodations.
15 USD, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Biking around Kolsai Lakes

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails around Kolsai Lakes, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the national park at your own pace.
Bike rentals are available at various lodges and rental shops around the lakes.
10 USD, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Lakeside Cafe

Relish a lakeside lunch at a cozy cafe, sampling local specialties and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Kolsai Lakes.
Choose from the lakeside cafes offering a variety of dishes with a view.
20 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Photography at Lower Kolsai Lake

Capture the beauty of Lower Kolsai Lake through your lens, with its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains creating stunning photo opportunities.
Take a short walk or drive to Lower Kolsai Lake for photography sessions.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Sunset Terrace

Enjoy a scenic dinner at Sunset Terrace, a restaurant with panoramic views of the lakes and mountains, offering a perfect end to your day at Kolsai Lakes.
Sunset Terrace is located at one of the lodges near the lakes, providing a picturesque dining setting.
30 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Exploration in Nur-Sultan

Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Altyn Orda

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Altyn Orda, a local favorite known for its wide selection of traditional Kazakh dishes and pastries.
Altyn Orda is located in the city center of Nur-Sultan, easily accessible from most hotels.
15 USD, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Baiterek Tower

Head to Baiterek Tower, an iconic symbol of Nur-Sultan, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and a chance to see the golden handprint of the President.
Baiterek Tower is located within walking distance from Altyn Orda, providing a great starting point for your city exploration.
10 USD (entrance fee), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Khan Shatyr

Enjoy a luxurious lunch at Khan Shatyr, a giant tent-like structure housing a variety of restaurants and cafes offering international cuisine.
Khan Shatyr is a short walk from Baiterek Tower, providing a unique dining experience in Nur-Sultan.
25 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Nur-Astana Mosque

Visit the stunning Nur-Astana Mosque, an architectural marvel with intricate designs and a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer.
The mosque is located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or public transport.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit National Museum of Kazakhstan

Immerse yourself in Kazakh history and culture at the National Museum of Kazakhstan, featuring exhibits on the country's heritage, art, and traditions.
The museum is a short distance from the mosque, offering a deeper insight into the rich tapestry of Kazakhstan.
5 USD (entrance fee), 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Sultanahmet

End your day with a flavorful dinner at Sultanahmet, a Turkish restaurant offering a blend of Middle Eastern and Central Asian cuisines in a cozy setting.
Sultanahmet is located in the city center, providing a delightful dining experience to wrap up your cultural exploration.
20 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Modern City Life in Nur-Sultan

Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Sky Lounge

Start your day with a lavish breakfast at Sky Lounge, an elevated restaurant with panoramic views of Nur-Sultan's modern skyline and the Ishim River.
Sky Lounge is located in one of the city's skyscrapers, offering a unique dining experience to kick off your day.
20 USD, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Astana Opera

Enjoy a morning of culture at Astana Opera, a grand theater showcasing ballet, opera, and classical music performances in a stunning architectural setting.
Astana Opera is a short walk or taxi ride from Sky Lounge, providing a cultural experience in Nur-Sultan.
20 USD (ticket), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Eurasia Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at Eurasia Restaurant, offering a fusion of European and Central Asian cuisines with a modern twist in a stylish ambiance.
Eurasia Restaurant is located in the city center, providing a culinary journey through diverse flavors.
30 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shop at Khan Shatyr Mall

Indulge in some retail therapy at Khan Shatyr Mall, a unique shopping center housed in a futuristic tent structure with a range of international brands and local boutiques.
Khan Shatyr Mall is conveniently located near Eurasia Restaurant, offering a variety of shopping options.
Depends on shopping, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Gakku Fusion

Experience a blend of Kazakh and international flavors at Gakku Fusion, a trendy restaurant known for its innovative dishes and stylish decor.
Gakku Fusion is a short distance from Khan Shatyr Mall, providing a modern dining experience in Nur-Sultan.
35 USD, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability