Discovering Kazakhstan in 7 Days

Day 1: City Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Navat

Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Navat, known for its delicious local dishes.
Navat is located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or walking.
3500 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Panfilov Park

Explore the historic Panfilov Park, home to the Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory.
Panfilov Park is a short walk from Navat, allowing you to enjoy the city's ambiance.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Uzbekistan

Indulge in Uzbek cuisine at Cafe Uzbekistan, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Cafe Uzbekistan is a quick taxi ride from Panfilov Park.
5000 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kok Tobe Hill

Take a cable car to Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views of Almaty and enjoy the attractions at the hilltop park.
A short taxi ride from Cafe Uzbekistan will take you to the cable car station.
2000 KZT (cable car round trip), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kishlak Restaurant

Savor traditional Kazakh cuisine at Kishlak Restaurant while enjoying live music and cultural performances.
Kishlak Restaurant is a 20-minute taxi ride from Kok Tobe Hill.
8000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 2: Natural Wonders

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Canyon Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Canyon Cafe before heading to Charyn Canyon.
Canyon Cafe is a local eatery near the entrance to Charyn Canyon.
2500 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations of Charyn Canyon through a guided tour or self-exploration.
Charyn Canyon is a 2-hour drive from Almaty, best reached by car or tour.
1000 KZT (entrance fee), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Canyon View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with a view at the Canyon View Restaurant overlooking the canyon's beauty.
The restaurant is located within Charyn Canyon park, offering convenience after your exploration.
4000 KZT, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hike to the Valley of Castles

Embark on a scenic hike to the Valley of Castles within Charyn Canyon for more stunning natural wonders.
Follow the marked trails from the main park area to reach the Valley of Castles.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Camping at Charyn Canyon

Experience a unique dinner under the stars at a campsite in Charyn Canyon, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
Set up camp at designated areas within the park for an unforgettable evening.
2000 KZT (camping fee), Overnight
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Day 3: Lake Serenity

Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lakeside Cafe

Enjoy breakfast with a view at a local cafe by the lakeside before exploring the Kolsai Lakes.
Lakeside Cafe is located near the entrance to Kolsai Lakes National Park.
3000 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike around Kolsai Lake

Embark on a scenic hike around the first Kolsai Lake, surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters.
Trails around the lake offer picturesque views and varying difficulty levels for hikers.
500 KZT (entrance fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch by the Lake

Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch by the tranquil waters of Kolsai Lake, taking in the serenity of the surroundings.
Find a scenic spot along the lake's shore to unwind and have your meal.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kaindy Lake

Explore the mystical sunken forest of Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged trees and emerald waters.
Kaindy Lake is a short drive from Kolsai Lakes, accessible by car or tour.
500 KZT (entrance fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty to rest and prepare for the next leg of your Kazakh adventure.
Take a car or arrange for transportation back to Almaty, approximately a 4-hour journey.
Varies, 4 hours
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Day 4: Desert Oasis

Altyn Emel National Park, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Desert Diner

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before venturing into Altyn Emel National Park.
Desert Diner is a popular breakfast spot near the park entrance.
2500 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Singing Dune

Discover the unique phenomenon of the Singing Dune, a massive sand dune that produces a mystical sound when the wind blows.
The Singing Dune is a short drive from the park entrance, accessible by car or guided tour.
500 KZT (entrance fee), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Oasis Cafe

Enjoy a meal at the Oasis Cafe amidst the desert landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park.
Oasis Cafe offers a relaxing dining experience with views of the surrounding nature.
3500 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Aktau Mountains

Explore the colorful Aktau Mountains, known for their unique geological formations and vibrant hues.
The Aktau Mountains are a short drive from the Singing Dune, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes in the park.
500 KZT (entrance fee), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Stargazing

Enjoy a delightful dinner under the stars in the peaceful surroundings of Altyn Emel National Park, ideal for stargazing.
Set up a cozy dinner setup at your accommodation or a designated stargazing spot within the park.
2000 KZT (camping fee), Overnight
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Day 5: Historical Exploration

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Heritage Cafe

Start your day with a breakfast at Heritage Cafe before delving into the historical wonders of Turkestan.
Heritage Cafe is a cozy eatery in Turkestan town, offering local delicacies.
2000 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

Explore the architectural marvel of the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The mausoleum is a short walk from Heritage Cafe, allowing you to appreciate its beauty and historical significance.
1000 KZT (entrance fee), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Silk Road Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious meal at the Silk Road Restaurant, inspired by the ancient trade route's culinary traditions.
Silk Road Restaurant is a popular dining spot near the mausoleum, offering a blend of flavors from the region.
4000 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Turkestan Archaeological Site

Discover the remnants of ancient civilizations at the Turkestan Archaeological Site, showcasing the region's rich history.
The archaeological site is a short drive from the town center, easily accessible by car or taxi.
500 KZT (entrance fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Caravanserai

Enjoy a cultural dining experience at Caravanserai, a historic inn serving traditional Kazakh cuisine and offering a glimpse into the past.
Caravanserai is a charming restaurant in Turkestan, perfect for an evening immersed in local flavors.
6000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Delights

Shymkent, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Spice Bazaar

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar to sample local spices and ingredients before exploring Shymkent.
Spice Bazaar is a bustling market in Shymkent, offering a sensory experience of Kazakh flavors.
1000 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Abay Park

Stroll through Abay Park, a green oasis in Shymkent named after the renowned Kazakh poet and philosopher Abay Kunanbayev.
Abay Park is a short walk from the Spice Bazaar, providing a peaceful escape in the city.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dastarkhan

Dine at Dastarkhan, a local restaurant offering a variety of Kazakh and international dishes in a cozy setting.
Dastarkhan is a popular lunch spot in Shymkent, known for its diverse menu and warm ambiance.
3500 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Regional History Museum

Explore the exhibits at the Regional History Museum to learn about Shymkent's cultural heritage and historical evolution.
The museum is located in the city center, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
800 KZT, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Khan's Tent

Experience a traditional Kazakh dinner at Khan's Tent, an immersive dining venue offering authentic cuisine and live performances.
Khan's Tent is a unique dining experience in Shymkent, transporting you to the nomadic heritage of Kazakhstan.
7000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 7: Capital Exploration

Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Skyline Cafe

Enjoy breakfast with a view at Skyline Cafe, overlooking the modern skyline of Nur-Sultan.
Skyline Cafe offers a panoramic view of the city, providing a perfect start to your day in the capital.
3000 KZT, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Nur-Astana Mosque

Explore the grand Nur-Astana Mosque, a symbol of religious diversity and architectural beauty in Nur-Sultan.
The mosque is a short drive from Skyline Cafe, showcasing stunning Islamic design elements.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Khan Shatyr

Indulge in a meal at Khan Shatyr, a unique shopping and entertainment center resembling a giant tent structure.
Khan Shatyr is a short walk from the mosque, offering a variety of dining options in a futuristic setting.
4500 KZT, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Bayterek Tower

Ascend the iconic Bayterek Tower for panoramic views of Nur-Sultan and the Ishim River, symbolizing the Kazakh legend of the Tree of Life.
Bayterek Tower is a must-visit landmark in the city, providing a bird's eye view of Nur-Sultan's urban landscape.
1500 KZT, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Khan Shatyr

Browse through the shops and boutiques at Khan Shatyr for souvenirs and unique finds before dinner.
Khan Shatyr offers a shopping experience like no other, with a mix of international and local brands.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Stolichnye Ryady

Conclude your Kazakh adventure with a farewell dinner at Stolichnye Ryady, a fine dining restaurant offering a blend of international and Kazakh cuisine.
Stolichnye Ryady is located in the city center, providing a sophisticated dining experience to end your trip on a high note.
10000 KZT, 2 hours
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