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Exploring Almaty in 5 Days

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Central Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de la Paix

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe de la Paix, known for its great coffee and pastries.
Cafe de la Paix is located in the city center, easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from most hotels.
1500 KZT, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

Take a leisurely stroll in Panfilov Park and visit the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural gem of the city.
Panfilov Park is a short walk from Cafe de la Paix.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Navat Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kazakh meal at Navat Restaurant, known for its authentic cuisine and cozy ambiance.
Navat Restaurant is a 15-minute drive from Panfilov Park.
3000 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

Immerse yourself in Kazakh history and culture at the Central State Museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts.
The museum is located within walking distance from Navat Restaurant.
800 KZT, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Belvedere Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Belvedere Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the city and delicious international cuisine.
Belvedere Restaurant is a short taxi ride from the museum.
5000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 2: Medeu and Shymbulak

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a day trip to Medeu and Shymbulak.
Prepare for a day trip by arranging transportation to Medeu and Shymbulak.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Medeu Skating Rink

Visit the famous Medeu Skating Rink, known as the highest-altitude rink in the world, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Medeu Skating Rink is a 30-minute drive from central Almaty.
2000 KZT, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shymbulak Ski Resort

Head to Shymbulak Ski Resort for a hearty lunch amidst the beautiful Tien Shan mountains.
Shymbulak Ski Resort is a short drive from Medeu Skating Rink.
3500 KZT, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Skiing or Cable Car Ride at Shymbulak

Experience skiing or take a cable car ride at Shymbulak Ski Resort, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
Enjoy skiing or the cable car at Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Varies, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shymbulak Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Shymbulak, savoring local and international dishes with a mountain backdrop.
Choose a restaurant within Shymbulak Ski Resort for dinner.
4000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 3: Big Almaty Lake

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a day trip to Big Almaty Lake.
Prepare for a day trip by arranging transportation to Big Almaty Lake.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Big Almaty Lake

Embark on a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise alpine lake surrounded by mountains.
Take a private car or join a tour for the approximately 1-hour drive from central Almaty.
Varies, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Big Almaty Lake

Spend time by the lake, take in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy a peaceful nature walk around the area.
Enjoy the serenity of Big Almaty Lake and the surrounding trails.
500 KZT entrance fee, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Big Almaty Lake

Have a relaxing picnic by the lake, savoring local snacks and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Find a scenic spot around Big Almaty Lake for a leisurely picnic.
1000 KZT, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike to Waterfall or Observatory

Embark on a hike to a nearby waterfall or visit the Almaty Observatory for more stunning views of the area.
Follow the marked trails for the waterfall hike or drive to the Almaty Observatory.
Free or 1000 KZT for Observatory, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner in Almaty City

Head back to Almaty city for dinner, choosing from a variety of local or international restaurants for a satisfying meal.
Drive back to Almaty city for dinner options.
2000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 4: Charyn Canyon

Almaty, Kazakhstan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and prepare for a day trip to Charyn Canyon.
Prepare for a day trip by arranging transportation to Charyn Canyon.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Charyn Canyon

Embark on a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder known for its red rock formations and stunning landscapes.
Take a private car or join a guided tour for the approximately 3-hour drive from Almaty.
Varies, 3 hours

12:00PM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Discover the beauty of Charyn Canyon, walk along the Valley of Castles, and marvel at the unique rock formations.
Follow the designated trails and viewpoints within Charyn Canyon.
500 KZT entrance fee, 2 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Charyn Canyon

Enjoy a picnic amidst the canyon's grandeur, taking in the natural beauty while having a relaxing meal.
Find a scenic spot within Charyn Canyon for a picturesque picnic.
1000 KZT, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Almaty

After a day of exploration, begin your journey back to Almaty, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Drive back to Almaty city from Charyn Canyon.
Varies, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gakku Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner at Gakku Restaurant in Almaty, known for its fusion cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
Head to Gakku Restaurant for a delightful dining experience.
4000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 5: Kok-Tobe Hill

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before heading to Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views of Almaty.
Prepare for a morning visit to Kok-Tobe Hill by arranging transportation.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Take the Kok-Tobe Cable Car

Hop on the Kok-Tobe Cable Car for a scenic ride to the top of the hill, offering breathtaking views of the city and mountains.
Access the Kok-Tobe Cable Car from the designated station.
2000 KZT, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Kok-Tobe Hill

Discover the attractions on Kok-Tobe Hill, including the famous
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