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Almaty 5-Day Adventure Itinerary

Viewed by 365 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Kok-Tobe Hill

Start your day with panoramic views of Almaty from Kok-Tobe Hill, accessible by a cable car ride.
Take a taxi or public bus to the base station of the cable car. The ride to the top takes about 5-10 minutes.
1000 KZT, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan at the Central State Museum.
Take a taxi or walk to the museum located in the city center.
500 KZT, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Navat Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine at Navat Restaurant, known for its delicious dishes and cozy ambiance.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
2000 KZT, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Green Bazaar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Green Bazaar, where you can shop for local crafts and fresh produce.
Walk from the restaurant to the bazaar.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Gakku Restaurant

Indulge in a fusion of Kazakh and international flavors at Gakku Restaurant, a popular dining spot in Almaty.
Take a taxi to the restaurant for dinner.
3000 KZT, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Almaty

Day 2: Charyn Canyon Day Trip

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Depart for Charyn Canyon

Embark on a scenic road trip to Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder known for its dramatic rock formations.
Drive from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, approximately 3-4 hours.
Cost of gas, Full day

12:00 PM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Hike through the canyon, marveling at the unique shapes carved by the Charyn River over millions of years.
Follow the marked trails for hiking within the canyon.
500 KZT entrance fee, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning landscapes of Charyn Canyon.
Find a scenic spot for your picnic within the canyon.
Prepared meal or packed lunch, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty with unforgettable memories of Charyn Canyon.
Drive back to Almaty, allowing 3-4 hours for the return journey.
Cost of gas, Evening
Find Hotels in Charyn Canyon

Day 3: Big Almaty Lake

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Travel to Big Almaty Lake

Embark on a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning alpine reservoir surrounded by mountains.
Drive from Almaty to Big Almaty Lake, approximately 1-2 hours.
Cost of gas, Half day

11:00 AM

Hiking and Photography

Explore the area around the lake, hike up to viewpoints, and capture breathtaking photos of the turquoise waters.
Follow the designated trails for hiking and viewpoints.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Find a scenic spot near the lake for your picnic.
Prepared meal or packed lunch, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Drive back to Almaty, reminiscing about the beauty of Big Almaty Lake.
Return journey to Almaty takes approximately 1-2 hours.
Cost of gas, Afternoon
Find Hotels in Almaty

Day 4: Turgen Waterfall Excursion

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Depart for Turgen Waterfall

Start your day early and journey to Turgen Waterfall, a picturesque cascade nestled in the Turgen Gorge.
Drive from Almaty to Turgen Waterfall, around 2 hours.
Cost of gas, Full day

11:00 AM

Hike to the Waterfall

Embark on a moderate hike through the lush forest to reach the stunning Turgen Waterfall.
Follow the marked trail leading to the waterfall.
500 KZT entrance fee, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Savor a hearty meal at a local eatery near the waterfall, tasting traditional Kazakh dishes.
Enjoy a meal at one of the eateries in the vicinity of the waterfall.
1500 KZT, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Turgen Gorge

Take a leisurely stroll through the Turgen Gorge, appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.
Walk or drive to explore different parts of the gorge.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty, reflecting on the serenity of Turgen Waterfall and the gorge.
Drive back to the city, approximately 2 hours.
Cost of gas, Evening
Find Hotels in Almaty

Day 5: Shymbulak Ski Resort

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Travel to Shymbulak Ski Resort

Embark on a scenic drive to Shymbulak Ski Resort, a popular winter sports destination with breathtaking mountain views.
Drive from Almaty to Shymbulak Ski Resort, around 1 hour.
Cost of gas, Full day

10:00 AM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Hit the slopes and enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the fresh mountain air of Shymbulak.
Rent equipment at the resort and take the ski lifts to access the slopes.
Equipment rental fees apply, Half day

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Summit Restaurant

Savor a delicious meal with panoramic views at the Summit Restaurant located atop the ski resort.
Dine at the restaurant overlooking the stunning mountain vistas.
2000 KZT, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Snowshoeing or Tubing

Try snowshoeing or tubing for a fun and exciting winter experience at Shymbulak.
Rent snowshoes or tubes at the resort and enjoy these activities in designated areas.
Rental fees apply, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Après-Ski Relaxation

Wind down after a day of winter activities with hot drinks and relaxation at the resort's cozy lounge.
Head to the lounge area for some post-ski relaxation.
Cost of drinks, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Drive back to Almaty, reminiscing about your day of adventure at Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Return journey to Almaty takes around 1 hour.
Cost of gas, Evening
Find Hotels in Almaty
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More About almaty

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Almaty trip (17–24 Nov 2025)
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