Exploring Almaty in 5 Days

Day 1: Central Almaty Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Navat

Start your day with a delicious traditional Kazakh breakfast at Navat, known for its cozy ambiance and authentic cuisine.
Navat is located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or a short walk from most hotels.
2000 KZT, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

Explore the historic Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural gem with a unique wooden design.
Panfilov Park is a short walk from Navat, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city center.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Gosti

Indulge in a modern Kazakh dining experience at Gosti, offering a fusion of traditional flavors in a contemporary setting.
Gosti is located near Panfilov Park, making it a convenient choice for lunch.
4000 KZT, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore Green Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Green Bazaar, where you can shop for local souvenirs, fresh produce, and traditional crafts.
Green Bazaar is a short walk from Gosti, allowing you to wander through the bustling market streets.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Dinner at Belvedere

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Belvedere, known for its panoramic views of the city and exquisite European cuisine.
Belvedere is located in the city center, offering a perfect end to your day of exploration.
8000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 2: Medeu and Shymbulak Adventure

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Doppio Espresso

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Doppio Espresso, known for its delicious coffee and European pastries.
Doppio Espresso is located near Medeu, providing a convenient starting point for your day.
3000 KZT, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Medeu Skating Rink

Explore the famous Medeu Skating Rink, a symbol of Almaty's winter sports culture, and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views.
You can reach Medeu by a short taxi ride or public bus from Doppio Espresso.
1500 KZT, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Shymbulak Ski Resort

Indulge in a delicious meal at Shymbulak Ski Resort's restaurant while admiring the scenic beauty of the Tien Shan mountains.
Shymbulak Ski Resort is a short drive from Medeu, offering a picturesque journey up the mountain.
5000 KZT, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Skiing or Snowboarding at Shymbulak

Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding on the pristine slopes of Shymbulak Ski Resort, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Equipment rental and ski passes are available at the resort, ensuring a seamless transition to your mountain adventure.
7000 KZT, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Barrels

Relax and unwind at The Barrels, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of international dishes and a selection of fine wines.
The Barrels is located at Shymbulak Ski Resort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner before heading back to the city.
6000 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 3: Charyn Canyon Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Alma-Arasan

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Alma-Arasan, offering a wide selection of local and international dishes to fuel your adventure.
Alma-Arasan is located in the city center, providing a convenient breakfast spot before heading to Charyn Canyon.
2500 KZT, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Charyn Canyon

Embark on a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, marveling at the changing landscapes along the way and anticipating the natural wonders ahead.
You can rent a car for the day trip to Charyn Canyon, ensuring flexibility and comfort during the journey.
5000 KZT (car rental), 3 hours

12:00 PM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Charyn Canyon, known for its dramatic rock formations and vibrant colors sculpted by nature.
Follow the marked trails within the canyon to discover different viewpoints and photo opportunities.
1000 KZT (entrance fee), 3 hours

3:30 PM

Picnic Lunch at Charyn Canyon

Enjoy a scenic picnic amidst the stunning landscapes of Charyn Canyon, savoring local snacks and refreshments in the great outdoors.
Find a picturesque spot along the canyon for a relaxing lunch break surrounded by nature's wonders.
1500 KZT, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Almaty

Bid farewell to Charyn Canyon and begin your journey back to Almaty, reflecting on the natural beauty you've experienced during the day.
Drive back to Almaty following the same route, enjoying the scenic landscapes once again before reaching the city.
5000 KZT (car rental), 3 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Zheti Kazyna

End your day with a flavorful dinner at Zheti Kazyna, a restaurant offering traditional Kazakh cuisine in a cozy setting.
Zheti Kazyna is located in the city center, allowing you to unwind and relish the local flavors after a day of exploration.
4500 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 4: Big Almaty Lake Day Trip

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Paul

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Paul, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee.
Paul is located in the city center, providing a convenient breakfast spot before heading to Big Almaty Lake.
1500 KZT, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Big Almaty Lake

Embark on a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, a turquoise gem nestled in the Tien Shan mountains, offering stunning views and tranquility.
Rent a car for the day trip to Big Almaty Lake, ensuring flexibility to explore at your own pace.
6000 KZT (car rental), 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Hike around Big Almaty Lake

Explore the picturesque surroundings of Big Almaty Lake on a leisurely hike, taking in the serene beauty of the alpine landscape.
Follow the well-marked trails around the lake to discover hidden viewpoints and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Picnic Lunch by the Lake

Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the crystal-clear waters of Big Almaty Lake, surrounded by mountain peaks and fresh mountain air.
Find a scenic spot near the lake to savor your picnic lunch while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
1000 KZT, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Photography Session

Capture the stunning beauty of Big Almaty Lake through your lens, creating lasting memories of this pristine natural wonder.
Explore different vantage points around the lake to capture the changing light and reflections in your photographs.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Drive back to Almaty

Bid farewell to the tranquility of Big Almaty Lake and drive back to the city, cherishing the memories of your mountain escape.
Follow the same scenic route back to Almaty, enjoying the mountain views one last time before returning to the bustling city.
6000 KZT (car rental), 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Uptown Cafe

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Uptown Cafe, offering a mix of international and local cuisines in a trendy setting.
Uptown Cafe is located in the city center, allowing you to unwind and share stories of your day at Big Almaty Lake.
3500 KZT, 2 hours
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Day 5: Kok-Tobe Mountain Sunset

Almaty, Kazakhstan

3:00 PM

Take the Kok-Tobe Cable Car

Begin your afternoon by taking the scenic Kok-Tobe Cable Car ride, offering panoramic views of Almaty as you ascend to the mountaintop.
Head to the cable car station near the city center to start your journey to the top of Kok-Tobe Mountain.
3000 KZT, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore Kok-Tobe Park

Discover the attractions of Kok-Tobe Park, including the famous Kok-Tobe Tower, amusement park, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the city.
Wander through the park's pathways to admire the cityscape and enjoy the various entertainment options available.
2000 KZT, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Alasha Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Alasha Restaurant, known for its traditional Kazakh dishes and cozy ambiance, as you watch the sunset over Almaty.
Alasha Restaurant offers a perfect setting to enjoy the evening with stunning views of the city lights below.
4000 KZT, 2 hours
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