Ultimate 7-Day Couples Adventure in Kazakhstan

Day 1: Exploring Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan on August 10, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Navat

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Navat, a cozy café known for its traditional Kazakh cuisine with a modern twist.
Navat is located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi or walking from most hotels.
15USD, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

Take a leisurely stroll through Panfilov Park and admire the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, a beautiful example of Russian Orthodox architecture.
Panfilov Park is a short walk from Navat, providing a relaxing start to your sightseeing.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gosti Urban Kitchen

Enjoy a modern take on Kazakh and Central Asian cuisine at Gosti Urban Kitchen, known for its fresh ingredients and stylish ambiance.
Gosti Urban Kitchen is located in the city center, a short drive from Panfilov Park.
25USD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kok-Tobe Hill

Take a cable car ride to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views of Almaty and visit the famous Kok-Tobe Monument.
The cable car station is easily accessible by taxi or public transport from the city center.
10USD (including cable car ride), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Belvedere Grill Room

Indulge in a romantic dinner at Belvedere Grill Room, offering a blend of European and Kazakh cuisines with a stunning view of Almaty.
Belvedere Grill Room is a short drive from Kok-Tobe Hill, providing a perfect end to your day.
50USD, 2 hours
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Day 2: Chasing the Canyons

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan on August 11, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Almaty before embarking on the road trip to Charyn Canyon.
Have breakfast at your accommodation in Almaty to fuel up for the day.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Discover the breathtaking red rock formations of Charyn Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon’s little brother, with its unique landscapes and hiking trails.
Drive from Almaty to Charyn Canyon, it's approximately a 3-hour drive.
5USD entrance fee, 4 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Charyn Canyon

Have a romantic picnic amidst the stunning scenery of Charyn Canyon, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty.
Bring along some snacks or stop by a local market in Almaty to prepare a picnic.
20USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hike to Charyn River

Embark on a scenic hike to the Charyn River within the canyon, immersing yourselves in the rugged wilderness and serenity of the area.
Follow the marked hiking trails from the main viewpoint to reach the river.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Overnight in Charyn Canyon

Stay overnight in a yurt camp or local guesthouse near Charyn Canyon and enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner under the starry night sky.
Check-in at your chosen accommodation for a unique experience in the heart of nature.
80USD (accommodation and dinner), Ongoing
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Day 3: Return to Almaty and Lakeside Serenity

Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan on August 12, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yurt Camp

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the yurt camp in Charyn Canyon before embarking on the journey back to Almaty.
Enjoy a traditional Kazakh breakfast at the camp before setting off.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Kolsai Lakes

Head towards Kolsai Lakes for a tranquil day by the alpine lakes, surrounded by pine forests and majestic mountains.
Drive from Charyn Canyon to Kolsai Lakes, it's approximately a 4-hour drive.
Gas for car, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lakeside Picnic

Set up a romantic lakeside picnic with local delicacies and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters of the Kolsai Lakes.
Pack some snacks from Almaty or stop at a local market on the way to the lakes.
15USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hiking around Kolsai Lakes

Explore the walking trails around the Kolsai Lakes, immersing yourselves in the pristine nature and peaceful ambiance of the area.
Follow the marked hiking paths around the lakes, offering different viewpoints and landscapes.
5USD entrance fee, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Overnight at Kolsai Lakes

Savor a cozy dinner at a local guesthouse or yurt camp near Kolsai Lakes, enjoying the tranquility of the mountainous setting.
Check-in at your chosen accommodation and unwind after a day of exploration.
60USD (accommodation and dinner), Ongoing
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Day 4: Nature's Bounty in Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge, Kazakhstan on August 13, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the guesthouse in Kolsai Lakes before departing for Turgen Gorge.
Fuel up with a traditional Kazakh breakfast before hitting the road towards Turgen Gorge.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hiking in Turgen Gorge

Embark on a scenic hike through the lush Turgen Gorge, exploring waterfalls, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna.
Follow the marked trails within Turgen Gorge, don't forget to wear comfortable hiking shoes.
10USD entrance fee, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Stop for a light lunch at a charming local cafe near Turgen Gorge, indulging in traditional Kazakh dishes with a view.
Choose a cozy spot nearby to refuel before continuing your adventure.
20USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Bear Waterfall

Witness the impressive Bear Waterfall in Turgen Gorge, a cascading beauty surrounded by lush greenery and pristine nature.
Follow the signs and short trail to reach the viewpoint of Bear Waterfall.
5USD entrance fee, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Relaxation

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at your accommodation in Turgen Gorge, unwind and savor the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Check-in at your chosen guesthouse or hotel and unwind after a day of exploration.
40USD (accommodation and dinner), Ongoing
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Day 5: Desert Expedition at Altyn Emel

Altyn Emel National Park, Kazakhstan on August 14, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Turgen Gorge

Have a hearty breakfast at your guesthouse in Turgen Gorge before heading towards Altyn Emel National Park for a desert adventure.
Start your day with a filling breakfast to prepare for a day of exploration.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Singing Dune

Embark on a thrilling hike up the Singing Dune in Altyn Emel National Park, a sandy marvel that creates a unique sound when the wind blows.
Drive from Turgen Gorge to Altyn Emel National Park, it's approximately a 2-hour drive to reach the Singing Dune.
10USD entrance fee, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Desert

Enjoy a picturesque picnic amidst the desert landscapes near the Singing Dune, soaking in the vastness of the wilderness.
Prepare a packed lunch from Turgen Gorge or stop by a local market on the way to the park.
15USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Aktau Mountains

Explore the colorful Aktau Mountains in Altyn Emel National Park, known for their unique rock formations and geological history.
Take a short drive from the Singing Dune to the Aktau Mountains for a contrasting natural experience.
5USD entrance fee, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Camping

Have a traditional Kazakh dinner and camp under the starry sky in Altyn Emel National Park for a truly immersive experience in the desert wilderness.
Set up your campsite in the designated areas and enjoy a cozy dinner in the open air.
50USD (camping equipment and dinner), Ongoing
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Day 6: Mountain Majesty at Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake, Kazakhstan on August 15, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Campsite

Start your day with a simple breakfast at your campsite in Altyn Emel before making your way to Big Almaty Lake for a scenic mountain escape.
Enjoy a quick meal at your camping site before departing for Big Almaty Lake.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Big Almaty Lake

Discover the turquoise beauty of Big Almaty Lake, set amidst the Tien Shan mountains, offering stunning reflections and serene surroundings.
Drive from Altyn Emel National Park to Big Almaty Lake, it's approximately a 3-hour drive.
5USD entrance fee, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lakeside Lunch

Enjoy a peaceful lakeside lunch with a view of the pristine waters and surrounding peaks, savoring the tranquility of Big Almaty Lake.
Set up a picnic or choose a spot at a nearby eatery to dine with a view.
20USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking or Relaxing

Opt for a nature walk around Big Almaty Lake to soak in the beauty or simply relax by the tranquil waters, embracing the serenity of the mountains.
Choose a hiking trail or find a quiet spot along the lake's shore to unwind.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner in Almaty

Head back to Almaty for a delightful dinner in the city, exploring local eateries or choosing a favorite spot for a romantic evening.
Drive back to Almaty and choose from the city's diverse dining options for your final dinner in Kazakhstan.
30USD, 2 hours
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Day 7: Ski Resort Charm at Shymbulak

Shymbulak, Kazakhstan on August 16, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast in Almaty

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Almaty, savoring your last morning in Kazakhstan before heading to the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Choose a cozy café or classic breakfast spot in Almaty to start the day with a warm meal.
15USD, 1 hour

11:00AM

Skiing or Cable Car Ride at Shymbulak

Embrace the thrill of skiing or opt for a scenic cable car ride at Shymbulak Ski Resort, enjoying the alpine landscapes and crisp mountain air.
Rent ski equipment or purchase a cable car ticket at the resort entrance for your chosen activity.
50USD (ski pass) / 20USD (cable car ride), 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch with a View

Indulge in a late lunch with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains at one of the resort's charming restaurants, savoring the final moments of your trip.
Choose a restaurant with a view or outdoor seating to make the most of the mountain scenery.
30USD, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Farewell to Kazakhstan

Bid farewell to the stunning landscapes of Kazakhstan as you make your way back to Almaty city, cherishing the memories of your adventurous journey.
Take in the last glimpses of the mountainous terrain during your return journey to Almaty.
Included in transportation, Ongoing
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