Exciting 3-Day Road Trip in Kazakhstan: Cities and Nature

Day 1: City Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Coffee Boom

Kickstart your day with a rich cappuccino and fluffy pancakes topped with local berries at Coffee Boom, a favorite local café.
Located at Panfilov Street 98, it's a short streetcar ride from the center.
KZT 3000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

Stroll through Panfilov Park to appreciate the lush greenery before exploring the impressive wooden Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural gem.
A leisurely 15-minute walk from Coffee Boom.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Green Bazaar

Dive into local culture at the Green Bazaar, where you can sample fresh produce and unique local snacks.
A 15-minute walk from the Cathedral.
KZT 2000 (for snacks), 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Alasha

Enjoy traditional Kazakh dishes such as Beshbarmak or Plov at Alasha, which prides itself on local flavors.
10-minute drive from the bazaar.
KZT 4000, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Central State Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan at the Central State Museum, featuring exhibits from ancient to modern times.
A 15-minute drive from Alasha.
KZT 1000, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at Big Almaty Lake

Take a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and tranquility.
About a 30-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Royal Grill

Savor an exquisite dinner at The Royal Grill, known for its diverse menu that includes Western and traditional Kazakh dishes.
A scenic 45-minute drive back to the city.
KZT 6000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Natural Wonders

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Daredzhani

Fuel up for your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Daredzhani, featuring a delicious selection of pastries and tea.
A short drive to get there, about 10 minutes.
KZT 2500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Charyn Canyon

Start your scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, a stunning natural monument often compared to the Grand Canyon.
It’s approximately a 3-hour drive; follow road signs to Charyn National Park.
Car rental cost included, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Hike the Canyon

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Charyn Canyon with a relaxing hike, discovering its unique rock formations.
Trails are marked within the park.
KZT 4000 (entrance fee), 3 hours

2:30 PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature; bring along local foods or snacks from Almaty.
Pick a spot with a scenic view while hiking.
KZT 2000, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit the Nearby Valley of Castles

After lunch, continue your journey to the incredible Valley of Castles, another stunning viewpoint that is a photographer’s dream.
Nearby and well-marked paths to follow.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Almaty

Begin your drive back to Almaty, reflecting on the day's adventures in nature.
Follow the same route back.
Car rental cost included, 3 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Line Brew

Enjoy a lively dinner at Line Brew, where you can delight in local craft beers and hearty meals.
Located downtown, a 20-minute drive from the city center.
KZT 5000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Modern Marvels

Astana, Kazakhstan

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Brasserie Satti

Start your day with a traditional breakfast at Brasserie Satti, enjoying local specialties and a cozy ambiance.
A 10-minute drive from your accommodation in Almaty.
KZT 3500, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Astana

Set off for Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital known for its futuristic architecture, with a drive that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Use the A2 road heading north.
Car rental cost included, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the Bayterek Tower

Arrive in Astana and head straight to Bayterek Tower for stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
A short 10-minute drive from the entrance of Astana.
KZT 2000, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Explore the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation

Marvel at the unique design of the Palace of Peace, a symbol of unity in Kazakhstan with informative exhibits.
A 15-minute walk from Bayterek Tower.
KZT 1500, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Kitchen

Enjoy a trendy lunch at The Kitchen, known for its fusion dishes that combine local ingredients with international flavors.
A quick 5-minute drive from the Palace.
KZT 5000, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Stroll around Nurzhol Boulevard

Take a scenic stroll along Nurzhol Boulevard, an avenue lined with public art and greenery.
A short 10-minute walk from The Kitchen.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Visit the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Discover the history of Kazakhstan through engaging exhibits at the National Museum, an architectural beauty.
A 15-minute walk from Nurzhol Boulevard.
KZT 2000, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Steppe

End your journey with a delicious dinner at The Steppe, where you can relish modern interpretations of traditional Kazakh cuisine.
Located within a 10-minute walk from the museum.
KZT 7000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability