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10-Day Adventure Road Trip in Kazakhstan: Explore Nature and Cuisine

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Day 1: Arriving in Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Chaihana

Start your day with traditional Kazakh pancakes and fragrant herbal tea in this local teahouse.
Located in the city centre; a short taxi ride will get you there in under 15 minutes.
KZT1500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Ascend to Kok-Tobe

Take the cable car up to Kok-Tobe Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains.
The cable car station is a 15-minute drive from Chaihana.
KZT1200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Alasha

Savour a delicious dish of plov (rice with meat and vegetables) at this local favourite.
Drive back to the city centre; it takes about 20 minutes.
KZT2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Panfilov Park

Wander through this beautiful park, home to the magnificent Zenkov Cathedral.
It's a short 10-minute walk from Alasha.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Green Bazaar

Immerse yourself in local culture as you browse fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.
The bazaar is a 15-minute walk from Panfilov Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Daredzhani

Indulge in a blend of Georgian and Kazakh cuisine, trying khinkali and mutton dishes.
Just a 10-minute taxi ride from the bazaar.
KZT3500, 2 hours

9:00PM

Night walk at Almaty Boulevard

Stroll along the boulevard to soak in the ambiance of the city at night.
A short ten-minute walk from Daredzhani.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Almaty

Day 2: Exploring Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kumbat

Grab a hearty breakfast including eggs and homemade bread at this local eatery.
A short drive from your accommodation, around 10 minutes.
KZT1800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day trip to Medeu

Visit the world-famous Medeu ice rink and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
It’s about a 30-minute drive from Kumbat.
KZT500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe de Louvre

Enjoy a fusion lunch with a French twist, featuring their signature croissant sandwiches.
Return to central Almaty, approximately 30 minutes drive.
KZT3500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Central State Museum

Explore Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture through engaging exhibitions.
A 10-minute drive from Cafe de Louvre.
KZT1000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Kayaking on the Big Almaty Lake

Experience the serene beauty of the lake surrounded by mountains while kayaking.
It's about an hour's drive to the lake.
KZT4000, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Zvizda

Savour traditional Kazakh dishes such as beshbarmak (boiled meat with pasta).
Return to Almaty; approximately 90 minutes drive.
KZT3500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Almaty

Day 3: Charyn Canyon Adventure

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Obst & Vegetables Cafe

Fuel up with fresh fruit and a light breakfast before the long drive ahead.
Located near your accommodation in Almaty.
KZT1500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Charyn Canyon

Embark on a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours through picturesque landscapes.
Follow the A2 road to Charyn; the drive is quite straightforward.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Charyn Canyon Cafe

Enjoy a simple lunch with local dishes like meat kebabs, perfect for recharging pre-hike.
The café is located at the canyon entrance.
KZT2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking Charyn Canyon

Explore the stunning beauty of Charyn Canyon on a guided hike through its unique rock formations.
Guided hikes are available at the park entrance.
KZT5000, 4 hours

6:00PM

Drive to Almaty

Head back to Almaty in the evening, reflecting on the breathtaking sights experienced.
Retrace your route via the A2 road.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at KazaN Restaurant

Satisfy your cravings with a feast of traditional Kazakh dishes in a warm, welcoming environment.
Drive back to Almaty; this restaurant is centrally located.
KZT4000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Charyn Canyon

Day 4: Kolsai Lakes Retreat

Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Zhar Zhorgo

Have a nourishing breakfast of oatmeal, served with local jams and fresh tea.
A short drive from your accommodation, about 10 minutes.
KZT1200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Kolsai Lakes

Set off on a stunning drive through nature that takes around 3 hours to reach the Kolsai Lakes.
Follow the A351 road to Kolsai.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kolsai Lake Cafe

Enjoy a light lunch at the lakeside café, sampling local dishes while taking in the views.
Café located near the entrance to the Lakes.
KZT2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking around the Lakes

Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails surrounding Kolsai Lakes, surrounded by breathtaking views and tranquility.
Trails are well-marked and start from the café.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Kolsai Lakes Lodge

Relax and settle into a cosy lodge accommodation for the night amidst nature.
Lodge is nearby; a short 15-minute drive.
KZT10000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Savour homemade dinner, featuring seasonal products and local flavours.
Dinner is served at the lodge itself.
KZT3000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kolsai Lakes

Day 5: Exploration of Kolsai Lakes

Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Start the day with a hearty breakfast prepared with farm-fresh ingredients.
Breakfast is served at the lodge.
Included in lodging, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Lake Saty

Take a short hike to Lake Saty, known for its pristine waters and beautiful surroundings.
Trails from the lodge lead directly to the lake.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch by Lake Saty

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the stunning nature at Lake Saty.
You can prepare a packed lunch at the lodge.
KZT1500 (for food supplies), 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to Kolsai Lakes

Head back down, exploring more beautiful sights and trails.
Follow your original trail back, approximately 1 hour.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Leisure time by Kolsai

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lakes, taking in the breathtaking views.
Stay near the lodge or the lakes.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to the Lodge

Enjoy the rest of the evening with games or leisure at the lodge.
A short walk back to the lodge.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Delight in a farm-rich dinner, served with local delicacies focusing on freshness.
Dinner at your lodge.
KZT3000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kolsai Lakes

Day 6: Journey to Bishkek

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy one last breakfast at your lakeside accommodation before checking out.
Breakfast at the lodge.
Included in lodging, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bishkek

Take a scenic drive towards Bishkek, approximately 3 hours long, passing through beautiful landscapes.
Follow the A351 road leading to Bishkek.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Retro

Savour modern Central Asian dishes while reminiscing about your nature adventures.
Located in the centre of Bishkek.
KZT2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Ala-Too Square

Take a leisurely stroll to admire key monuments and the stunning scenery of the square.
A 10-minute walk from Cafe Retro.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Osh Bazaar

Discover a bustling marketplace filled with souvenirs, local foods, and more to take home.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Ala-Too Square.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel to relax and freshen up after your journey.
The hotel is centrally located, just a 10-minute ride from the bazaar.
KZT8000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Navat

Enjoy traditional Kyrgyz cuisine like mutton-based dishes and fresh bread.
Nearby the hotel, a short taxi ride away.
KZT3000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bishkek

Day 7: Exploring Bishkek

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local pastries in your hotel.
Breakfast is included.
Included in lodging, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ala Archa National Park

Embark on a day trip to this stunning national park for hiking and breathtaking views.
Around a 30-minute drive from Bishkek.
KZT700 (entrance fee), 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the alpine scenery of Ala Archa.
Prepare lunches at the hotel before heading to the park.
KZT1500 (for food supplies), 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hiking in Ala Archa

Explore deeper into the park, taking in stunning mountain vistas and fresh air.
Trails are well-marked.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Bishkek

Return to the city after a successful day of adventure.
Make your way back to the city, about 30 minutes drive.
Fuel Cost, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Relax at the hotel

Spend time unwinding at the hotel before dinner.
Back at the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant 7

Taste a variety of dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, including local and international cuisines.
Nearby your hotel.
KZT4000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Bishkek

Day 8: Scenic Views of Ala Archa

Ala Archa National Park, Kyrgyzstan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast before another day of hiking.
Included in lodging.
Included in lodging, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return to Ala Archa National Park

Head back to Ala Archa for more hiking and exploring the park the stunning landscapes.
A 30-minute drive required.
N/A, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Hiking at Ala Archa

Enjoy another day exploring the breath-taking trails; discover hidden waterfalls and stunning views.
Proceed on newly mapped trails.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ala Archa

Pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by serene nature.
You can prepare it at your hotel.
KZT1500 (for food supplies), 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore More Trails

Discover more of the hidden areas of the park.
Continue on the unmarked paths.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive Back to Bishkek

End your day with a relaxing drive back to Bishkek.
About a 30-minute drive.
Fuel Cost, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Wind down after a long day of exploring.
Back at the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Chicago

Finish the day enjoying a delicious meal in a vibrant atmosphere with various dish options.
Nearby the hotel.
KZT4500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ala Archa National Park

Day 9: Relaxing at Issyk-Kul Lake

Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a substantial breakfast before the drive to Issyk-Kul Lake.
Included in lodging.
Included in lodging., 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Issyk-Kul Lake

Embark on a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours to the stunning lake.
Follow the A365 road through the picturesque landscape.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Beach Café

Enjoy fresh fish caught from the lake at a local beachfront café.
Café located along the shore.
KZT3500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Swimming and Relaxing at Issyk-Kul

Spend your afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the shores of this stunning lake.
Beach areas are easily accessible.
Free, 4 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Lakeside Hotel

Settle into your lakeside accommodation for the night.
A short drive from the beach area.
KZT8000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Indulge in a buffet dinner featuring local and international dishes while overlooking the lake.
Dinner served at the hotel.
KZT4000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Issyk-Kul Lake

Day 10: Returning to Bishkek

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast by the lake before checking out.
Included in lodging.
Included in lodging., 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Bishkek

Head back to Bishkek, approximately a 3-hour drive.
Follow the A365 road back.
Fuel Cost, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Vefa Centre

Dine in a popular local spot for a delicious array of options, from Italian to local.
Easily accessible in Bishkek.
KZT3000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the State Historical Museum

Explore the historical treasures of Kyrgyzstan at this engaging museum.
A short drive from Vefa Centre.
KZT500, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Final Shopping at Osh Bazaar

Make the most of your last hours by shopping for souvenirs and local delicacies.
A quick drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Supara

Wrap up your adventure with a delightful dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz cuisine.
Located near the city centre.
KZT4000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bishkek
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