8-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Itinerary in Almaty and Surroundings

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Daredzhani

Start your day at Daredzhani, famous for its delicious regional dishes like plov and khachapuri.
Walk to the popular Zenkov Cathedral nearby.
KZT 3000, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Zenkov Cathedral

Explore the beautiful wooden Zenkov Cathedral set in Panfilov Park, a serene spot ideal for family photographs.
Short walk from Daredzhani.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Navat

Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine and local specialties at Navat, which is known for its warm ambiance.
Taxi to Navat (10 minutes ride).
KZT 6000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Central State Museum

Dive into the history and culture of Kazakhstan at the Central State Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient to modern times.
Taxi to The Central State Museum (10 minutes).
KZT 1000, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Walk in the Botanical Garden

Stroll through the massive Botanical Garden, perfect for kids and adults alike to enjoy nature and relax.
Taxi to Botanical Garden (10 minutes).
KZT 500, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The 1st Coffee

Finish your first day with light bites and refreshing drinks at this cozy café renowned for its desserts.
Short drive back to Almaty center (10 minutes).
KZT 4000, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Jacques

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with coffee and pastries at this chic café.
Taxi to Cafe Jacques (15 minutes).
KZT 3000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Almaty Zoo

Engage with fascinating wildlife and let the kids learn about animals from all over the world.
Taxi to the Almaty Zoo (20 minutes).
KZT 1000, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Plov House

Taste the authentic Plov and other traditional dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Taxi to Plov House (20 minutes).
KZT 5000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Green Bazaar

Experience local culture at the Green Bazaar, tasting street food and shopping for fresh produce.
Taxi to Green Bazaar (10 minutes).
Free unless shopping., 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Kokshetau Park

Relax in this urban park, perfect for kids to play and parents to unwind.
Short taxi ride to Kokshetau Park (15 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Alasha

Feast on delicious barbecue at Alasha while enjoying traditional music.
Taxi back to Alasha (15 minutes).
KZT 4000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure Awaits

Almaty, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Breakfast at Tiffany's

Start with a gourmet breakfast and cheerfully presented dishes in this popular diner.
Walk or taxi to Breakfast at Tiffany's (15 minutes).
KZT 3500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Day Trip to Shymbulak

Take a scenic ride up the cable car to Shymbulak Mountain Resort for breathtaking views and outdoor fun.
Drive or taxi to the cable car station (30 minutes).
KZT 6000 (cable car ticket), 5 hours (including travel and exploration)

1:00 PM

Lunch at Mountain Restaurant

Enjoy a mountain view lunch with local dishes, specific for hungry adventurers.
At Shymbulak Resort itself.
KZT 5000, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Hiking in the Mountains

Continue your adventure with a family-friendly hiking trail suitable for all ages amidst stunning landscapes.
Follow signs at the resort.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Almaty

Return to the city for some relaxation after a day full of excitement.
Take the cable car back down.
Included in earlier cost, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The 1st Coffee

Wind down with some more comforting desserts or light dinners in the creative environment.
Taxi back to Almaty center (30 minutes).
KZT 4000, 1 hour
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Day 4: Nature & Culture

Medeu, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The 1st Coffee

A return to favorite flavors of breakfast at The 1st Coffee for energizing your day.
Taxi to The 1st Coffee (10 minutes).
KZT 3500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Medeu Ice Rink Visit

Experience the world’s largest ice skating rink at Medeu located in the picturesque mountainous region.
Drive to Medeu (30 minutes).
KZT 2000 (rental skates additional)., 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Nuraly

Try Kazakh dishes together with European flavors at Nuraly’s restaurant right near Medeu.
Walking distance from Medeu.
KZT 6000, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Shymbulak Ski Resort

Explore the beauty of Shymbulak; families can either ski, or enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Drive 20 minutes to Shymbulak.
KZT 4000 (entry fee)., 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty, winding down from an engaging afternoon.
Drive back to Almaty (30 minutes).
Transportation cost included in earlier., 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Glarus

Nestled in the city center, enjoy a mix of international and Kazakh flavors at Glarus.
Taxi to Glarus (15 minutes).
KZT 6000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventurous Road Trip

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Zahir

Start the day at Zahir, famous for its delicious breakfasts and great coffee.
Drive to Zahir (20 minutes).
KZT 4000, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Road Trip to Charyn Canyon

Hit the road for a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, a must-see natural wonder.
Drive to Charyn Canyon (3 hours).
Fuel cost KZT 5000., 3 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Charyn Canyon

Hike and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Charyn Canyon with family, capturing unforgettable photos.
Walking needed inside the canyon.
KZT 1000 (entry fee)., 2.5 hours

2:00 PM

Picnic Lunch in the Canyon

Enjoy a portable picnic prepared before; surrounded by the stunning colors of the canyon.
Self-arranged meal.
KZT 3000 (for packed food)., 1 hour

3:30 PM

Return to Almaty

Drive back to Almaty after a day filled with incredible sights.
Drive back to Almaty (3 hours).
Fuel cost included in the earlier., 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Tofu

End the day with Asian fusion at Tofu, a popular spot for unique dishes.
Taxi to Tofu (30 minutes).
KZT 6000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Nature Wonders

Big Almaty Lake, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Baskin-Robbins

Try their delightful breakfast options, with a touch of sweet endings.
Drive to Baskin-Robbins (30 minutes).
KZT 3000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Big Almaty Lake

Spend the morning soaking in the majestic beauty of Big Almaty Lake, where nature demands admiration.
Drive 40 minutes to Big Almaty Lake.
Free., 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Chaikhana

Savor traditional Kazakh dishes at Chaikhana, known for its warm hospitality.
Drive to Chaikhana (30 minutes).
KZT 6000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Hiking Around Big Almaty Lake

Experience the great trails surrounding the lake; suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly event.
Self-guided hiking.
Free., 3 hours

5:00 PM

Head Back to Almaty City

Return to the city after a fulfilling day in nature.
Drive back to Almaty (40 minutes).
Included in earlier., 40 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Daredzhani

Finish the day back at Daredzhani for a hearty dinner of local favorites.
Taxi to Daredzhani (30 minutes).
KZT 6000, 1 hour
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Day 7: Cultural Exploration

Tamgaly, Kazakhstan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at 777

Start your day with diverse breakfast options at 777 in Almaty.
Short taxi to 777 (15 minutes).
KZT 4000, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Day Trip to Tamgaly

Embark on a cultural journey to Tamgaly, famous for its rock art and ancient petroglyphs.
Drive to Tamgaly (2 hours).
Fuel cost KZT 3000., 2 hours

10:30 AM

Explore Tamgaly Petroglyphs

Wander among ancient rock carvings that tell stories of the region’s past, be amazed by this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walking is required within the petroglyph site.
KZT 1000 (entry fee)., 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Local Chaihana

Savor a traditional meal in a local chaihana with an authentic atmosphere.
Local eatery nearby.
KZT 5000., 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Historical Village of Tamgaly

Learn more about local history and culture by exploring the nearby village and interacting with locals.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
Free., 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty after a culturally enriching day.
Drive back to Almaty (2 hours).
Fuel cost included in the earlier., 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Daredzhani

Delight your taste buds one last time in Almaty at Daredzhani, wrapping up a week of culinary adventure.
Taxi back (30 minutes).
KZT 7000, 1 hour
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Day 8: Departure Day

Almaty, Kazakhstan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The 1st Coffee

Enjoy your final breakfast in Almaty with delicious pastries and good coffee.
Walk to The 1st Coffee (10 minutes).
KZT 3000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-Minute Shopping in Almaty

Enjoy a stroll in the city center for some last-minute souvenirs to take home.
Walk or taxi to nearby shopping areas.
Free unless shopping., 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Quick Visit to Almaty Metro

Experience the splendid design of Almaty Metro stations before your departure.
Taxi to Almaty Metro (15 minutes).
Free., 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Departure Lunch at Zhaik

Finish your journey with a comforting lunch at Zhaik, where delicious local dishes wrap up your trip.
Taxi to Zhaik (20 minutes).
KZT 5000, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Head to Airport

Conclude your amazing trip and head to the airport for your flight back home.
Taxi to Almaty International Airport (30 minutes).
KZT 3000, 30 minutes
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