Almaty Explorer

Day 1: Welcome to Almaty – Arrival & Hotel Transfer

Arrival: Almaty International Airport
Transfer: Private drop to your hotel

Touch down in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, nestled against the foothills of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains. After checking into your hotel, take some time to rest, explore nearby streets, or enjoy a cozy evening at a local café.

Tip: Almaty is a city of parks and wide boulevards, so a short evening walk around your hotel is a perfect way to stretch your legs after your flight.

Day 2: Almaty Highlights – City, Medeu, Shymbulak & Kok-Tobe

Operating Days: Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
Meeting Point: Big stop along Abai Street, 8:00 AM

Today, immerse yourself in Almaty’s natural beauty and rich culture. This is a full-day tour of the city and nearby mountain attractions.

Morning – Almaty City Sights

• Green Bazaar: Dive into a vibrant market with fresh fruits, local nuts, spices, and traditional Kazakh treats.

• Rahat Chocolate Factory Store: Taste or buy famous Kazakh chocolates.

• Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen: A peaceful historic park with monuments honoring WWII heroes.

• Zenkov Cathedral: Marvel at this unique wooden cathedral, a true architectural gem.

Afternoon – Mountain Adventures

• Medeu Ice Rink: The world’s highest mountain ice rink at 1,691 meters. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and snap some photos.

• Health Staircase Challenge: Climb 842 steps connecting Medeu to Shymbulak. A local fitness ritual with breathtaking mountain views.

• Shymbulak Ski Resort: Hop on the cable car for panoramic mountain vistas. Activities vary by season – hiking in summer, skiing in winter.

Evening – Kok-Tobe Hill

End the day at Kok-Tobe, a scenic hill overlooking the city. Explore:

• Mini-zoo & amusement rides

• The Beatles statue

• Panoramic views of Almaty

Good to Know: Bring comfortable shoes for walking and a light jacket as mountain weather can be cooler.

Day 3: Charyn Canyon – Nature’s Spectacle

Operating Days: Wednesday, Saturday
Meeting Point: Your hotel in Almaty, 8:00 AM

Escape the city and venture 200 km east of Almaty to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural wonders.

Highlights

• Valley of Castles: A 2 km stretch of dramatic rock formations resembling ancient castles. Perfect for photography and hiking.

• 12-Million-Year-Old Geological Marvels: Learn how wind, water, and time shaped this awe-inspiring landscape.

Lunch & Return

• Boxed lunch provided

• Return to Almaty by evening, with memories of one of the most photogenic landscapes in Central Asia.

Tip: Sunscreen and a hat are recommended, as the canyon offers limited shade.

Day 4: Lakes & Black Canyon Adventure – Kaindy & Kolsai

Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Meeting Point: Abay 50, Circus Parking (entrance from Abay Street), 5:15 AM.
Access: Take the metro to Auezov Station

Leave the city behind for a day of Kazakhstan’s pristine natural landscapes.

Morning – Lake Kaindy

• Drive through scenic landscapes to Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and emerald waters.

• Optional: Horse riding around the lake at your own cost.

Afternoon – Lake Kolsai & Black Canyon

• Visit Lake Kolsai, the largest of three alpine lakes, perfect for relaxing walks or lakeshore photos.

• Explore the Black Canyon, a dramatic gorge carved by nature over millennia.

• Lunch at your own expense, enjoy fresh local cuisine.

Evening – Return to Almaty

• Travel back to the city, enjoying the scenic drive through mountains and valleys.

Good to Know: Bring water, snacks, and a camera. The day starts early but rewards you with stunning landscapes and fresh mountain air.

Day 5: Farewell Almaty – Departure

Transfer: Private hotel drop to Almaty International Airport

Say goodbye to Kazakhstan with memories of city adventures, mountain landscapes, and natural wonders.

Tip: Check your flight time and leave early for airport security, as traffic in Almaty can be unpredictable.

Hotel Details: 4-star 

• Almaty: Holiday Inn or similar

Visa: Visa Free 14 Days from the point of arrival

• Kazakhstan is visa-free for Indian passport holders
  (Valid until further notice from the Kazakhstan Embassy/Consulate)

 NOTE: The package cost is based on a minimum of 2 adults travelling together. Rates vary at the time of booking; the given rate is an estimate.