Experience Kazakhstan

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty – Welcome to Kazakhstan

Arrive at Almaty International Airport.
Meet our local representative and enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel.

Check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your journey or take a short walk nearby.

Good to Know

• Hotel check-in time: after 2:00 PM

• Almaty is surrounded by mountains, so evenings can be cool

Day 2: Almaty City Tour + Medeu, Shymbulak & Kok-Tobe

Operating Days: Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
Tour Start Time: 08:00 AM

Meeting Point

Big stop along Abai Street

Medeu Ice Rink

Begin your day at Medeu, the world’s highest ice-skating rink at 1,691 meters above sea level. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Health Staircase (842 Steps)

Challenge yourself by climbing the famous Health Staircase, connecting Medeu to Shymbulak. The climb is rewarded with stunning mountain views.

Shymbulak Ski Resort

Continue by cable car to Shymbulak, Central Asia’s largest ski resort.

• Summer: mountain walks & viewpoints

• Winter: skiing & snow activities
  The cable car ride itself offers breathtaking panoramic views.

City Highlights

• Green Bazaar – local flavors & souvenirs

• Rahat Chocolate Factory Store – famous Kazakh chocolates

• Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen – historic park

• Zenkov Cathedral – impressive wooden architecture

Kok-Tobe Hill

End the day at Kok-Tobe, offering sweeping views of Almaty. Enjoy a relaxed walk, see the Beatles statue, and admire the city from above.

Good to Know

• Wear comfortable shoes

• Weather in mountains changes quickly

• Cable car tickets included

Day 3: Big Almaty Lake & Legendary Apple Orchard

Meeting Time: 06:00–06:15 AM
Meeting Point: In front of Renion Zyliha Hotel

Big Almaty Lake

Travel about 1 hour into the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains to reach this stunning alpine lake at 2,511 meters.

Watch the lake’s color change from light turquoise to deep blue, depending on sunlight.

Almaty Apple Orchard

Visit the legendary apple gardens and learn the story of the famous Aport apple, a symbol of Almaty. Enjoy scenic views and cultural storytelling.

Good to Know

• Early start ensures fewer crowds

• Carry warm layers even in summer

Day 4: Charyn Canyon – Valley of Castles (Full Day)

Operating Days: Wednesday, Saturday

Charyn Canyon

Drive approx. 200 km east of Almaty to one of Kazakhstan’s most dramatic landscapes.

Explore the famous Valley of Castles, where wind and water have carved towering rock formations over 12 million years, resembling an ancient stone city.

• Scenic canyon walk

• Incredible photo opportunities

• Boxed lunch included

Return to Almaty in the evening.

Good to Know

• Moderate walking involved

• Hat & sunscreen recommended

Day 5: Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lakes & Black Canyon – Full Day Nature Escape

Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Meeting Time: 05:15 AM

Meeting Point

Abay 50, Circus Parking
(Entrance from Abay Street)
Nearest Metro: Auezov Station

Lake Kaindy – The Sunken Forest

Leave Almaty early and journey deep into the mountains toward one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural wonders.

Lake Kaindy is famous for its submerged spruce trees, rising mysteriously from crystal-clear turquoise water. Formed after an earthquake in 1911, the lake feels otherworldly and peaceful.

• Enjoy a scenic walk along the lakeshore

• Optional horse riding available (at your own expense)

• Time for photography and quiet nature moments

Kolsai Lake – The Pearl of the Tien Shan

Continue to Kolsai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan”.

Surrounded by pine forests and mountain slopes, this alpine lake is perfect for relaxation.

• Leisurely lakeside walk

• Fresh mountain air and reflection views

• Lunch stop at a local café (at your own expense)

Black Canyon – A Hidden Geological Treasure

Before returning to Almaty, visit the dramatic Black Canyon, a lesser-known yet breathtaking stop near the Charyn Canyon region.

Unlike the colorful rocks of Charyn, Black Canyon is defined by deep dark stone layers, sharp cliffs, and winding formations shaped over millions of years by wind and water.

• Walk along safe viewpoints overlooking the canyon

• Enjoy panoramic views of rugged terrain and river bends below

• A quieter, less crowded canyon experience — ideal for photography

The contrast between the dark rock walls and the open steppe landscape makes Black Canyon a powerful and memorable finale to the day.

Return to Almaty

After soaking in the beauty of lakes and canyons, relax on the scenic drive back to Almaty. Arrival in the city by late evening.

Good to Know

• This is a long but rewarding day (early start, late return)

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring warm layers

• Weather can change quickly in mountain regions

• Best suited for nature lovers & photographers

​Day 6: Altyn-Emel National Park – Singing Dune & Aktau Mountains

Operating Day: Saturday
Meeting Time: 04:30 AM

Meeting Point

Abay–Zharokov parking near Alatau Metro Station

Altyn-Emel National Park

Begin in the village of Basshi, gateway to this magical desert-mountain landscape.

• 700-year-old Willow Tree – a living monument

• Aktau Mountains – white, surreal formations

• Katutau Mountains – volcanic rock sculptures

Singing Dune

Climb the famous dune where wind creates a mysterious humming sound. From the top, enjoy panoramic desert views.

Dinner in the village before returning to Almaty late evening.

Good to Know

• Very early start, long day

• Comfortable shoes essential

Day 7: Tamgaly (Tanbaly) Gorge – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Pickup Time: 10:00 AM from hotel

Ancient Petroglyphs

Explore one of Central Asia’s most important archaeological sites.

• Rock carvings from 14th century BC to 18th century AD

• Depictions of rituals, animals, and daily nomadic life

• Sacred altars and ancient settlements

Good to Know

• Easy walking route

• Cultural & history focused tour

Day 8: Nomadic Lifestyle Experience – Huns Ethno Village

Pickup Time: 10:30 AM

Ethno Village Experience

Immerse yourself in traditional Kazakh nomadic life.

• Traditional costumes & ceremonies

• Professional horse stunt show

• Archery demonstration

• Yurt introduction

• Craft making & cooking local dishes

• Kumis (horse milk) tasting

• Authentic Kazakh lunch

Evening Flight

• Almaty → Astana at 23:20

• Arrival 01:30

• Airport pickup & hotel transfer

Day 9: Astana City Highlights & Baiterek Tower

Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Meeting Time: 10:00 AM

Meeting Point

Main entrance of Best Western Plus Astana Hotel

City Tour Highlights

• Grand Mosque of Astana

• Independence Square & national monuments

• Assumption Orthodox Cathedral

• Atyrau Bridge over Ishim River

• Baiterek Tower (entry included) with panoramic views

Good to Know

• Mostly walking with short drives

• Tour ends near original meeting point

Day 10: Burabay National Park – Nature & Culture

Pickup Time: 06:00 AM

Burabay Experience

• Lakeside walk & hike to Bolektau Peak

• Abylay Khan Meadow

• Cultural performances & history

• Traditional Kazakh lunch (vegetarian option available)

• Optional boat ride or horseback riding (extra cost)

Good to Know

• Fresh mountain air & scenic views

• Ideal for relaxation and wellness

Day 11: Steppe, Saddle & Sauna – Horseback Adventure

Pickup Time: 09:00 AM

Authentic Steppe Life

• Traditional Kazakh breakfast at ranch

• Horse care & riding basics

• Guided horseback rides across open steppe

• Visit Kabanbai Batyr Mausoleum

• Homemade lunch

• Private sauna & farewell feast

• Evening return to Astana

Good to Know

• Suitable for beginners

• One of the most immersive cultural days

Day 12: Astana → Almaty | Free Day

• Morning flight 05:45 – 08:40

• Transfer to hotel

• Check-in at 2:00 PM

• Free time for shopping, cafes, relaxation

Day 13: Departure from Almaty

Private transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Hotel Details: 4-star 

• Almaty: Holiday Inn or similar
• Astana: Hilton Garden 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.