Nomad Life Almaty

Day 1 – Welcome to Almaty | Arrival & Hotel Transfer

Arrive at Almaty International Airport

Welcome to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural heart surrounded by majestic mountains.
Upon arrival at Almaty Airport, you’ll be met and transferred comfortably to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax, recover from your journey, or explore nearby cafés and streets at your own pace.

Good to Know

• Currency exchange and SIM cards are available at the airport

• Almaty is walkable in many areas and very café-friendly

Day 2 – Mountains, Markets & City Icons of Almaty

Operating Days: Tuesday, Friday & Sunday
Meeting Point: 8:00 AM – Big Bus Stop along Abai Street

Today is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and city highlights.

Medeu Ice Rink – Touch the Sky

Start your day at Medeu, the world’s highest mountain ice-skating rink, located at 1,691 meters above sea level. Even without skating, the fresh air and alpine views make this a magical stop.

Health Staircase Challenge

Climb the famous 842-step Health Staircase, a favorite fitness challenge among locals. Each step brings you closer to breathtaking mountain scenery and photo opportunities.

Shymbulak Ski Resort – Cable Car Adventure

From Medeu, hop on a scenic cable car ride to Shymbulak, Central Asia’s largest ski resort. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

• Winter: skiing & snow activities

• Summer: hiking & mountain cafés

City Highlights Tour

Return to the city to explore:

• Green Bazaar – colorful local market full of spices, fruits, and souvenirs

• Rahat Chocolate Factory Store – buy Kazakhstan’s most famous chocolates

• Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen – historic park with war memorials

• Zenkov Cathedral – a stunning wooden cathedral built without nails

Kok-Tobe Hill – Sunset Over Almaty

End the day at Kok-Tobe Hill, offering the best panoramic views of Almaty. Stroll around, visit the Beatles statue, or enjoy fun attractions before heading back.

Good to Know

• Wear comfortable walking shoes

• Cable car rides are weather-dependent

• Bring small cash for market shopping

Day 3 – Alpine Beauty & the Legendary Apple of Almaty

Meeting Point:
6:00–6:15 AM – In front of Hotel Renion Zyliha

Big Almaty Lake – Nature’s Color Palette

Drive about 1 hour into the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains to reach the stunning Big Almaty Lake, sitting at 2,511 meters above sea level.
Watch the lake change colors—from light turquoise to deep blue—depending on sunlight. Surrounded by pine forests and snowy peaks, it’s one of the most photogenic spots near the city.

Legendary Aport Apple Orchard

Continue to the famous Almaty apple gardens, home of the legendary Aport apple—a symbol of the city itself. Learn the fascinating story behind this giant red apple and its deep connection to Almaty’s history.

Good to Know

• Warm clothing recommended, even in summer

• Photography is allowed, but swimming is not

Day 4 – Charyn Canyon | Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

Operating Days: Wednesday & Saturday
Pickup: From your hotel
Includes: Boxed Lunch

Travel 200 km east of Almaty to the spectacular Charyn Canyon, shaped over 12 million years by wind and water.

Valley of Castles

Walk through the iconic Valley of Castles, where towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses and stone cities. The colors and shapes change throughout the day, making every angle unique.

After exploring and enjoying lunch amidst nature, return to Almaty in the evening.

Good to Know

• Moderate walking involved

• Hats and sunscreen highly recommended

Day 5 – Lakes of Dreams | Kaindy, Kolsai & Black Canyon

Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
Meeting Point: 5:15 AM – Abay 50, Circus Parking
(Accessible via Auezov Metro Station)

Lake Kaindy – The Sunken Forest

Visit the magical Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged spruce trees rising through crystal-clear water. Enjoy a peaceful walk or opt for horse riding (optional, at own expense).

Lake Kolsai – The Pearl of the Tien Shan

Next, relax by the serene Kolsai Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Enjoy lunch (at your own expense) and a leisurely lakeside stroll.

Black Canyon – Final Scenic Stop

Admire dramatic rock formations before returning to Almaty, filled with unforgettable nature moments.

Good to Know

• Long travel day – early start required

• Comfortable clothes and snacks recommended

Day 6 – Altyn-Emel National Park | Singing Dunes & Alien Landscapes

Operating Day: Saturday
Meeting Point: 4:30 AM – Abay–Zharokov Parking (near Alatau Metro)

Basshi Village – Gateway to the Wild

Begin your journey into Altyn-Emel National Park, one of Kazakhstan’s most mystical landscapes.

700-Year-Old Willow Tree

Visit a living natural monument that has stood through centuries of steppe history.

Aktau Mountains – Nature’s Art Gallery

Explore surreal white mountains shaped like abstract paintings, followed by trekking through the volcanic Katutau Mountains.

Singing Dune – Nature’s Music

Climb the legendary Singing Dune, where the sand creates a mysterious humming sound when the wind blows. A truly unforgettable experience.

After dinner in the village, return to Almaty late evening.

Good to Know

• Very early start

• Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes

Day 7 – Live Like a Nomad | Huns Ethno Village

Pickup: 10:30 AM from your hotel

Step into Kazakhstan’s nomadic past at Huns Ethno Village, set in a scenic mountain landscape.

Cultural Experiences Include

• Traditional ceremonies & folk performances

• Professional horse-riding stunt show

• Archery demonstrations

• Learning about yurts and nomadic life

• Amateur horseback riding

• Craft making workshops

• Cooking national dishes

• Tasting kumis (fermented horse milk)

• Enjoying an authentic Kazakh meal

A warm, interactive day filled with culture, laughter, and unforgettable hospitality.

Good to Know

• Participation is optional and beginner-friendly

• Great experience for families and culture lovers

Day 8 – Departure | Until Next Time, Almaty

After breakfast, transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departure, taking with you incredible memories of mountains, canyons, lakes, and nomadic traditions.

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.