10 day itinerary for Almaty & Shymbulak

Itinerary

A 10-day adventure in Almaty and Shymbulak sounds fantastic! You’ll get to experience the vibrant culture of Almaty and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary to make the most of your trip:

## Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

• Morning: Arrive in Almaty. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Panfilov Park to see the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the greenery.
• Evening: Visit the Green Bazaar for a taste of local cuisine. Try some beshbarmak (a traditional dish) and grab some fresh fruits.

## Day 2: Explore Almaty

• Morning: Visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan’s history and culture.
• Afternoon: Head to Kok Tobe Hill. You can take the cable car for stunning views of the city. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant up there.
• Evening: Explore the Almaty Opera House. If there’s a performance, consider catching a show!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Charyn Canyon

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon (about 3 hours from Almaty). Hike around the canyon and enjoy the breathtaking views. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
• Evening: Return to Almaty and relax at your hotel or explore a local café.

## Day 4: Almaty to Shymbulak

• Morning: Check out of your hotel and head to Shymbulak (about 30 minutes from Almaty). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the Shymbulak Ski Resort. If you’re visiting in winter, hit the slopes; in summer, enjoy hiking or mountain biking.
• Evening: Have dinner at a cozy mountain restaurant, enjoying the fresh mountain air.

## Day 5: Adventure in Shymbulak

• Morning: Take the Medeu cable car to the top of the mountain. Enjoy the panoramic views and take some stunning photos.
• Afternoon: Go for a hike in the Alatau Mountains. There are various trails depending on your fitness level.
• Evening: Relax at your accommodation or enjoy a bonfire if available.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Big Almaty Lake

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Big Almaty Lake. It’s about an hour’s drive from Shymbulak. Enjoy the stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Bring a picnic!
• Evening: Return to Shymbulak and unwind after a day of exploration.

## Day 7: Cultural Day in Almaty

• Morning: Return to Almaty. Visit the Almaty Museum to dive deeper into the city’s history.
• Afternoon: Explore the Arbat Street for some shopping and local art. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a local café.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant. Try kazy (horse meat sausage) if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 8: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning: Visit the Botanical Garden for a peaceful morning walk.
• Afternoon: Head to the First President’s Park for a leisurely stroll and enjoy the fountains and sculptures.
• Evening: Treat yourself to a spa session or a massage to relax after all the exploring.

## Day 9: Last Day in Shymbulak

• Morning: Spend your last day in Shymbulak enjoying the activities you might have missed. Go for a final hike or take a scenic chairlift ride.
• Afternoon: Have a leisurely lunch with a view of the mountains.
• Evening: Return to Almaty for your last night. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local café for breakfast.
• Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation in Almaty and Shymbulak. Make sure to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment of your trip! If you have any specific interests or activities in mind, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor the itinerary even more! Safe travels! 🌍✈️