10 day itinerary
Kazakhstan
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty
Welcome to Kazakhstan! On your first day, explore the vibrant city of Almaty. Start your day with a visit to , home to the iconic . Take a stroll along the famous , lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. In the afternoon, visit the to learn about Kazakhstan's rich history and culture. End your day by enjoying a traditional Kazakh meal at a local restaurant.
Day 2:
Today, embark on a day trip to , often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia." Marvel at the breathtaking views of the deep red rock formations and explore the various hiking trails. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning natural scenery. Return to Almaty in the evening and relax at one of the city's many cozy cafes.
Day 3: and
Start your day by visiting , the highest ice skating rink in the world. Enjoy a leisurely skate or simply take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, head to , a popular ski resort located nearby. Take a cable car ride to the top and enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes. If you're visiting during the summer, you can still enjoy hiking and picnicking in the area.
Day 4: Almaty to Nur-Sultan (Astana)
Today, catch a domestic flight to Nur-Sultan, the capital city of Kazakhstan. Upon arrival, visit the , an iconic symbol of the city. Take an elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the cityscape. Explore the futuristic architecture of Nur-Sultan, including the and the . In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Nur-Sultan City Tour
Embark on a full-day city tour of Nur-Sultan. Visit the , a stunning architectural masterpiece, and the , one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Explore the to learn about the country's history and heritage. End your day with a visit to the , a magnificent place of worship.
Day 6:
Today, take a day trip to the , the world's first and largest operational space launch facility. Explore the museum and learn about the history of space exploration. If you're lucky, you might even witness a rocket launch! Return to Nur-Sultan in the evening and relax at a local cafe or bar.
Day 7: Turkestan
Travel to the historic city of Turkestan, located in southern Kazakhstan. Visit the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage site for Muslims. Explore the ancient city walls and the local bazaar, where you can find traditional Kazakh crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner and spend the night in Turkestan.
Day 8:
Embark on a day trip to the stunning , a series of three alpine lakes nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains. Enjoy hiking through the lush forests and take in the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lakes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even go horseback riding or fishing. Return to Almaty in the evening and relax at a local cafe.
Day 9:
Today, visit the picturesque , located just outside of Almaty. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake offers a tranquil setting for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the stunning views. If you're lucky, you might spot some wildlife, including mountain goats and rare bird species. End your day with a visit to a traditional Kazakh yurt and experience the nomadic way of life.
Day 10: Departure
On your last day, take some time to explore Almaty's local markets, such as the , where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and traditional Kazakh handicrafts. Enjoy a final meal of Kazakh cuisine before bidding farewell to Kazakhstan and heading to the airport for your departure.
Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Kazakhstan!