14 day itinerary for Kazakistan

Itinerary

Kazakhstan is a vast and diverse country with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here’s a fun and engaging 14-day itinerary for your solo adventure in Kazakhstan. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

• Morning: Arrive in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to the Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park. It’s a beautiful wooden structure and a great spot for photos!
• Evening: Stroll through the Almaty Central Park and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak or plov.

## Day 2: Almaty City Tour

• Morning: Visit the Medeu Skating Rink and the Shymbulak Ski Resort. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a cable car ride for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kok Tobe Hill. You can take a cable car up and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to check out the giant TV tower!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view, perhaps at the Kok Tobe restaurant.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Charyn Canyon

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon (about 3 hours from Almaty). Hike through the canyon and marvel at the stunning rock formations. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
• Evening: Return to Almaty and relax after a day of adventure.

## Day 4: Almaty to Astana (Nur-Sultan)

• Morning: Take a morning flight to Astana (now called Nur-Sultan). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Bayterek Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Then, explore the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some kazy (horse meat sausage).

## Day 5: Astana City Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Kazakhstan Central Concert Hall and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
• Afternoon: Explore the Hazret Sultan Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia.
• Evening: Walk along the Nurzhol Boulevard and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Burabay National Park

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Burabay National Park (about 3 hours from Astana). Enjoy hiking, swimming, or just relaxing by the lakes. The scenery is breathtaking!
• Evening: Return to Astana and unwind.

## Day 7: Astana to Karaganda

• Morning: Travel to Karaganda (about 3 hours by train or bus). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Visit the Karaganda Regional Museum to learn about the region’s history.
• Evening: Explore the local dining scene and try some regional specialties.

## Day 8: Karaganda and the Dolinka Museum

• Morning: Visit the Dolinka Museum, which tells the story of the labor camps in the region.
• Afternoon: Explore the Bektau-Ata Mountain area, known for its unique rock formations.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in Karaganda.

## Day 9: Karaganda to Almaty

• Morning: Travel back to Almaty. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Green Bazaar for some local shopping and tasting fresh produce and snacks.
• Evening: Enjoy a cultural show or performance if available.

## Day 10: Almaty to Turkestan

• Morning: Take a train or bus to Turkestan (about 12 hours). It’s a long journey, so bring a good book or download some podcasts!
• Evening: Arrive in Turkestan and check into your hotel. Have a relaxing dinner.

## Day 11: Explore Turkestan

• Morning: Visit the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Timurid architecture.
• Afternoon: Explore the Turkestan Archaeological Museum and learn about the region’s history.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in this historical city.

## Day 12: Turkestan to Shymkent

• Morning: Travel to Shymkent (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent Zoo or the Abay Park for a leisurely stroll.
• Evening: Explore the local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

## Day 13: Day Trip to Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve. Enjoy hiking and spotting wildlife in this beautiful area.
• Evening: Return to Shymkent and relax after a day in nature.

## Day 14: Departure from Shymkent

• Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Language: While Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, many people in tourist areas speak English.
• Currency: The currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns.
• Transport: Domestic flights and trains are the best ways to travel between cities. Buses are also available but can take longer.

I hope this itinerary excites you! Kazakhstan is a land of contrasts, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Safe travels! 🌍✈️