Embark on a thrilling 8-day adventure through Kazakhstan, where history, culture, and nature collide in spectacular fashion. Whether you’re drawn to ancient Silk Road cities or modern architectural wonders, this comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into Kazakhstan’s diverse heritage.
Your journey begins in Almaty, where you’ll experience the city’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visit the 28 Panfilov Park, with its moving memorials, and the Ascension Cathedral, a wooden marvel that survived a major earthquake. Explore the bustling Green Bazaar, then venture into the Ili Alatau mountains for a visit to the world’s highest skating rink at Medeo and the stunning Shymbulak Resort. At Kok Tobe, enjoy panoramic views of the city below.
On Day 2, head out on an exciting bus tour to the mesmerizing Charyn Canyon, often called the «small brother» of the Grand Canyon. Take a leisurely trek through the Valley of Castles, exploring ancient rock formations and listening to fascinating local legends.
Next, you’ll immerse yourself in Kazakhstan’s nomadic traditions at the Kazakh Ethno Village, where you’ll witness folk performances, traditional games, and hands-on activities like cooking baursak and riding horses through the scenic mountains.
Your cultural journey continues in Turkestan, where you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmet Yassawi and the ancient city of Sauran. Discover the hidden gems of Otrar and explore the vibrant city of Shymkent before flying to Astana.
In Astana, you’ll be awed by modern landmarks like the Baiterek Tower, Khan Shatyr, and the stunning Palace of Peace. Visit the National Museum, the Hazret Sultan Mosque, and the futuristic Nur Alem Center, where cutting-edge science meets Kazakhstan’s rich history.
This unforgettable tour is perfect for those eager to uncover the heart of Kazakhstan, blending tradition with contemporary allure and offering an authentic experience of this incredible country.
Welcome to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan! After arriving at Almaty International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your local guide who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in and some rest after your flight. Once refreshed, we begin a captivating sightseeing tour of the city that will last until the evening.
Our first stop is the historic 28 Panfilov Park, named after a WWII division formed by men from the Almaty region under General Panfilov. Inside, you will find memorials dedicated to various heroic figures, as well as the Ascension Cathedral, an exquisite wooden church that withstood a devastating earthquake in the 20th century. We will also visit the Museum of Musical Instruments, where you can admire a collection of over 1,000 instruments, some dating back to the 17th century.
Just a short walk away, we explore the vibrant Green Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can try local delicacies, haggle for souvenirs, and experience the true atmosphere of an Eastern market. Afterward, we head to the Ili Alatau National Park, where you will be treated to breathtaking views. We visit Medeo, the world’s highest-altitude ice skating rink, and continue to Shymbulak, a popular mountain resort. Here, you will have the opportunity to take in the stunning alpine scenery. The day ends with a ride to Kok Tobe, a hilltop park that offers a panoramic view of Almaty, before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.
Prepare for an early start as we embark on an unforgettable journey to Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural landmarks. The canyon, often referred to as the “little brother” of the Grand Canyon, spans 154 kilometers and is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and unique beauty. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, but the stunning views make the trip worthwhile.
Once we arrive, we begin our exploration at the Valley of Castles, a section of the canyon famous for its towering rock formations that resemble ancient fortresses. You will take a leisurely walk to the Charyn River, enjoying the views and learning about the canyon’s geological features and the local legends that surround it. After a relaxing lunch by the river, we drive back to Almaty, where you will have the rest of the evening to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
On Day 3, we head out to the Kazakh Ethno Village «Huns», located about 35 kilometers from Almaty. This village offers an immersive experience into the traditional life of the Kazakh people, allowing you to step into the past and explore the customs and lifestyle of Kazakhstan’s nomadic ancestors.
Your visit includes a variety of exciting activities: a warm welcome ceremony known as «shashu», demonstrations of felt craft, and an opportunity to explore traditional yurts. You’ll also witness traditional Kazakh rituals such as «Besikke salu» (a baby’s cradle ceremony) and «Tusau kesu» (cutting the ropes of a young child’s first steps).
Experience thrilling horseback games, like «Kyz kuu», where a young man chases a young woman on horseback, and «atpen audaryspak», a traditional form of wrestling on horseback. You’ll also have the chance to participate in a flash mob dance to traditional Kazakh music and learn how to make baursak, a delicious Kazakh pastry. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Kazakh lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a horseback riding tour around the village.
In the afternoon, we return to Almaty, and later that evening, you will board an overnight train to Turkestan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Arrive in Turkestan by late morning and transfer to your hotel for check-in. After breakfast, we begin exploring this historic city, famous for its connection to Islam and Central Asia’s rich cultural heritage. Our first stop is the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the late 14th century, this monumental mausoleum is an iconic symbol of Islamic architecture in Kazakhstan and an important pilgrimage site.
Next, we visit the ancient ruins of Sauran, a fortified city that once thrived as a central point on the Silk Road. Surrounded by agricultural land, this site offers a glimpse into the region’s history with well-preserved walls and structures. Afterward, we head to the new Karavansaray Complex, where you can explore exhibitions and enjoy a variety of cultural activities and shows.
Meals: Breakfast
On Day 5, we check out of the hotel and head to Otrar, an ancient city that once stood as a vital trade hub along the Silk Road. Known in history as Farab, Otrar played an important role in connecting Central Asia with the rest of the world. We will visit the Museum in Shaulder Village to learn about the region’s history and then make our way to the Mausoleum of Arystan-Bab, a significant Muslim shrine that has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
In the afternoon, we head to Shymkent, Kazakhstan’s third-largest city, where we will enjoy lunch and a brief city tour. The evening is free for relaxation and exploration at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we check out and take a morning flight to Astana (now Nur-Sultan), Kazakhstan’s modern capital. Upon arrival, we begin our sightseeing tour by visiting Baiterek Tower, a striking symbol of Astana’s transformation. Standing at 97 meters tall, the tower offers sweeping views of the city from its observation deck. We then visit Khan Shatyr, a futuristic shopping and entertainment center housed in a colossal tent-shaped structure.
Meals: Breakfast
The day starts with a visit to Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a pyramid-shaped building designed by the renowned architect Norman Foster. The building, which features a golden section proportion, is a symbol of Kazakhstan’s commitment to peace and unity. We will also visit the impressive Hazret Sultan Mosque, the second-largest mosque in Central Asia, which can accommodate up to 10,000 worshipers.
Next, we head to the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the largest museum in the country, which offers an in-depth look at Kazakhstan’s history, culture, and art. We end the day at the Nur Alem Center, the world’s largest spherical building and a legacy of the 2017 Expo. Here, you can explore exhibitions dedicated to renewable energy and futuristic technologies.
Meals: Breakfast
On the final day of the tour, we transfer to Astana International Airport for your departure, filled with memories of your incredible journey through Kazakhstan’s past, present, and natural beauty.
Meals: Breakfast
This 8-day Kazakhstan Highlights Tour is a perfect way to explore the country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this tour offers something for everyone!
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $2800 | $1550 | $1300 | $1050 | $1000 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $3000 | $1650 | $1450 | $1150 | $1100 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) / 1 night in the train Almaty – Turkestan Hotel Breakfasts / 1 lunch at Charyn Canyon / 1 lunch at ethno-village
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Full board Domestic Air ticket Shymkent – Astana (from $100 USD p/p)
This 8-day tour of Kazakhstan was simply fantastic! From the moment we arrived in Almaty, I was captivated by the city’s charm. The visits to Charyn Canyon and the Kazakh Ethno Village were standouts, offering both adventure and cultural immersion. The ancient city ruins of Sauran were a hidden gem, and the Mausoleum of Khodja Ahmet Yassawi was a fascinating historical site. I also really enjoyed the modernity of Astana, especially the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Our tour guide was exceptional, providing insights into each location. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to explore Kazakhstan’s rich history and diverse landscapes!
I was thoroughly impressed with this 8-day tour of Kazakhstan! The trip offered a perfect balance of history, culture, and nature. I loved the tranquil atmosphere at Charyn Canyon and the exciting traditional games at the Kazakh Ethno Village. The Mausoleum of Khodja Ahmet Yassawi was a highlight of the trip for me, and learning about Kazakhstan’s rich history there was incredible. The highlight for me in Astana was visiting the futuristic Baiterek Monument. Each location was better than the last, and I feel like I’ve gained a deep appreciation for Kazakhstan’s diverse heritage. This tour is well-organized and highly recommended!
I had an amazing time on the Kazakhstan Highlights tour! Every day was filled with new experiences. Almaty’s combination of modernity and nature was breathtaking, and visiting Charyn Canyon was truly memorable — the landscapes are unlike anything I’ve seen. The Kazakh Ethno Village gave me a unique opportunity to dive into the country’s traditions, and the visit to Turkestan’s Mausoleum of Khodja Ahmet Yassawi was fascinating. Astana’s futuristic architecture also left me in awe. Our guide was knowledgeable, and the transport was comfortable. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience the history and natural beauty of Kazakhstan!