Your adventure begins at Almaty International Airport, where you’ll meet your guide holding a personalized nameplate for easy identification. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, transfer to a comfortable hotel for check-in (available after 14:00). After settling in, embark on a sightseeing journey across Almaty’s historic center to discover some of the city’s most cherished landmarks.
Begin with a stroll through the Park of 28 Panfilov Soldiers, a lush area dedicated to the heroes of WWII’s Panfilov division, known for their bravery. The park features monuments, an eternal flame, and the Ascension Cathedral—a wooden Russian Orthodox church that miraculously survived a major earthquake. Next, visit the Green Bazaar, where vibrant stalls offer a variety of Kazakh treats, spices, and crafts. Immerse yourself in the bustling market ambiance, sample local flavors, and purchase unique goods. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Kok Tobe Park, where a scenic cable car ride brings you to a panoramic view of Almaty’s skyline. Return to the hotel for the evening to rest.
After an early breakfast, set off on your jeep expedition into Almaty’s surrounding landscapes. Drive approximately 250 km to reach Altyn Emel National Park, known as the “Golden Saddle” for its diverse terrain that spans lush valleys, high peaks, and unique geological features. Enjoy lunch at a guesthouse before visiting the famed Aktau Mountains. Often called the “Lunar Mountains” for their vibrant shades of blue, pink, and green, these ancient chalk formations date back over 400 million years and create a surreal, colorful landscape.
Later, journey to another marvel within the park: a 700-year-old osier tree, whose twisted, resilient form stands as a natural testament to time. By evening, return to the guesthouse to enjoy a hearty dinner and unwind.
After breakfast, continue exploring Altyn Emel’s wonders, stopping at the famous Singing Dunes. When conditions are dry, the sand here produces a melodic hum, creating a unique and almost mystical experience. The dune also provides stunning views of the vast Kazakh landscape stretching in all directions.
Next, journey to Charyn National Park, with a stop in the town of Zharkent en route. This charming town, close to the Chinese border, features intriguing sites like the Dungan Mosque, a local church, and a bustling market. After lunch at a café, head into Charyn Canyon, often called Kazakhstan’s answer to the Grand Canyon. The “Valley of Castles” offers dramatic rock formations carved by millennia of natural forces. Walk down a winding trail to the Charyn River and enjoy the dramatic surroundings before heading to the tranquil Kolsay Lakes, where you’ll spend the night at a cozy guesthouse.
Today is dedicated to the mesmerizing Kolsay Lakes, a trio of high-altitude lakes nestled in the Tien Shan Mountains close to the Kyrgyzstan border. Known as the “Pearls of Zhetysu,” these lakes are surrounded by majestic mountains and dense coniferous forests. After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely trek from the first lake to the second, a journey that takes 3-4 hours one way, with packed lunches provided. Alternatively, you can take a horseback ride along the same route.
If trekking isn’t for you, relax by the lakes, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and even rent a boat for a peaceful paddle on the pristine waters. After a full day of exploring, return to the guesthouse for dinner and a restful night.
Following breakfast, check out from the guesthouse and journey to Kaindy Lake, a unique natural wonder formed after an earthquake in 1911. The lake’s frigid waters have preserved the trunks of submerged trees, creating a hauntingly beautiful “sunken forest.” You’ll reach a viewpoint overlooking the lake after a short walk or, for an added adventure, a horseback ride.
On the way back, stop at a village for a home-cooked lunch in a local family’s home, providing a taste of authentic Kazakh hospitality. Relax on the scenic drive back to Almaty, arriving at your hotel in the evening. Dinner is provided at the hotel or a nearby restaurant.
After breakfast, set out to explore the nearby Ili Alatau National Park, which stretches over 120 kilometers and ranges from 600 to 5,000 meters in altitude. This diverse ecosystem offers incredible flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking mountain views.
Begin with a visit to the Medeo ice rink, the world’s highest skating rink at 1,690 meters, followed by a trip to Shymbulak, a well-known ski resort at an elevation of 2,260 meters. Enjoy the stunning scenery of snow-capped peaks and, in winter, the exciting winter sports facilities. Conclude with a visit to the Sunkar Falcon Farm, where a traditional falconry show features hunting birds such as hawks and eagles. These birds play a unique role in Kazakh culture and history, and you’ll witness them in action in a remarkable live demonstration. Return to the hotel in Almaty for your last night.
After a final breakfast, transfer to Almaty International Airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
This 7-day Seven Rivers Odyssey Jeep Tour offers a rare, immersive look into Kazakhstan’s most enchanting landscapes and traditional lifestyles. From rugged canyons and serene lakes to ancient trees and vibrant cities, you’ll experience the best of Kazakhstan in comfort and style.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $2550 | $1450 | $1400 | $1200 | $1130 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $2650 | $1500 | $1450 | $1250 | $1200 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour (4WD jeeps outside Almaty) Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Meals as per program (full board in Almaty region days: 2-5) Hunting birds show at Falcon farm
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Horseback riding at Kolsay Lakes – from 25 USD per person
The Seven Rivers Odyssey tour was an incredible journey that I will never forget. I was amazed by the diversity of Kazakhstan’s landscapes, from the eerie beauty of the Aktau Mountains to the dramatic Charyn Canyon. The hiking experience around Kolsay Lakes was breathtaking, and Kaindy Lake’s haunting beauty with its submerged forest left me speechless. The tour was well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who made each day special. I particularly enjoyed the visits to local markets, where I got to sample Kazakh delicacies and interact with friendly locals. The jeep tour allowed us to comfortably explore remote areas, and the views from Kok Tobe were simply stunning. This tour was an absolute highlight of my travels!
I had the most amazing experience on the Seven Rivers Odyssey 7-day tour! From the moment I arrived in Almaty, the adventure began. The landscapes were nothing short of breathtaking, especially the white chalk mountains of Aktau and the mystical Singing Dunes. Trekking through the beautiful Kolsay Lakes, surrounded by towering peaks and crystal-clear waters, was a highlight of the trip. The local guides were fantastic, providing great insights into the history and culture of Kazakhstan. Kaindy Lake was truly magical with its submerged trees, and the visit to Medeo was unforgettable. The jeep ride was comfortable, and the itinerary was perfectly paced. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore Kazakhstan’s unique natural wonders.