Trip Overview

Kazakhstan Essentials: From Astana to Almaty

Discover the heart of Central Asia with Kazakhstan Essentials, a perfectly balanced group tour that takes you from the futuristic capital of Astana to the green, mountain-framed city of Almaty. Designed for independent-minded travelers, this journey lets you explore at your own pace while enjoying reliable local support and carefully selected experiences.

Kazakhstan Essentials blends modern cities, dramatic landscapes, and authentic traditions. Walk among Astana’s bold architectural icons, fly south to Almaty’s leafy boulevards and cultural landmarks, and venture deep into nature to witness some of the country’s greatest natural treasures. Along the way, you’ll have the flexibility of free days with recommended visits, plus the option to join guided excursions in Spanish, English, or Russian.

Highlights include alpine panoramas at Shymbulak, sunset views from Kok-Tobe, immersive experiences in a traditional yurt village, and unforgettable nature escapes to Big Almaty Lake, Charyn Canyon, and the stunning Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes with their submerged forest and mountain scenery. Comfortable accommodation, domestic flights, and smooth transfers make this a safe and enjoyable option for solo travelers, couples, or friends.

Whether it’s your first time in the country or your introduction to Central Asia, Kazakhstan Essentials offers the ideal overview of Kazakhstan’s cities, landscapes, and culture — all in one enriching and memorable journey.

Highlights

Kolsay

Day 0 :

Transit (Origin – Astana)

Departure on an international flight to Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Overnight on board. (No breakfast.)

Day 01 :

Astana – Free Day (Recommended Visits)

Arrival, assistance, and transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day free to relax in one of the youngest and most modern capitals in the world. In the afternoon, a short visit to the Grand Mosque of Astana, the largest in Central Asia, with a capacity for over 200,000 worshippers and a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Enjoy the sunset in the majestic plaza of the Grand Mosque. Overnight stay.

Day 02 :

Astana · Free Day

Breakfast. Departure to the center of the “City of the Future.” Self-guided walking tour of the main architectural, historical, and cultural monuments: Bayterek, Khan Shatyr, Presidential Palace (exterior), Abu Dhabi Plaza, and transfer by car to the Expo 2017 complex and Nur Alem Museum. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay.

Day 03 :

Astana–Almaty · Free Day (Recommended Visits)

Breakfast. Assistance and transfer to the airport for the flight to Almaty. Arrival, assistance, and transfer to the hotel. Check-in and self-guided city tour: Zenkov Cathedral and Panfilov Park, Green Bazaar, First President Park, and main avenues. Afternoon free. Overnight stay.

Day 04 :

Almaty · Free Day

Day 05 :

Almaty · Free Day (Recommended Visits)

Breakfast. Departure to Shymbulak Ski Resort, one of the most modern alpine complexes in Central Asia, located in the heart of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Free time to enjoy the landscape, stroll along panoramic terraces, or have a coffee with views of the snow-capped peaks.
In the afternoon, ascent by cable car to Kok-Tobe Hill, Almaty’s most iconic viewpoint. Walk through the park, visit sculptures and local shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Watch an impressive sunset over the city skyline. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

Day 06 :

Day 6 – Almaty · 2-Day Excursion to Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyons

Breakfast. Departure to the Kolsay Lakes National Park region. Arrival in the village of Saty, where the group stays overnight in a guesthouse. Welcome and departure by off-road vehicle to Kaindy Lake, famous for being one of the youngest lakes on the planet and for its submerged forest. 2.5 km walk to the lake (horse rental optional). Return to Saty. Lunch. In the afternoon, departure to Kolsay Lake, surrounded by forests and mountains. Return to Saty. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 07 :

Almaty · 2-Day Excursion to Kolsay & Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyons

Breakfast. Departure to the natural canyons that are part of Charyn Canyon, including the Black Canyon, Moon Canyon, and the famous Valley of the Castles, a natural jewel of Central Asia for walking and exploring. Return to Almaty. Overnight stay.

Day 08 :

Almaty · Free Day

Day 9 :

Return

Breakfast. Transfer to the airport for the return flight. End of services.