Kazakhstan-2-day-itinerary

Kazakhstan Travel Itinerary: 2-Day Adventure

Day 1: Almaty Exploration

Morning

  • Start the day with a delicious traditional Kazakh breakfast: Try some beshbarmak (noodle dish), shashlik (skewers of marinated meat), or baursaki (fried doughnuts) at a local café.
  • Visit the Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar): Explore the vibrant market, where you can find fresh produce, souvenirs, and try some street food.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through Panfilov Park: This beautiful park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Almaty. You can walk, relax, or people-watch.
  • Visit the Museum of National Instruments: Discover Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage by exploring the museum’s collection of traditional instruments.

Evening

  • Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill: Take in breathtaking views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains while enjoying dinner at one of the hill’s restaurants.
  • Experience the nightlife of Almaty: Head to the Dostyk Avenue, where you can find bars, clubs, and lounges.

Day 2: Nature Escapade

Morning

  • Drive to Big Almaty Lake (1.5 hours): This stunning lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers breathtaking views.
  • Take a leisurely hike around the lake: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Medeo Gorge: Explore this scenic gorge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is home to the Medeo Ski Resort.
  • Ride the Medeo Funicular: Take in panoramic views of the gorge while riding the funicular, which reaches an altitude of 2,500 meters.

Evening

  • Return to Almaty and enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner: Try some horse meat dishes, such as kuyrdak or shuzhuk.
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s evening atmosphere: End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll or a visit to a local spa.

Essential Information

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival in Kazakhstan. Check the official government website for requirements.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Transportation

  • Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the main entry point into Kazakhstan.
  • Taxi services, such as Yandex Taxi or Uber, are widely available.
  • Rent a car or hire a private driver for day trips and excursions.

Things to Know

  • Language: Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Culture: Kazakhstan is a predominantly Muslim country; respect local customs and traditions.

Safety

  • Take necessary precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets.

Additional Tips

  • Weather: Almaty can be quite hot during the summer months (June to August), so pack accordingly. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often below 0°C (32°F).
  • Power adapter: Kazakhstan uses Type C and F power sockets, which are compatible with European plugs.
  • Money exchange: You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.

With this itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Almaty’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Enjoy your trip to Kazakhstan!