Kazakhstan-3-day-itinerary
Kazakhstan 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Almaty City Tour
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar), where you can try local food and drinks, such as beshbarmak, kuyrdak, and kumis.
- 10:00 AM: Head to the Panfilov Park, a beautiful park with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the Zenkov Cathedral, a unique wooden church built without nails.
- 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at one of the local restaurants, such as Gosti or Tiffany’s.
- 3:00 PM: Visit the Central Museum of Kazakhstan, which showcases the country’s history and culture.
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner and watch a folk show at Turandot Restaurant.
Day 2: Turgen Gorge and Big Almaty Lake
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Almaty to Turgen Gorge, known for its stunning natural beauty ( approx. 1-hour drive).
- 11:00 AM: Hike to the Turgen Waterfall, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
- 2:00 PM: Have lunch at a local cafe or bring a picnic.
- 4:00 PM: Visit Big Almaty Lake, a beautiful lake with crystal-clear water ( approx. 30-minute drive).
- 7:00 PM: Return to Almaty and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 3: Astana City Tour
- 8:00 AM: Take an early flight from Almaty to Astana ( approx. 1-hour flight).
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Bayterek Tower, a iconic landmark with panoramic views of the city.
- 12:00 PM: Explore the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, a unique shopping mall with an indoor beach and amusement park.
- 2:00 PM: Have lunch at one of the local restaurants, such as Saksaul or Line Brew.
- 4:00 PM: Visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan, which showcases the country’s history, culture, and art.
Visa Requirements
- Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter Kazakhstan. Check with the Kazakh embassy or consulate in your home country for requirements.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available at Almaty International Airport for citizens of certain countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Transportation
- Flights: Domestic flights connect major cities, such as Almaty and Astana. Book in advance to secure seats.
- Taxis: Available at airports and city centers. Use reputable companies like Yandex.Taxi or IQOS.
- Public Transport: Buses and marshrutkas (minivans) are affordable but may not have English signs.
Things to Know
- Language: Kazakh and Russian are official languages, but many people speak some English.
- Currency: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). You can exchange currency at airports or banks.
- Weather: Kazakhstan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly.
Accommodation
- Hotels: Almaty and Astana have a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options like Ibis to luxury hotels like The Ritz-Carlton.
- Hostels: Available in major cities, such as Almaty Hostel or Astana Hostel.
Other Tips
- Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or traditional Kazakh homes.
- Try local cuisine: Be adventurous and try traditional dishes like beshbarmak, kuyrdak, or shashlik.
- Learn some basic phrases: Say “hello” (салам), “thank you” (рахмат), and “goodbye” (сау болсын).