Kazakhstan-4-day-itinerary

Kazakhstan 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

Places to Go:

  • Almaty International Airport: Arrive at the airport and take a taxi or bus to your hotel.
  • Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar): Visit this bustling market to try local food, buy souvenirs, and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Activities:

  • Take a stroll around the city center, exploring the streets and admiring the Soviet-era architecture.
  • Try traditional Kazakh cuisine, such as beshbarmak (noodle dish) or shashlik (skewers).

Things to Know:

  • Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and was formerly known as Alma-Ata.
  • The city is surrounded by mountains, offering great hiking opportunities.

Day 2: Exploring Almaty

Places to Go:

  • Panfilov Park: Visit this beautiful park, which features a stunning Orthodox church, monuments, and walking paths.
  • Kok-Tobe Hill: Take a cable car ride to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views of the city.

Activities:

  • Visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan’s history and culture.
  • Take a guided tour of the city to explore its hidden gems.

Things to Know:

  • Almaty has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues.
  • The city is known for its leafy streets and parks, earning it the nickname “Garden City”.

Day 3: Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Places to Go:

  • Astana International Airport: Take an early morning flight from Almaty to Astana (approximately 1.5 hours).
  • Bayterek Tower: Visit this iconic tower, which symbolizes the country’s independence and features stunning views of the city.

Activities:

  • Explore the futuristic architecture of Astana, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
  • Take a stroll along the Ishim River, which runs through the heart of the city.

Things to Know:

  • Astana (formerly known as Nur-Sultan) is the capital city of Kazakhstan and was renamed in 2019 in honor of the country’s first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev.
  • The city is a marvel of modern architecture, with many impressive buildings and monuments.

Day 4: Departure from Astana

Places to Go:

  • Astana International Airport: Return to the airport for your departure flight.

Activities:

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Reflect on an unforgettable trip to Kazakhstan!

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, and EU nations, can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days.
  • Check with the Kazakhstani embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Flights: Book flights from Almaty to Astana (Nur-Sultan) in advance to ensure availability.
  • Taxi: Use licensed taxi services, such as Yandex Taxi or UBER, to get around cities.
  • Bus: Public buses and marshrutkas (minivans) connect major cities and attractions.

Other Things of Interest

  • Cuisine: Try traditional Kazakh dishes, such as kuyrdak (boiled meat), shurpa (noodle soup), or baursak (fried doughnuts).
  • Currency: The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities.
  • Language: Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, but many people speak some English, especially among younger generations.
  • Safety: Kazakhstan is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.