Kazakhstan-6-day-itinerary

Kazakhstan 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Almaty City Tour

Morning

  • Arrive in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Green Market, a bustling marketplace offering local produce, souvenirs, and traditional clothes

Afternoon

  • Explore the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which showcases the country’s history and culture
  • Walk through the scenic Gorky Park, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine at a local restaurant
  • Take a stroll along the Dostyk Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Things to Know

  • Kazakhstan is a bilingual country, with Kazakh and Russian being the official languages. English is not widely spoken, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian.
  • The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.

Day 2: Almaty Surroundings

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Big Almaty Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains ( approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, or simply take in the breathtaking views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Medeo Gorge, a scenic valley with stunning rock formations and waterfalls
  • Stop by the Shymbulak Ski Resort, even if you’re not skiing, for panoramic views of the city

Evening

  • Return to Almaty and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with city views

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but it’s recommended to use ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go or InDriver
  • Public transportation is limited, so consider hiring a private car or driver for the day

Day 3: Fly to Astana

Morning

  • Take an early morning flight from Almaty to Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan ( approx. 1.5 hours)
  • Check-in to your hotel and explore the city

Afternoon

  • Visit the Bayterek Tower, a symbol of Astana and offering panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, an impressive shopping mall with an indoor beach and theme park

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like beshbarmak (noodle dish) or shashlik (skewers)

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days. Check the official government website for requirements.

Day 4: Astana Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a stunning building hosting international conferences and exhibitions
  • Explore the National Museum of Kazakhstan, showcasing the country’s history, culture, and natural heritage

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Astana Opera House, a beautiful building with impressive architecture
  • Take a stroll along the Ishim River Embankment, offering scenic views of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Kazakh concert or show at one of the local theaters

Things to Buy

  • Local handicrafts, such as embroidered clothing, carpets, and jewelry
  • Traditional Kazakh food items, like horse meat sausages or dried fruits

Day 5: Charyn Canyon

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan” ( approx. 3-hour drive)
  • Hike through the canyon, taking in the breathtaking views and unique rock formations

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Charyn River, offering scenic views and picnic spots
  • Return to Astana in the evening

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Depart from Astana back to Almaty (or your next destination)

Additional Tips

  • Kazakhstan is a vast country, so consider domestic flights or long bus rides when traveling between cities.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events.

This itinerary provides a mix of urban exploration, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. However, feel free to customize it based on your interests, budget, and time constraints. Happy travels in Kazakhstan!