Kazakhstan-7-day-itinerary
Kazakhstan 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty
- Arrive at Almaty International Airport (ALA)
- Take a taxi or bus to your hotel in the city center ( approx. 30-40 minutes, 1,500-2,000 KZT / $4-6 USD)
- Spend the day exploring Almaty’s Green Market (Зеленый Базар) for local food and souvenirs
- Visit the nearby Panfilov Park, a beautiful spot for relaxation
Day 2: Almaty City Tour
- Start the day at the Republic Square (Астана Сquare), surrounded by important government buildings
- Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country’s history and culture
- Explore the vibrant streets of Old Almaty, with its mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern cafes
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant
Day 3: Big Almaty Lake and Medeo Gorge
- Take a day trip to Big Almaty Lake (Большое Алматинское Озеро), surrounded by stunning mountains ( approx. 1 hour, 2,500 KZT / $7 USD)
- Visit the nearby Medeo Gorge (Медео Ущелье), with its picturesque views and hiking trails
- Return to Almaty in the evening and enjoy a stroll along the scenic Kok-Tobe Hill
Day 4: Fly to Astana
- Take an early morning flight from Almaty to Astana ( approx. 1.5 hours, 15,000 KZT / $40 USD)
- Check-in to your hotel and explore the modern city center
- Visit the Bayterek Tower, a symbol of Astana’s futuristic architecture
- Explore the nearby Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, with its shopping and dining options
Day 5: Astana City Tour
- Visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country’s history and culture
- Explore the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a stunning example of modern architecture
- Take a stroll along the Ishim River, which runs through the heart of the city
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant
Day 6: Charyn Canyon and Temirlik Canyon
- Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon (Чарын Ущелье), often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia” ( approx. 3 hours, 5,000 KZT / $14 USD)
- Visit the nearby Temirlik Canyon (Темирлик Ущелье), with its stunning red rock formations
- Return to Astana in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant
Day 7: Departure from Astana
- Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
- Take a taxi or bus to Astana International Airport (NUR) for your departure flight ( approx. 30-40 minutes, 1,500-2,000 KZT / $4-6 USD)
Visa Requirements:
- Citizens of many countries can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days
- Check the official government website for specific requirements and regulations
Transportation:
- Flights: Book in advance to secure affordable prices
- Taxis: Available at airports and city centers, but be prepared to negotiate prices
- Buses: A cheap and efficient way to travel between cities, with modern buses and comfortable seating
Things to Know:
- Language: Kazakh (official) and Russian are widely spoken, with some English in tourist areas
- Currency: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT), with many places accepting USD or credit cards
- Culture: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas
- Weather: Kazakhstan can be very cold in winter and hot in summer, pack accordingly
Accommodation:
- Almaty: Stay in the city center for easy access to attractions
- Astana: Choose a hotel with modern amenities and comfortable rooms
- Book in advance to secure affordable prices, especially during peak travel seasons
Food and Drink:
- Traditional Kazakh cuisine: Try beshbarmak (noodle dish), shashlik (skewers), and baursak (fried dough)
- Local markets: Explore the Green Market in Almaty or local bazaars for fresh produce and snacks
- Be prepared to try new foods and drinks, such as kumis (fermented horse milk) or shubat (camel’s milk)
Safety:
- Kazakhstan is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
- Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable taxi services
- Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas