Best of Kazakhstan

Discover the many facets of Kazakhstan, from the futuristic billion-dollar metropolis of Astana, ethno-village Sofievka, Silk Road heritage of Southern Kazakhstan and finally the charming Almaty province with a wealth of natural landscapes: singing sand dunes, azure alpine lakes, rugged canyon and surreal red-and-white mountains.

1. Fly into Astana

2. Days 1-4: Astana

   Start in the bustling metropolis of Astana. Enjoy a city tour taking in Central Asia's largest mosque, a local museum to see the “Golden Man”, panoramic views from top of Baiterek Tower alongside other highlights including Constitution Square and Kazakh Eli Square.

   Another day beckons with an excursion to Borovoe, often dubbed as Kazakhstan's Switzerland as the nature reserve is blessed with 14 crystal clear lakes hugged by coniferous forests and rocky outcrops. Enjoy a short walk and take a boat trip as you learn about the famous Kazakh legends in this reserve.

   Spend a day excursion to Sofievka to get a glimpse into the nomadic life of traditional Kazakhs. Visit a yurt to sample local delicacies alongside Kazakh music, witness an eagle hunting demonstrations, learn how to make Kazakh cheese and gain an insight into a variety of Kazakh traditions.

   Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton Astana (3 nights)

3. Fly into Shymkent

4. Days 4-6: Shymkent

   Shymkent will be your base for the next 2 nights. Discover Silk Road history with a visit to Otrar including the Local History Museum, Arystan-Bab Mausoleum and Otrar archaeological site before exploring the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, Hilvet underground mosque and Necropolis in Turkestan. Also explore Sayram, one of Kazakh’s oldest settlements including a visit to the Local History Museum, Ibrahim-Ata Mausoleum, Karashash-Ana Mausoleum and medieval minaret.

   Accommodation: Rixos Khadisha Shymkent (2 nights)

5. Fly into Almaty

6. Days 6-9: Almaty

   Next, get a taste of the very best of Almaty, including the charming Panfilov Park, the exotic Green Bazaar, Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, and the Central Mosque. Enjoy panoramic views of Almaty from Kok Tobe Hill, home to the world’s tallest TV tower.

   Make a day trip to Big Almaty Lake and witness the eagle-hunting tradition at Sunkar Falcon Centre. At additional cost, you can also enjoy optional activities at Qazaq-Oner artisanal centre or a leisurely excursion to Shymbulak ski resort area.

   Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton Almaty (3 nights)

7. Days 9-10: Altyn Emel National Park

   Onwards to Altyn Emel National Park. Along the way, we can do an optional stop at Tamgaly Tas with its Buddhist petrogylphs at additional cost. Reaching into Altyn Emel, gaze over the surreal Aktau-Katytau mountains with Martian-like red-and-white colouring before staying for a night.

   Rise early morning to scale around the Singing Barchan Dune. During early morning, you may be lucky to encounter gazelles, kulands and birds on their way to Ili River for a morning drink. On your return, en route to Charyn Canyon which is spectacular at 154km long and 300m deep with unique towering structures of various colours.

   After a walk in Charyn Canyon, we will transfer you to the airport while you await for your midnight flight home. Alternatively, you may want to stay another night in Almaty with optional experiences the next morning such as a visit to Tamgaly UNESCO petrogylphs or Turgen Falls.

   Accommodation: Aigai Kum Guesthouse (1 night)

8. Fly home from Almaty

Astana, Shymkent, Almaty & Altyn Emel