Discover Almaty – The Heart of Kazakhstan

Upon arrival at Almaty International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Check in and relax after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a leisurely walk along Panfilov Street or enjoy the city’s nightlife.

Evening Suggestion:

Explore Arbat Street, Almaty’s pedestrian zone filled with street musicians, local artists, cafés, and shops.

Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.

After breakfast, embark on a half-day guided city tour of Almaty.

Attractions Covered:

Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral: One of the world’s tallest wooden Orthodox churches, built without nails, surrounded by lush greenery.

Republic Square: Central Almaty’s administrative and cultural heart, featuring the Independence Monument.

Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments: Showcasing Kazakhstan’s traditional culture and artistry.

In the afternoon, take the cable car ride to Kok Tobe Hill, a must-visit attraction offering a bird’s-eye view of Almaty city and the surrounding mountains.

Visit the “Beatles Monument”, enjoy amusement rides, and shop for souvenirs at the hilltop bazaar.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the city lights.

**Overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.**

After breakfast, drive towards the Upper Medeu Valley (approx. 25 km) — home to **Medeu Ice Skating Rink, located at 1,691 meters above sea level. It’s one of the highest ice rinks in the world.

Later, take the cable car (Gondola) up to Shymbulak Ski Resort (2,260 meters) — Kazakhstan’s premier mountain resort.

Highlights:

•  Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered Tian Shan Mountains.
• Try skiing, snowboarding, or snow biking (seasonal & direct payment basis).
• Visit cafés and restaurants at the resort offering scenic mountain views.

Return to Almaty in the evening.

Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.

Early breakfast and departure for a full-day excursion to Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lake (Approx. 3–4 hrs drive each way).

Charyn Canyon:

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” this natural wonder stretches over 150 km. Explore the Valley of Castles, where wind and water have sculpted the rocks into fantastic shapes.

Enjoy a light trek or simply take photographs of the breathtaking scenery.

Kolsai Lake:

Continue the drive to **Kolsai Lake**, nestled among pine forests and mountain slopes. Known for its mirror-like waters, it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan.

Optional activities include short hikes or a boat ride (depending on season).

Evening: Return to Almaty.

Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.

After breakfast, proceed for a **half-day trip to Alma Arasan Gorge** — located about 30 km south of Almaty.

About Alma Arasan:

This picturesque gorge lies in the upper reaches of the Big Almaty River and is famous for its natural hot springs, waterfalls, and pine forests.

Take a relaxing walk through the gorge, listen to the mountain streams, or soak in the natural mineral baths (optional, direct payment).

Return to Almaty in the afternoon.

Evening: Free for leisure or explore Mega Mall Almaty or Dostyk Plaza for shopping and dining.

Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.

Options for the Day:

• Shopping at Green Bazaar for local dry fruits, chocolates, and souvenirs.
• Visit Central State Museum or Almaty Zoo.
• Relax at a café, try Kazakh cuisine, or enjoy a spa session.

This is your day to unwind, explore at your own pace, or revisit your favorite spots in the city.

Dinner & overnight stay at hotel in Almaty.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Almaty International Airport for your onward journey.