Almaty, Kazakhstan 6 Day Itinerary

Almaty, Kazakhstan 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Arrive at Almaty International Airport. You can take a taxi or book in advance with a car service for a smoother arrival.
  • Check-in at your hotel (recommended: Rixos Almaty Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Grand Astoria Almaty).
  • Visit Panfilov Park, the heart of Almaty city with its monument to Kazakhstan’s war heroes and Zenkov Cathedral.
  • Enjoy lunch at Shymbulak Cafe or any local restaurant nearby for traditional Kazakh cuisine such as Beshbarmak, Plov, or Lagman.
  • In the afternoon, explore Green Bazaar, Almaty’s famous market offering a variety of goods from fresh produce to souvenirs.

Day 2: Medeu & Shymbulak

  • Take a taxi or public transportation (bus #37) to Medeu Skating Rink. Marvel at the world’s second largest ice rink, then enjoy the breathtaking view from the cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort.
  • Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the restaurants in Shymbulak or bring a picnic.
  • Spend the afternoon enjoying various activities like skiing (winter) or hiking (summer).

Day 3: Kazakhstan Museum of Folk Musical Instruments & Kok Tobe

  • Visit the Kazakhstan Museum of Folk Musical Instruments to learn about the rich musical heritage of Kazakhstan.
  • Take a taxi or cable car up to Kok Tobe Hill. Enjoy panoramic views, visit the entertainment complex, and enjoy lunch at one of the cafes.
  • In the evening, explore Barbara Street for shopping and dining.

Day 4: Chimbulak & Big Almaty Lake

  • Take a taxi or join a tour to Chimbulak. Enjoy hiking, paragliding (summer), or skiing (winter).
  • Continue on to Big Almaty Lake. Appreciate the stunning views and take plenty of photos.
  • Return to Almaty city for dinner at Dastarakhan or any restaurant of your choice in the city center.

Day 5: Ak Bulak & Ascension Cathedral

  • Visit Ak Bulak Cemetery, the resting place of prominent Kazakhs such as President Nazarbayev and Abai Kunanbayev, Kazakhstan’s national poet.
  • Explore the Russian Orthodox Church of the Ascension, also known as the Zenkov Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece made entirely from wood.
  • Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps exploring more of Barbara Street or relaxing in your hotel.

Day 6: Departure

  • Enjoy your last breakfast in Almaty before checking out from your hotel.
  • Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit any spots missed during the week or shop for souvenirs at Green Bazaar one more time.
  • Head to Almaty International Airport for your departure. Safe travels!

Things to Know:

  • Kazakhstan uses the Tenge as its currency, and credit cards are not universally accepted, so it’s best to have cash on hand.
  • The language spoken in Kazakhstan is Kazakh and Russian. While English proficiency varies, many people in touristic areas can communicate in English.
  • Be aware of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Public transportation is readily available but may be less reliable than in some other countries. Taxis are a good alternative.