Kazakhstan 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kazakhstan

Day 1: Almaty - City Tour and Zenkov Cathedral

  • Start your journey in Almaty, the largest city and former capital of Kazakhstan.
  • Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
  • Explore Panfilov Park, a beautiful urban park with a monument dedicated to the Soviet soldiers who fell during World War II.
  • Don’t miss the Zenkov Cathedral, an orthodox wooden church that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • In the evening, stroll down Kunaeva Street for some shopping and local cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Almaty is located in the mountains, so be prepared for cooler temperatures, even in summer.
  • Russian is widely spoken, but many younger people also speak English.

Day 2: Chimbulak - Cable Car Ride and Hiking

  • Take a cable car ride to Chimbulak (also known as Shymbulak) in the morning for breathtaking views of the mountains.
  • Spend the day hiking or trying out various outdoor activities like paragliding, skiing, or mountain biking.
  • In the evening, return to Almaty and rest.

Day 3: Almaty - Big Almaty Lake

  • Head to Big Almaty Lake early in the morning for a day trip. It’s a beautiful alpine lake set in the Trans-Ili Alatau range.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake and take plenty of photographs.
  • On your way back to Almaty, stop at Medeo Gorge to see the world’s highest ski jump and visit the nearby skating rink.

Day 4: Astana - City Tour

  • Travel to Astana, the current capital of Kazakhstan.
  • Visit Bayterek Tower, a tall column with an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore Khan Shatyr, a giant tent-like structure that houses shops, restaurants, and even a beach.
  • Visit the Presidential Palace and the Palace of Peace and Accord.

Things to Know:

  • Astana is a modern city with many futuristic buildings.
  • The city can be quite windy due to its location on the steppe.

Day 5: Borovoe - Relaxation and Sightseeing

  • Spend your last day in Kazakhstan at Borovoe, a popular tourist resort town located in the Burabay National Park.
  • Relax at one of the many resorts or spas in the area.
  • Explore the Singing Birch Forest and the Medeu Gorge.
  • In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kazakh folklore show before heading back to Almaty for your flight home.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries require a visa to enter Kazakhstan. Check the official government website for the latest information and requirements.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights are available between Almaty and Astana.
  • Buses and shared taxis are also options for travel between cities, although they can be less comfortable and take longer.