From  £2995
per person
Tour Highlights
  • Delve into the heart of Kazakhstan's culture
  • Admire the geological marvels of Charyn Canyon
  • Experience the dynamic contrasts of Astana
  • Ascend Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic vistas
  • Gain insight into Kazakhstan's complex history
  • Marvel at the iconic Bayterek tower
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Essential Kazakhstan

10 Day Tour, from £2995 per person

Discover Kazakhstan on an unforgettable 10-day journey where you'll explore the vibrant city of Almaty, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Charyn Canyon, and immerse yourself in the modern wonders of Astana. In Almaty, discover the rich history and culture as you stroll through bustling markets, visit historical landmarks, and enjoy panoramic views from Kok Tobe Hill. Experience the natural beauty of Charyn Canyon, characterised by its unique rock formations and scenic vistas. Then, venture to Astana, where you'll be captivated by futuristic architecture, ancient mosques, and poignant memorials. With a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders, this tour promises an enriching and unforgettable adventure in Kazakhstan.

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1
FLY TO KAZAKHSTAN
DAY 2
ARRIVE ALMATY
Almaty

Arrive in Almaty and transfer to the hotel for an early check-in.

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
DAY 3
ALMATY
Panfilov Park

Experience a comprehensive full-day sightseeing tour of Almaty, starting with visits to the Green Bazar and Museum of Musical Instruments (closed on Mondays). Explore Panfilov Park, home to the iconic Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Wander along Arbat and Panfilov streets, vibrant areas showcasing local artists and their works, providing a glimpse into Kazakhstan's beauty. Discover the pristine Almaty underground metro, noted for its cleanliness and adorned with marble floors and artwork. Conclude the day with a visit to Kok Tobe Hill, featuring the towering TV Tower and a viewing deck offering panoramic vistas of Almaty, alongside souvenir shops and a bronze monument dedicated to the Beatles. (B)

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
DAY 4
CHARYN CANYON
Charyn Canyon

After breakfast, transfer to Charyn Canyon. Charyn Canyon is a natural complex, unique not only in Kazakhstan but also worldwide. The steep slopes of the canyon reach heights of 150-300 meters, with a remarkable dissection of the terrain forming a dense, chaotic network of ravines. Wind and water have sculpted the striking "Valley of Castles," where sedimentary rock formations resemble fanciful towers. The valley stretches over 2 km, offering hours of exploration among the canyons. Descend to the bottom of the canyon, where a refreshing oasis awaits on the bank of the icy Charyn River. After a brief rest, return to Almaty, stopping at one of the observation points for another breathtaking panoramic view before enjoying lunch at a local café. (B,L)

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
DAY 5
ALMATY
ALMATY

Free day at leisure. (B)

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
DAY 6
ALMATY TO ASTANA
Tian Shan mountains

Following breakfast, head to Medeo gorge, where you'll make a brief stop at the substantial Medeo dam. This dam serves to safeguard the city from potentially devastating mudflows originating from the western Tien Shan mountains. From there, embark on the Medeo-Shymbulak cable car for the ascent to the mountain ski resort of Shymbulak. Revel in the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and the majestic Tien-Shan Mountains. Situated within the picturesque Zailiyskiy Alatau valley at an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, Shymbulak offers a scenic retreat just 25 kilometres from the heart of Almaty. Following your visit, transfer to the railway station for an overnight train journey to Astana. (B)

DAY 7
ASTANA
Astana

Upon arrival in Astana meet with a local guide and proceed to the city centre. Following an independent breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Astana. Highlights include a visit to the Palace of Peace and Accord. Often dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," this pyramid-shaped building boasts impressive proportions, with faces of the base measuring 62 metres in length and height. Continue to the Khazret Sultan Mosque, the largest mosque in Central Asia, which took three years to construct. Named in honour of Sufi sheikh Khoja Ahmed Yassawi, a prominent figure in Central Asian history, this grand mosque resembles an oriental palace and stands as a symbol of religious and cultural significance. Conclude the tour with a leisurely walk through Independence Square to the National Museum of Kazakhstan, excluding Mondays.

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Astana
DAY 8
ASTANA
Bayterek Tower

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your guide and driver at 09:00 for a transfer to the ALZHIR memorial complex (closed on Mondays). ALZHIR stands for the Russian acronym "Akmolinskiy internment camp for the wives of the betrayers of the homeland." This Stalinist gulag operated from the 1930s to the early 1950s, primarily detaining wives and children of political prisoners deemed traitors. Notorious in central Kazakhstan, it housed high-profile prisoners, including artists and actresses. Afterwards, return to Nur-Sultan for a sightseeing tour, including visits to Khan Shatyr mall and the New Mosque. Stroll along Water-green Boulevard to admire the city's modern architecture before visiting Bayterek tower, a symbol of hope in Kazakh folklore. This monumental structure, inaugurated in 2002, represents the eternal struggle between good and evil, marking a significant landmark in the capital's history. (B)

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Astana
DAY 9
ASTANA
Astana

Free day at leisure. (B)

Accommodation
Kazzhol Hotel Astana
DAY 10
DEPART ASTANA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

Pricing Information

10 day tour, from £2995 per person

Price Includes

  • Return International flights as per the itinerary
  • All airport taxes & security charges
  • Accommodation and meals as specified
  • Transfers as specified
  • Activities and excursions as specified
  • All entrance fees on sightseeing tours as specified

Price Excludes

  • Travel Insurance
  • Any meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional excursions

Tour Route Map


  1. Kazakhstan, Almaty
  2. Kazakhstan, Astana

Tour Accommodation

Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty
Kazzhol Hotel Almaty The three-star hotel Kazzhol is centrally situated in Almaty, catering to international travellers with its warm hospitality and authentic Kazakh atmosphere. Each en suite......
Kazzhol Hotel Astana
Kazzhol Hotel Astana
Kazzhol Hotel Astana Kazzhol Hotel Astana is an ideal accommodation choice in Astana. Situated near prominent landmarks such as Sports Complex Kazakhstan and Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, this......

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