Treasures of Kazakhstan

Fly to Almaty from the UK

Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at your disposal, allowing you to relax or explore at your own pace. (B)

• Hotel Description

Today's itinerary includes a visit to Green Bazaar, followed by a stroll through Panfilov Park, where you'll see the unusual Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world's most unique wooden structures. Visit the Museum of National Musical Instruments (closed on Mondays) and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Later, visit Kok Tobe Hill, home to the 372-metre-tall TV Tower. From the viewing platform, you may enjoy panoramic views of Almaty, explore gift stores, and see a bronze memorial to the Beatles. (B)

• Hotel Description

At 10:00, meet your guide for a trip to Medeo Gorge. You will have a brief stop at the massive Medeo dam, which is critical for protecting the city from possible mudflows from the western Tien Shan mountains. Next, take the Medeo-Shymbulak cable car to the alpine ski resort of Shymbulak, which is known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks in the Tien-Shan range. The resort, located in the magnificent Zailiyskiy Alatau valley at an elevation of 2260 metres above sea level, is about 25 km from downtown Almaty. Return to the city afterwards.

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Arbat and Panfilov streets, which are renowned tourist locations that provide insight into local life and culture. These streets are covered with artwork reflecting Kazakhstan's magnificent landscapes, which highlight the country's natural splendour. Visit the Sunkar Falcon Farm at 17:00 for a thrilling group falconry show (except Mondays and Tuesdays) before returning to Almaty. (B)

• Hotel Description

Following breakfast, commence a 280-kilometre journey towards the captivating Kolsay Lakes, renowned as one of Kazakhstan's most breathtaking natural attractions. Along the way, make a stop to explore Charyn Canyon, an impressive geological formation characterised by its 3-kilometre length, widths ranging from 20 to 130 metres, and depths of up to 100 metres. Often likened to the Grand Canyon in the United States, albeit on a smaller scale, Charyn Canyon offers a glimpse into the forces of nature that have shaped its rugged terrain over millennia. After your exploration, proceed to Saty Village, where you'll spend the night, nestled amidst the serene landscapes of the region. (B,L,D)

Begin your day by visiting Kolsai Lake in the morning. Take a leisurely walk around its picturesque surroundings, soaking in the tranquillity of the area. In the afternoon, take a picturesque drive to Lake Kaindy. Lake Kaindy, located at an elevation of 2000 metres above sea level in the Kung Alatau mountains, a subrange of the Tien-Shan range, is known for its fascinating underwater vegetation. At a depth of 30 metres, spruce tree tops protrude from the lake's surface, producing a bizarre and intriguing scene. Explore the region around the lake, admiring the natural beauty. After a day of adventure, return to your accommodation to rest and unwind after a fulfilling day in the mountains. (B,L,D)

Today, you will return to Almaty, arriving in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You might consider visiting a museum or taking a leisurely stroll along Arbat and Panfilov streets, for a drink or a bite to eat. (B)

• Hotel Description

This morning you will take an early flight to Turkestan. Upon arrival, you will visit the Otrar Region, where you'll see the Otyrar Local History Museum and the Arystan-Bab Mausoleum, honouring Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. After exploring the archaeological site of Otrar, you will travel to Turkestan where you will visit "Azret-Sultan," a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will explore the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the ancient settlement, which includes the Necropolis, fortress wall, citadel, Hammam, Hilvet underground mosque, and Karavan Sarai complex. (B)

• Hotel Description

Today, you'll explore the Settlement of medieval Sauran, a key monument of Kazakhstan's medieval city culture. The ruins of the Sauran fortress, a magnet for adventurers and antiquity enthusiasts, boast an extensive network of underground water conduits known as kahrezes. These conduits, spanning over 110 kilometres, supplied water from the distant Karatau Mountains to Sauran. In the afternoon, transfer to Shymkent, a dynamic city blending modern amenities with rich historical heritage. (B)

• Hotel Description

Depart Shymkent and fly back to Almaty. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (B)

• Hotel Description

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)