7-Day Kazakhstan Tour: Cultural Treasures and Natural Wonders

Arrive in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s southern capital. After meeting your driver at the airport, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Rest and prepare for the days ahead.
Overnight in Almaty.

Meet your guide and driver at the hotel for a city sightseeing tour. Visit Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, Republic Square, and the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays). In the afternoon, take a short drive to the Chimbulak ski resort in the nearby mountains and ride the cable car for panoramic views of the Tian Shan peaks. End the day with a visit to the Sunkar Falcon Farm, where you’ll see an impressive demonstration of traditional bird hunting skills (available Wednesday to Sunday from April to October).
Overnight in Almaty.
Tour duration: 6 to 7 hours

After breakfast, depart Almaty for a full-day excursion to Charyn Canyon (approximately 220 km, 3–4 hours). The canyon is famous for its striking red rock formations and dramatic cliffs. Visit the Valley of Castles, where the shapes of the rocks resemble ancient fortresses. Enjoy time to explore the area on foot and take in the views. A short picnic break is included before heading back to Almaty in the afternoon.
Overnight in Almaty.
Tour duration: 9 to 10 hours

Today begins with a scenic drive to Lake Issyk, located around 64 km from Almaty. On the way, visit the archaeological site where the “Golden Man” was discovered — a Saka warrior whose gold-covered armor became a national symbol. Continue to the alpine lake, surrounded by the Tian Shan Mountains, and enjoy the peaceful landscape. In the afternoon, return to Almaty for your evening flight to Astana. Upon arrival in the capital, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Astana.
Tour duration: 7 to 8 hours

Start your city tour of Astana with a walk through the old district, formerly the merchant town of Akmolinsk. Continue along the central Millennium Axis, a city planning concept created by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa. Visit the Opera House, Round Square, and the Nurzhol and Green Water boulevards. Ride to the top of the Bayterek Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Finish with a visit to the Khan Shatyr shopping and entertainment complex.
Overnight in Astana.
Tour duration: 4 to 5 hours

In the morning, travel about 40 km outside the city to visit the ALZHIR Memorial Complex, built on the site of a Soviet-era camp where thousands of women were imprisoned during Stalin’s rule. Learn the stories of the victims and reflect on this tragic chapter of Kazakhstan’s history. Later, return to Astana to explore some of its most modern landmarks, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation and the futuristic Nur Alem pavilion at the EXPO 2017 site.
Overnight in Astana.
Tour duration: 6 to 7 hours

Check out from the hotel at noon. You will have some free time before your scheduled transfer to Astana International Airport for your departure.
End of tour.