Kazakhstan 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Kazakhstan

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

  • Arrive at Almaty International Airport
  • Visit the Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar) for a local experience and try some traditional Kazakh food like beshbarmak or kuyrdak
  • Explore the Panfilov Park, which is one of the city’s main attractions, featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and several monuments
  • Visit the Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning Orthodox church

Day 2: Almaty to Charyn Canyon

  • Drive to Charyn Canyon (approximately 3.5 hours), a breathtaking natural wonder with deep canyons and rock formations
  • Explore the canyon on foot or by horseback
  • Visit the Koldzha Valley, known for its unique red rock formations and stunning views

Day 3: Charyn Canyon to Turgen Hills

  • Drive to the Turgen Hills (approximately 2.5 hours), a scenic area featuring rolling hills, forests, and picturesque villages
  • Explore the Turgen River, which flows through the hills and offers opportunities for fishing and picnicking
  • Visit the ancient burial site of the Saks-Gois people

Day 4: Turgen Hills to Issyk Lake

  • Drive to Issyk Lake (approximately 3 hours), a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains and forests
  • Take a boat tour on the lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape
  • Visit the nearby village and try some local cuisine

Day 5: Issyk Lake to Karakol

  • Drive to Karakol (approximately 4 hours), a charming town in eastern Kazakhstan known for its scenic location and rich cultural heritage
  • Explore the town’s historic center, which features traditional Kazakh architecture and several museums
  • Visit the Dungan Mosque, a beautiful Islamic mosque built in the late 19th century

Day 6: Karakol to Altyn Emel National Park

  • Drive to Altyn Emel National Park (approximately 1.5 hours), a stunning natural area featuring red sand dunes and unique rock formations
  • Explore the park on foot or by horseback, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
  • Visit the nearby village and try some local cuisine

Day 7: Altyn Emel National Park to Almaty

  • Return to Almaty (approximately 4 hours), reflecting on an unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU member states, can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for stays up to 30 days.
  • However, it’s essential to check with the Kazakh Embassy or Consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.

Transportation

  • Kazakhstan has a well-developed road network, and driving is a convenient way to get around.
  • Many tourist attractions are accessible by car, and renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring rural areas.
  • Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but these may be less frequent in rural areas.

Things to Know

  • Kazakhstan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  • Try some traditional Kazakh cuisine, which features dishes like beshbarmak and kuyrdak.

Safety

  • Kazakhstan is generally a safe country for tourists, but as with any foreign travel, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Be aware of local scams and petty theft in crowded areas.