Inclusions
- Return International Flights
- Daily breakfast at the hotel throughout the tour
- 1 lunch & 1 dinner at Kolsay guesthouse
- 4 nights accommodation in 4★ hotels in Almaty
- 1 night accommodation in 4★ hotels in Kolsay Lake
- Round-trip airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all sightseeing and transfers
- Services of a professional English-speaking guide / guide-driver
- Entrance fees and sightseeing as per itinerary
- Special 4x4 taxis in Charyn Canyon & Kaindy Lake
- Cable car tickets: Shymbulak & Kok Tobe
- Falcon show entrance (except Mondays & Tuesdays)
- Bottled mineral water (1 per person per day)
You'll Love
- Ride scenic cable cars to Shymbulak Ski Resort & Kok Tobe
- Walk through the spectacular Charyn Canyon
- Experience the magical submerged forest at Kaindy Lake
- Relax by the serene shores of Kolsay Lake
- Explore Almaty’s cultural icons and vibrant bazaars
- Witness an authentic Kazakh falcon hunting show
- Enjoy private transport and expert English-speaking guidance
Overview
Experience the best of southern Kazakhstan on this beautifully curated journey through Almaty, dramatic canyons, and pristine alpine lakes. This tour blends vibrant city life with untouched natural wonders, taking you from cultural landmarks and bustling bazaars to breathtaking mountain scenery. Highlights include scenic cable car rides to Shymbulak Ski Resort and Kok Tobe, a walk through the spectacular Charyn Canyon, and tranquil moments at the crystal-clear Kolsay Lake and the surreal submerged forest of Kaindy Lake. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, expert local guidance, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure, this tour offers an ideal introduction to Kazakhstan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
When/Date
Itinerary
Arrive in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural and economic capital. Meet your local representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore nearby surroundings at your own pace.
Visit Medeu Gorge, home to the world’s highest outdoor ice-skating rink, set at 1,961 meters above sea level. Enjoy a spectacular cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort and Talgar Pass, offering stunning alpine views. Return to Medeu for lunch before continuing with an afternoon city tour covering Panfilov Park, Ascension Cathedral, Museum of National Instruments, Memorial of Glory & Eternal Flame, and the lively Green Bazaar.
Depart for Charyn National Park, often compared to the Grand Canyon, and enjoy a guided walk through its dramatic rock formations. Continue to the beautiful Kolsay Lake, nestled in the Tian Shan mountains. Check in at a cozy guesthouse, enjoy lunch, and relax in the peaceful mountain setting. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore.
After breakfast, check out and travel by special 4x4 taxi to the stunning Kaindy Lake, famous for its surreal submerged spruce forest. Spend time relaxing and taking photos before returning to Almaty in the evening. Check in at your hotel and unwind after the scenic journey.
Begin the day with a visit to Kok Tobe Park, reached by cable car, offering panoramic views over Almaty. Continue to Almarasan Gorge for a refreshing nature walk. Later, visit the renowned Sunkar Falcon Nursery, where you’ll witness an impressive hunting bird show and learn about traditional Kazakh falconry and seven bird species. Evening free at leisure.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s natural and cultural treasures.
