Almaty | Charyn Canyon | Kolsai Lakes | City & Culture
Kazakhstan
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty
- Arrival at Almaty International Airport
- Private transfer to hotel
- Rest & acclimatization
- Evening stroll at Panfilov Park
- Visit Zenkov Cathedral (wooden Orthodox church)
- Dinner at a local Kazakh restaurant
Overnight: Almaty
Day 2: Almaty City Tour
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit:
- Republic Square
- Central State Museum
- Green Bazaar (local snacks & souvenirs)
- Lunch at a city café
- Ride the Kok-Tobe cable car for panoramic city views
- Free time for shopping or leisure
Overnight: Almaty
Day 4: Charyn Canyon Day Trip
- Early breakfast
- Drive to Charyn Canyon (3–4 hrs)
- Explore Valley of Castles
- Short guided hike & photography
- Picnic lunch / local café stop
- Return to Almaty in the evening
Overnight: Almaty
Day 3: Medeu & Shymbulak Mountains
- Drive to Medeu Ice Skating Rink (world’s highest outdoor rink)
- Cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort
- Enjoy alpine views & light activities
- Optional café stop in the mountains
- Return to Almaty by evening
Overnight: Almaty
Your Journey Begins Here
Day 5: Kolsai Lakes (Nature Escape)
- Early departure to Kolsai Lake 1
- Scenic mountain drive
- Walk around the lake, boating optional
- Lunch at a guesthouse
- Optional visit to Kaindy Lake (sunken forest)
-
Overnight at eco-lodge or return late to Almaty
Overnight: Kolsai / Almaty (based on comfort preference)
Day 6: Leisure & Cultural Experience
- Late breakfast
- Visit Abai Opera House area
- Optional experiences:
- Kazakh folk show
- Falconry experience
- Spa & wellness
- Farewell dinner at a fine-dining restaurant
Overnight: Almaty
Day 7: Departure
- Breakfast
- Transfer to airport
- Departure with memories of Kazakhstan
Day 3: Medeu & Shymbulak Mountains