Pure Kazakhstan Tour
Southern Kazakhstan in 7 days Tour
TOUR DETAILS
-
Period
All year round -
Tour length
7 days / 6 nights -
Price
1250 USD / per person in a group of 10 and 11 people
Southern Kazakhstan Tour Highlights
Explore the historic landmarks of Almaty, including the Park of 28 Panfilov Soldiers and Kok Tobe Park, before venturing into the natural wonders of Altyn Emel National Park, where you’ll witness the striking Aktau Mountains and ancient Osier Tree. Continue your adventure with visits to the majestic Charyn Canyon and serene Kolsay Lakes, followed by a mesmerizing experience at Kaindy Lake. Delve into the cultural and natural riches of Almaty, from the Ili Alatau mountains to the Sunkar Falcon Farm, before bidding farewell to this captivating destination.
Itinerary: Almaty – Altyn Emel – Zharkent – Saty village – Kolsay & Kaindy – Charyn Canyon – Almaty
Southern Kazakhstan Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Almaty, arrival
Welcome to Almaty — Kazakhstan’s cultural and economic heart!
After meeting your guide at the airport, transfer to your hotel (check-in after 14:00). Leave your luggage and get ready to explore the city.
We start our sightseeing from the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, one of Almaty’s most beloved landmarks. Here you’ll see the Eternal Flame, the beautiful wooden Ascension Cathedral that survived a major earthquake, and the Museum of Musical Instruments, showcasing rare exhibits dating back to the 17th century.
Next, we head to the lively Green Bazaar, where you can taste dried fruits, nuts, and local delicacies — a perfect way to dive into the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour through Almaty’s modern center: admire the Abay Opera House, stroll along cozy Panfilov Street lined with cafés and street performers, and browse handmade crafts at Arbat Street.
We finish the day with a cable-car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill (1,100 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views over the city and the snowy peaks of the Tian Shan mountains.
Return to the hotel for rest.
breakfast
Day 2 Almaty - Altyn Emel National Park by road, 450 km
After an early breakfast, we set off on a scenic jeep journey across the Almaty region toward Altyn Emel National Park, one of Kazakhstan’s most remarkable nature reserves.
Its name, “Altyn Emel” or “Golden Saddle”, comes from the shape of a nearby mountain ridge — and the park itself is a land of contrasts: endless steppes, colorful hills, and rocky mountains home to rare wildlife.
After lunch at a cozy guesthouse, we explore the breathtaking Aktau Mountains, a range of chalk hills dating back over 400 million years. Known as the “Lunar Mountains”, they shimmer in layers of white, pink, red, and green — a truly otherworldly sight.
We’ll then visit the legendary 700-year-old willow tree, revered by locals as a guardian of wisdom and life.
By evening, we return to the guesthouse for dinner and a well-deserved rest under the peaceful desert sky.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 Altyn Emel - Zharkent – Saty village by road, 370 km
After breakfast, we continue our off-road adventure through Altyn Emel National Park. Our first stop is the legendary Singing Dune, a natural wonder that “sings” like a pipe organ when dry sand slides down its slopes. From the top, enjoy sweeping views over the desert, Ili River valley, and distant mountain ridges — a truly unforgettable sight.
After exploring, we drive toward the mountain village of Saty, gateway to the Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes. En route, we stop in Zharkent, a small border town known for its mix of cultures and traditions. Here we’ll visit the Dungan Mosque–Museum and stroll through the local bazaar to get a feel for daily life in eastern Kazakhstan.
Lunch at a local café.
Arrival in Saty by evening, check-in at a cozy guesthouse or mountain resort, and rest surrounded by alpine scenery.
breakfast, lunch
Day 4 Saty village, trip to Kolsay & Kaindy by road, 75 km
After breakfast, we set out to explore two of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful alpine lakes.
Our first stop is Kolsay Lake, often called “The Necklace of the Tien Shan.” Nestled among pine forests and snow-capped peaks, the lake shimmers at 1,800 meters above sea level — an ideal place for a peaceful walk and incredible photos.
We’ll then visit a local family home in Saty village for a homemade lunch, offering a taste of genuine mountain hospitality.
In the afternoon, we continue to the mysterious Kaindy Lake, formed after an earthquake in 1911 that flooded a spruce forest. The tree trunks still rise from the turquoise water, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape. After a short off-road drive, you can walk or ride horseback to the lake — both options promise breathtaking views.
Return to your guesthouse or mountain resort for rest and overnight stay.
breakfast, lunch
Day 5 Saty village – Charyn Canyon – Almaty by road,
After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Almaty, with a stop at one of Kazakhstan’s true natural treasures — Charyn Canyon.
Often called the “Little Brother of the Grand Canyon,” it stretches for more than 150 km and reveals striking red and orange cliffs shaped by wind and water into fantastical “castles.”
We’ll explore the famous Valley of Castles, walking down through the gorge to the Charyn River (around 2 km one way). At the riverbank, we’ll pause for a picnic lunch (lunch boxes included) and take in the breathtaking views of the canyon walls glowing in the sunlight.
In the afternoon, we drive back to Almaty. Arrival by late evening, check-in at the hotel, and rest.
breakfast
Day 6 Almaty, Medeo, Shymbulak
After breakfast, we head into the Ili Alatau Mountains, where Almaty meets the clouds. Our first stop is Medeu, the legendary high-mountain skating rink perched at 1,691 meters above sea level. Even though it’s closed for renovation until 2027, the area remains a favorite spot for fresh air, stunning views, and a leisurely walk surrounded by alpine scenery.
Next, we ascend by cable car to Shymbulak Mountain Resort — the jewel of Kazakhstan’s mountains. The ride unfolds over three scenic stages, reaching the Talgar Pass (3,200 m) with breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped Zailiyskiy Alatau range. At the top, enjoy crisp mountain air, cozy cafés, and unforgettable views. (If maintenance is underway, an eco-transfer will be provided to the resort base.)
Returning to the city, we visit the Almaty Museum of Arts, a vibrant space showcasing Kazakh contemporary art, international exhibitions, and multimedia installations.
Our final stop is Republic Square, the symbolic heart of modern Almaty, featuring the Golden Warrior Monument, elegant fountains, and wide open boulevards — perfect for photos and people-watching.
Return to the hotel and rest.
breakfast
Day 7 Almaty, departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out before noon and transfer to the international airport for your flight home.
breakfast
Tour Information
Tour price includes:
- Private air-conditioned transport with driver according to the program. Note: In the Almaty region, guests will travel by SUV/4WD vehicles (Jeep tour, 2–5 days), 3 pax per car (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar).
- 3 nights in Almaty hotel (double/twin basis, bed & breakfast)
- 1 night in guesthouse at Altyn Emel National Park (twin shared basis)
- 2 nights in mountain resort at Kolsay Lakes
- Meals: breakfasts daily, 3 lunches and 1 dinner
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees according to the program
- English-speaking guide services throughout the tour (guide-driver for small groups)
- Bottled mineral water (1L per person daily)
Tour price does not include:
- International flight tickets
- Meals not mentioned above
- Optional horseback riding at Kolsay Lakes – from 40 USD per person
- Medical expenses and insurance
- Porters at hotels, train stations, and airports
- Tips and personal gratuities
- Visa fees (if applicable)
Price per person 2026
| Group | 3* Hotel (USD) | 4* Hotel (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | 2,990 | 3,290 |
| 2-3 pax | 1,760 | 1,820 |
| 4-5 pax | 1,360 | 1,430 |
| 6-7 pax | 1,300 | 1,370 |
| 8-9 pax | 1,265 | 1,340 |
| 10-11 pax | 1,250 | 1,320 |
Single supplement in Almaty +115 USD +175 USD
Accommodation
| City / Reserve | Hotels 3* | Hotels 4* |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty | Grand Sapphire Hotel 3* or similar | Kazzhol Park Hotel 4* or similar |
| Altyn Emel NP | Guesthouse | – |
| Kolsay Lakes | Guesthouse at Saty Village on full board basis (15 km from Kolsay Lake) | Kolsay Prestige Mountain Resort (at Kolsay Lake) |
Accommodation details:
- Altyn Emel Guesthouse: 13 rooms with private WC/shower; the rest have shared facilities on the floor.
- Saty Guesthouse: up to 10 rooms total (only 2 with private WC/shower).
- Qolsay Lakes Town: mostly double rooms (1 king-size bed) and a few twin/triple rooms; shared WC/shower on the floor.
- Kolsay Nomads: twin rooms available (advance booking 2–3 months prior is required).
Transportation (by group size)
| Group Size | Vehicle |
|---|---|
| 1-2 travelers | Sedan for 3 seats |
| 3-7 travelers | Minivan for 10 seats |
| 8-14 travelers | Minibus for 18 seats |
| 15+ travelers | Coach for 42 seats |
Transport during Jeep tour:
- Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Patrol, etc. – 3 passengers per car.
- Toyota Sequoia – up to 5 passengers per car.
Recommendations for your trip:
- Please note that the Green Bazaar, Museum of Musical Instruments, and Falcon Show are closed on Mondays.
- The temperature outside the city can be significantly lower than in Almaty — we recommend bringing warm clothes for travel to mountain and park regions.
- Due to the limited number of rooms in guesthouses at Altyn Emel and Kolsay National Parks, early booking is strongly advised.
- The recommended group size for traveling in the Almaty region is up to 20 people.
Book your tour here
If you would like to customize your tour please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to organize a custom tour or to provide a modified itinerary based on one of the tours provided by the tour operators.
Kazakhstan travel information
Money & costs
Safety
Entry & exit
Best time to go
Health
Money & costs
Money & costs
The official currency in Kazakhstan is the Tenge (KZT), and the country boasts the most advanced banking system in the region. ATMs are widely distributed across major cities, including banks, hotels, and shopping centers; however, it’s important to note that most ATMs dispense cash only in the local currency. Exchange facilities are readily available in every city, offering services for various currencies such as the US dollar, Euro, Russian ruble, British pound, Chinese yuan, and Kyrgyz som. Exchanging US dollars or Euros for Tenge is a straightforward process in banks and exchange offices.
In addition, international credit cards find acceptance in the majority of hotels, restaurants, and large supermarkets. It’s worth noting that smaller merchants usually do not accept cards and often operate with limited cash reserves which can cause problems in providing the proper change from payments.
Safety
Safety
The current security situation is presently stable but bears the potential for deterioration. Recommendations encompass the following:
- Always carry an original form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, as law enforcement patrolling the streets may request verification.
- Steer clear of any demonstrations and political assemblies. In the event of becoming aware of nearby violence or unrest, it is advised to promptly vacate the premises.
- Incidents of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag thefts, and vehicle break-ins, are prevalent. Safeguard valuables discreetly and exercise vigilance, particularly during nighttime. When approached by a police officer, driver, or official, insist on the presentation of identification.
- Avoid solitary strolls and arrange transportation in advance. Refrain from utilizing unofficial taxi services.
- While on trains, ensure the security of personal belongings, including passports and travel documents, and utilize locks for compartments, especially on night trains.
- Exercise caution against online scams.
- Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, is proscribed in proximity to schools, playgrounds, medical facilities, and public spaces (such as museums, public transportation, airports, train stations, and subterranean passages), as well as within vehicles carrying children.
- The possession or usage of illegal substances may result in protracted incarceration.
- Photography is restricted in the vicinity of military installations, border areas, airports, and specific official buildings. The sharing or publication of images that may be deemed disrespectful to religion, culture, or national symbols is discouraged.
- Same-sex relationships are not unlawful but may encounter varying degrees of tolerance, particularly outside major urban centers nationwide.
- Exercise caution by never leaving consumables unattended or entrusted to the care of unfamiliar individuals.
- Road conditions exhibit disparities across the country, with well-maintained infrastructure in major cities and their environs, while rural areas may experience neglect in road upkeep.
Entry & exit
Entry & exit
Kazakhstan implements diverse visa regulations tailored to passport holders from various countries. Comprehensive information regarding visas in Kazakhstan and whether they are requisite for your visit can find here.
Upon entry into the country, there may be a requirement for registration. For those entering visa-free, it is essential that their passport remains valid only for the duration of their stay. However, if you are utilizing a visa, it is imperative that your passport remains valid for the standard six months beyond the conclusion of your intended stay. To secure a tourist visa from the Embassy of Kazakhstan or to obtain an electronic visa, the initial step is procuring a Letter of Invitation (LOI).
Best time to go
Best time to go
Kazakhstan is characterized by severe weather conditions, especially during the winter months. The country experiences extreme climates in both summer and winter, with the most intense heat and cold being felt in the central steppe and around the capital, Astana. Temperatures can soar above 40°C in June-August and plummet to -20°C in December-February. Optimal times for visiting Kazakhstan are during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) to steer clear of scorching summers and snowy winters.
Health
Health
Prior to embarking on your journey, verify that your destination has the capability to offer the required medical assistance you may need. Ensure you possess suitable travel insurance that covers on-the-spot treatment or unforeseen medical evacuation. It’s noteworthy that medical staff often lack proficiency in English.
Non-prescription medications are easily obtainable. If you require prescription medications, a valid prescription from a local physician or a foreign prescription translated into Kazakh or Russian will be necessary.
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Tour updated 10.11.2025