Tobyl

Day Trips

Arrive in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this urban gem. Check into your hotel and savor a traditional breakfast of kazy, horse sausage, with fresh bread and tea. Then, take a leisurely stroll around Panfilov Park, admiring the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral.

Explore the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakh history and culture. Afterward, visit the famous Green Bazaar to experience the sights and sounds of local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. Sample some delicious national delicacies like belyash and kurt while mingling with the locals.

Conclude your first day with a visit to Kok-Tobe Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Almaty. Take a ride on the cable car and relax at the park, soaking in the breathtaking sunset over the city. Have dinner in a local restaurant, trying dishes such as plov and lagman.

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Shymbulak Ski Resort, just a short drive from Almaty. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a cafe before taking a gondola ride up to the slopes for stunning mountain views. Feel the crisp alpine air as you take a short hike along one of the trails.

Visit the Medeu Ice Skating Rink, the highest in the world, and perhaps try your hand at skating or simply enjoy the scenery. Afterward, indulge in lunch at a nearby café featuring local Kazakh cuisine. Spend some time relaxing at the picturesque Big Almaty Lake, known for its turquoise waters and surrounded by majestic mountains.

Return to Almaty in the evening and spend some time at the stylish Dostyk Plaza for shopping and entertainment. Choose a restaurant for dinner that offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk in the Abai Opera House area, perhaps catching a performance if time allows.

Set off early for a day trip to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder often compared to the Grand Canyon. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Kazakh steppe, and stop for a picnic breakfast along the way. Arrive at the canyon and marvel at the intricate rock formations and vibrant colors.

Take a hike through the Canyon of Castles, exploring its unique geological formations and stunning views. Pause for lunch at one of the picnic areas, surrounded by nature's beauty. Capture photographs and relish the serene environment before returning to your vehicle.

Head back to Almaty as the sun sets, enjoying a picturesque drive through the mountains. Once back in the city, unwind at a cozy café with a warm drink and a slice of cake. Reflect on the day's adventures as you enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local eatery.

Embark on a trip to Altyn Emel National Park, renowned for its diverse landscapes and unique singing sand dunes. After a quick breakfast, prepare for an adventurous exploration of the park's stunning environments. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including rare species like the steppe deer.

Explore the Aktau Mountains, where the colorful rock formations create an otherworldly landscape. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery, perhaps by a picturesque stream. Spend the afternoon hiking and soaking in the raw beauty of the Kazakh wilderness.

As the sun dips below the horizon, relax and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the park. Return to Almaty in the evening and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Share stories of the day with fellow travelers over delicious Kazakh cuisine.

Spend the morning visiting the Republic Square, where you can admire impressive monuments that symbolize Kazakhstan's history and heritage. Explore the nearby Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments to experience the rich musical culture of the region. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in a nearby café, sampling local pastries and teas.

Join a cultural workshop where you can learn about traditional crafts like felt-making or ornament-making. Relish a light lunch during your workshop, celebrating your creations with fellow participants. Visit a local artist's studio to understand contemporary Kazakh art and perhaps purchase a unique piece to take home.

Enjoy a festive evening at a traditional yurt dining experience, where you'll savor an array of dishes, including beshbarmak and kumys, while enjoying folk performances. Engage with local families and share stories, deepening your appreciation for Kazakh culture. Return to your hotel feeling enriched by the experiences of the day.

Travel towards the breathtaking Altai Mountains, known for their stunning scenery and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a traditional breakfast before embarking on your adventure into this natural paradise. Take in the sights of thick forests and alpine meadows as you ride horseback through the picturesque terrain.

Explore the remote valleys and lakes nestled within the mountains, experiencing the beauty of Kazakhstan's wilderness. Pack a picnic for lunch with local delights, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Consider fishing or just relaxing by one of the pristine lakes as the afternoon unfolds.

Return to the base camp in the evening filled with exhilarating stories from your adventure. After a hearty dinner, gather around a campfire to enjoy local legends and music, deepening your connection to the region. As the stars twinkle overhead, enjoy a peaceful night in the mountains.

Travel north to Pavlodar, a city renowned for its historical significance and picturesque environments. After breakfast on the go, enjoy the scenic journey through the Kazakh countryside. Upon arrival, visit the beautiful Assumption Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that reflects the city’s rich heritage.

Explore the city park and the banks of the Irtysh River, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. Relish a traditional lunch at a riverside café, indulging in fresh fish dishes endemic to the region. Visit the local museum to learn about the captivating history of Pavlodar.

As the day comes to an end, experience local cuisine at a family-friendly restaurant, trying out specialty dishes from the Pavlodar region. Engage with locals to understand their lifestyle and traditions better. Wind down with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, settling into the city’s nighttime ambiance.

Set out for an explorative drive across the vast plains and steppe of Kazakhstan, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the open skies. Start your day with breakfast at a local roadside diner, tasting fresh local products. Engage with nomadic communities along the way to learn about their lifestyle and culture.

Experience a guided tour that includes traditional horse riding and herding sheep, immersing yourself in the nomadic way of life. Enjoy lunch prepared by local families using traditional cooking methods, tasting delicious home-cooked meals. The afternoon provides opportunities for photography and enjoying the captivating landscapes.

Conclude your steppe adventure with a visit to a traditional yurt, where you'll experience a warm hospitality. Share stories and enjoy a comforting dinner while learning about the customs and traditions of the local people. Spend the night under a blanket of stars, listening to the serene sounds of the steppe.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, taking a moment to reflect on your journey across Kazakhstan. Pack your belongings and prepare for your departure from Almaty. If time allows, visit any last-minute spots in the city, such as a local art gallery or park.

Head to the airport for your onward journey, taking in the final moments of the vibrant city and its people. Savor one last lunch of Kazakhstan’s unique cuisine at the airport café. Reflect on the incredible memories created during your time in this diverse nation.

As you board your flight, take a final glance at the beautiful landscapes of Kazakhstan. Think about the adventures, culture, and nature that you experienced while in the country. Carry the spirit of Kazakhstan with you as you embark on your next adventure.