Grand Kazakhstan Tour – Almaty, Medeu, Shymbulak & Singing Dunes - 6 Nights / 7 Days

(4N Almaty | 1N Saty Village)

Flights
Breakfast
Hotel
Sightseeing
Transfers
Restaurant
Bar
Wi-Fi

Overview

Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Kazakhstan on this carefully crafted 7-day journey based in Almaty. Blending vibrant city life with dramatic natural landscapes, this tour showcases the very best of southeastern Kazakhstan.

Begin in Almaty, the country’s cultural capital, where leafy parks, colorful bazaars, and historic landmarks like Zenkov Cathedral offer fascinating insights into Kazakh heritage. Ascend Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views of the city and the majestic Tian Shan Mountains.

Adventure awaits in the surrounding highlands, from the world-famous Medeu Ice Rink to the alpine heights of Shymbulak Ski Resort. Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,” before discovering the turquoise waters of Kolsai Lakes and the surreal sunken forest of Kaindy Lake. A charming overnight stay in Saty Village adds an authentic touch of local hospitality.

Choose between exploring the mystical Singing Dunes of Altyn Emel National Park or visiting the stunning Big Almaty Lake. This tour perfectly balances culture, adventure, scenery, and relaxation for an unforgettable Kazakhstan experience.

Itinerary

Discover Kazakhstan’s natural wonders and cultural gems on this 7-day Almaty adventure featuring canyons, alpine lakes, mountain resorts, and authentic village hospitality.

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty & Kok-Tobe Hill−

Arrive at Almaty International Airport (ALA), you will be meet and assist by our local representative. Transfer to your hotel and check in (standard check-in time: 1400 hrs).

After some rest, enjoy free time to explore the surroundings of your hotel.

In the evening, proceed to Kok-Tobe Hill by scenic cable car. From the hilltop, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty city and the Tian Shan Mountains, especially beautiful at sunset. Explore Kok-Tobe Park, visit the mini-zoo, souvenir shops, and see the iconic Beatles Statue.

Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Almaty.

Day 2: Almaty City Tour+

After breakfast, proceed a guided Almaty city tour to visit Panfilov Park, one of the oldest parks in the city, and admire the beautiful Zenkov (Ascension) Cathedral, a unique wooden structure built entirely without nails.Continue to the bustling Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar), where you can experience local life, taste traditional snacks, and shop for spices, dried fruits, chocolates, and souvenirs.

Later, visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, offering deep insight into the country’s history, culture, and nomadic heritage.

Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Almaty.

Day 3: Medeu Ice Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort+

After breakfast, drive towards the scenic Medeu Gorge, home to the world’s highest-altitude ice-skating rink, surrounded by majestic mountains.

From Medeu, take a cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort, Kazakhstan’s most popular mountain resort. Enjoy the fresh alpine air and stunning views from an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level. You may relax at mountain cafés or take short walks for photography.

Return to Almaty in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4: Charyn Canyon – Full Day Excursion+

Early breakfast followed by a full-day excursion to Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan.”

Explore the famous Valley of Castles, where towering red rock formations have been sculpted by nature over millions of years. Enjoy light hiking and photography amidst dramatic landscapes.

After sightseeing, return to Almaty by evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5: Kolsai Lakes & Kaindy Lake – Saty Village Stay+

After breakfast, check out the hotel and depart for a scenic drive to the beautiful Kolsai Lakes, a chain of three alpine lakes set amidst dense forests and mountains. Enjoy a peaceful walk or light hike around the lake area.Continue to Kaindy Lake, famous for its surreal “sunken forest,” where submerged fir trees rise through crystal-clear turquoise waters, a truly unique natural wonder.

In the evening, proceed to Saty Village and check in at a local guesthouse. Experience traditional Kazakh hospitality, local cuisine, and a serene rural atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Saty Village.

Day 6: Altyn Emel National Park OR Big Almaty Lake+

After breakfast, proceed as per chosen option:

Option 1: Altyn Emel National Park

Visit the vast Altyn Emel National Park, home to the famous Singing Dunes, which produce a humming sound when wind blows across the sand. Explore the dramatic desert and mountain landscapes.

Option 2: Big Almaty Lake (BAO)

Visit the stunning Big Almaty Lake, an alpine reservoir located at an altitude of 2,500 meters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. (Access subject to weather and local authority restrictions.)

Return to Almaty by evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7: Departure+

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Enjoy some last-minute shopping or a relaxed walk along Arbat Street, known for its cafés, street artists, and souvenir shops.

And later, you will be transferred to Almaty International Airport for your Departure Flight.