Kazakhstan is one of the most underrated countries in the world, with a number of undiscovered attractions that are well worth a visit. We will separate the attractions by region and we have four main regions

1. Almaty and Almaty region

Almaty is located on the Ile-Alatau Mountain and this is the most popular region for tourists. In the city of Almaty you can take a one or two day tour that includes visiting the main highlights of Almaty.

Take a lift to Kok Tobe. The hill is located to the south-east of the city and once you get to the top you have a panoramic view of Almaty. There are also souvenir shops, a café and a monument of Beatles. 

Walk in Panfilov Park and visit a memorial of Panfilov soldier who allegedly died while defending Moscow from German invasion at WW2.

You can also visit the Green Bazaar and enjoy one of the largest bazaars in the region.

Medeu is one of the largest open air ice skating stadiums in Central Asia. Climbing up from Medeu you can visit the beautiful ski resort of Chymbulak.  Open all year round, Chymbulak is truly one of best Almaty’s highlights.

The Almaty region is full of stunning places to visit.

You can take 1-5 day tour that takes in the main attractions of the region.

Visit the Kolsai Lakes, known as the “Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan”. There are three lakes, the first of which can be reached by car, but the other two can only be reached by horse or hiking.

At the first lake, Kolsai, you can hire a boat and enjoy the stunning views. It is also one of the best places to enjoy a frozen lake in winter.

Lake Kaidly is one of the unique lakes that became a lake after earthquake in 1911.

Enjoy a hike in the Turgen Gorge – stunning nature, alpine meadows, lakes and several waterfalls.

Jeep tours in the Charyn Canyon.  The canyon stretches over 150 kilometres and has a number of stunning Marian vistas.

Visit Altyn Emel National Park, where you can enjoy the singing dunes. The park is home to ibex and khulan.

And of course we highly recommend a visit to the Tamgaly Tas, where you can find ancient petroglyphs that are as mysterious and unexplained as the pyramids of Giza.

And to complete our Almaty region and one of the best things to do, we offer a climb to the Khan Tnegri which is 7000 metres high and is located in the Tien Shan mountain range at the point where Kyrgyzstan, China and Kazakhstan meet.

2. Southern Kazakhstan

South Kazakhstan offers you ancient cultural sites, mausoleum and nature reserves.

Shymkent is the third largest city in Kazakhstan, located near the border with Uzbekistan. In the south of Kazakhstan you can visit the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, the first Sufi to bring Islam to the region. The mosque was designed by Amir Temir, the conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire. He built many historic buildings in the mid-14th century. But before visiting Khoja Amed Yasawi, it is recommended to visit Arystan Bab, who was Yasawi’s mentor. The locals are very careful about their traditions and you should follow them. These places are sacred, so please dress accordingly. Another must-see place is the mausoleum of Aisha-Bibi. Aisha-Bibi was a 16 year old girl who wanted to marry a young boy Emir but her parents did not allow her to marry him, the girl ran away from home but on the way she was bitten by a snake after which she passed away. The mausoleum was built in the 11th-12th century and the monument is a symbol of true love. Today this holy place is visited by many newlyweds.

South Kazakhstan also includes a visit to the “Lost City of Sauran”. In the 10th century, it was a great city on the Silk Road. Now you can explore the ancient ruins of the city.

Enjoy a short expedition to the Baikonur Cosmodrome. This area is still under Russian administration, the Russians lease it from Kazakhstan.

3.  Western Kazakhstan.

And the third region to visit is Western Kazakhstan. Here you can visit the beautiful cities of Aktobe, Aktau and Atyrau. This region is known as the Mangystau region and is the richest part of Kazakhstan.  Here you can enjoy the Martian views of Sherkala, the Valley of the Balls and the Bozzhyra Tract.

There are also stunning views of the Caspian Sea. Western Kazakhstan is full of mysterious places to visit.

4. Central Kazakhstan

The final destination in Kazakhstan is Central Kazakhstan, which includes the capital Astana, Lake Korgalzhyn and Kokshetau.

Astana is a newly built city that is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Contact us to enjoy the best Astana city tour. Kokshetau is a very famous place for the locals who visit this place with their family and enjoy their holidays.

Kazakhstan is a big country with so many beautiful places. Moreover, you can choose to do something of your liking while visiting these places.  The country is open all year round and we would love to meet you and organize your perfect tour to Kazakhstan.  We will not only show you the landscapes, but also meet the locals, learn about their traditions, taste traditional food and drinks, and discover many other hidden gems. We look forward to meeting you!

Suggested Tours:

Related Blogs:

kazakhstan eagle

kazakhstan eagle

kazakhstan eagle: The Kazakh golden eagle, revered in Kazakh culture and falconry, is a bird of exceptional power, skill, and…
kazakhstan weather by month

kazakhstan weather by month

kazakhstan weather by month: Kazakhstan has a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Its vast size and diverse geography contribute…
Nauryz celebration Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan culture and traditions

Kazakhstan culture and traditions: Kazakhstan boasts a rich and diverse culture shaped by its nomadic heritage, geographical vastness, and historical…
Kazakhstan culinary tours

Kazakhstan street food

Kazakhstan street food: Kazakhstan’s street food scene is a vibrant reflection of its rich culinary heritage, combining traditional flavors with…
Places to visit in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan historical landmarks

Kazakhstan historical landmarks: Kazakhstan is rich in historical landmarks that reflect its diverse heritage, from ancient civilizations to Soviet-era architecture….