Highlights of Kazakhstan in 14-Days

Sauran the lost city - big almaty lake tour

Shaitankol, The dead lake Karkaraly national park

Overview:

Highlights in Kazakhstan: This tour is based on visits to two main regions of Kazakhstan and covers the most beautiful sights of Kazakhstan. In the first part of the trip you will visit two main regions of Kazakhstan and see the best of Kazakhstan.

In the first part of the trip you will visit the Golden Triangle of Kazakhstan which includes three largest national parks of Almaty region, Charyn, Kolsai and Altyn Emel National Parks.

By visiting these three national parks you will see three different natural wonders, desert, Sand Dunes, oasis and emptiness of Altyn Emel National Park. Kazakhstan’s history, particularly during the Soviet era, has left a significant mark on these regions, influencing modern society and culture.

In Charyn Canyon you will see magnificent views while walking to the Valley of Castles. In Kolsai Lakes National Park you will see the best of Tien Shan nature, alpine lakes, forests and hiking.

Almaty is a real destination and during the trip you will meet local families and try traditional food and drinks. The significance of nomadic culture in Kazakhstan is evident in local traditions and lifestyle, which you will experience firsthand.

The second part of the journey will take you to the southwestern part of Kazakhstan, the mysterious Mangystau region, world famous for its Martian landscapes. We will take an off-road vehicle ride into the wild.

Most of the attractions don’t have towns or tourist camps, so we will mostly be camping in the middle of nowhere. Here you can see the Ustyurt plateau, Tuzbair, Valley of the Balls, Airakhty, Bozzhyra and also visit several underground mosques from 15th to 18th centuries.

We will fly on a domestic flight from Almaty to Aktau. During the trip you will be accompanied by our experienced guides and drivers.

These are great expeditions and unforgettable memories are guaranteed!

Introduction to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is a melting pot of nomadic traditions, Soviet-era architecture, and modern innovations.

From the snow-capped mountains of the Tian Shan range to the endless steppes of the Kazakh countryside, Kazakhstan is a destination that will leave you in awe.

With its unique blend of Middle Eastern and Soviet influences, Kazakhstan is a fascinating country to explore, and this guide will take you on a journey through its most breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and vibrant culture.

Itinerary:

Welcome to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan and a hub of cultural and economic activity. Located in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, Almaty is a stunning city surrounded by beautiful landscapes and snow-capped peaks.

After arriving at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can freshen up and prepare for your adventure. In the afternoon, you will embark on a city tour, exploring the city’s vibrant markets, shopping malls, and historic landmarks.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Kazakh cuisine. In the evening, take a stroll through the city’s picturesque streets and enjoy the summer evenings.

Here we go! We will pick you up early in the morning and take you to Charyn Canyon National Park. It is a 150-kilometer canyon consisting of 5 main canyons such as Bestamak, Temerlik, Yellow, Red and Valley of Castles.

We will visit the most beautiful part of the canyon and you will have the opportunity to take a walk and enjoy the surroundings. In the evening we drive to the traditional village of Saty. Overnight at a local guest house.

Kolsai Lakes National Park is known as the “Pearl of the Tien Shan”. There are three lakes located at three different altitudes. We will start our hike from the lower Kolsai Lake and reach the Middle Kolsai.

Here you can see the magnificent Alatau Mountains and enjoy hiking in the wild. Total hike time is 5-7 hours. In the evening return to Saty village.

Altyn Emel means Golden Saddle. Today we will arrive in the small village of Basshi. Check in to the hotel and in the afternoon we will drive to the Sand Dunes. Hike. Back to the village.

After breakfast we will take you to beautiful mountains such as Aktau and Katutau. Here you can take a walk and enjoy the surroundings. The excursion continues with visit to Kosbastau Oasis, where 700-year-old willow tree grows

Return to Almaty. In the afternoon we will take domestic flight to western Kazakhstan to Aktau city. Your support team will meet you at local airport. Welcome dinner at the restaurant. Rest and prepare for the upcoming trip. Overnight at local hotel

Mangystau is a truly fascinating region of Kazakhstan, known for its Martian landscapes, rich history and cultural heritage.

Our team will meet you on arrival at Aktau airport. Drive approximately 200km to Zhygylgan Cape. The name Zhygylgan means “fallen down” in Kazakh and it really looks like the earth has fallen down in this place.

Zhygylgan Cape is an amazing place with majestic cliffs and fascinating lion footprints from a distant past. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning views and discover geological wonders that will leave you speechless.

Visit Sultan Epe (35km)Sultan Epe Mosque, the underground mosque of the protector of sailors holy Sultan Epe – a monument of religious architecture, the mosque was built around the IX-XII century. The mosque has 11 rooms.

It is so narrow that in some places you have to crawl to get from one room to another. Its architecture, ventilation system and lighting show that it was built according to the most advanced models of the time.

Historically, various religious rituals were conducted at Sultan Epe Mosque, making it an important site for different religious communities. Drive another 20km to the Kapamsai Canyon. Kapamsai is a narrow limestone canyon with steep and even walls that reach a height of 70 metres. Overnight stay in the tent.

Enjoy your morning in the middle of nowhere. After breakfast, pack the camp and drive south to the Shakpak Ata Mosque. The other underground mosque was built back in 9-10 centuries and famous for its masterpiece of architecture of that time, where you can discover how the ventilation system and lightning.

It is well worth a visit. The next stop is a Torysh or well known as The Valley of Balls. Here you can enjoy the amazing creation of nature, where you can see balls of different sizes and colours, made of sedimentary rocks – sand and clay.

Kazakhstan also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling from Africa and the Middle East to their breeding grounds. Today’s final attraction is the breathtaking Sherkala Mountain (70 km).

Sherkala is a lonely standing mountain of unusual shape, created during the formation of the mountainous Kara-Tau valleys as a result of the land rising from the depths of the sea.

From one side, the mountain resembles a huge white yurt, but from the other, Sherkala resembles a sleeping lion with its huge head resting on its paws. This is why the mountain is called Sherkala, which in Turkmen means ‘Lion Mountain.

Airakty-Shomanai Mountains, also known as the Valley of Castles, where a forest and colossal rock formations resembling grandiose castles provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography. Climb to the top of the mountains and enjoy the panoramic views.

The next stop is Tuzbair (130 km). Tuzbair is a landscape with deserted river shores surrounded by hills of multi-coloured clay are amazing. Here you can see Martian landscapes. Overnight in tent.

Drive to Beket Ata Mosque which will take about 1.5 hours. Beket-Ata was an important Sufi scholar who founded several underground mosques and a madrasa in Mangistau region in 18th century.

Enjoy another historical legacy at Beket Ata Mosque. The region also holds historical significance from the Soviet Union era, which has left a lasting influence on the local culture.

Drive to the one day one of the best attractions of Mangistau region, Bozjyra Tract. This is part of Ustuyrt plateau. Enjoy the Martian views of the surrounding area! Overnight in tent.

Bokty is a natural wonder and one of the symbols of Mangystau region. Rising 165 metres above the surrounding plains, the mountain is striped with white, yellow, coral and brown, looking like a layered cake.

Clearly visible boundaries between multicoloured clay and sandstone deposits make it a stunning sight.

Kyzylkup invites you to admire the beauty of Tiramisu Canyon where dark brown and white striped rock formations create a mesmerising spectacle.

In the afternoon drive back to Aktau city. Check in to local hotel in city center. Farewell dinner with the team. Thank you!

Upon arrival in Almaty city we will take you to Big Almaty lake which is one of the best Almaty’s attraction. Enjoy mountain lake and hiking. The next stop is hot spring of Alma Arasan. Perfect time to enjoy hot spring pools. Overnight in tourist camp.

Today we take you on a day tour of Almaty, including visits to the Medeu Ice Rink, Shymbulake Ski Resort and Koktobe Hill. Almaty is the cultural centre of Kazakhstan and was the capital until 1997.

The city lies at the foot of the Alatau Mountains and the town is rich in beautiful attractions. Enjoy a traditional meal!

Thank you for coming! We hope to see you again!

Highlights of Kazakhstan in 14-Days

Duration:14-Days
Availability: Four seasons
Best time: April-November
Begin and end: Almaty
Tour type: Sightseeing
Price from: 2550 USD p.p

Our highlights

Kolsai Lakes National Park
Charyn Canyon, Valley of Castle
Altyn Emel National park
Ustyurt Plateau
Bozzhyra Tract
Torysh, Valley of Balls
Aktau, Caspian Sea
Many others

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Tour Price Includes

Fly ticket Almaty-Aktau-Almaty
Land Transportation
English speaking guide
Local Driver
Accommodation
Eat & Drink
Fees & Permits
Activities

Tour price excludes

Personal needs
Alcoholic beverages
Gratitude

Tour details:

Pack everything you think you might need. Here are some tips: daypack, sunglasses, anti-mosquito, sunscreen, waterproof jacket, hand sanitizer, toiletries, power bank, camera, headlamp, hat, hiking shoes, warm jacket, sandals and personal medicine.

And have some cash with you in case you want to shop or buy souvenirs.

– Book your tour asap. To make everything smooth, bookings should be made at least 2 months in advance.

– If any of the attractions are closed, we will replace with other highlights that are no less interesting.

– The tour is flexible and we can customize your own expedition according to your wishes.

We are responsible to visit the places and see the attractions we have mentioned asia as in our itinerary. We will guide you with pleasure and give you a great tour.

We are not responsible for any unexpected situation during the city tour. We are not responsible for the traffic in the city and finally we are not responsible for the bad weather conditions that you should be prepared for in advance.

Please don’t hurt the local feelings and respect their traditions. When visiting mausoleum, mosque and other local sacred sites, please dress up. Please be ready at the scheduled time. And if there is any problem, please inform your guide first.

Generally there is no big problem on this tour but we are traveling and try to enjoy the moment! The group atmosphere is important and as an experienced team we try to make the tour as enjoyable as possible and ask you to help us.

You will be assisted by local English speaking guide and driver.

This tour is available all year round. Best time is from end of March to November. During this period the weather is warm and in the middle of summer it gets very hot.

But in some mountainous areas you may feel cold due to the altitude and we ask you to pack warm jacket in this case. Please check the weather forecast before you travel.

To confirm your tour we ask you to pay 600 USD deposit and the balance can be paid 2 months before the tour start date. We ask you to make your payment by bank transfer (SWIFT CODE)

Here is our cancellation policy that we recommend our clients follow.

Cancelling the tour within more than 2 months, 50% of your deposit payment will be rebussed (300 USD)

Cancellation within less than 1 month, the deposit will not be refunded (600 USD)

All accommodation is based on local standards and during the expedition you will stay in a hotel with various types of accommodation, from 4-star hotel in the city centre to camping in tents.

You will also have the opportunity to experience traditional yurts and lodges. We choose the best options.

Most restaurants have their own vegetarian and vegan dishes. On some days we may take our lunches in lunch boxes and eat in the middle of nowhere as this happens when we drive from one attraction to another and there is no place to eat on the way.

And it will be an extra experience. We will have plenty of fresh bottled water and you can always ask for a snack.

And please don’t bring any stomach medicine with you, it very rarely happens that our clients have stomach problems when they try the local food.