Almaty with Charyn Canyon – Explore Nature’s Masterpiece
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Almaty to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, a natural masterpiece carved by time. Known as the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan," this stunning destination boasts towering red rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Wander through the iconic Valley of Castles, where the unique shapes of the rocks resemble ancient fortresses. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, Charyn Canyon offers a glimpse into the raw beauty of Kazakhstan’s wilderness and leaves every visitor inspired.
Itinerary
Day 1
WELCOME TO ALMATY
Welcome to Almaty! After completing customs, immigration, and baggage collection, our friendly English-speaking staff will warmly greet you in the arrivals hall.
Our team will assist you in reaching your vehicle and escorting you to your hotel. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your rooms and settle in.
End your day with a delightful dinner at a local Indian restaurant, offering authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere.
Our team will assist you in reaching your vehicle and escorting you to your hotel. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your rooms and settle in.
End your day with a delightful dinner at a local Indian restaurant, offering authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere.
Day 2
FUN IN SHMBULAK | SHOPPING TOUR
Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading out for an exciting adventure.
Excursion to Shymbulak Ski Resort
Embark on a scenic excursion to the renowned Shymbulak Ski Resort, accompanied by our professional English-speaking guide. Your journey includes Gondola tickets to the third level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains.
Located 2,260 meters above sea level and just 25 km from Almaty city center, Shymbulak is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. With an average summer temperature of +25°C and winter lows of -7°C, it offers year-round charm. The resort sees abundant snowfall of approximately 1.5 meters and enjoys around 90 sunny days annually.
The ski season runs from December to April, making it an ideal destination for winter sports. Visitors can take the world’s third-longest Gondola ride, stretching 4.5 km from Medeu to the base of Shymbulak. The Gondola system, featuring 114 cabins, can accommodate 2,000 guests per hour.
For thrill-seekers, the six modern lifts, including the combination quad-chair and 8-passenger cabins, will take you to Talgar Pass at an altitude of 3,180 meters. The breathtaking mountain views of the snowy slopes and evergreen Tien Shan forests create unforgettable memories.
Lunch at an Indian Restaurant
Savor authentic Indian cuisine as you recharge for the rest of your day.
Shopping Tour
Discover Almaty's vibrant shopping scene with a guided tour of the city’s best malls. Visit modern centers such as Mega Mall, Dostyk Plaza, and Villa Boutiques, where you can find everything from luxury brands to local treasures.
Relaxation & Free Time
Return to the hotel to unwind and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a popular Indian restaurant, offering a warm and flavorful dining experience.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading out for an exciting adventure.
Excursion to Shymbulak Ski Resort
Embark on a scenic excursion to the renowned Shymbulak Ski Resort, accompanied by our professional English-speaking guide. Your journey includes Gondola tickets to the third level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains.
Located 2,260 meters above sea level and just 25 km from Almaty city center, Shymbulak is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. With an average summer temperature of +25°C and winter lows of -7°C, it offers year-round charm. The resort sees abundant snowfall of approximately 1.5 meters and enjoys around 90 sunny days annually.
The ski season runs from December to April, making it an ideal destination for winter sports. Visitors can take the world’s third-longest Gondola ride, stretching 4.5 km from Medeu to the base of Shymbulak. The Gondola system, featuring 114 cabins, can accommodate 2,000 guests per hour.
For thrill-seekers, the six modern lifts, including the combination quad-chair and 8-passenger cabins, will take you to Talgar Pass at an altitude of 3,180 meters. The breathtaking mountain views of the snowy slopes and evergreen Tien Shan forests create unforgettable memories.
Lunch at an Indian Restaurant
Savor authentic Indian cuisine as you recharge for the rest of your day.
Shopping Tour
Discover Almaty's vibrant shopping scene with a guided tour of the city’s best malls. Visit modern centers such as Mega Mall, Dostyk Plaza, and Villa Boutiques, where you can find everything from luxury brands to local treasures.
Relaxation & Free Time
Return to the hotel to unwind and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a popular Indian restaurant, offering a warm and flavorful dining experience.
Day 3
BIG ALMATY LAKE | CITY TOUR | KOK TOBE TOUR
Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Visit to Big Almaty Lake
Discover the enchanting Big Almaty Lake, perched at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. Known as Zhasylkol, or "Green Lake," this serene alpine destination is surrounded by glaciers, rugged peaks, and dense pine forests. Spend your morning soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of one of Almaty's most iconic natural landmarks.
On your return to the city, make a brief stop at The First President Park. Spanning 73 hectares, this park combines Almaty’s unique natural beauty with scientific innovations of the 20th century, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
Lunch at an Indian Restaurant
Enjoy a flavorful lunch featuring authentic Indian dishes, a perfect break in your day of discovery.
Visit to Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
Next, head to Panfilov Park, a lush green haven in the heart of the city. This iconic park is dedicated to the Panfilov Heroes, 28 brave soldiers of an Almaty infantry regiment. Their legacy is commemorated at a striking war memorial, which honors soldiers from all 15 Soviet republics.
Within the park, marvel at Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of Almaty’s most famous landmarks. Towering 56 meters tall, this wooden cathedral is a testament to advanced engineering of the early 20th century. Though legend claims it was built without nails, the truth lies in its innovative use of reinforced concrete and timber preservation, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.
Visit to Kok Tobe Hill
End your day with a visit to Kok Tobe Hill, Almaty's highest point at 1,100 meters above sea level. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride starting near Hotel Kazakhstan, gliding over historic neighborhoods and fruit gardens.
At the summit, take in panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. The towering 372-meter TV Tower provides a striking backdrop to this scenic spot. Kok Tobe Hill also features various attractions, including restaurants serving international cuisines and shops for souvenirs, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
Conclude your eventful day with a delightful dinner at an Indian restaurant, reflecting on the unique experiences and sights you’ve enjoyed throughout Almaty.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Visit to Big Almaty Lake
Discover the enchanting Big Almaty Lake, perched at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. Known as Zhasylkol, or "Green Lake," this serene alpine destination is surrounded by glaciers, rugged peaks, and dense pine forests. Spend your morning soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of one of Almaty's most iconic natural landmarks.
On your return to the city, make a brief stop at The First President Park. Spanning 73 hectares, this park combines Almaty’s unique natural beauty with scientific innovations of the 20th century, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
Lunch at an Indian Restaurant
Enjoy a flavorful lunch featuring authentic Indian dishes, a perfect break in your day of discovery.
Visit to Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
Next, head to Panfilov Park, a lush green haven in the heart of the city. This iconic park is dedicated to the Panfilov Heroes, 28 brave soldiers of an Almaty infantry regiment. Their legacy is commemorated at a striking war memorial, which honors soldiers from all 15 Soviet republics.
Within the park, marvel at Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of Almaty’s most famous landmarks. Towering 56 meters tall, this wooden cathedral is a testament to advanced engineering of the early 20th century. Though legend claims it was built without nails, the truth lies in its innovative use of reinforced concrete and timber preservation, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.
Visit to Kok Tobe Hill
End your day with a visit to Kok Tobe Hill, Almaty's highest point at 1,100 meters above sea level. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride starting near Hotel Kazakhstan, gliding over historic neighborhoods and fruit gardens.
At the summit, take in panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. The towering 372-meter TV Tower provides a striking backdrop to this scenic spot. Kok Tobe Hill also features various attractions, including restaurants serving international cuisines and shops for souvenirs, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
Conclude your eventful day with a delightful dinner at an Indian restaurant, reflecting on the unique experiences and sights you’ve enjoyed throughout Almaty.
Day 4
VISIT TO CHARYN CANYON
Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for an unforgettable journey to one of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Visit to Charyn Canyon
Embark on an adventure to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, located within the Charyn National Park, approximately 215 km east of Almaty. This awe-inspiring site, often referred to as the Grand Canyon’s little brother, offers a stunning landscape shaped over millions of years by the Charyn River and natural elements. The journey takes about three hours via scenic routes, adding to the excitement of reaching this geological marvel.
Stretching approximately 150 km and plunging up to 300 meters deep in places, the canyon is a sight to behold. One of its most famous areas, the Valley of Castles, spans 2 km and is named for its striking rock formations that resemble grand, man-made structures. Wandering through this section feels like stepping into a prehistoric world shaped by time and nature.
The canyon’s history dates back around 3 million years, when tectonic activity began lifting the land, gradually draining a massive lake that once covered the region. Over time, the Charyn River carved the canyon, with earthquakes and natural erosion continuing to shape its intricate formations. Today, the river still flows at the bottom, creating new features and adding to the canyon’s evolving beauty. For geologists, the exposed layers of sediment reveal hundreds of millions of years of Earth’s history, making it a treasure trove of discovery.
Packed Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch amid the stunning surroundings, allowing you to savor the tranquility and magnificence of Charyn Canyon.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
After returning to Almaty, wrap up your day with a flavorful dinner at an Indian restaurant, reflecting on the incredible natural beauty and fascinating history you’ve experienced.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for an unforgettable journey to one of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Visit to Charyn Canyon
Embark on an adventure to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, located within the Charyn National Park, approximately 215 km east of Almaty. This awe-inspiring site, often referred to as the Grand Canyon’s little brother, offers a stunning landscape shaped over millions of years by the Charyn River and natural elements. The journey takes about three hours via scenic routes, adding to the excitement of reaching this geological marvel.
Stretching approximately 150 km and plunging up to 300 meters deep in places, the canyon is a sight to behold. One of its most famous areas, the Valley of Castles, spans 2 km and is named for its striking rock formations that resemble grand, man-made structures. Wandering through this section feels like stepping into a prehistoric world shaped by time and nature.
The canyon’s history dates back around 3 million years, when tectonic activity began lifting the land, gradually draining a massive lake that once covered the region. Over time, the Charyn River carved the canyon, with earthquakes and natural erosion continuing to shape its intricate formations. Today, the river still flows at the bottom, creating new features and adding to the canyon’s evolving beauty. For geologists, the exposed layers of sediment reveal hundreds of millions of years of Earth’s history, making it a treasure trove of discovery.
Packed Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch amid the stunning surroundings, allowing you to savor the tranquility and magnificence of Charyn Canyon.
Dinner at an Indian Restaurant
After returning to Almaty, wrap up your day with a flavorful dinner at an Indian restaurant, reflecting on the incredible natural beauty and fascinating history you’ve experienced.
Day 5
RETURN HOME
Packed Breakfast to Go
Begin your final day with a convenient packed breakfast, ensuring you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Farewell to Almaty
As your memorable time in Almaty comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful city and the unforgettable experiences it offered. Our driver will pick you up from the hotel and provide a smooth transfer to the airport, ensuring a comfortable journey as you head home or continue to your next destination. Safe travels!
Begin your final day with a convenient packed breakfast, ensuring you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Farewell to Almaty
As your memorable time in Almaty comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful city and the unforgettable experiences it offered. Our driver will pick you up from the hotel and provide a smooth transfer to the airport, ensuring a comfortable journey as you head home or continue to your next destination. Safe travels!
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan's most iconic natural wonders, located just a few hours’ drive from Almaty. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, this majestic site stretches over 154 kilometers, showcasing dramatic cliffs, vibrant red rock formations, and landscapes shaped by millions of years of erosion.
The highlight of the canyon is the famous Valley of Castles, where towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses. Walking through this surreal valley feels like stepping into another world, as the ever-changing light creates an almost magical atmosphere. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply an explorer, Charyn Canyon promises endless opportunities to connect with Kazakhstan’s wild side.
Beyond the visual grandeur, Charyn Canyon offers a serene escape from the hustle of city life. Listen to the quiet rustle of the wind, take in the vast open skies, and explore hidden trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. For those who seek adventure, hiking the rugged terrain provides a closer look at the canyon’s unique geological features.
Visiting Charyn Canyon is more than just a trip—it’s an experience that brings you face-to-face with nature’s raw power and beauty. Perfect for a day trip or a longer excursion, this destination promises to leave a lasting impression and unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s majestic landscapes.
The highlight of the canyon is the famous Valley of Castles, where towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses. Walking through this surreal valley feels like stepping into another world, as the ever-changing light creates an almost magical atmosphere. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply an explorer, Charyn Canyon promises endless opportunities to connect with Kazakhstan’s wild side.
Beyond the visual grandeur, Charyn Canyon offers a serene escape from the hustle of city life. Listen to the quiet rustle of the wind, take in the vast open skies, and explore hidden trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. For those who seek adventure, hiking the rugged terrain provides a closer look at the canyon’s unique geological features.
Visiting Charyn Canyon is more than just a trip—it’s an experience that brings you face-to-face with nature’s raw power and beauty. Perfect for a day trip or a longer excursion, this destination promises to leave a lasting impression and unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s majestic landscapes.
Have Questions? We're Here to Help!
If you have any questions or need additional information, our team is always available. Contact us in the way that’s most convenient for you, and we’ll be happy to provide answers and assistance to make your journey smooth and unforgettable!