Welcome to Almaty! Upon arrival, we’ll settle into our accommodation and take some time to have free and easy stroll in this vibrant city of Almaty.

We’ll start our exploration of Almaty with visits to iconic landmarks and attractions.

Shymbulak Mountain

Shymbulak, a majestic peak in the Ile-Alatau National Park, offers a thrilling escape into nature. 

What we can do in Shymbulak is Cable Car ride to Talgar Pass station offering sweeping mountain view similar like in Switzerland. Once reaching 2nd station, there is viewpoint to enjoy a breathtaking view.

Panfilov Park

Panfilov Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Almaty, is more than just a green space. Dedicated to the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen who valiantly defended Moscow during World War II, the park stands as a poignant memorial. As you stroll through its tranquil paths, you’ll encounter monuments and memorials honoring these brave soldiers, including the solemn Eternal Flame. A visit to Panfilov Park offers a moment of reflection and respect for those who sacrificed their lives for their country.

Zenkov Cathedral

Within the tranquil embrace of Panfilov Park stands a marvel of architecture – Zenkov Cathedral. A testament to human ingenuity, this colossal wooden structure is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. Built without a single nail, the cathedral defies gravity and time. Its vibrant exterior and intricate design make it a standout, a harmonious blend of nature and human creativity. Once a place of worship, Zenkov Cathedral continues to be a spiritual and architectural beacon, captivating visitors with its timeless beauty.

Green Bazaar

Our journey concludes at the bustling Green Bazaar, a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. This historic marketplace, established in 1875, is the heart of Almaty’s culinary and cultural life. Wander through the labyrinth of stalls, where mountains of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and mouthwatering local delicacies await. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you haggle for the best prices and sample the diverse flavors of Kazakhstan. The Green Bazaar offers a truly authentic experience, allowing you to connect with the local people and their traditions.

On this day, we travel to Saty, where we’ll explore some of Kazakhstan’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Charyn Canyon

A journey to Kazakhstan wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon. Carved by the relentless forces of nature over 12 million years, this geological marvel stretches for approximately 154 kilometers along the Charyn River. Boasting depths of 150 to 300 meters, the canyon showcases a stunning array of rock formations sculpted by wind and water. Its most famous section, the Valley of Castles, features towering sandstone spires resembling medieval fortresses.

Black Canyon

Next, we’ll explore the Black Canyon, part of the larger Charyn Canyon system, is known for its dramatic, dark rock formations and rugged terrain. It offers a more secluded and wild experience compared to the main sections of Charyn Canyon, making it a popular spot for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

We’ll spend the night in Saty, enjoying the tranquility of this remote area.

Our journey continues as we visit two beautiful lakes before crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan.

Kolsay Lake

The Kolsay Lakes are a trio of alpine gems nestled amidst the lush greenery and towering peaks of the Tien Shan Mountains. Often hailed as the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan,” these crystalline waters reflect the surrounding beauty, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Fed by glacial and spring waters, the lakes offer exceptional clarity and tranquility. Surrounded by dense forests and majestic mountains, this natural wonderland invites us to explore its pristine beauty through hiking, horseback riding, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge.

Kaindy Lake

Kaindy Lake is a natural wonder that defies belief. Formed by a devastating earthquake in 1911, this unique body of water is home to a submerged forest. The crystal-clear turquoise waters encase the skeletal remains of trees, creating an otherworldly and hauntingly beautiful landscape. The cold temperatures of the lake have perfectly preserved the trees, turning this natural phenomenon into a photographer’s dream.

We’ll cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and spend the night in Karakol.

We’ll embark on a horseback adventure to the Altyn Arashan valley, known for its hot springs and stunning alpine scenery.

Altyn Arashan

Nestled amidst the stunning Tien Shan Mountains, Altyn Arashan is a serene valley renowned for its healing hot springs. At an altitude of around 2,500 meters, this picturesque location offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, Altyn Arashan is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails winding through the valley.

One of the highlights of our visit will be a Off-Road Truck through this breathtaking landscape. The ride is moderately challenging, taking you along scenic trails that vary in elevation, offering stunning views at every turn. The pace is generally relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to rest along the way.

We’ll spend the night in the Altyn Arashan guesthouse, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

We return to Karakol by the same Off-Road Truck and continue with road trip to Barskoon. On the way, we will stop at 

Jeti Oguz (Seven Bulls Rock)

Jeti Oguz, meaning “Seven Bulls” in Kyrgyz, is a must-visit for its iconic red sandstone formations. These striking cliffs, shaped by the forces of nature, bear a striking resemblance to a herd of bulls. The area is also renowned for its health resort, which leverages the region’s mineral-rich waters for therapeutic treatments. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Jeti Oguz offers a unique blend of natural beauty and relaxation.

We’ll continue our journey and spend the night in luxury glamping Barskoon with magnificent view of Tien Shan mountain with Barskoon waterfall.

Today, we venture to some of the highest mountain passes and stunning landscapes.

Seok Pass

Seok Pass, a formidable mountain pass reaching an altitude of approximately 4,028 meters, offers a thrilling adventure for seasoned trekkers. Located in the heart of the Tien Shan mountains, this challenging route rewards intrepid explorers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. The pass’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions demand respect, but the sense of accomplishment at reaching the summit is unparalleled.

Skazka Canyon

Eagle Hunting Show

Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of eagle hunting, a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in Central Asian culture. Skilled hunters and their majestic eagles demonstrate this ancient art, offering a glimpse into a nomadic way of life. For over 4,000 years, this symbiotic relationship between humans and birds of prey has captivated audiences, showcasing the incredible bond between man and nature.

Ak-Say Canyon

After check-in Nomad Yurt, In the evening, we’ll hike through Ak-Say Canyon, known for its dramatic rock formations and scenic beauty. This moderately challenging out-and-back trail is 16.3 km long with an elevation gain of 948 meters.

The hike is best suited for those with good fitness, as the elevation gain can be significant in some sections, and the terrain varies from rocky paths to smoother stretches. Be prepared for some physical exertion, especially during steeper climbs.

Expect to spend 4 to 5 hours on the trail, enjoying the vibrant hues of the canyon’s rock layers, passing by hidden waterfalls, and spotting wildlife like ibex and eagles.

Issyk Kul Lake

In the morning before breakfast, we can try cold plunge in one of the largest alpine lakes in the world and the second-largest saline lake after the Caspian Sea. The lake never freezes, even in the harshest winters, due to its high salinity. Issyk Kul has been a significant cultural and economic hub since ancient times, with numerous archaeological sites along its shores.

Song Kul

Here, we will do 4 hours horse riding to Song Kul Lake.

At night we will spend the night in Kyzart Village.

Burana Tower

this ancient minaret—dating back to the 11th century—is all that remains of the old Silk Road city of Balasagun. You can climb the narrow, spiral staircase to the top for sweeping views of the Chuy Valley and nearby mountains. Around the tower, there’s also a small museum and a field of ancient stone statues called “balbals” that once marked graves. It’s a peaceful, open-air spot that mixes a bit of adventure, culture, and a taste of Kyrgyzstan’s deep historical roots.

Osh Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kyrgyz culture at Osh Bazaar. This sprawling marketplace is a treasure trove of local goods, from fresh produce and aromatic spices to handcrafted souvenirs and traditional attire. As one of Central Asia’s largest and oldest bazaars, it offers a captivating blend of sights, sounds, and smells. Lose yourself in the bustling atmosphere as you explore the countless stalls and interact with friendly vendors.

Rest and check-in Hotel in Bishkek.

Trip ends in Bishkek. However, for those flying from Almaty Airport, transport is provided directly from Bishkek Hotel to Almaty Airport.