Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan: Exploring Issyk, Kolsai, and Kaindy

Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan: Exploring Issyk, Kolsai, and Kaindy Lakes

Almaty, Saty,

$3,616.00

Adventure, Cultural & Nature, Family-friendly, Historical, Exclusive Experience, and Muslim-Friendly

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Tour Synopsis

This 7-day tour of Kazakhstan blends culture and nature, starting in multicultural Almaty with its historic wooden cathedral. Travelers will explore bustling local bazaars and ancient archaeological museums before venturing into the Tien-Shan mountains to witness stunning alpine lakes, a sunken forest, and the majestic, wind-sculpted Charyn Canyon.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty
• Historical Introduction: Get acquainted with Almaty's rich history. Visit the Ascension Cathedral (the world’s second-highest wooden building) and the Square of 28 Panfilov Heroes.
• Cultural Experience: Explore the diverse and vibrant heart of Kazakhstan’s southern capital, soaking in the most developed and multicultural city in the country.
Day 2: Almaty – Issyk Lake – Green Bazaar – Almaty
• Archaeological Heritage: Visit the “ISSYK” Museum-Reserve to see the legendary "Golden Man" and Saka-era artifacts.
• Alpine Recreation: Marvel at the turquoise Issyk Lake (1,756m). Enjoy a scenic picnic and free time for relaxation amidst majestic mountain views.
• Local Pulse: Return to the city to visit the famous Green Bazaar, a bustling market perfect for finding local delicacies, antiques, and jewelry.
Day 3: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Saty
• The Valley of Castles: Discover the 12-million-year-old Charyn Canyon. Experience the awe-inspiring wind-sculpted vertical cliffs that mimic ancient fortresses.
• Geological Wonder: Walk through the maze of the "Castles Valley" with its towering inaccessible walls overhanging your path.
Day 4: Saty – Kolsai Lake – Kaindy Lake – Saty
• Pearls of the Tien-Shan: Visit the first of the Kolsai Lakes, an alpine treasure surrounded by fir forests and famous for its pristine beauty.
• The Sunken Forest: Explore Kaindy Lake (2,000m), where a 1911 earthquake created a natural dam. Witness the eerie spruce masts rising through the transparent turquoise water.
Day 5: Saty – Almaty – Kok-Tobe – Almaty
• Scenic Return: Soak in the breathtaking landscape of South Kazakhstan on the drive back to the vibrant city.
• City Panorama: Visit Kok-Tobe hill, the site of the world’s tallest TV tower (from sea level). Stroll through the park and enjoy a 360-degree city panorama.
Day 6: Almaty – Medeo – Shymbulak – Almaty
• High Mountain Peaks: Visit Medeo Gorge, home to the world’s largest high-altitude skating rink and a massive protective dam.
• Alpine Resort: Ascend to Shymbulak Ski Resort (2,230m) to enjoy the mild climate and remarkable mountain scenery.
• National History: Tour the Central State Museum, housing over 300,000 items detailing the material and spiritual culture of the Kazakh people.
Day 7: Almaty – Airport
• Seamless Departure: Enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.

Hotel:
Royal Tulip, Almaty, Alban Guest House, Saty Village

Take Note

• Issyk Lake Seasonal Access: Access to Issyk Lake is typically open from 01 May to 20 October. For tours outside this window, the itinerary will be adjusted to visit Alma Arasan Gorge (pricing remains unchanged).
• Exhibition Surcharge: Please note that pricing may be higher if your travel dates coincide with international exhibitions in Almaty; always confirm dates with us before booking.
• Guesthouse Experience: In Saty Village, you will stay in a local guesthouse (Alban Guest House), which offers an authentic experience but may have more basic facilities than city hotels.
• Weather and Attire: Mountain weather at altitudes above 2,000m can be unpredictable; layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential.

What's Included

• Accommodation at mentioned hotels/guesthouse on a double-share basis.
• Transportation in comfortable A/C vehicles (Sedan to Big Bus based on pax count).
• Daily breakfasts at hotels.
• Daily two bottles of 0.5l water per person.
• Professional English-speaking escort guide for the entire tour.
• Entrance fees for all national parks and historical sites mentioned.

What's Excluded

• Visa consular fees and processing expenses.
• HB (Half Board) and FB (Full Board) meal supplements.
• Travel Insurance.
• Personal extras and items not indicated in the inclusions.

Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan: Exploring Issyk, Kolsai, and Kaindy Lakes

1 Pax

$3,616.00

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