Scenic South Kazakhstan: Canyons, Gorges, and High-Altitude Skates

Almaty, Saty,

$3,132.00

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

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Tour Synopsis

This 6-day itinerary showcases Almaty’s cultural landmarks and spectacular natural surroundings. Travelers explore historic architecture and the high-altitude peaks of Medeo and Shymbulak. The journey features the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon, the pristine waters of Kolsai Lake, and the surreal, sunken forest of Kaindy Lake, concluding with panoramic city views from Kok-Tobe Hill.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty
• City Landmark Tour: Immerse yourself in the history of Kazakhstan’s southern capital.
• Architectural Marvels: Visit the wooden Ascension Cathedral and the Square of 28 Panfilov Heroes.
• Customer Experience: Start your journey with a seamless arrival and a cultural introduction to Central Asia’s most diverse commercial center.
Day 2: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Saty
• The Valley of Castles: Discover the 12-million-year-old Charyn Canyon with its wind-sculpted vertical cliffs.
• Customer Experience: Feel the grandeur of the "Little Grand Canyon" as you walk through ancient rock mazes and enjoy panoramic views of the steppe.
Day 3: Saty – Kolsai Lake – Kaindy Lake – Saty
• Alpine Pearls: Visit Kolsai Lake (the largest in the cascade) and the mystical Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest.
• Customer Experience: Experience the "ghost ship" masts of Kaindy Lake, where spruce trees rise through turquoise waters, providing a hauntingly beautiful photo opportunity.
Day 4: Saty – Almaty & Kok-Tobe Hill
• Scenic Return: Soak in the changing landscapes of South Kazakhstan on the drive back to the city.
• City Heights: Visit Kok-Tobe hill, the site of the world’s highest TV tower (from sea level).
• Customer Experience: End the day with a sunset panorama of Almaty via a scenic cableway ride back to the heart of the city.
Day 5: Almaty – Medeo – Shymbulak – Almaty
• High-Mountain Sports: Visit Medeo, the world’s highest skating rink, and the Shymbulak ski resort at 2,230m.
• Cultural Depth: Tour the Central State Museum to see over 300,000 historical items.
• Customer Experience: Breathe in the crisp mountain air of the Trans-Ili Alatau and witness the impressive dam protecting the city from the elements.
Day 6: Almaty – Airport
• Final Departure: Private transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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

Take Note

• Exhibition Surcharge: Prices are subject to increase if travel dates coincide with international exhibitions in Almaty; please confirm dates before booking.
• Guesthouse Experience: Accommodations in Saty Village are in a local guesthouse, offering an authentic but more traditional experience compared to city hotels.
• Walking & Hiking: This tour involves walking along mountain trails and uneven terrain, especially at Kaindy and Charyn Canyon; comfortable footwear is essential.
• Weather Conditions: Mountain weather at 2,000+ meters can be cold even in summer; please pack layered clothing and windproof jackets.

What's Included

• Accommodation at mentioned hotels on a double share basis.
• Transportation in comfortable A/C vehicles (Sedan, Minivan, or Bus based on group size).
• Daily breakfasts at hotels.
• Daily two bottles of 0.5l water per person.
• Professional English-speaking escort guide for the entire tour.
• Entrance fees to all sights mentioned in the program.

What's Excluded

• Visa consular fees and processing expenses.
• HB and FB meal supplements (available for purchase).
• Travel Insurance.
• Personal extras and tips.

Scenic South Kazakhstan: Canyons, Gorges, and High-Altitude Skates

1 Pax

$3,132.00

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