The Classic Kazakhstan Group Tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the main cities of this vast country in the heart of Asia. You will discover the landmarks and surroundings of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s former capital, and enjoy engaging excursions in the modern capital, Astana.
The route begins in Almaty, the country’s largest city, where you will visit the historic centre, the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, the Green Bazaar, Kok-Tobe, and key cultural sites, some of which date back to the Soviet period. The programme then continues to the outskirts of Almaty, with a trip to the Ili-Alatau Mountains, including visits to Medeo and the Shymbulak resort, followed by an introduction to traditional culture at the "Huns” Kazakh ethno-village. Midway through the tour, you will fly to Astana, where several days of sightseeing await, featuring Baiterek, the Central Mosque, the National Museum, the Opera House, Khan Shatyr, and a walk along the Ishim River embankment.
The Classic Kazakhstan Group Tour is both a rich travel experience and an opportunity to meet like-minded people who share a passion for discovering new places. Review the detailed programme, select a suitable date, and begin your journey through Kazakhstan.
Tour itinerary:
Arrival at Almaty International Airport. After passing border control and collecting your luggage, meet your driver holding a nameplate with your name. Transfer to the hotel for check-in (from 14:00). Overnight at the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing tour of Almaty from 09:00 to 18:00. The day is dedicated to exploring the city’s historic centre and key landmarks that best illustrate Almaty’s past and present. The first stop is the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, named after the World War II division formed from residents of the Almaty region under the command of General Ivan Panfilov. The park is a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors. Within the park, see the Eternal Flame, several war memorials, the Ascension Cathedral – a wooden Orthodox church that remarkably survived a strong earthquake in the 20th century – and the Museum of Musical Instruments, which houses a collection of more than 1,000 exhibits, including rare items dating back to the 17th century. Within walking distance lies another well-known attraction, the Green Bazaar. This traditional market offers an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of an Eastern bazaar, sample local products, bargain with vendors, and purchase regional produce and delicacies. Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of Almaty (approximately 1–1.5 hours). The route begins at the Abay Opera and Ballet Theatre, an important example of Stalinist-era architecture and a major cultural venue. Continue along Panfilov Street, known for its cafés, street art, and musicians, and finish at the Arbat pedestrian area, a lively spot for local crafts and souvenirs. The final stop of the day is Kok Tobe, a park situated on a green hill at an altitude of 1,100 metres. Reach the park by cable car, with the ride taking around 10 minutes and offering panoramic views over the city. After descending from the hill, return to the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day sightseeing tour in the surroundings of Almaty. After breakfast, begin the journey into one of the city’s most iconic natural areas – the Ili Alatau Mountains. Ili Alatau National Park, established in 1996, stretches for approximately 120 km and covers more than 200,000 hectares. Elevations range from 600 to 5,000 metres, creating a landscape of striking contrasts and rich biodiversity.
The first stop is Medeo, once the world’s highest ice-skating rink, located at an altitude of 1,691 metres. Although the rink is currently closed for renovation until 2027, the area remains popular for its alpine scenery and walking routes.
The main destination of the day is Shymbulak Mountain Resort, the best-known alpine resort in Central Asia. Situated at 2,260 metres above sea level, Shymbulak is valued for its mountain panoramas, cafés, hiking trails, and, in winter, excellent skiing conditions. During the warmer months, it remains a favoured retreat for both locals and visitors thanks to its fresh air and scenic setting.
Access to the upper viewpoints is provided by a three-stage cable car system:
Return to the city and visit the Almaty Museum of Arts. Recently opened to the public, the museum has quickly become an important cultural venue, presenting Kazakh contemporary art alongside international exhibitions and interactive installations.
Continue with a walk through Republic Square, a central landmark symbolising Kazakhstan’s independence. Here you will see the Monument of Independence with the Golden Warrior, City Hall, fountains, and wide open public spaces, making it a good location for photography and a clearer understanding of the country’s modern history.
Transfer back to the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
The first stop is Medeo, once the world’s highest ice-skating rink, located at an altitude of 1,691 metres. Although the rink is currently closed for renovation until 2027, the area remains popular for its alpine scenery and walking routes.
The main destination of the day is Shymbulak Mountain Resort, the best-known alpine resort in Central Asia. Situated at 2,260 metres above sea level, Shymbulak is valued for its mountain panoramas, cafés, hiking trails, and, in winter, excellent skiing conditions. During the warmer months, it remains a favoured retreat for both locals and visitors thanks to its fresh air and scenic setting.
Access to the upper viewpoints is provided by a three-stage cable car system:
- Stage 1: Medeo to Shymbulak (2,260 m);
- Stage 2: Shymbulak to the mid-station (2,800 m);
- Stage 3: Mid-station to Talgar Pass (3,200 m), offering wide views over the Zailiyskiy Alatau range.
Return to the city and visit the Almaty Museum of Arts. Recently opened to the public, the museum has quickly become an important cultural venue, presenting Kazakh contemporary art alongside international exhibitions and interactive installations.
Continue with a walk through Republic Square, a central landmark symbolising Kazakhstan’s independence. Here you will see the Monument of Independence with the Golden Warrior, City Hall, fountains, and wide open public spaces, making it a good location for photography and a clearer understanding of the country’s modern history.
Transfer back to the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to the Kazakh Ethno Village “Huns”.
The ethno-village is designed to introduce visitors to the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people. Located about 35 km from Almaty in the Talgar district, it also offers an opportunity to spend time in a mountain setting, enjoy fresh air, take part in horseback riding, and learn about traditional Kazakh games and rituals.
From the moment of arrival and the traditional welcome ritual shashu to horseback riding in the surrounding area, the programme reflects Kazakh culture, hospitality, and customs. Guests take part in an entertainment programme, which includes:
18:35 – flight to Astana.
20:15 – arrival in Astana, followed by transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
The ethno-village is designed to introduce visitors to the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people. Located about 35 km from Almaty in the Talgar district, it also offers an opportunity to spend time in a mountain setting, enjoy fresh air, take part in horseback riding, and learn about traditional Kazakh games and rituals.
From the moment of arrival and the traditional welcome ritual shashu to horseback riding in the surrounding area, the programme reflects Kazakh culture, hospitality, and customs. Guests take part in an entertainment programme, which includes:
- a demonstration of felt craftsmanship and a detailed introduction to the structure and interior of traditional yurts;
- performances of the Besikke salu and Tusau kesu rituals, which remain part of family traditions in Kazakhstan;
- traditional horse games such as Kyz kuu, in which a young man chases a girl on horseback, and atpen audaryspak, a form of wrestling between two riders;
- traditional music and dances, with guests invited to learn basic movements and participate in a group performance;
- a master class on preparing baursak, a traditional Kazakh pastry. Lunch is served in a traditional style.
18:35 – flight to Astana.
20:15 – arrival in Astana, followed by transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your local guide holding a nameplate with your name. Sightseeing tour of Astana from 09:00 to 15:00.
Begin with a walking tour from the hotel along Nurzhol Boulevard to the Baiterek Monument (approximately 15 minutes). Visit the Baiterek Tower, the most recognisable symbol of Astana. Standing 97 metres high, the monument represents the mythical Tree of Life and features an observation deck inside its golden sphere, offering panoramic views of the city.
Continue by vehicle to the Astana Opera for a guided tour of the theatre. Afterwards, proceed to Khan Shatyr, the world’s largest tent-shaped structure, which combines shopping, dining, and entertainment beneath its translucent canopy. Enjoy a walk along Nurzhol Boulevard, the city’s central promenade stretching from the Presidential Palace to Khan Shatyr and characterised by fountains, public art, and striking modern architecture.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit the Central Mosque of Astana, the largest mosque in Central Asia, noted for its white marble exterior, golden domes, and elaborate Islamic ornamentation. Make a short stop at the Open-Air Space Museum, where life-size models of spacecraft such as Proton, Soyuz, and Buran are displayed, highlighting Kazakhstan’s contribution to space exploration through the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Transfer back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Begin with a walking tour from the hotel along Nurzhol Boulevard to the Baiterek Monument (approximately 15 minutes). Visit the Baiterek Tower, the most recognisable symbol of Astana. Standing 97 metres high, the monument represents the mythical Tree of Life and features an observation deck inside its golden sphere, offering panoramic views of the city.
Continue by vehicle to the Astana Opera for a guided tour of the theatre. Afterwards, proceed to Khan Shatyr, the world’s largest tent-shaped structure, which combines shopping, dining, and entertainment beneath its translucent canopy. Enjoy a walk along Nurzhol Boulevard, the city’s central promenade stretching from the Presidential Palace to Khan Shatyr and characterised by fountains, public art, and striking modern architecture.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit the Central Mosque of Astana, the largest mosque in Central Asia, noted for its white marble exterior, golden domes, and elaborate Islamic ornamentation. Make a short stop at the Open-Air Space Museum, where life-size models of spacecraft such as Proton, Soyuz, and Buran are displayed, highlighting Kazakhstan’s contribution to space exploration through the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Transfer back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing tour in Astana from 09:30 to 15:00. Begin the day with a visit to the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the largest museum in the country. Its ten thematic halls present a wide-ranging overview of Kazakhstan’s history – from ancient civilisations and ethnography to the formation of the modern state. Continue to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a striking glass pyramid designed by Norman Foster. Built according to the principles of the golden ratio (62 metres in height and width), the palace serves as an international centre for interfaith dialogue and cultural events. Drive past the Hazret Sultan Mosque for an exterior view. As the second-largest mosque in Central Asia, it is known for its monumental scale, grand domes, and refined Islamic architectural details. Lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, enjoy a walk along the embankment of the Ishim River. Optional, at an additional cost: a 45-minute boat trip on the Ishim River (available from late May to early September). Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Price includes:
- 3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Almaty with breakfast, based on double/twin room sharing, according to the selected category;
- 3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Astana with breakfast, based on double/twin room sharing, according to the selected category;
- Meals: 6 breakfasts at the hotels and 5 lunches;
- All airport transfers as per the programme;
- Private air-conditioned transportation with driver throughout the tour:
– 2 pax: sedan (up to 3 seats);
– 3–7 pax: minivan (up to 10 seats);
– 8–14 pax: minibus (up to 18 seats); - English-speaking guide services in both cities;
- Entrance fees to sites listed in the programme, including cable cars to Medeo–Shymbulak and Kok-Tobe;
- Ecological fees;
- Mineral water: 1 litre per person per day.
Price doesn't include:
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- Single room accommodation (single supplement);
- Tips and gratuities;
- Porter services at airports, railway stations, and hotels;
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary;
- Extra night in Almaty: USD 120 per double room, USD 110 per single room;
- Extra night in Astana: USD 110 per double room, USD 100 per single room.
Recommendations when planning your trip:
- Museums in Almaty and Astana are closed on Mondays.
- Temperatures may vary significantly between the city and surrounding areas; warm clothing is recommended for excursions outside the city.
Important:
- Minor changes to the program are possible, except for a reduction in the number of booked excursions;
- If a planned site is closed to visitors, it will be replaced with a suitable alternative. During major events, accommodation may be changed to another hotel of a similar category;
- The sequence of the itinerary and the listed hotels is subject to change without prior notice;
- Hotel bookings are subject to availability. No reservations are made until the tour is confirmed and full prepayment is received;
- Domestic flight schedules are subject to change. If a specified flight is unavailable, it will be replaced with the most suitable alternative in line with the tour program;
- If the proposed hotels are unavailable, they will be substituted with hotels of the same category.
Meals: If guests have food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan, etc.), this information must be provided in advance, prior to arrival. All meals are pre-ordered and prepaid by our agency according to restaurant policies. Changes requested during visits or upon arrival may lead to loss of tour time and, in some cases, additional costs, which would need to be covered by the guest.
Dates & Prices, per person
2026
Mon, 23 Mar - Sun, 29 Mar
Sold out
US$ 1,065
Single supplement: US$ 265
Group size: 2-16 persons (ages 12+)
Please note that itinerary and prices are subject to change due to airline and train schedule changes, currency fluctuations and other unforeseeable events.
We strongly recommend NOT to purchase airline tickets for 2027 tours without discussing it with your travel consultant.
Accommodation
Kazzhol Park / Garden Park Inn
Tour Enquiry
Classic Kazakhstan Group Tour Reviews
No tour reviews have been posted yet.