This 8-day Kazakhstan Classic Tour is an unforgettable journey to the center of Eurasia, highlighting fascinating traditions, beautiful and pristine nature, as well as a delicate mixture of old and modern aesthetics. This is the most comprehensive tour for those traveling to Kazakhstan for the first time.
Tour itinerary:
05.25 Arrival to Almaty International airport.
After passing border control and collecting luggage, you will meet local guide holding your nameplate.
You are going to the hotel for check-in and rest after flight.
Sightseeing tour in Almaty, 11.00 – 20.00.
This day you will visit the city’s old center and cover one of the main sites that best highlight Almaty’s history. The first stop is Park of 28 Panfilov soldiers – named after the division during WWII, formed of men from the Almaty region under command of General Ivan Panfilov. The park itself is popular among locals and guests of the city. Inside the park visitors will find the eternal flame, memorials of different heroic characters, the Ascension Cathedral – Orthodox wooden church that magically withstood a strong earthquake in XX century, and Museum of musical instruments, where you can admire the collection over 1000 exhibits including rare exhibits dating back to the XVII century.
Just in a walking distance, you could enjoy another touristic attraction of Almaty – “Green Bazaar” or Green market. This is a perfect way to experience the true Eastern market. Here you might taste the food, bargain and, obviously, buy local tasty goods for a very nice price.
Then we stop for lunch at local restaurant.
After lunch, you are going to visit the city’s main attraction – the Ili Alatau mountains.
The National Park of Ili Alatau was founded in 1996, the park is spreading for 120km and the total area is 202,292 hectares. The altitude varies from 600 to 5,000 meters.
Medeo is an essential part of the Ili Alatau park and it is a historical object of Almaty’s development as a city. Located at the height of 1,690 meters, the Medeo skating rink is the highest rink location in the world. However, our main purpose of visit is Shymbulak – a mountain resort located at the elevation of 2,260 meters above sea level. In 1950s, ski lovers used to climb the mountain for 3 hours for a 15 minutes’ descent.
Today’s last stop is Kok Tobe park – located at an altitude of 1100 meters on the green hill, this place is very popular among locals and tourists. Take a ride on comfortable cable car and within 10 minutes, you are admiring the magnificent panoramic view of the city.
Once we come down from the hill, we are going back to the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
After passing border control and collecting luggage, you will meet local guide holding your nameplate.
You are going to the hotel for check-in and rest after flight.
Sightseeing tour in Almaty, 11.00 – 20.00.
This day you will visit the city’s old center and cover one of the main sites that best highlight Almaty’s history. The first stop is Park of 28 Panfilov soldiers – named after the division during WWII, formed of men from the Almaty region under command of General Ivan Panfilov. The park itself is popular among locals and guests of the city. Inside the park visitors will find the eternal flame, memorials of different heroic characters, the Ascension Cathedral – Orthodox wooden church that magically withstood a strong earthquake in XX century, and Museum of musical instruments, where you can admire the collection over 1000 exhibits including rare exhibits dating back to the XVII century.
Just in a walking distance, you could enjoy another touristic attraction of Almaty – “Green Bazaar” or Green market. This is a perfect way to experience the true Eastern market. Here you might taste the food, bargain and, obviously, buy local tasty goods for a very nice price.
Then we stop for lunch at local restaurant.
After lunch, you are going to visit the city’s main attraction – the Ili Alatau mountains.
The National Park of Ili Alatau was founded in 1996, the park is spreading for 120km and the total area is 202,292 hectares. The altitude varies from 600 to 5,000 meters.
Medeo is an essential part of the Ili Alatau park and it is a historical object of Almaty’s development as a city. Located at the height of 1,690 meters, the Medeo skating rink is the highest rink location in the world. However, our main purpose of visit is Shymbulak – a mountain resort located at the elevation of 2,260 meters above sea level. In 1950s, ski lovers used to climb the mountain for 3 hours for a 15 minutes’ descent.
Today’s last stop is Kok Tobe park – located at an altitude of 1100 meters on the green hill, this place is very popular among locals and tourists. Take a ride on comfortable cable car and within 10 minutes, you are admiring the magnificent panoramic view of the city.
Once we come down from the hill, we are going back to the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Today you will have early breakfast as we are taking a long ride to the “must-see” place when visiting Kazakhstan and Almaty, in particular.
08.00 – 20.00 Bus tour to the canyon. Lunch boxes included.
Charyn canyon is one of the popular and magnificent natural attractions of Kazakhstan, located 220 kilometers from Almaty city. Charyn is also called a “small brother” of Grand Canyon in the USA, as, comparably, the length of Kazakhstan canyon is only 154 kilometers, but beauty of Charyn is unique and cannot be compared to any in the world. Besides, the canyon has many mysteries related to legends about “witches”, “red wolves” or “road to hell”. Nobody knows why local people made all these stories, but indeed, the place is very extraordinary: you can feel it once you approach majestic rocks of the canyon and when walking inside of it.
After leaving the hotel in Almaty, within 3-4 hours of driving, we turn from the main road to the road that leads to “Valley of castles” – the main touristic point of Charyn.
Panoramic site - Valley of Castles at Charyn Canyon.
We leave the cars in the parking lot at the descent into the canyon Valley of Castles. Take a bottle of drinking water and let’s walk down into the gorge. It is a leisurely trek with some stops (50 min.) to the Charyn River (2 km one-way). On the way, tour guide tells you about the differences of Charyn.
After enjoying the lunch by the river and watching fascinating panoramic views of the canyon, we are ready to drive back to the city.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
08.00 – 20.00 Bus tour to the canyon. Lunch boxes included.
Charyn canyon is one of the popular and magnificent natural attractions of Kazakhstan, located 220 kilometers from Almaty city. Charyn is also called a “small brother” of Grand Canyon in the USA, as, comparably, the length of Kazakhstan canyon is only 154 kilometers, but beauty of Charyn is unique and cannot be compared to any in the world. Besides, the canyon has many mysteries related to legends about “witches”, “red wolves” or “road to hell”. Nobody knows why local people made all these stories, but indeed, the place is very extraordinary: you can feel it once you approach majestic rocks of the canyon and when walking inside of it.
After leaving the hotel in Almaty, within 3-4 hours of driving, we turn from the main road to the road that leads to “Valley of castles” – the main touristic point of Charyn.
Panoramic site - Valley of Castles at Charyn Canyon.
We leave the cars in the parking lot at the descent into the canyon Valley of Castles. Take a bottle of drinking water and let’s walk down into the gorge. It is a leisurely trek with some stops (50 min.) to the Charyn River (2 km one-way). On the way, tour guide tells you about the differences of Charyn.
After enjoying the lunch by the river and watching fascinating panoramic views of the canyon, we are ready to drive back to the city.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Breakfast at the hotel.
Departure to Kazakh Ethno Village “Huns”.
The ethno-village is a perfect place for those willing to plunge into and experience the nomadic past of ethnic Kazakhs. The village, about 35 km from Almaty in the Talgar district, is also a great way to escape to the mountains for fresh air, horseback riding and to discover Kazakh traditional games and rituals.
From the moment of entrance and welcome ritual “shashu” to the horseback riding in the mountains, you will be surrounded by the Kazakh’s culture, hospitality and traditions.
You will enjoy the entertaining program. This includes:
Optionally: guest can request a horseback riding tour for 30 minutes or 1 hour to explore the area and enjoy the nature.
At 16.00, you return to the city, the rest of the day is free.
20:30 Transfer to railway station.
21:35 Train to Turkestan, overnight in train.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Departure to Kazakh Ethno Village “Huns”.
The ethno-village is a perfect place for those willing to plunge into and experience the nomadic past of ethnic Kazakhs. The village, about 35 km from Almaty in the Talgar district, is also a great way to escape to the mountains for fresh air, horseback riding and to discover Kazakh traditional games and rituals.
From the moment of entrance and welcome ritual “shashu” to the horseback riding in the mountains, you will be surrounded by the Kazakh’s culture, hospitality and traditions.
You will enjoy the entertaining program. This includes:
- Show of felt craft and a close look at the yurts with every detail described;
- Performance of “Besikke salu” or “Tusau kesu” rituals, which are still actual in Kazakh families;
- Horse games like “Kyz kuu” – when young man is chasing a girl to kiss her while riding a horse, and “atpen audaryspak” – wrestling of two young men on horseback;
- Traditional dances and music, where guests will be shown moves and take part in group flash mob;
- Master class of cooking “baursak” – traditional Kazakh pastry.
Optionally: guest can request a horseback riding tour for 30 minutes or 1 hour to explore the area and enjoy the nature.
At 16.00, you return to the city, the rest of the day is free.
20:30 Transfer to railway station.
21:35 Train to Turkestan, overnight in train.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
11:10 – Arrival in Turkestan. Breakfast is not included. Upon arrival, explore the Azret-Sultan State Historical and Cultural Reserve, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The site, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, remains a pilgrimage destination and a testament to the spiritual and cultural significance of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Central Asia.
Commissioned in the late 14th century by Timur (Tamerlane), the mausoleum stands as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring a distinctive turquoise dome, intricate tile work, and majestic interior spaces. Despite remaining unfinished after Timur's death, its scale and the craftsmanship of its decorations have amazed visitors for centuries.
Then visit the Turkestan Necropolis, the Hilvet Semi-underground mosque, and a hammam, as well as see a fragment of the fortress wall and the gates of the old citadel.
Visit the flying theater “Altyn Samruk” and experience "Virtual Flight," which offers an immersive journey through Kazakh mythology and landscapes. Visitors enter a state-of-the-art projection sphere, where they are "transported" into the mythical world of the Samruk bird. Through stunning 3D visuals and motion effects, participants experience the sensation of flying over the vast steppes, mountains, and historical sites of Kazakhstan.
Experience the magical Boat Parade show at the Karavansaray complex in Turkestan, inspired by the Kazakh poetic legend of “Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen.” This theatrical performance, set on a picturesque water channel, combines music, dance, and storytelling to bring to life a timeless tale of love and bravery.
Transfer to the hotel, check in, and overnight.
Commissioned in the late 14th century by Timur (Tamerlane), the mausoleum stands as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring a distinctive turquoise dome, intricate tile work, and majestic interior spaces. Despite remaining unfinished after Timur's death, its scale and the craftsmanship of its decorations have amazed visitors for centuries.
Then visit the Turkestan Necropolis, the Hilvet Semi-underground mosque, and a hammam, as well as see a fragment of the fortress wall and the gates of the old citadel.
Visit the flying theater “Altyn Samruk” and experience "Virtual Flight," which offers an immersive journey through Kazakh mythology and landscapes. Visitors enter a state-of-the-art projection sphere, where they are "transported" into the mythical world of the Samruk bird. Through stunning 3D visuals and motion effects, participants experience the sensation of flying over the vast steppes, mountains, and historical sites of Kazakhstan.
Experience the magical Boat Parade show at the Karavansaray complex in Turkestan, inspired by the Kazakh poetic legend of “Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen.” This theatrical performance, set on a picturesque water channel, combines music, dance, and storytelling to bring to life a timeless tale of love and bravery.
Transfer to the hotel, check in, and overnight.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today you will visit the "Uly Dala Eli" Center, which showcases exhibits on Kazakhstan's history, culture, and achievements. Highlights include halls dedicated to metallurgy, horseback culture, the Kazakh Khanate, and the legacy of the First President. A key attraction is the Turkic Hall with a 3D projection sphere, alongside a glass bridge over Kazakhstan's map and the "Baiterek Tree" art installation.
Then transfer to Shymkent (3.5 hours) via Otrar, an ancient city. Otrar (also known as Farab) was an important trading center in the history of Central Asia, situated at the intersection of the caravan routes of the Silk Road.
On the way to Shymkent, tourists also pass the museum in Shaulder village and the Mausoleum of Arystan-bab of the 12th century - one of the Muslim shrines in Central Asia, famous as a pilgrimage site.
Upon arrival in Shymkent, take a short city tour of evening Shymkent: visit the Park of Independence, the old town, and the old square Ordabasy.
Then visit Abai Park, named after Abay Kunanbayev, a great Kazakh poet and philosopher, featuring a monument in his honor. The park offers scenic alleys, a fountain, and various sculptures. A key highlight is the Glory Memorial, dedicated to the heroes of World War II, making it a significant cultural and recreational spot in Shymkent. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Today you will visit the "Uly Dala Eli" Center, which showcases exhibits on Kazakhstan's history, culture, and achievements. Highlights include halls dedicated to metallurgy, horseback culture, the Kazakh Khanate, and the legacy of the First President. A key attraction is the Turkic Hall with a 3D projection sphere, alongside a glass bridge over Kazakhstan's map and the "Baiterek Tree" art installation.
Then transfer to Shymkent (3.5 hours) via Otrar, an ancient city. Otrar (also known as Farab) was an important trading center in the history of Central Asia, situated at the intersection of the caravan routes of the Silk Road.
On the way to Shymkent, tourists also pass the museum in Shaulder village and the Mausoleum of Arystan-bab of the 12th century - one of the Muslim shrines in Central Asia, famous as a pilgrimage site.
Upon arrival in Shymkent, take a short city tour of evening Shymkent: visit the Park of Independence, the old town, and the old square Ordabasy.
Then visit Abai Park, named after Abay Kunanbayev, a great Kazakh poet and philosopher, featuring a monument in his honor. The park offers scenic alleys, a fountain, and various sculptures. A key highlight is the Glory Memorial, dedicated to the heroes of World War II, making it a significant cultural and recreational spot in Shymkent. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for the flight to Astana at 11:15.
13:00 – Arrival in Astana. Transfer to a restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, start sightseeing in Astana (from 15:00 to 20:00). Begin your tour with a visit to the Central Mosque of Astana, the largest in Central Asia, known for its stunning white marble façade, golden domes, and intricate Islamic designs.
Make a brief stop at the Open-Air Space Museum, featuring life-size models of legendary spacecraft such as the Proton, Soyuz, and Buran - a tribute to Kazakhstan’s role in global space exploration through the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Visit the Baiterek Tower, Astana’s most iconic symbol. Standing 97 meters tall, this futuristic monument represents the mythical Tree of Life and offers panoramic city views from its golden orb observation deck.
Continue to Khan-Shatyr, the world’s largest tent-shaped structure and a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment - all housed beneath its translucent canopy.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Nurzhol Boulevard, Astana’s central promenade stretching from the Presidential Palace to Khan-Shatyr. The boulevard features fountains, public art, and striking modern architecture.
Transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
13:00 – Arrival in Astana. Transfer to a restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, start sightseeing in Astana (from 15:00 to 20:00). Begin your tour with a visit to the Central Mosque of Astana, the largest in Central Asia, known for its stunning white marble façade, golden domes, and intricate Islamic designs.
Make a brief stop at the Open-Air Space Museum, featuring life-size models of legendary spacecraft such as the Proton, Soyuz, and Buran - a tribute to Kazakhstan’s role in global space exploration through the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Visit the Baiterek Tower, Astana’s most iconic symbol. Standing 97 meters tall, this futuristic monument represents the mythical Tree of Life and offers panoramic city views from its golden orb observation deck.
Continue to Khan-Shatyr, the world’s largest tent-shaped structure and a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment - all housed beneath its translucent canopy.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Nurzhol Boulevard, Astana’s central promenade stretching from the Presidential Palace to Khan-Shatyr. The boulevard features fountains, public art, and striking modern architecture.
Transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing tour in Astana from 10:00 to 19:00.
Begin the day at the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the largest in the country. Its ten themed halls showcase exhibits from ancient history and ethnography to Kazakhstan’s journey as a modern state.
Continue to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a striking glass pyramid designed by Norman Foster. Built in golden ratio proportions (62 meters high and wide), it serves as a global center for interfaith and cultural dialogue.
Pass by the Hazret Sultan Mosque for an exterior view, known for its grand domes and elegant Islamic architecture.
Optional: Lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, explore Astana’s Old Town on the right bank of the Ishim River. This area offers a glimpse into the city’s Soviet past, with traditional markets, older buildings, and authentic local life.
Visit the Military History Museum, home to over 6,000 artifacts. Highlights include ancient weapons, WWII memorabilia, and tributes to national heroes like Ivan Panfilov, Manshuk Mametova, and Aliya Moldagulova.
Stop by the Holy Assumption Cathedral, an impressive Orthodox church with golden domes and a 75-meter bell tower. Opened in 2010, it’s known for its ornate interior and stands as a symbol of Kazakhstan’s religious harmony.
Conclude the day with a stroll across the Atyrau Bridge, connecting the historic and modern parts of the city - a symbolic link between Astana’s past and future.
Transfer back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Begin the day at the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the largest in the country. Its ten themed halls showcase exhibits from ancient history and ethnography to Kazakhstan’s journey as a modern state.
Continue to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a striking glass pyramid designed by Norman Foster. Built in golden ratio proportions (62 meters high and wide), it serves as a global center for interfaith and cultural dialogue.
Pass by the Hazret Sultan Mosque for an exterior view, known for its grand domes and elegant Islamic architecture.
Optional: Lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, explore Astana’s Old Town on the right bank of the Ishim River. This area offers a glimpse into the city’s Soviet past, with traditional markets, older buildings, and authentic local life.
Visit the Military History Museum, home to over 6,000 artifacts. Highlights include ancient weapons, WWII memorabilia, and tributes to national heroes like Ivan Panfilov, Manshuk Mametova, and Aliya Moldagulova.
Stop by the Holy Assumption Cathedral, an impressive Orthodox church with golden domes and a 75-meter bell tower. Opened in 2010, it’s known for its ornate interior and stands as a symbol of Kazakhstan’s religious harmony.
Conclude the day with a stroll across the Atyrau Bridge, connecting the historic and modern parts of the city - a symbolic link between Astana’s past and future.
Transfer back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Price includes:
- 3 nights’ Hotel accommodation on BB (DBL/TWN shared) in Almaty;
1 night in the train Almaty – Turkestan (4-bed compartment);
1 nights Hotel accommodation on BB (DBL/TWN shared) in Turkestan;
1 night in Shymkent city on BB (DBL/TWN shared);
2 nights’ Hotel accommodation on BB (DBL/TWN shared) in Astana. - Meals: 7 breakfasts at the hotels, 1 lunch at Charyn Canyon, 1 lunch at ethno-village;
- All airport transfers;
- Private A/C transport with driver as per program:
- 2 pax – sedan up to 3 seats;
- 3-7 pax – minivan up to 10 seats;
- 8-14 pax – minibus up to 18 seats;
- 15 pax and more coach up to 48 seats; - Locals English - speaking guides services.
- Entrance fees to sites listed;
- Ecological fees;
- Mineral water 0.5L p/p daily;
- Souvenirs.
Price doesn't include:
- International air tickets
- Domestic Air ticket Shymkent – Astana (exact fare is guaranteed after 100% of prepayment and air ticket is issued) – from 120 USD p/p (subject to change)
- Any services not included in the above itinerary
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2025 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
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Kazakhstan Classic Tour Reviews
Author: Alberto | Rating: 5Visited: September 2025
I joined the 8-day Kazakhstan Classic Tour with Advantour with 3 friends, and it was one of the best travel experiences we’ve ever had. The itinerary is beautifully balanced, from the vibrant streets of Almaty and the breathtaking Charyn Canyon to the spiritual atmosphere of Turkestan and the futuristic skyline of Astana. Our guides were professional, knowledgeable, and kept everything running smoothly. We greatly appreciated their knowledge and their human warmth. This tour gives you a true sense of Kazakhstan’s diversity, stunning landscapes, deep history, and warm hospitality. I would recommend this trip wholeheartedly to anyone curious about this fascinating country.
