One-day tour to ancient cities of Kazakhstan is the best opportunity to learn medieval history of this land, see its rich architecture. Here you will visit archeological excavations, The History Museum of Otrar, architectural complex in Turkestan and other sights.
Tour itinerary:
At 9 am our guide and driver will meet you at your hotel in Shymkent. Your unforgettable journey to the history starts with a drive to Shaulder Village in Otrar region. There you will visit Arystan-Bab Mausoleum and archaeological site of the ancient settlement of Otrar. The next place to pay a visit to is the city of Turkestan, one of the most ancient cities not only Kazakhstan but also in Central Asia. Turkestan was founded in 490 AD on the crossroad of trade routes from Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to the northern Kazakhstan. In the Middle Ages Turkestan was the administrative, political and religious center of Central Asia. During 16th – 18th centuries it was the capital of Kazakh khanate. You will visit "Azret-Sultan" historical and architectural complex, Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum and Turkestan ancient settlement, where you will feel like you have been transferred back in time. In continuation of the tour, a tour of the largest tourist complex in Central Asia – «Karavansaray». From the moment you plunge into the enchanting atmosphere of the complex «Karavansaray», you will find yourself in a fascinating fairy tale glorifying the great history, culture and eternal romance of Kazakhstan. Here you can visit the only 8D cinema in Kazakhstan «Altyn Samruk», or go boating. Return to the hotel (160 km,~2 hours). End of the tour service.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9 hours
Price includes:
- Guided sightseeing tour;
- Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights;
- Transport throughout the tour.
- Water 1l per person
Price doesn't include:
- Entrance tickets to the 8D-cinema "Altyn-Samruk" (corporate ticket redemption upon prior request);
- Gondola riding;
- Personal expenses, tips to the guide and driver, etc.
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2024 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
Tour Request
The tour is private with your personal guide. There will be no other people joining the tour.
Our guides will follow your own pace.
The starting time of the tour is up to you and may vary from 09.00 am to 16.00 pm.
We are happy to offer this tour for air/train passengers too. Our guide will meet you at the arrival station.
Otrar and Turkestan Reviews
Author: Bernd | Rating: 513 October 2022
I had the most interesting day on my tour to Otrar and Turkestan. Mr. Erjan, my guide, does not only speak perfect English, but he is also one of the most knowledgeable and highly educated persons I ever met. I learnt a lot from him, not only about ancient, but also about modern Kazakhstan. I am really glad that he was my tour guide, and I would warmly recommend him and this tour to anybody.
Visited October 2022
Visited October 2022
