7 Days Almaty Tour Package

Taking a week to explore Almaty and its surrounds promises a journey packed with diverse scenery, cultural insights, and memorable adventures. While we haven’t personally traveled this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries from past travelers paint a vivid picture of what awaits—making it an appealing option for anyone eager to uncover Kazakhstan’s hidden gems without the hassle of planning.

What we love about this tour is how it balances city exploration with wild landscapes, the quality of guides who bring local stories to life, and the inclusion of authentic Kazakh cuisine that adds flavor to every day. The experience is designed to be seamless, with hotel stays, transportation, and entry tickets all arranged, so you can focus on enjoying the sights. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the price—at over $2,300 per person—though many feel it’s a fair price for such a well-rounded, guided adventure.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary, appreciate cultural and natural diversity, and want to experience Kazakhstan’s highlights without the stress of logistics. If you’re seeking an all-in-one package that combines comfort, convenience, and authentic discovery, this could be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines city highlights, mountain landscapes, and national parks.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Ramil contribute local knowledge and attentive care.
• Authentic Experiences: Tasting Kazakh delicacies such as Kurt, Kumys, and Beshbarmak adds cultural depth.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotels, transport, and entrance fees are handled, giving you peace of mind.
• Value for Money: Although a bit on the higher side, the inclusive nature offers good value, especially given the varied activities.
• Perfect for: Those who want a balanced mix of city sights, nature, and culture with reliable organization.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Welcome to Almaty

Your journey begins with a guide awaiting you at the airport, holding a sign and ready to transfer you comfortably to your hotel. This initial meet-and-greet is more than just logistics; it’s an opportunity to get a quick introduction to your guide—something travelers appreciate as it sets a friendly tone for the days ahead. After checking in and settling into a cozy hotel in the heart of the city, the evening ends with a taste of Kazakh cuisine. Dining at a local restaurant, you’ll start to get a flavor of what makes this region’s food such a treat—savory, hearty, and often accompanied by stories from your guide.

Day 2: City Highlights and Mountain Views

The second day is all about mixing urban charm with natural wonders. Starting with an early breakfast, your guide will lead you through Almaty’s most iconic sites. The visit to Big Almaty Lake offers stunning views, with a one-hour walk that guarantees great photo opportunities and fresh mountain air. From there, the day moves upward to the Medeu skating rink and Shymbulak ski resort, ascending to over 3,200 meters. Here, glaciers and rugged terrain create breathtaking scenery that will leave you feeling small amid nature’s grandeur.

After lunch at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, the tour keeps moving through the city’s cultural sites—Zenkov Cathedral, Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, and the Central Mosque. The city’s charm extends to the Green Bazaar, where you can sample local delicacies and haggle for souvenirs. The day wraps up with a sunset at Kok-Tobe Hill, offering panoramic views of Almaty, followed by dinner at your hotel. Reviewers frequently mention how well-organized and smooth this day is, with many appreciating the balance of sightseeing and leisure.

Day 3: Into the Wild – Altyn-Emel National Park

This day takes you beyond city limits into the wild beauty of Altyn-Emel National Park. After breakfast, you’ll drive to Basshi village, settling into a local hotel. Your guide will then lead you on a hiking adventure through the Aktau Mountains, where striking rock formations and panoramic vistas await. Later, you’ll visit the Katu-Tau Mountains, capturing incredible photo moments and even drinking spring water straight from the desert.

Traveling through rugged terrain, you’ll experience Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes firsthand. The day ends with a hearty dinner featuring Kazakh cheese Kurt, giving you a taste of local dairy craftsmanship. Reviewers rave about how much natural beauty is packed into a single day, with one mentioning that guides like Ramil made the experience both enriching and relaxed.

Day 4: Cultural Encounters & Hot Springs

Continuing your journey, the focus shifts to more cultural sights and relaxation. In the morning, you’ll climb the Signing Barkhan and explore the Tiger Mountains before heading to Zharkent, where a Chinese-style wooden mosque provides a striking contrast to Kazakh architecture. A walk through a busy bazaar offers a chance to haggle for souvenirs or just soak in local life.

The afternoon is dedicated to unwinding at Chundzha hot springs, where outdoor pools and soothing waters promise a well-earned rest. Dinner features Beshbarmak, Kazakhstan’s national dish, and is often described as a hearty, communal meal that brings travelers together. Reviewers note the hot springs as a highlight, complimenting the comfort and authentic local experience.

Day 5: Canyons and the Valley of Castles

Today involves off-road adventures into Charyn Canyon, often called the “Valley of Castles” for its dramatic, fortress-like formations. Starting early with breakfast, you’ll pick up picnic lunches and explore several viewpoints, marveling at the rugged, towering cliffs. The walk into Bestamak Canyon offers stunning vistas, and many find the dizzying panoramas a highlight of the trip.

Overnight stays in Saty village introduce you to Kazakh hospitality, with a local host preparing dinner and a dance performance by local children. Reviewers consistently share how unique and visually striking the canyon views are—“dizzying,” “breathtaking,” and “like being on another planet” are common descriptions.

Day 6: Lakes and Mountain Adventures

The focus shifts to the serene beauty of Kolsay Lakes, especially the lower and upper lakes. After breakfast and packing up, you’ll hike or horse ride a 16-kilometer trail from the first to the second lake, enjoying the mountain scenery and tranquil waters. The guides make this accessible for all, with options for riding horses, which many find a fun way to cover the distance without fatigue.

Returning to Saty, a relaxing steam bath awaits, perfect for soothing tired muscles. The dinner features mare’s milk (Kumys), a traditional Kazakh beverage, adding an authentic local flavor. Multiple reviewers emphasize the quality of the guides and how well the day balances activity with relaxation.

Day 7: Final Highlights & Return to Almaty

Your final day begins with a visit to Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest and striking turquoise waters. Spending a couple of hours exploring, you’ll get a chance to snap memorable photos, then head back toward Almaty. On the way, the scenic Charyn Canyon is revisited, giving you a last dose of Kazakhstan’s rugged beauty.

In the evening, a farewell dinner in Almaty wraps up the trip, with many reviewers mentioning the good value of the included meals and hotel stays. Afterward, your guide will transfer you to the airport, concluding a week of varied and immersive experiences.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guides like Ramil and Kirill earn high praise for their friendliness, local knowledge, and attention to detail. Their storytelling and care make the experience more than just sightseeing; it feels personal and insightful. Several reviews highlight how guides tailored meals for specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian options, which adds to the comfort.

The mix of natural and cultural sights is balanced thoughtfully. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Almaty’s city center, natural wonders like Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon, and lesser-known gems such as Zharkent’s mosque. It’s a well-rounded look at what makes Kazakhstan special.

Authentic foods like Kurt, Kumys, and Beshbarmak are more than snacks—they’re integral to understanding local culture. Many travelers mention how these tastes stayed with them long after the trip.

All-inclusiveness and well-organized logistics reduce stress, allowing you to soak in every experience instead of worrying about arrangements. Accommodation quality is high, with a 4-star hotel in Almaty and comfortable stays in rural villages, making sure you rest well after busy days.

The value for money is often debated but generally deemed fair given the extensive range of activities, meals, and expert guidance provided. The tour’s price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, which covers everything from transport to entrance fees.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Almaty tour offers an excellent way to experience Kazakhstan’s diverse landscape and fascinating culture without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided group adventures, want to see a variety of sights—from city streets to mountain peaks—and appreciate local cuisine. The guides, notably Ramil and Kirill, stand out for their knowledge and personal touch, making the journey more engaging and comfortable.

While the cost might seem high, the inclusive approach—covering transportation, accommodations, entrance tickets, and meals—delivers good value for those seeking a hassle-free, well-organized experience. The carefully curated itinerary ensures every day brings something new, from scenic hikes to cultural visits and relaxing hot springs.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery all in one package, this tour could be your ideal introduction to Kazakhstan. Expect memorable views, friendly guides, and a good dose of Kazakh hospitality along the way.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, a guide will meet you at Almaty Airport, holding a sign, and will transfer you to your hotel.

What is the price of this tour?
The cost is $2,320.59 per person, which covers accommodation, transportation, guided tours, entrance tickets, and meals.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, including breakfast (6), lunch (6), and dinner (7), with special tastings of Kurt, Kumys, and Beshbarmak.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
An all-wheel-drive SUV is provided, ensuring comfort and capability on both city roads and off-road adventures.

How many people are in the group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Are vegetarian or special diets accommodated?
Yes, reviewers note that guides have arranged vegetarian meals upon request, showing flexibility for dietary needs.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a 4-star hotel in Almaty and in comfortable local hotels or guesthouses in rural areas.

Can this tour be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, it can often be tailored to specific interests or needs—just ask your guide.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 days, covering city sights, nature parks, mountain excursions, and lakes.

Is this suitable for families or elderly travelers?
Many reviews mention that guides are attentive to the group’s needs, including elderly and children, making it a family-friendly option.

To sum it up, this 7-day Almaty tour provides a thorough, enjoyable, and authentic glimpse into Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a well-organized, immersive experience with experienced guides, and who are ready for a mix of adventure, history, and delicious food. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or simply curious about this lesser-known destination, this trip offers a solid foundation to fall in love with Kazakhstan.