Astana: Burabay Nature, Wine, Cheese, and Horseback Ride

Exploring Kazakhstan often means venturing beyond its bustling cities—this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Burabay’s stunning landscapes and local culture in just 10 hours. While it’s a packed day, the combination of nature, food, and unique wildlife encounters creates a memorable experience.

What catches our eye: the chance to feed majestic marals, taste exclusive Kazakhstan cheeses and wines, and enjoy an invigorating horseback ride through forests and mountains. The only snag? The drive is a little over two hours, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more time at each stop, it’s worth keeping in mind.

Ideal for travelers craving an authentic Kazakh adventure that’s both scenic and sensory-rich, this tour suits those who enjoy outdoors, local food, and cultural insights in a manageable day trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Kazakh Experience: Feed marals and learn about their cultural significance.
• Gourmet Tasting: Explore Kazakhstan’s only cheese cellar with local cheeses and wines.
• Scenic Horseback Riding: Ride through lush forests and mountain trails with breathtaking views.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Snacks, meals, transportation, and activities included.
• Comfortable Transport: Private group with a friendly guide ensures a relaxed day.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users; comfortable shoes and clothes recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day of Natural Beauty and Local Flavors

This tour from Astana guarantees a rich mix of Kazakh nature, tradition, and culinary delights—all within a single day. From the moment you’re picked up in Astana, the journey itself is part of the experience. The scenic drive offers glimpses of Kazakh countryside, and the delightful stop for freshly baked baursaks (traditional fried bread) with tea or coffee instantly sets a welcoming tone.

The tour’s first highlight is the maral farm, home to the majestic maral deer, which are highly valued in Kazakh culture and ecology. Three things stand out here: the chance to feed these impressive animals, an educational component about their importance, and the tranquil farm setting. Many reviews mention how peaceful and connecting this stop feels, giving travelers a real sense of Kazakhstan’s natural heritage.

Next, the journey leads to the only cheese cellar in Kazakhstan, an underground haven for cheese lovers. Here, you’ll sample a variety of cheeses paired with regional wines, making this a true highlight for anyone interested in local gastronomy. The cellar’s owner and cheesemaker are passionate, eager to share their craft and stories behind each cheese. Several travelers appreciated the chance to learn about artisanal cheese making, describing the tasting as “exquisite” and the wines as “perfectly paired.”

Scenic Lunch and Relaxation

After the cheese and wine tasting, a hearty lunch featuring local flavors provides a welcome break. The meal is a key part of the experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy Kazakh cuisine in a comfortable setting. Many reviewers mention the delicious, authentic dishes and how they appreciated the opportunity to try traditional Kazakh fare in a local environment.

Horseback Riding Through Burabay’s Landscapes

The final activity immerses you in the stunning outdoors with a horseback ride through forests and mountain trails. The route is carefully chosen to maximize views, and riders can expect to pass lush greenery, rocky peaks, and tranquil lakes. Several guests noted the ride’s breathtaking scenery, with some saying it felt like stepping into a Kazakh fairy tale. The guide’s tips help even novice riders feel comfortable, and the one-hour ride offers just enough time to connect with nature without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced to include everything: transportation, snacks, meals, activities, and professional guiding in English and Russian. The private group setting makes the experience more intimate, and the flexible reservation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

The journey lasts about 10 hours, with most of the time spent exploring and less in transit. The stops are well-paced, although the two-hour drive may feel long for some. The tour is best suited for those comfortable in comfortable shoes and casual clothes, as walking and riding are involved. Unfortunately, it isn’t accessible for wheelchair users.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that if your primary interest is more time outdoors or at each site, this might feel a bit condensed. Still, the inclusion of local foods, cultural insights, and scenic activities offers great value for a day trip.

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What the Tour Includes

• Pickup and round-trip transportation from Astana
• Stop for fresh baursaks with tea or coffee
• Visit to a maral farm for animal feeding and cultural insights
• Tasting at Kazakhstan’s only cheese cellar, paired with local wines
• Lunch featuring traditional Kazakh dishes
• Horseback riding through forests and mountain paths
• Photo stops and free time for pictures
• Guide speaking English and Russian

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of nature, culture, and food. It suits those interested in Kazakh wildlife and traditional cuisine, as well as outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore scenery on horseback. It’s perfect for visitors who prefer an all-inclusive, guided experience without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering that the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain during the horseback ride.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and culinary traditions. The combination of feeding marals, sampling local cheeses and wines, and riding through lush forests makes for a well-rounded and authentic day out. The scenic landscapes and tasty experiences provide plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

For those seeking a convenient, all-in-one adventure that balances outdoor activity with cultural learning, this tour delivers solid value. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers eager to dive into Kazakh traditions without spending days on the road.

In summary, if you want a full day exploring Kazakhstan’s outdoors and flavors with knowledgeable guides and a relaxed vibe, this tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Astana is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long is the drive to Burabay?
The journey takes just over two hours each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I participate if I can’t ride horses?
The horseback riding is a key part of the experience, but if you’re not comfortable riding, consider if you’re okay with the activity or if you prefer a different outdoor experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual clothing are recommended, especially for walking and riding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable riding horses and walking, as younger kids may find the terrain challenging.

Are meals and snacks included?
Yes, snacks, lunch, and tastings are all part of the package.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, providing clear explanations throughout the day.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: