Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm

Traveling to Kazakhstan often means encountering the allure of vast landscapes and ancient traditions. If you’re seeking an experience that combines cultural displays, traditional cuisine, and outdoor adventures in one day, a tour to the Huns Gunny Ethno Village with a visit to Troat Farm offers just that. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a thoughtfully curated journey into Kazakh heritage that’s perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of local life.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the live show with warriors and horsemanship promises a captivating display of Kazakh traditions. Second, the local lunch featuring national dishes is a fantastic way to indulge in the authentic flavors. Lastly, the opportunity to test your riding skills and visit a picturesque farm adds a fun, participatory element. The only caution? The tour takes about 9 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of activity. This experience appeals most to culture enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and anyone eager to see Kazakhstan beyond its cities.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with traditional Kazakh performances and hospitality
• Includes a hearty lunch with beloved national dishes like Beshbarmak and Manty
• Horse riding and archery activities offer hands-on fun for all levels
• Scenic drive past mountains, sports complexes, and quaint villages
• Visit to Troat farm provides a peaceful countryside escape
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of Kazakh traditions and history

Overview of the Experience

This tour aims to give travelers a comprehensive look into Kazakh culture through a combination of performances, gastronomy, outdoor activities, and scenic views. The experience is designed to be engaging and immersive, making it suitable for families, cultural explorers, and nature lovers alike.

The tour is priced at $99 per person, which includes transportation, entrance fees, a traditional lunch, and activity options. Considering the full day’s itinerary and the depth of experiences, this is a reasonable price point for the value of cultural insight and unique activities offered. It’s particularly popular, with most bookings made around 19 days in advance, indicating good interest and trust from previous travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Departure and Scenic Drive

Starting from Almaty at 9:30 am, you’ll board an air-conditioned vehicle and head towards the ethno-village of Huns Gunny, located near Talgar. Along the way, expect to pass sights like the Halyk Arena sports complex, Talgar Highway—with its charming rural vibe—and the surrounding mountains. This scenic drive helps set the tone, letting you relax and prepare for the culture ahead.

Stop 1: Huns Gunny Ethno Village Show

Upon arrival, the show begins with a warm welcome from warriors and residents who greet you with traditional Kazakh bread and drinks, giving a taste of local hospitality. The main event features ceremonial displays like Kyz Uzatu and Nauryz, which are integral to Kazakh festivities.

Next, you’ll witness the Jigitovka—a jaw-dropping display of horseback riding skills. Young riders perform acrobatic tricks on horses and participate in games that resemble lively Kazakh celebrations. Reviews highlight that guides like Nazim, the tour manager, are very knowledgeable and friendly, making the entire experience both educational and entertaining.

Lunch with Traditional Dishes

After the show, a buffet-style lunch awaits, offering Beshbarmak, Kaordak, Plov, and Manty—all served with traditional drinks like Kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) or Shubat (camel milk). Many mention the quality and authenticity of the cuisine, with options for vegetarians upon request. The lunch is a great chance to relax and discuss what you’ve seen with fellow travelers, all while savoring hearty Kazakh dishes.

Afternoon Activities: Horse Riding and Archery

Post-lunch, guests can try horse riding and archery, ideal for those wanting a hands-on experience. While these are optional activities, the chance to test your skills or simply enjoy the countryside from horseback adds a memorable touch. Reviewers note that guides are patient and helpful, making it accessible even for beginners.

Visiting Troat Farm and Golden Man Monument

The journey continues to the Troat farm, surrounded by scenic natural landscapes perfect for fishing or just soaking in the quiet beauty of rural Kazakhstan. Before arriving at the farm, there’s a quick photo stop at the Golden Man monument near Talgar, a significant archaeological find symbolizing Kazakh history. Visitors often mention that the peaceful farm setting offers a lovely contrast to the lively show earlier in the day.

Return and End of Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point around 6:30 pm, making it a full day of cultural and outdoor activities. The small group size of up to 13 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, and the comfortable transportation helps keep the journey smooth.

What Travelers Love and Noticed

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—someone like Nazim, who is praised for being polite, helpful, and engaging. The safety and comfort of the experience are also frequently highlighted, with travelers feeling well cared for throughout.

Many comment on how genuine and well-organized the show is, with Lalit saying, “The tour was organized in a very safe and comfortable manner…spectacular thanks to the efforts of Sky Eagle Tours.” The scenic drives and rural visits are much appreciated, offering a relaxing break from city life.

Some mention that the horse riding and archery activities are accessible to all, and even complete novices can enjoy a try. The food, especially the national dishes, is another highlight, with many noting the hearty and authentic flavors.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

The cost of $99 offers good value considering the inclusive nature—transport, show entry, lunch, and activities. The tour is scheduled for about 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day out. If you prefer a more flexible pace or are not keen on active pursuits, the optional nature of horse riding and archery means you can tailor your experience.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort during the scenic drive. Groups are small, with up to 13 travelers, which helps foster a more intimate atmosphere and easier interaction with guides.

The tour’s availability is quite good, with most bookings made well in advance. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which adds peace of mind. Weather considerations are important since outdoor activities are involved; if weather turns poor, you might be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a genuine taste of Kazakh culture without spending days on the road. It’s especially suitable for those interested in traditional performances, horseback riding, and rural scenery. Families, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love here.

If you appreciate well-organized, culturally immersive experiences with friendly guides, this tour consistently meets expectations. It may not be ideal for travelers seeking a purely relaxed, scenic day without activities, but for those wanting a lively and authentic day, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This tour to the Huns Gunny Ethno Village and Troat Farm offers a well-rounded look into Kazakh traditions, blending performances, cuisine, outdoor fun, and scenic countryside. It’s a package that balances entertainment and education, with the added bonus of participating in traditional activities like horse riding and archery.

For travelers eager to experience Kazakhstan beyond its capital, this full-day trip provides the perfect combination of culture, nature, and local hospitality—all at a reasonable price point. The small group size and enthusiastic guides ensure a personable, memorable outing that will leave you with stories and photos to cherish.

Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, this tour has enough diversity to make your Almaty visit even more special. Just pack your curiosity, your camera, and maybe some comfortable shoes—this is one Kazakh experience you won’t forget.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance to the Huns Gunny Ethno-village show and lunch, and a visit to Troat farm.

Is vegetarian food available during lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged if you let the booking team know in advance.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the original meeting point.

What activities can I try after lunch?
You can test your skills in horse riding and archery, both of which are optional but popular activities.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise the guides, like Nazim, for being polite, helpful, and well-informed about Kazakh traditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 are not required to pay tips, and activities like horse riding and archery are often accessible for younger participants.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 19 days in advance through Viator, and the tour provider is Sky Eagle Tours.

This experience promises a lively, authentic, and fun-filled day that highlights Kazakh traditions and rural beauty—perfect for anyone eager to see a different side of Kazakhstan beyond the city.