We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In Astana

Astana (now Nur-Sultan) is a city that truly transforms after sunset, with its futuristic architecture lighting up the night sky. Its iconic landmarks, like the Baiterek Tower and Khan Shatyr, become even more striking under the evening glow. These features make Astana an ideal destination for guided city tours, especially ones that let you see the city in a new light, such as the Astana City Tour: Explore Night City with a Certified Guide. But beyond the cityscape, Astana offers an array of experiences, from exploring the natural beauty of Burabay National Park to stepping into the complex history of the Soviet era. Whether you’re an architecture lover, a history enthusiast, or a nature explorer, Astana’s diverse tour options promise memorable adventures.

For those interested in night city tours, the illuminated skyline at night is breathtaking. If you’re craving nature, the Burabay National Park trips offer scenic hikes, lake explorations, and even horseback riding. History buffs will appreciate tours that reveal Kazakhstan’s Soviet past, with visits to the Gulag Museum or Soviet monuments. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of some top picks.

Quick Overview

This list features a variety of guided tours and experiences, including city sightseeing, nature excursions, and historical journeys. For example, the Astana City Tour: Explore Night City with a Certified Guide offers a private evening exploration of the city’s famous landmarks. If you want to combine cultural insights with local flavors, the Astana: Private Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting is perfect. Nature lovers will enjoy trips to Burabay National Park, such as the Burabay National Park Tour with Lunch and Pickup (more details). History enthusiasts will find the Gulag Museum tours insightful, revealing Kazakhstan’s Soviet-era secrets. Below, each tour is reviewed carefully to help you pick the best experience for your interests.

1. Astana City Tour: Explore Night City with a Certified Guide

Discover the beauty of Astana at night on this guided city tour. For just $49 per person, you’ll see the city’s most famous landmarks illuminated after dark—perfect for photography lovers. Your certified guide will share stories about Kazakhstan’s history and the architecturally stunning structures that light up the night, like the Baiterek Tower and Khan Shatyr. This private experience offers a personalized touch that makes the city’s luminous skyline even more captivating. The tour typically includes stops at key landmarks, with plenty of time for photos and questions, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a romantic evening stroll.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, intimate night tour that shows Astana’s modern charm under the stars, perfect for romantic evenings or photography enthusiasts.

2. Astana: Burabay National Park Tour with Lunch and Pickup

For nature lovers, this full-day tour to Burabay National Park offers a perfect escape from the city. It’s priced at $165 per person and includes hiking, lake exploration, and optional horseback riding or boat rides. The tour features a hike up Bolektau Peak for sweeping views of the park’s lakes and forests, as well as a visit to Abylay Khan Meadow to experience local culture with activities like archery and eagle handling. You’ll stop at a scenic natural spring to drink fresh water straight from the underground. The guide customizes the experience to your interests, making it a flexible and personal adventure.

Guests mention the breathtaking views and the variety of activities, making this a hit for active travelers. The inclusion of a local lunch adds to the value, rounding out a day immersed in Kazakh nature.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts eager for hiking, wildlife, and local culture—especially if you want a private guide for tailored experiences.

3. Astana City Tour: Certified Private Guide+Lunch+Wine Tasting

For around $129, this upscale private tour combines sightseeing with culinary pleasures. Your certified local guide leads you through Astana’s highlights like Baiterek Tower, the National Museum, and the Grand Mosque. The tour stands out with its inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Kazakh cuisine, along with an optional wine tasting of locally-produced wines from Almaty’s vineyards. With a flexible itinerary and personalized service, you get an in-depth look at the city’s modern architecture and cultural sites, all in a comfortable setting.

Reviewers appreciate the guide’s knowledge and the seamless experience, emphasizing the value of combining sightseeing with authentic food and drink.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed exploration with cultural and culinary highlights included.

4. Astana: Private Night City Tour with Certified Guide

At just $47 per person, this private night tour offers an intimate look at Astana’s illuminated skyline. Your guide will take you around landmarks like the Ak Orda Presidential Palace and Khan Shatyr, all aglow under the night sky. You’ll learn about Kazakhstan’s modern architecture and spiritual sites while capturing stunning photos. The tour typically includes stops for photos and brief explanations of each site’s significance, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet visually impressive experience.

Reviews mention the guide’s insights and how the city’s architecture transforms after sunset, creating a unique atmosphere.

Bottom Line: An affordable, private way to experience Astana’s architectural grandeur at night, perfect for photography buffs and night owls.

5. Astana: Back to USSR – Gulag Museum with Certified Guide

For $169, this Soviet history tour takes you to the KarLag Museum in Karaganda. There, you’ll learn about the Gulag system and its impact on Kazakhstan’s past. The tour also covers monuments and architecture from the Soviet era, blending history with cultural insights. Your guide, with years of experience, will narrate stories of hardship and resilience. The visit includes a Russian lunch that adds an authentic touch, making it a full-day immersion into Kazakhstan’s Soviet-era story.

Reviewers highlight the depth of information and the emotional impact of understanding this lesser-known history.

Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and those interested in Kazakhstan’s Soviet legacy, with an authentic cultural experience.

6. Astana: Back to USSR Gulag Museum with Certified Guide

This slightly more focused tour at $165 offers a deep dive into the Soviet Gulag system through a guided visit to the Karaganda Dolinka Gulag Museum. You’ll see Soviet-era architecture and learn about Stalin’s labor camps, contrasting this history with the modern city of Karaganda. Your guide will explain how the Soviet legacy influences present-day Kazakhstan and share stories of prisoners and survival.

A recent reviewer describes it as “a sobering, eye-opening experience that makes history real,” emphasizing the importance of understanding this complex past.

Bottom Line: Perfect for serious history enthusiasts seeking an in-depth look at Kazakhstan’s Soviet history.

7. Astana: Private custom tour with a local guide

For $53, this customizable walking tour lets you tailor your experience. Your local guide will show you main sights, hidden gems, and recommend food spots based on your interests. It’s a flexible way to explore at your own pace and dive into areas that matter most to you, whether it’s architecture, history, or local life.

Recent reviews mention that guides are personable and knowledgeable, making this a good option for travelers who want control over their itinerary.

Bottom Line: Offers personalized exploration, ideal for travelers with specific interests or those who prefer a flexible schedule.

8. Astana City Tour: Certified Guide+Winetasting+All Inclusive

This all-inclusive tour at $129 takes you through Astana’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. It combines sightseeing, wine tasting, and comfortable transportation—perfect for a relaxed day. The guide shares stories about Kazakhstan’s history and architecture, enriching the experience. Guests like the seamless blend of cultural learning and leisure, especially in a private setting.

Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to taste local wines while sightseeing, making it a well-rounded experience.

Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a stress-free, all-in-one tour with wine tasting and cultural insights.

9. From Astana: Burabai National Park (1 day tour)

At $150 per person, this day trip to Burabai National Park offers a chance to see Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. The guide provides group and private options, with hiking, lakes, and forest rides. The trip prioritizes comfort and flexibility, making it suitable for families or adventure travelers.

Visitors highlight the pristine lakes and peaceful scenery, providing a refreshing contrast to city tours.

Bottom Line: An excellent quick escape for nature lovers wanting a guided tour of one of Kazakhstan’s most scenic parks.

10. Private Astana City tour: Gude & Food & Winetasting

For $130, this private city tour combines sightseeing with local wine and cuisine. It includes a personal driver and English-speaking guide, plus amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning. You’ll see sights like the Palace of Peace and Astana Mosque while enjoying Kazakh dishes and wine.

Travelers love the combination of cultural sites and local flavors, making this a comprehensive experience.

Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers who want a personalized city tour with food and wine in a comfortable setting.

11. Astana: Old City Tour, Imperialistic and Soviet Architecture

This specialized tour at $90 focuses on Astana’s Soviet and imperial architecture. You’ll explore lesser-known sites that reveal the city’s past, such as mosaics and sculptures. The guide’s storytelling brings to life the stories behind these structures.

Reviewers note it’s a fascinating look at how Kazakhstan’s architectural identity has evolved, with a focus on less touristy sites.

Bottom Line: Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs interested in Kazakhstan’s Soviet and imperial past.

12. From Almaty: 5-Day Tour to Astana with Accommodation

This comprehensive five-day tour at $675 includes sightseeing in both cities, lake visits, and cultural sites. It features stops at the Vosnesensky Orthodox Cathedral, Charyn Canyon, and the Nur Alem Museum at Expo.

Travelers appreciate the mix of city exploration and outdoor adventures, making it suitable for those who want a thorough introduction to Kazakhstan.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting an in-depth, multi-day experience combining urban and natural sights.

13. Astana: Half-Day City Tour

This half-day tour at $90 covers the city’s major highlights in about four hours. You’ll visit Baiterek Tower, Hazrat Sultan Mosque, and the Palace of Peace, with a detailed itinerary that allows quick but rich exploration.

Recent reviewer calls it “a great overview for first-timers,” perfect if your time is limited.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Astana.

14. Astana: Private City Tour and Burabay National Park bundle

This two-day package at an unspecified price combines city sights with a nature escape. You’ll explore Astana’s modern architecture and spend a day in Burabay, including a lake boat ride and forest horse rides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced experience.

Reviewers mention the value in combining city and nature, especially with flexible scheduling.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a blend of city and outdoor experiences over a couple of days.

15. 2-Day Astana City & Burabay National Park Private Tours

This two-day tour at $359 per person is a comprehensive adventure. It includes full-day city highlights and guided trips into Burabay’s lakes and forests. The itinerary is extensive, making it ideal for those who want to see it all.

Travelers enjoy the thorough coverage and personalized guidance, ensuring they won’t miss key sights or experiences.

Bottom Line: Perfect for serious explorers wanting an in-depth, multi-day Kazakh experience.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Astana

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If you want a quick overview, the half-day city tour is perfect. For a romantic evening, the night city tour offers stunning views. Nature lovers should look at trips to Burabay National Park, especially the full-day options. History buffs will find the Soviet-era tours enlightening, with visits to the Gulag Museum or Soviet architecture sites.

If you’re after a luxury experience, the wine tasting and gourmet tours are worth the splurge. For a flexible, personalized itinerary, the custom private tour is your best bet. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re captivated by Astana’s soaring skyscrapers, its peaceful lakes, or its complex history, the city offers a diverse range of tours that suit different tastes and budgets. For architecture lovers, the night city tour and Soviet architecture tour are must-dos. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Burabay National Park, while history buffs should explore the Gulag Museum or Old City sites.

Two standout options include the Astana City Tour: Explore Night City for a stunning evening experience, and the 2-Day Astana & Burabay Tour for those wanting a full introduction to Kazakhstan’s urban and natural beauty. Whatever your interests, early booking is wise to ensure availability—and start your Kazakh adventure well-prepared.