5 Days Kazakhstan Highlights (April - October 2026)

Arrive at Almaty International Airport where you’ll be warmly greeted in true Kazakh style—hostesses in traditional costumes welcome you with local snacks before your English-speaking guide escorts you to your hotel. After settling in, your first taste of Kazakhstan begins with lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the bustling Green Bazaar where the aromas of spices and national delicacies fill the air. Here, you’ll sample authentic horse milk and camel milk while mingling with local vendors.

The journey continues with the Museum of National Musical Instruments, home to over 1,000 rare artefacts, where you’ll also enjoy a live performance of the haunting dombyra and kobyz. Stroll through the leafy Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen and admire the wooden Ascension Cathedral, a 1907 marvel built entirely without nails. As evening falls, dine like royalty in a restaurant designed to resemble a khan’s palace, complete with Timurid architecture, oriental dances, and acrobatic performances—a spectacular welcome to Kazakhstan.

Step into the living history of the Great Steppe at the Nomad Ethno Centre, nestled in the Ushkonyr Gorge. You’ll be greeted with the age-old shashu tradition of sweets and baursaks tossed for prosperity, before being welcomed with music and songs. Watch as warriors in armour recreate ancient battle tactics and galloping archery, then witness the breathtaking skill of eagle hunters—an enduring symbol of Kazakh culture. After a hearty yurt-style lunch, immerse yourself in nomadic life through hands-on masterclasses. Learn swordcraft, archery, or traditional embroidery; try your hand at breadmaking or crafting felt carpets; or join in Asyq, a traditional bone-tossing game recognised by UNESCO. The day ends back in Almaty with a relaxed dinner of national cuisine.

Venture east to one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural wonders: Charyn Canyon. Known as the “Valley of the Castles,” this dramatic landscape of towering red rock formations has been sculpted by wind and water for millions of years. Hike down to the Charyn River, where you’ll be surrounded by surreal natural architecture and vibrant colours. A nomadic-style picnic awaits by the riverbank, before returning to Almaty for a relaxed evening and a traditional dinner.

Journey to Karakemer Village to discover Kazakhstan’s wine culture at a local vineyard. Tour the wine cellar, learn about the production process, and enjoy a guided tasting of Arba Wine’s signature reds and whites. Continue to Issyk Lake, a stunning alpine lake framed by wildflower meadows and dense forests, where light hiking rewards you with sweeping views. Back in Almaty, ride up Kok-Tobe Hill to watch the sun dip behind the mountains. Here, dinner is served with panoramic views of the glittering city, accompanied by an exclusive musical masterclass. A folk band will introduce you to ancient Kazakh instruments, throat singing, and melodies rooted in shamanic traditions—an atmospheric finale to your adventure.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Almaty International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s warm hospitality, nomadic spirit, and awe-inspiring landscapes.