Journey deep into the heart of southern Kazakhstan on an unforgettable 9-day adventure combining the legacy of the ancient Silk Road with the spectacular landscapes of the Tian Shan Mountains.
Journey deep into the heart of southern Kazakhstan on an unforgettable 9-day adventure combining the legacy of the ancient Silk Road with the spectacular landscapes of the Tian Shan Mountains.
Beginning in Shymkent, discover centuries-old pilgrimage sites, archaeological treasures and atmospheric medieval fortresses as you travel through Sayram, Otrar, Turkistan and Sauran. Experience the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan at the magnificent Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi before continuing north to Almaty.
The journey then shifts from history to high-altitude adventure, with breathtaking excursions to Big Almaty Lake, Medeu, Shymbulak and Talgar Pass, followed by an awe-inspiring exploration of Charyn Canyon and its Valley of Castles.
Blending cultural heritage, local cuisine, mountain scenery and authentic encounters, this itinerary offers a fascinating introduction to Kazakhstan—from its Silk Road past to its dramatic alpine wilderness.
Route: Shymkent · Sayram · Otrar · Turkistan · Sauran · Almaty · Shymkent
Double / Twin Room Sharing SGD 3,350 per person
Triple Room Sharing SGD 3,150 per person
Single Room Basis SGD 3,650 per person
(Min 6 – 12 Passengers to travel)
Arrive in Shymkent and receive a warm welcome at the airport before transferring to your hotel. After some time to relax, enjoy an easy evening orientation through the historic Shymkent Citadel, Ordabasy Square and Arbat pedestrian boulevard, beautifully illuminated after sunset.
End your first evening with a welcoming dinner featuring flavours of southern Kazakhstan, including traditional tandyr samsa and shashlik.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Shymkent · 4-Star Hotel
Travel to ancient Sayram (Isfijab), once an important Silk Road oasis. Discover the historic mausoleums of Ibrahim Ata and Karashash Ana, associated with the spiritual heritage of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
Continue into the foothills of the Western Tian Shan to spectacular Aksu Canyon, one of Central Asia's deepest gorges. Enjoy a scenic walk overlooking the turquoise Aksu River, followed by a relaxed country-style lunch surrounded by mountain scenery.
Return to Shymkent in the afternoon and dine at a traditional local teahouse.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shymkent · 4-Star Hotel
Leave Shymkent behind and travel across the desert steppe to the ancient Otrar Oasis, once a flourishing Silk Road centre. Explore the archaeological remains of the citadel, ancient bathhouses and museum before continuing to the revered Arystan Bab Mausoleum, regarded as the spiritual mentor of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
Continue to Turkistan, the historic spiritual capital of Kazakhstan. In the evening, experience the lively Keruen-Saray complex, with its canal boat parade, theatrical horse show and illuminated musical fountain.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Turkistan · 4- or 5-Star Hotel
Begin the day exploring Turkistan's remarkable UNESCO World Heritage complex. Visit the monumental Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, the subterranean Hilvet Mosque, Rabiga Sultan Begim Mausoleum and historic medieval hammam.
Continue north to the atmospheric ruins of Sauran Fortress, a remarkable medieval settlement surrounded by mudbrick defensive walls and remnants of its ancient underground water system.
After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight to Almaty. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before enjoying dinner featuring distinctive Kazakh-Uighur cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Almaty · 4-Star Hotel
Discover the cultural heart of Almaty on a relaxed city tour. Explore Panfilov Park, admire the distinctive wooden Zenkov Cathedral and visit the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame.
Continue to Republic Square and the Monument of Independence before exploring the colourful Green Bazaar, where you can sample local specialities such as mountain honey, qurt, fresh flatbreads and Kazakh confectionery.
As the day draws to a close, ride the cable car to Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views across Almaty and the snow-capped Zailiysky Alatau range.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Almaty · 4-Star Hotel
Escape the city and ascend into the spectacular Malaya Almatinka Gorge. Visit Medeu, home to one of the world's highest-altitude skating rinks, before taking the scenic gondola towards Shymbulak Mountain Resort.
Continue upwards by chairlift towards Talgar Pass at approximately 3,200 metres, where panoramic views reveal an impressive world of alpine ridges, glaciers and mountain peaks.
Enjoy lunch in a mountain chalet before descending back to Almaty. The evening is free for leisurely exploration, shopping or simply enjoying the city's atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Almaty · 4-Star Hotel
Travel into the magnificent Big Almaty Gorge to reach the iconic Big Almaty Lake, situated at approximately 2,510 metres above sea level. Framed by dramatic Tian Shan peaks, the lake is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters.
Enjoy a scenic walk at the designated viewpoints before descending through Alma-Arasan Gorge, where you can experience the area's natural mineral springs.
After lunch at a mountain trout farm or traditional gorge teahouse, visit the Sunkar Falconry Sanctuary for a fascinating live demonstration featuring magnificent Central Asian birds of prey.
Return to Almaty for a relaxed evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Almaty · 4-Star Hotel
Note: Passports are required for the border-zone checkpoint at Big Almaty Lake.
Set out early across the vast Kazakh steppe towards Charyn Canyon National Park, one of the country's most spectacular natural wonders.
Descend into the remarkable Valley of Castles, where towering red sandstone formations and sculpted monoliths create an extraordinary landscape. Walk approximately 2 km through the canyon towards the Charyn River, taking time to appreciate the changing colours and dramatic rock formations.
After lunch, return to Almaty and transfer to the airport for your evening flight back to Shymkent.
Celebrate your final evening in Kazakhstan with a farewell banquet featuring regional cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shymkent · 4-Star Hotel
Enjoy a final morning in Shymkent with a visit to the Upper Bazaar, where local vendors offer dried fruits, nuts, mountain sweets and traditional felt handicrafts.
Return to the hotel to check out before your private transfer to Shymkent International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
