Uncharted Kazakhstan in 6 days

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin a fascinating tour of Almaty:

• - Panfilov Park: Stroll through the peaceful pathways of this park, dedicated to General Panfilov, a hero of World War II. Visit the impressive World War II Memorial Complex, featuring a striking monument of advancing soldiers and an eternal flame.
• - Zenkov Cathedral: Marvel at this five-domed wooden wonder, built without the use of a single metal nail. Located in Panfilov Park, the cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Almaty and offers a unique glimpse into Kazakhstan’s architectural and cultural heritage.
• - Green Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market, where colorful displays, tantalizing aromas, and lively crowds create an unforgettable shopping experience. Sample dried fruits and famous Kazakh chocolates – and don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills!
• - Republic Square: Visit this historic square, home to the Monument of Independence, a towering statue of the Golden Man surrounded by sculptures and bas-reliefs depicting Kazakhstan’s history. The square is framed by landmarks such as the Mayor’s Office, the Central State Museum, and the former Presidential Palace.
• - Central State Museum: Delve into Kazakhstan’s history through its extensive collection of nearly 250,000 artifacts. The museum’s highlights include a replica of the iconic Golden Man and exhibitions spanning prehistoric times to modern-day Kazakhstan.
• - Almaty Metro: Experience the city’s modern metro system, with stops at 2-3 stations showcasing beautifully designed themes and intricate murals that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a palace.
• - Medeo Skating Rink: Take a scenic drive to the Medeo Gorge to see the world’s highest Olympic-sized ice skating rink, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
• - Kok-Tobe Hill: Enjoy a panoramic view of Almaty from Kok-Tobe Hill, where you can explore attractions such as the petting zoo, souvenir shops, the famous Beatles statue, and the romantic Alley of Lovers. Conclude the visit with a ride on the Almaty Cable Cars back to the city center.

After the tour, your driver will transfer you to the train station for your overnight journey to Turkestan (830km, approximately 13 hours). Relax in the comfortable overnight train as you head toward your next adventure. Overnight: Onboard the Almaty-Turkestan train.

Arrive in Turkestan, where your driver will greet you at the train station to begin your tour of the Hazret-Sultan Historical and Cultural Complex, one of Kazakhstan’s most sacred and historically significant destinations. Highlights include:

• - Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum (14th century): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Timurid architecture, this grand structure features 30 rooms, including a small museum, mosque, a massive bronze cauldron, and the graves of Yasawi and his family.
• - Hilvet Underground Mosque (c. 12th century): This unique subterranean mosque, where Yasawi is said to have spent his final years in meditation, now serves as a museum.
• - Ancient Bathhouse: Explore the remains of a sophisticated bathhouse, designed with chambers that maintained warm or cool temperatures without doors.
• - Old City Walls and Garden Paths: Wander through remnants of the historic city, complemented by smaller mausoleums that add to the complex’s charm.
• Next, head to Shauldir Village in the Otrar region (75km, 1hr 15min) to visit:
• - Arystan Bab Mausoleum: A revered site and burial place of Arystan Bab, the teacher of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. This mud-brick structure, featuring a handwritten Quran, is a destination for local pilgrims.
• - Otrar Archaeological Site: Walk through the ancient ruins of Otrar, once a flourishing city with evidence of well-planned streets and homes now scattered with pottery fragments.

Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive to Shymkent (145km, 2hrs). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening. Overnight: Shymkent.

Spend your morning at leisure before checking out of the hotel at noon. Your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel reception to begin exploring Shymkent’s key landmarks:

• - Regional Museum of Southern Kazakhstan: Learn about the region’s history through engaging exhibits, including ancient petroglyphs, topographical maps, a full yurt display, and a Silk Road caravan diorama.
• - Memory Alley in Abai (Shanshi) Park: Walk along this solemn boulevard, lined with the names of World War II veterans from the region, and bookended by an eternal flame monument and a fighter jet statue.
• - Museum of Victims of Political Repression: A deeply moving museum commemorating those who suffered under Stalinist policies through personal stories, photos, and evocative sculptures.
• - Hakim Abai Museum: A tribute to Abai Qunanbaiuly, one of Kazakhstan’s greatest poets and reformers, showcasing his life and works.
• - Kyluet Ethnography Museum: Immerse yourself in Kazakh culture with pottery lessons, musical instrument demonstrations, and an underground meditation room (hilvet).

Travel to Sayram (15km, 30min) to visit its revered mausoleums:

• - Ibrahim-Ata and Karashash-Ana Mausoleums (13th century): These sacred tombs are the final resting places of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi’s parents and attract many religious pilgrims.
• - Mirali-Baba and Abdulaziz-Baba Mausoleums: Historical burial sites of an Islamic scholar and an Arab soldier who spread Islam in the region, these elaborately designed mausoleums hold significant religious importance.

Return to Shymkent in the evening to catch a flight to Astana (1600km, 1hr 40min). Upon arrival in Astana, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight: Astana.

Begin your exploration of Astana with a guided tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks:

• - Independence Square: A marble plaza adorned with benches, fountains, and symbolic sculptures, the highlight of which is the towering 91-meter-high Kazakh Eli Monument.
• - Hazrat Sultan Mosque: Marvel at the largest mosque in Kazakhstan, featuring a stunning dome (51x28m), four towering 77-meter minarets, and an interior adorned with intricate Kazakh patterns and massive white pillars. The surrounding grounds are beautifully landscaped with fountains and flowers.
• - Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: Visit this symmetrical glass-and-granite pyramid designed by architect Norman Foster. This architectural masterpiece symbolizes unity and hosts conference halls, exhibition spaces, and even an opera house.
• - Nurzhol Boulevard: Walk along this picturesque pedestrian street, lined with fountains and statues celebrating Kazakhstan’s heritage. It leads to Round Square, a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and more fountains.
• - Bayterek Tower: Ascend this iconic landmark, known as the "Tree of Life," to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the chance to place your hand in the golden imprint of President Nazarbayev’s palm.
• - Khan Shatyr: End your tour at this one-of-a-kind shopping and entertainment complex housed in the world’s largest tent. Its eco-friendly design keeps the interior warm even during Astana’s harsh winters.

After the tour, return to your hotel for the evening. Overnight: Astana.

Enjoy free time in the morning for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Check out of your hotel by noon, and your driver will transfer you to Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport for your departure.

End of the Uncharted Kazakhstan in 6 days Tour