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Jrny Socials

Wayfarer Anki's Kazakhstan

Untold Central Asia

CURATED BY

Ankitha Rajendaran

TRIP DATES

13 Jun 25 - 18 Jun 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,485

HIKING

OFF-BEAT

ADVENTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Wayfarer Anki's Kazakhstan: Untold Central Asia

TRIP DATES

13 Jun 25-18 Jun 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,485

About this Jrny

Kazakhstan's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cityscapes await you on this unforgettable journey. This Jrny is curated by adventurer and storyteller Ankitha Rajendaran (@wayfarer_anki on Instagram).

Begin in Almaty, where you take a scenic cable car ride to Kok Tobe Hill, enjoying panoramic views of the city. Next, venture into nature, driving to the dramatic Charyn Canyon for a picnic amidst its towering rock formations. Continue to Saty village and settle in before visiting the serene Kolsay Lake, where you savour a traditional Kazakh dinner. Explore the mystical Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest, and experience horseback riding around its shores before returning to Almaty.

Your adventure continues at Big Almaty Lake. Hike through alpine scenery and breathe in the crisp mountain air. At Shymbulak Ski Resort, ascend to Talgar Pass by cable car for spectacular vistas of snow-capped peaks, then explore Almaty's cultural and historical sites. Wander through bustling Green Bazaar to sample local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs.

Visit Panfilov Park and marvel at the colourful Zenkov Cathedral, a remarkable wooden structure built without nails. Take time to appreciate the exhibits at the Central State Museum to understand Kazakhstan's rich heritage and nomadic past. Finally, bid farewell to this enchanting country, carrying memories of Kazakhstan's natural wonders and warm hospitality.
Join us on this incredible journey that promises both adventure and cultural immersion!

Ankitha, the curator, is a fearless traveller and storyteller with a passion for going where few others have gone. Journeying through 106 countries across all seven continents, she immerses herself in the world’s most remote, overlooked, and complex corners. Her travels and curated itineraries are about unearthing stories and the beauty of cultures that are often misunderstood or unseen.

Highlights

Take in city views from a cable car to Kok Tobe Hill
Explore stunning red rock formations with a picnic lunch
Visit alpine lakes, with horseback riding at Kaindy
Hike to this stunning turquoise Big Almaty Lake in the Tian Shan range
Ride a cable car for breathtaking mountain views at Shymbulak & Talgar Pass
Explore history, culture, and modern charm on the Almaty City Tour

Curated By

Ankitha Rajendaran

A fearless traveller and storyteller, with journeys across over 100 countries and 7 continents

21 Jrnys

26 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

13Jun’25 - 18Jun’25

Suggested Ages

Any

Duration

6 days

Activity Level

moderate

Group Size

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$1,485

Itinerary

Fri 13 Jun

Arrive in Almaty

Sat 14 Jun

Almaty City - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lake

Sun 15 Jun

Saty village - Kaindy Lake - Almaty

Mon 16 Jun

Big Almaty Lake

Tue 17 Jun

Shymbulak - Almaty City Tour

Wed 18 Jun

Depart Almaty

Stay

CHECK IN 13 Jun

1 N

CHECK OUT 14 Jun

Renion Park Hotel Almaty

Almaty

CHECK IN 14 Jun

1 N

CHECK OUT 15 Jun

Kolsay Aryn House Саты

Kolsai Lake, Saty

CHECK IN 15 Jun

3 N

CHECK OUT 18 Jun

Renion Park Hotel Almaty

Almaty

Your Daily Itinerary

Fri 13 Jun

Arrive in Almaty

Arrive in Almaty and take in the city's dynamic atmosphere, where modernity meets nature. Begin your journey with a scenic cable car ride up Kok Tobe Hill, offering sweeping views of the cityscape framed by the majestic Tian Shan mountains. At the top, explore charming walkways, visit the Beatles monument, or enjoy local cuisine at a cozy café. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas set the perfect tone for your adventure in Kazakhstan's cultural capital. Spend the night in Almaty.

Meals Included: None

Activities

Arrive at Almaty

12:00 - 14:00

Arrive at the Almaty International Airport in Almaty (Airport code: ALA). Once you pass immigration retrieve your luggage and clear customs, look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 25 kms / 15.5 miles

Kok Tobe Hill cable car

17:00 - 18:30

As the sun dips below the horizon, take the Kok Tobe Hill cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty. The city lights begin to twinkle as you ascend, creating a magical contrast against the glowing sky.

Sat 14 Jun

Almaty City - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lake

Departing the bustling cityscape of Almaty, travel eastward along winding roads through the Kazakh countryside. After several hours of picturesque driving, the magnificent Charyn Canyon reveals itself—a stunning geological wonder often referred to as Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon. The ancient sandstone cliffs, sculpted by millennia of wind and water, glow with vibrant hues of ochre and crimson against the cerulean sky.

Wander along the Valley of Castles, where nature has carved fantastical formations resembling medieval fortresses. Find a peaceful spot amidst this dramatic scenery to enjoy your alfresco lunch, perhaps featuring local cheeses, fresh bread and seasonal fruits.

Following a brief respite at the charming Aryn Guesthouse, continue your journey to Kolsay Lake. As you ascend into the Tian Shan mountains, the landscape transforms dramatically—lush forests of Tian Shan spruce surround the crystal-clear waters of this mountain lake. The mirror-like surface perfectly reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a scene of extraordinary tranquillity.

In Saty Village, your welcoming hosts serve a hearty dinner featuring beshbarmak or laghman, accompanied by kumis and fragrant tea. Fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the nearby mountains in this authentic Kazakh hamlet.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Almaty City - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lake - Day 2 image

Activities

Drive to Charyn Canyon

09:00 - 12:00

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder known for its dramatic rock formations and vibrant hues. As you journey through the vast landscapes, enjoy views of rolling hills and rugged terrain before arriving at the canyon’s stunning cliffs and winding gorges.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 216 kms / 134.2 miles

Picnic style lunch

12:00 - 13:00

A picnic-style lunch is a delightful meal enjoyed outdoors, featuring an assortment of fresh, easy-to-eat foods like sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks. Packed in a basket or tote, it’s perfect for parks, beaches, or gardens. With a cozy blanket and refreshing drinks, it creates a relaxed, scenic dining experience.

Drive to Aryn Guesthouse

13:00 - 15:30

The drive to the Kazak family in Saty village, home to Aryn Guesthouse, takes you through stunning Kazakh countryside, with rolling hills, rugged mountains, and vast open plains. As you approach, traditional yurts and friendly locals hint at the warm hospitality awaiting you in this charming rural retreat.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Distance: 91 kms / 56.5 miles

Drive to Kolsai Lake

16:30 - 18:00

A scenic drive to Kolsai Lake takes you through Kazakhstan’s breathtaking landscapes, from rolling steppe to lush mountain valleys. Winding roads weave past charming villages and alpine forests, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks. The journey culminates at the crystal-clear waters of this tranquil lake.

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 15 kms / 9.3 miles

Dinner - Local Kazak Meal

19:00 - 20:00

Savour an authentic Kazakh dinner featuring rich, hearty flavours. Enjoy beshbarmak, a traditional dish of tender boiled meat over handmade noodles, or plov, a fragrant rice pilaf. Pair with baursaks (fluffy fried bread) and shubat (fermented camel milk) for a true taste of Kazakhstan’s culinary heritage.

Sun 15 Jun

Saty village - Kaindy Lake - Almaty

After a hearty breakfast in the quaint surroundings of Saty village, embark on a short journey to one of Kazakhstan's most extraordinary natural phenomena—Kaindy Lake. Created by an earthquake in 1911, this ethereal body of water presents a truly magical sight: the bleached trunks of spruce trees rise like spectral sentinels from its brilliant turquoise depths, their needle-less branches preserved by the cold, mineral-rich waters.

As you circumnavigate the shoreline, marvel at how the submerged forest creates an otherworldly underwater landscape. Local guides will help you mount gentle mountain horses for an exhilarating trek through flowering meadows and verdant forests surrounding the lake. Feel the crisp mountain air fill your lungs as your trusty steed navigates the undulating terrain.

Upon returning to Saty, enjoy a light repast and brief repose before commencing your return journey to Almaty. The picturesque drive offers ample opportunity to reflect upon the day's adventures, with the majestic Tian Shan mountains providing a dramatic backdrop through your window. Arriving in Almaty as evening falls, settle into your accommodation, the memories of Kazakhstan's natural splendour still vivid in your mind.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Saty village - Kaindy Lake - Almaty - Day 3 image

Activities

Kaindy Lake

09:00 - 10:30

After breakfast, set off to explore Kaindy Lake, a hidden gem surrounded by dense spruce forests and towering cliffs. Marvel at its striking turquoise waters, where submerged tree trunks rise eerily from the depths. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, capture breathtaking views, and soak in nature’s tranquility.

Horse riding around the lake

10:30 - 11:30

Experience the thrill of horse riding around Lake Kaindy, where emerald waters reflect the ghostly submerged trees. Traverse lush meadows and rugged mountain trails, soaking in breathtaking alpine scenery. The crisp mountain air and the rhythmic hoofbeats create an unforgettable adventure in nature. (Horse riding is at additional cost).

Return to Saty village

12:00 - 13:30

After exploring the breathtaking landscapes, head back to Saty village for a well-earned lunch. Nestled amid serene mountains, the village offers hearty local dishes, fresh dairy, and warm hospitality.

Drive back to Almaty

14:00 - 18:00

After lunch in Saty Village, the journey back to Almaty unfolds with scenic mountain views, rolling hills, and winding roads. Villages pass by, with glimpses of grazing livestock and quiet countryside life. As the city nears, the rural charm fades into urban energy, marking the trip’s conclusion.

Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 280 kms / 173.9 miles

Mon 16 Jun

Big Almaty Lake

Wind your way through the foothills of the Ile-Alatau mountain range, climbing steadily upward as Almaty's urban sprawl recedes behind you. The spectacular Big Almaty Lake awaits at 2,511 metres above sea level, nestled within a dramatic gorge. Its impossibly blue waters—a mesmerising mineral-rich hue that shifts with the changing light—contrast magnificently with the rugged peaks that tower overhead.

Follow well-marked trails that skirt the lakeshore and venture into the surrounding highlands, where alpine meadows burst with wildflowers in season. Keep watch for golden eagles soaring above and the occasional marmot darting between rocks. The pristine air and profound silence create a meditative atmosphere as you traverse this unspoilt wilderness.

Pause to photograph the extraordinary panoramas before reluctantly beginning your descent. The return journey to Almaty offers continued visual delights as the mountain vistas gradually give way to the comforts of Kazakhstan's cultural capital.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Drive to Big Almaty Lake

09:00 - 10:00

The drive from Almaty to Big Almaty Lake and Gorge winds through scenic mountain roads, offering breathtaking alpine views. Lush forests, rugged peaks, and fresh mountain air make the journey unforgettable. As you ascend, the turquoise lake emerges, framed by towering ridges, creating a stunning natural panorama.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 31 kms / 19.2 miles

Hiking in Big Almaty Lake

10:00 - 16:00

Big Almaty Lake is a breathtaking alpine gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests. The hike winds through pine-covered slopes, offering panoramic views of the turquoise waters reflecting the sky. A rewarding trek, it immerses you in pristine nature and fresh mountain air.

Duration: 5 hours

Return to Almaty

16:00 - 17:00

The return to Almaty is a refreshing transition from rugged mountain trails to urban charm.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 31 kms / 19.2 miles

Tue 17 Jun

Shymbulak - Almaty City Tour

Ascend to the celebrated Shymbulak Mountain Ski Resort, where crisp alpine air greets you amid the splendour of the Tian Shan range. Board the modern gondola system that glides effortlessly upward, carrying you through three progressive stations to reach Talgar Pass at a breathtaking 3,200 metres. From this lofty vantage point, marvel at the sweeping panorama—jagged peaks stretch to the horizon whilst verdant valleys unfurl beneath you like an emerald tapestry.

Descending to Almaty's embrace, immerse yourself in this cosmopolitan hub. Meander through leafy Panfilov Park to admire the extraordinary wooden Zenkov Cathedral, its colourful spires reaching skyward without the use of a single nail. Continue to Republic Square, where the imposing Independence Monument stands as testament to Kazakhstan's national pride. Explore the fascinating National Museum before wandering along tree-lined Gogol Street with its charming cafés and boutiques.

As twilight approaches, join locals promenading along Arbat pedestrian street, where street musicians and artists create a festive atmosphere. Sample traditional Central Asian cuisine at a local restaurant, perhaps concluding your perfect day with a nightcap overlooking the city's twinkling lights.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Shymbulak - Almaty City Tour - Day 5 image

Activities

Shymbulak Mountain Ski Resort

09:00 - 10:00

Shymbulak Mountain Ski Resort offers stunning alpine scenery, world-class slopes, and a vibrant après-ski scene. Nestled in Kazakhstan’s Tian Shan Mountains, it boasts powdery trails for all skill levels, cozy lodges, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 26 kms / 16.1 miles

Cable car to Talgar Pass

11:00 - 12:00

Glide up to Talgar Pass in a cable car, soaring over lush valleys and rugged cliffs. As you ascend, breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks and winding trails unfold beneath you. At the top, crisp mountain air and sweeping views of the Trans-Ili Alatau range create a stunning alpine experience. (Cable car ride is at additional cost)

Return to Almaty

12:00 - 13:00

The return to Almaty is a refreshing transition from rugged mountain trails to urban charm.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 31 kms / 19.2 miles

Almaty city tour

14:30 - 16:30

Explore Almaty’s vibrant culture with a visit to the historic 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Park, home to striking war memorials. Admire the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden architectural gem. Stroll through the lively Green Bazaar, where you can pick up unique handmade souvenirs and taste local delicacies.

Duration: 2 hours

Wed 18 Jun

Depart Almaty

As dawn breaks over the Tian Shan mountains, savour a final sumptuous breakfast at your Almaty accommodation. Perhaps enjoy a last cup of rich Kazakh tea whilst reflecting on your extraordinary adventures throughout this remarkable country. The memories of turquoise alpine lakes, dramatic canyons and hospitable villagers have etched themselves permanently into your traveller's heart.

Your private transfer navigates the morning bustle of Kazakhstan's former capital, offering fleeting glimpses of ornate architecture and leafy boulevards that have become familiar sights.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Almaty

00:00 - 23:59

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Transport will be arranged to get you to the Almaty International Airport (Airport Code: ALA) for your flight back home.

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 25 kms / 15.5 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

If you love nature, adventure, and vibrant city life, this journey through Kazakhstan is perfect for you! From the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon to the serene beauty of Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes, and the cultural richness of Almaty, this itinerary offers a well-rounded experience. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a hiker, or someone who enjoys discovering new cultures, this trip has something special for you.

No, she will not be travelling on the trip. This itinerary and experiences are curated by Ankitha, but the trip will be led by local experts.

- International and Domestic flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

The trip begins and ends in Almaty. You should arrive and depart from Almaty International Airport (airport code: ALA).

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. Kazakhstan has implemented a visa-free entry regime for Indian citizens. This policy permits Indian nationals to enter and stay in Kazakhstan for up to 14 consecutive days without a visa. For other nationalities, it is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website.

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. For those looking for an insurance supplier, we can recommend Insurance Nomads. Write to them at [email protected] with your Jrny details for insurance options.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are no scheduled activities on the first day, apart from the Kok Tobe Hill Cable Car ride in the evening. The standard hotel check-in time is 2:00 PM, so you can plan your arrival accordingly.

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels or homestays that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 3 would be ideal.

Yes, there are a few long drives. The drive from Almaty to Charyn Canyon takes 3 hours, and the journey back from Saty village to Almaty is 4 hours. However, the stunning landscapes make the drives enjoyable.

Vegetarian options will be available, but might be somewhat limited. The same is true for vegan options

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate with extreme temperature variations between seasons. Summers (June to August) can be hot and dry, particularly in the south and central regions, where temperatures can rise above 35°C (95°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring mild and pleasant weather, with blooming landscapes in spring and colourful foliage in autumn. Rainfall is generally low, with the western and southern regions being drier, while the northern areas receive more precipitation.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 75 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

Cancellation up to 91 days from the date of travel: 10% cancellation charges (as per the total trip cost) will be levied, the rest will be refunded to you

From 90 - 46 days from the date of travel: 30% cancellation charges will be levied

45 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied

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