Central Asia, Kazakhstan

Discover Kazakhstan's Majestic Landscapes

Snow-capped mountains, turquoise alpine lakes and red desert canyons just hours from Almaty — Central Asia's biggest landscapes.

Kazakhstan

About Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, and its landscapes are just as big as its size. Within a few hours of Almaty, the country's largest city, you can reach snow-capped mountains, turquoise alpine lakes, red desert canyons and green valleys. Further afield, the capital, Astana, rises from the steppe with bold, futuristic architecture.

In one trip you can ride the cable car up to the Shymbulak ski area, watch the colours change on the surface of Big Almaty Lake, stand at the edge of the dramatic Charyn Canyon and spend a night near the Kolsai Lakes, surrounded by spruce forests. The cities add a different flavour, with lively cafés, bazaars, parks and a growing food scene.

For Pakistani travellers, Kazakhstan is a comfortable and rewarding choice. It is a Muslim-majority country with a long Islamic and nomadic heritage, and halal food is available in most cities. Almaty in particular is a relaxed, green city that is easy to explore, which makes Kazakhstan suitable for families, couples, friends and first-time visitors to Central Asia.

The classic route covers Almaty, Big Almaty Lake, Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes, usually done in 5 to 7 days. With more time, you can add Astana for modern architecture, or Turkistan for the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, one of the most important Islamic heritage sites in Central Asia.

SaffarGuru takes care of flights, hotels, private transport, permits where required and sightseeing, and guides you through entry requirements, so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday. Every package can be tailored to your dates, budget and group size.

Explore

Top Attractions inKazakhstan

From serene lakes to lush valleys, discover the most beautiful places that make Kazakhstan a true paradise for nature lovers.

Charyn Canyon

Red sandstone walls rising like ancient castles above the Charyn River, one of Central Asia's most dramatic canyons.

Big Almaty Lake

A glacier-fed alpine lake that changes colour through the seasons, framed by snow-capped peaks above Almaty.

Kolsai Lakes

Three alpine lakes stacked up a forested valley, one of Central Asia's most beautiful trekking destinations.

Bayterek Tower

A golden-sphere tower rising above the capital, built as a modern symbol of Kazakhstan's Tree of Life legend.

Showing Big Almaty Lake

Things to Do

Mountain Sightseeing
Cable Car Rides
Lake Visits
Canyon Tours
City Sightseeing
Bazaar Visits
Easy Hikes
Photography

Your Journey, Day By Day

Tour Itinerary Overview

A well-planned journey with exciting destinations, cultural experiences and unforgettable moments.

01

Arrival & Almaty City Tour

  • Airport pickup & hotel check-in
  • Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
  • Green Bazaar
  • Kok-Tobe cable car at sunset & evening walk
02

Medeu, Shymbulak & Big Almaty Lake

  • Medeu ice rink & Shymbulak cable car
  • Big Almaty Lake viewpoint
  • Return to Almaty city centre
  • Evening rest & local dining
03

Charyn Canyon, Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes

  • Scenic drive & walk through Charyn Canyon (Valley of Castles)
  • Kolsai Lake views & short walks
  • Stop at Kaindy Lake (sunken forest)
  • Drive back to Almaty for overnight stay
04

Shopping & Departure

  • Morning local shopping & souvenir hunt
  • Free time in Almaty city centre
  • Hotel check-out
  • Airport transfer

Travel Essentials

Travel Information

Everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Best TimeMay – September (Lakes & Canyons); Winter for Skiing
Temperature25°C – 35°C in summer lowlands, cooler in the mountains; cold and snowy in winter
Road ConditionPrivate vehicle with driver most convenient for Almaty and nature areas; distances between cities are long
ATM AvailabilityCards widely accepted in cities, hotels and malls; carry some tenge for markets, villages and guesthouses
NetworkLocal SIMs and eSIMs easy to get; good coverage in cities, patchy in remote areas
Fuel StationsWidely available

Photo Gallery

Kazakhstan gallery photo 1
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Location

Kazakhstan

Central Asia, Kazakhstan

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Frequently Asked Questions

5 to 7 days cover Almaty and its nearby highlights. To add Astana or Turkistan, plan 8 to 10 days.

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