Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Trekking, UNESCO
Destinations
Kazakhstan

Explore the natural beauty and the complex history of Kazakhstan with this diverse itinerary: bringing you from former labor camps and the Museum of Memory of Political Repression Victims in the Dolinka settlement to the nature trails of the Turgen Gorge and the majestic Tien Shan mountains, you will gain an understanding of Kazakhstan’s often dark history, its incredible natural beauty and its bright future.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

• Hiking: A four-day trek takes you to some of Kazakhstan's most beautiful landscapes, including Turgen Gorge, Assy Plateau, the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon.

• Archaeology: The medieval settlement of Baskamyr offers visitors the chance to explore the remains of a castle and a small town around it, which was enclosed within a walled citadel with flanking towers.

• Local Culture: Stay overnight in a Baitleu winter hut in a mountain village for an authentic rural Kazakh experience.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Astana

Welcome to Kazakhstan! After you arrive in Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana, you will be transferred to your hotel to rest before heading out in the town for an afternoon tour. Check out some of the city’s main sites – including its modern architecture – before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay in your hotel.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Exceptional Culinary Establishments: The hotel’s three restaurants – MÖKKI, Selfie Restaurant, and ӨZEN – are among the vanguard when it comes to the fine dining landscape of Astana. Guests may enjoy sampling the traditional cuisine of Kazakhstan or branch out and test their palate on innovative courses.

A History of Excellence: The name “Ritz-Carlton” is synonymous with class and luxury in the hospitality industry – and with good reason, as evident in the beautiful décor and tasteful, spacious layouts of Ritz-Carlton Astana accommodations.

Ballroom Extravagance: The Ritz-Carlton Astana’s jaw-dropping 10,764-square-foot ballroom is an exquisite setting of glittering crystal chandeliers, elegant lighting, and sophisticated arrangement.

See Hotel
Ritz-Carlton Astana Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Outstanding Service: Experienced, thoughtful butlers are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure that guests want for nothing.

Feature-Rich Accommodations: Heated floors, plush bathrobes, a wireless Geneva Model sound system, and a 27” AquaVision in-bathroom television are a few St. Regis room standards.

Prime Location: Close to some of the most breathtaking natural landmarks and treasures, such as the Baiterek Monument and the Hazret Sultan Mosque.

Events and Traditions: Enjoy and choose from numerous classic hotel rituals and experiences such as afternoon tea, the delicious, zesty St. Regis Bloody Mary, and champagne sabering.

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St. Regis Astana Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Karaganda

Today you’ll kick things into high gear, first by taking a day trip to the nearby Akmol village to visit a former “ALZHIR” correctional camp where female “traitors” were sent in the Stalin era, then by taking a mini-bus to Karaganda (around 4 hours from Nur-Sultan), where you will tour former labor camps. You will stay overnight in Karaganda.

Hotel Options
About

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Karaganda
Karaganda

Day 3

Karaganda

Enjoy the morning touring the city center of Karaganda before heading 31 miles to the Dolinka settlement to visit the Museum of Memory of Political Repression Victims and the House of Officers, where local military men once lived. After heading back to Karaganda, board a night train to Zhezkazgan, 310 miles west.

Day 4

Ulytau

Today, you will arrive in Zhezkazgan, a city located on the reservoir of the Kara-Kengir River. Spend the morning exploring the city’s historical and archaeological museum before journeying to the nearby Alasha-khan mausoleum and to Zangyr-tas place, where you can view ancient petroglyphs. From there, you will travel to Ulytau village for dinner and an overnight stay in a guesthouse.

Hotel Options
About

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Ulytau
Ulytau

Day 5

Altynshoky

Get your day off to a good start with a trek to the bottom and then the top of Auliye (Ulytau) mountain, where you can visit ancient graves and explore a cave. After returning to Ulytau village, you will travel to nearby Altynshoky and then to a local winter hut, where you will stay overnight and experience local living.

Hotel Options
About

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Ulytau

Today you’ll check out the Bronze Age petroglyphs in the nearby Tamdy river valley before journeying back to Ulytau village for dinner and another overnight stay in your comfortable guesthouse.

Hotel Options
About

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 7

Almaty

Leaving Ulytau, you will travel to the medieval settlement of Baskamyr, checking out monuments and a local archaeological dig. Afterward, continue on to Zhezdy village to visit a historical museum of mining and smelting before reaching Zhezkazgan, where you will enjoy lunch and then catch a flight to Almaty to stay overnight.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: With the soaring peaks of the Ile-Alatau mountains to the south and the city of Almaty laid out to the north, the Ritz Carlton lies between wild nature and urban action.

Services: Every care is taken to ensure guests are satisfied at every turn, from airport limousine services to 24-hour concierge on hand at all times.

History: This ultra-chic, contemporary hotel soars above the ancient city of Almaty, juxtaposing the historic with modern-day Kazakhstan.

See Hotel
Ritz-Carlton Almaty Preferred Hotel
About

The InterContinental in Almaty is a luxury hotel sitting opposite the famous Presidential Palace in Republic Square. It’s the perfect location to see this popular attraction, as well as the city’s many others in this central area.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Almaty
Almaty

Day 8

Almaty

Welcome to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. Spend the morning exploring the city before heading up to the famous Medeo ice skating rink, located nearly a mile in elevation. For an even better view and great hiking options, head up the lifts of the local ski resort to an elevation of nearly two miles. Spend the evening and night in the city, and rest up for your coming adventure.

Day 9

Turgen Valley

Today, you will begin your four-day trek into the Tien Shan mountains in the southeast corner of Kazakhstan. On this first day, you will set up camp in the Turgen gorge, located 43 miles from Almaty, and have the chance to explore your spectacular surroundings. The diverse landscapes and a high degree of biodiversity has made this a designated UNESCO world heritage site.

Hotel Options
About

Those seeking to enjoy the beauty of Kazahkstan’s nature will find a hiker’s paradise in Turgen Gorge, a landscape rich with hot springs, waterfalls, meadows, lakes and coniferous forests. A full exploration of the area may take at least a week’s worth of hiking, biking, climbing and rafting.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Turgen Valley

From your basecamp in the Turgen Gorge, board a 4WD to explore the Assy Plateau – grassy highlands where nomads often set up camp in the summer months. In the evening, return to your camp for a second night.

Turgen Valley
Turgen Valley

Day 11

Saty Village

This morning, you will leave the Turgen Gorge and head to the first Kolsai Lake, located at an elevation of 1.1 miles. Spend your day hiking or horseback riding around the lake, and enjoy an overnight stay in a guesthouse in the nearby village of Saty.

Hotel Options
About

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 12

Almaty

On your way back to Almaty today, pass through the Charyn Canyon, a stunning 124-mile-long canyon in the Almaty Province. Afterward, visit a local museum on the Kazakh art of eagle hunting (called “Berkutchi”) before arriving back in the city (a 4-hour drive) and staying overnight in your hotel.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: With the soaring peaks of the Ile-Alatau mountains to the south and the city of Almaty laid out to the north, the Ritz Carlton lies between wild nature and urban action.

Services: Every care is taken to ensure guests are satisfied at every turn, from airport limousine services to 24-hour concierge on hand at all times.

History: This ultra-chic, contemporary hotel soars above the ancient city of Almaty, juxtaposing the historic with modern-day Kazakhstan.

See Hotel
Ritz-Carlton Almaty Preferred Hotel
About

The InterContinental in Almaty is a luxury hotel sitting opposite the famous Presidential Palace in Republic Square. It’s the perfect location to see this popular attraction, as well as the city’s many others in this central area.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Almaty
Almaty

Day 13

Almaty

Spend your final day in Kazakhstan exploring the rest of Almaty, checking out any local shops, restaurants and hiking trails that you may have missed during your previous days in the city. Rest up ahead of your departure on your final night in Kazakhstan tonight.

Day 14

Departure

Say your goodbyes to Kazakhstan, as you check out of your hotel in Almaty and are transferred to the international airport to head home or onto your next destination.

Suggested Hotels For Day 1

Ritz-Carlton Astana
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Astana

A prominent work of contemporary architecture and a top-tier luxury hotel setting a new standard in chic, high-end living and hospitality, the Ritz-Carlton in Kazakhstan’s capital of Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana, stands as an emblem of the city’s growing prominence and sophistication. Guests at the Ritz-Carlton Astana enjoy unparalleled service and hospitality in this five star hotel elevated above the glowing urban landscape and have an array of services and facilities at their disposal. Three unique restaurants beckon with everything from decadent protein entrées to fresh, organic produce, teas, and other lighter options. There is also a cutting-edge spa and fitness center that cater to activity- and wellness-seeking guests of all kinds. For families, the Ritz-Carlton Astana offers a variety of child-oriented activities such as storytelling, cooking classes, baby cribs, and more. An array of room and suite options are available for guests, as is the exclusive Club Level Experience, reserved for those seeking true excellence in their stay. With its panoramic views, artfully decorated accommodations, and industry-leading amenities and services, the Ritz-Carlton Astana is an elite-level hospitality experience.

St. Regis Astana
Preferred Hotel

St. Regis Astana

Classic sophistication and elegant, modern flair unite in a five-star luxury setting at the St. Regis in Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana. Located in the heart of the city on the banks of the Ishim River in Astana Central Park, the St. Regis Astana carries on a longstanding tradition of excellence and luxury that began more than a century ago with the original St. Regis hotel in New York City. Guests who wish to explore the capital of Kazakhstan will find easy access to all of the best attractions the city has to offer. For those who would prefer to stay in and relax, the St. Regis Astana boasts a spa and athletic club, two restaurants, and a bar offering an exclusive selection of the world’s finest champagnes, rare vintage wines, and hand-crafted cocktails. Guests may also enjoy the unique 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service – a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis tradition. The hotel offers a range of room types, from the spacious, functional deluxe room to the opulent presidential suite.

Suggested Hotels For Days 2–3

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Overnight Train

Overnight Train

Kazakhstan’s expansive country is sparsely dotted with main cities that lie thousands of miles away from one another. One of the best ways to traverse the terrain, glimpse its rural landscapes, and meet its local people is by train, which connects all cities and smaller places. Longer routes feature high-quality trains that have a restaurant and bar wagon attached. They offer standard 2-4 berth cabins, as well as upper level business class and grand cabins with ensuite toilet and shower. Sheets, pillows and blankets are provided for overnight journeys.

Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Suggested Hotel For Day 5

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Suggested Hotel For Day 6

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Suggested Hotels For Days 7–8

Ritz-Carlton Almaty
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Almaty

Occupying the top ten floors of the Esentai Tower, the Ritz Carlton enjoys unrivalled views of Almaty and the sweeping, jagged, snow-peaked Ile-Alatau mountain range. Guests choosing to stay here have the best of both worlds with easy access to the city and all its famous historic sights as well as the ski slopes in the national park to the south. After a long day on the piste or exploring the city, guests can ascend the escalator into the luxurious surroundings and enjoy all that the hotel has to offer. With restaurants and bars decorated with the latest works from the hottest modern artists in the country, from cocktails with a view to sumptuous dishes prepared with expertise, dining and drinking at the Ritz Carlton is a feast for the senses. Rooms and suites boast stunning panoramas and are fitted with every modern convenience and comfort. Meanwhile, the acclaimed Six Senses Spa offers a retreat from the stresses of everyday life. 

The InterContinental Almaty

The InterContinental Almaty

The InterContinental in Almaty is a luxury hotel sitting opposite the famous Presidential Palace in Republic Square. It’s the perfect location to see this popular attraction, as well as the city’s many others in this central area. The InterContinental’s rooms are big, bright and fresh with a whole list of facilities and services right on hand. The dining options are impressive too, with an excellent international breakfast buffet, Asian café, rooftop grill, Turkish restaurant and jazz bar. In the evening guests can enjoy relaxing in one of three bars, including a jazz bar and beer garden with light music and boardgames to wind down summer evenings. Elsewhere there is an indoor pool, children’s play area and tennis courts.

Suggested Hotel For Days 9–10

Camping

Camping

Those seeking to enjoy the beauty of Kazahkstan’s nature will find a hiker’s paradise in Turgen Gorge, a landscape rich with hot springs, waterfalls, meadows, lakes and coniferous forests. A full exploration of the area may take at least a week’s worth of hiking, biking, climbing and rafting. The best way to experience Turgen Gorge’s natural beauty is to camp within these stunning surroundings. Bed down in cozy tents on the banks of glacial lakes and wake up with the sun and the birdsong, ready for another day of discovery. Breathing in the fresh mountain air and jumping into the lake for an invigorating morning swim is surely the best way to forget the hustle and bustle of real life.

Suggested Hotel For Day 11

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Suggested Hotels For Days 12–13

Ritz-Carlton Almaty
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Almaty

Occupying the top ten floors of the Esentai Tower, the Ritz Carlton enjoys unrivalled views of Almaty and the sweeping, jagged, snow-peaked Ile-Alatau mountain range. Guests choosing to stay here have the best of both worlds with easy access to the city and all its famous historic sights as well as the ski slopes in the national park to the south. After a long day on the piste or exploring the city, guests can ascend the escalator into the luxurious surroundings and enjoy all that the hotel has to offer. With restaurants and bars decorated with the latest works from the hottest modern artists in the country, from cocktails with a view to sumptuous dishes prepared with expertise, dining and drinking at the Ritz Carlton is a feast for the senses. Rooms and suites boast stunning panoramas and are fitted with every modern convenience and comfort. Meanwhile, the acclaimed Six Senses Spa offers a retreat from the stresses of everyday life. 

The InterContinental Almaty

The InterContinental Almaty

The InterContinental in Almaty is a luxury hotel sitting opposite the famous Presidential Palace in Republic Square. It’s the perfect location to see this popular attraction, as well as the city’s many others in this central area. The InterContinental’s rooms are big, bright and fresh with a whole list of facilities and services right on hand. The dining options are impressive too, with an excellent international breakfast buffet, Asian café, rooftop grill, Turkish restaurant and jazz bar. In the evening guests can enjoy relaxing in one of three bars, including a jazz bar and beer garden with light music and boardgames to wind down summer evenings. Elsewhere there is an indoor pool, children’s play area and tennis courts.

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