Kazakhstan - on the Border Between Europe and Asia

Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world by size. This tour is an unforgettable journey to the center of Eurasia, highlighting fascinating traditions, beautiful and pristine nature, as well as a delicate mixture of old and modern aesthetics. This is the most comprehensive tour for those traveling to Kazakhstan for the first time. You will experience large cities like Astana and Almaty with modern architecture, historic places along the ancient Silk Road and beautiful nature featuring high mountains and green valleys.

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Itinerary:

Day 1. Almaty
Arrival to Almaty early in the morning. Transfer to your hotel and time for some rest. In the afternoon city tour: Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, The Ascension Cathedral and Museum of national musical instruments. The collection presents over 1000 objects, including rare exhibits dated back to the 17th century. You will also visit the Central Mosque and the Republic Square .Optional: In the evening transfer to Kok Tobe Hill (1100 m) - on of the symbols of Almaty. You will reach the top by cable car. Back to the hotel for overnight.

Day 2. Almaty - Kazakh Ethno villaga - Almaty
After breakfast drive to Huns Kazakh Ethno Village (about 35 km), where you will be introduced to the traditions of the Kazakh people. You will witness local rituals, music and dance performances, local crafts. In the afternoon you will visit a Falcon Nurse Farm and see a Hunting birds show. Back to the hotel and overnight.

Day 3. Almaty - Turkestan
Excursion to Tanbaly petroglyphs (163 km, 3 hours one way) by bus. The name Tanbaly in Kazakh means painted or marked place. All the rocks within the area of 10 km are covered with drawings. In the afternoon return to the city and drop off at the railway station. Departure to Turkestan by train (845 km, 12 h 40 min.). Overnight in train.

Day 4. Turkestan - Otrar - Shymkent
Arrival to Turkestan early in the morning and transfer to the hotel for a short break. After breakfast city tour with a visit to the Mausoleum of Khodja Ahmet Yassawi built in 14th c. - a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. The tour continues to the ancient city of Otrar (100 km, 1,5 h) and then to the city of Shymkent. Along the way you will also visit the museum in the village of Shaulder and the Mausoleum of Arystan-bab of XII century, a famous pilgrimage place. Overnight in Shymkent.

Day 5. Shymkent - Nur-Sultan
In the morning transfer to the airport at domestic flight to Nur-Sultan (1 h 50 min). Arrival to Nur-Sultan and time for lunch. Excursion to Nur-Alem Expo and Museum of Future- the world's largest spherical building. Return to Nur-Sultan for overnight.

Day 6. Astana
The whole day is dedicated to exploring the capital - you will visit the National Museum, Palace of Independence, Khazret Sultan Mosque, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Baiterek Tower - the symbol of the city etc. At the end of the day there will be time for some shopping at Khan Shatyr Shopping Mall. Overnight in Astana.

Day 7. Departure
Transfer to the airport and departure or extension of your stay.
    

Practical information: ► Citizens of the EU countries and many other can travel without a visa to Kazakhstan for a period of up to 30 days. Please, check with the local Consulate if this is the case for you. ► The national currency is the tenge (KZT). ATMs abound and credit cards are accepted at many shops, restaurants and hotels. ► In general, tap water is not safe to drink in Kazakhstan. It is better to buy bottled water. ►Don't forget to take sun protection products and insect repellents in the summer.

Recommended travel period of the year: May - September 

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Price Includes:
Accommodation at a double room at 3 - 4* hotels (local standard) with breakfast
1 lunch at the ethnic village and lunch box on day 3
transport as per program
sightseeing tours as per program with English speaking local guides and entrance fees
Hunting birds show at Falcon Nursery farm
Entertainment program at Huns Ethno village
Local food tasting at Green Bazaar
ecological fees
1 l mineral water daily

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Not Included:
International flight tickets
domestic flight Shymkent-Astana
drinks and meals not mentioned
tips
insurance
personal expenses
cable car to Kok Tobe Hill

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Additional Services:
Domestic flight Shymkent – Nur-Sultan: 130 EUR (to be confirmed upon booking depending on the date)
Supplement for HB / +3 lunches /: 75 EUR per person
Full board supplement(6 lunches,5 dinners): 225 EUR per person

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Gallery

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