Kazakhstan Tourism Overview
Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, is a land of vast open steppes, grand canyon systems, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and modern high-tech cities. While its capital, Astana, boasts futuristic architectural towers, the cultural hub of Almaty features European tree-lined boulevards, a background of snow-capped mountains, and world-class ski valleys.
At TechTrail DMC, we are a direct B2B ground handler in Almaty. We provide private transfers in modern SUVs/coaches, organize trips to high-altitude canyons and lakes, manage entry passes for Medeu and Shymbulak ski lifts, hire local Russian/English-speaking guides, and offer wholesale hotel rates.
Why Choose Kazakhstan for Your Next Vacation?
- Explore the dramatic red clay formations of Charyn Canyon
- Ride cable cars up to Shymbulak, Central Asia's premier ski resort
- Marvel at the sunken forest and turquoise waters of Lake Kaindy
- Enjoy family activities at Medeu, the world's highest speed-skating rink
- Delight in local horse-riding, yurt stays, and nomadic heritage
- Highly affordable European-style dining and shopping in Almaty
- Hassle-free online visa (eVisa) or visa-free travel for many nationalities
Top Places to Visit in Kazakhstan
Almaty
The former capital is the largest city in Kazakhstan, known for its green parks, Russian Orthodox cathedrals, and backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Highlights include the Zenkov Cathedral, Green Bazaar, and Kok Tobe Hill.
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Located 25 km from Almaty at an altitude of 7,400 feet, Shymbulak is a world-class ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding during winter, and pleasant hiking trails in summer.
Charyn Canyon
Often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia, Charyn Canyon features red sandstone cliffs and unique wind-carved rock formations. The most famous hike is through the 'Valley of Castles.'
Kolsay Lakes
A system of three alpine lakes nestled in the mountains, known for their deep blue waters and lush pine forest surrounds. It is a popular spot for hiking, boating, and yurt camping.
Lake Kaindy
This unique lake was formed after an earthquake in 1911. It is famous for its sunken forest, where dried trunks of spruce trees rise out of the turquoise lake water like masts of ghost ships.
Medeu High-Mountain Ice Rink
Located just below Shymbulak, Medeu is the highest outdoor speed-skating rink in the world, sitting at 5,500 feet above sea level. It has seen numerous world speed-skating records.
Kok Tobe Hill
The highest point in Almaty city is accessible via a scenic cable car ride from Palace of the Republic. It features a TV tower, a small zoo, amusement rides, and panoramic city views.
Zenkov Cathedral (Ascension Cathedral)
Located in Panfilov Park, Almaty, this beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral is built entirely of wood, constructed without using a single metal nail, and survived a major earthquake in 1911.
Best Things to Do in Kazakhstan
Hike the Valley of Castles in Charyn
Take a guided walk down the 2 km trail inside Charyn Canyon, walking between giant towering red sandstone cliffs that resemble castles and animal shapes.
Ride the Medeu-Shymbulak Cable Car
Ride the multi-stage gondola cable car from Medeu up to Shymbulak Resort, enjoying spectacular views of the snow-clad peaks and alpine valleys below.
Take a Photo at the Sunken Forest of Kaindy
Trek or ride a local horse to Lake Kaindy, and capture the unique landscape of dried spruce tree trunks rising out of the cold mountain water.
Shop at the Almaty Green Bazaar
Explore the bustling local market in Almaty to purchase dried fruits, nuts, local chocolates (Rahat), and fresh apples (Almaty is the birthplace of the apple!).
Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan has an extreme continental climate. The best months to visit are:
Warm, pleasant days ideal for exploring alpine lakes, canyons, and city parks. Meadows are full of wildflowers.
The winter ski season. Gudauri-quality powder snow in Shymbulak and outdoor ice skating at Medeu are peak winter highlights.
Suggested Kazakhstan Itineraries
Almaty Lakes & Canyons Tour
Day 1: Arrive at Almaty airport, private transfer to hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Almaty city tour: Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov Park, Green Bazaar. Evening cable car to Kok Tobe.
Day 3: Full-day excursion to Charyn Canyon. Guided walk through the Valley of Castles. Travel back to Almaty.
Day 4: Excursion to Medeu Ice Rink and ride cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort. Afternoon free for shopping.
Day 5: Check out, transfer to Almaty Airport for departure flight.
Kazakhstan Natural Wonders
Day 1: Arrive in Almaty, private transfer to hotel. Evening walk in Panfilov park.
Day 2: Almaty sightseeing: Republic Square, Zenkov Church, and Kok Tobe TV tower.
Day 3: Travel from Almaty to Saty village. Stop for tour at Charyn Canyon along the way. Check in to Saty guest lodge.
Day 4: Guided excursion to Kolsay Lake and the unique sunken forest of Lake Kaindy (via local 4x4 vehicles).
Day 5: Drive back to Almaty. Rest and evening shopping at Mega Center Mall.
Day 6: Excursion to Medeu and Shymbulak ski resort. Evening traditional food dining.
Day 7: Souvenir shopping and transfer to Almaty Airport for departure.
Food & Shopping in Kazakhstan
Must-Try Food
- Beshbarmak: The national nomadic dish consisting of boiled horse or beef meat served over flat, square pasta sheets, topped with onion broth.
- Baursaks: Small, hollow pieces of fried dough, served warm as a bread accompaniment to meals.
- Shashlik: Large skewers of marinated mutton, beef, or chicken grilled over charcoal.
- Kazy: Traditional sliced horse meat sausage, a staple of Kazakh celebrations.
What to Buy
- Rahat Chocolate: Famous local chocolates from the historic Almaty factory.
- Felt Handicrafts: Slippers, toy camels, and bags made of local pressed wool.
- Leather Goods: Handcrafted leather belts, bags, and traditional whips.
- Kazakh Cognac: Locally distilled brandy, popular with international tourists.
Why Choose TechTrail DMC for Kazakhstan?
Direct Tariffs
Direct hotel contracts and local vehicle operations ensure the lowest B2B rates for our partners.
4x4 Fleet Operations
We operate our own coordinate network of 4x4 SUVs for mountain lake and canyon transfers.
Custom FIT & GIT
Rapid B2B response times for customized individual tours as well as corporate event groups.
What is Included
Package inclusions
- Selected hotel accommodation with daily breakfast
- Medeu-Shymbulak cable car return tickets
- Private air-conditioned transfers for airport and tours
- Kok Tobe cable car return tickets
- Professional local tour guide
What is Excluded
Not covered by land packages
- International flight tickets to and from Almaty
- Kazakhstan tourist visa fees
- Ice skating rental fees at Medeu rink
- Tips for local tour guides and private drivers
- Personal expenses like laundry, minibar, or telephone calls