
Kazakhstan
Experience the diverse and enchanting landscapes of holidays in Kazakhstan, a captivating destination in Central Asia. From the modern metropolis of Nur-Sultan, with its futuristic architecture, to the stunning natural wonders of Altyn-Emel National Park, Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of ancient history, modernity, and warm hospitality.
Explore the historical treasures of Kazakhstan, including the ancient Silk Road city of Turkestan, with its iconic Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the remarkable Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” with its striking rock formations and dramatic landscapes.
Embrace the natural beauty of Kazakhstan, from the picturesque landscapes of Kolsai Lakes to the serene beauty of Kaindy Lake, where the submerged trees create an otherworldly scene. Experience the warm Kazakh hospitality as you savour traditional Kazakh dishes and participate in cultural activities with local communities.
Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks, discovering stunning natural formations, or engaging in cultural experiences, holidays in Kazakhstan promise an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with cherished memories. Plan your Central Asian getaway and let this mesmerizing destination captivate your heart.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Like other countries in Central Asia – Spring and Autumn are the best times to travel.
FLIGHT TIME
Around 7 hours on the direct flight from London
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +4
CURRENCY
Tenge
IDEAL FOR
Those looking for vast, beautiful countryside.
HOW TO GET THERE
There is a direct flight twice weekly with Air Astana from London Heathrow.
LANGUAGE
Kazakh / Russian
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Any of the other ‘stans’.
Our Favourite Places in Kazakhstan
Suggested Itineraries

Essential Kazakhstan
10 day holiday
Almaty, Astana
This 10-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of Kazakhstan, beginning in the cultural capital of Almaty. After a city tour featuring Panfilov Park, the Green Bazaar and panoramic views from Kok Tobe Hill, you’ll venture into the dramatic Charyn Canyon—known for its surreal rock formations in the Valley of Castles. A cable car trip to the mountain resort of Shymbulak provides spectacular alpine views, before an overnight train takes you north to the capital, Astana.
In Astana, the tour balances architectural marvels and historical depth, from the striking Palace of Peace and Khazret Sultan Mosque to poignant visits such as the ALZHIR gulag memorial. The itinerary includes guided walks through Independence Square, the Bayterek Tower, and contemporary landmarks like Khan Shatyr mall. With free time built in for independent discovery, this journey combines natural beauty, Soviet history, and Kazakhstan’s futuristic aspirations in a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Kazakhstan on Foot
10 day holiday
Shymbuak, Bogdanovich Glacier, Kaindy Lake, Almaty, Kolsai Lakes, Asy Plateau, Turgen
This 10-day walking tour through Kazakhstan is designed for active travellers seeking to experience the country’s natural wonders on foot. Starting and ending in Almaty, the journey includes a mix of city sightseeing and hiking in spectacular locations such as Turgen Gorge, Charyn Canyon and Kolsai National Park. Accommodation includes fully furnished safari-style tents with beds and bedding, or local guesthouses, offering comfort while keeping you close to nature. Highlights include a jeep tour across the dramatic Asy Plateau, a visit to the submerged forest of Kaindy Lake, and the cascading Kairak waterfall, as well as a walk through the otherworldly Valley of Castles in Charyn Canyon.
The tour features a variety of walks—from relaxed two-hour strolls to more demanding six-hour hikes—through alpine meadows, spruce forests, and lakeside trails. One of the most scenic days takes in both Kolsai Lakes, with a trek through pristine mountain landscapes and vibrant wildflowers. You’ll also visit the Bogdanovich Glacier, accessible via a cable car from Shymbulak ski resort, and enjoy panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountains. Running from June to August, the tour provides a refreshing summer escape and a chance to explore Kazakhstan’s vast and unspoilt wilderness in depth.

Treasures of Kazakhstan
11 day holiday
Shymkent, Almaty, Turkestan, Saty Village, Kolsai Lake
This 11-day cultural journey through Kazakhstan offers a broad sweep of the country’s dramatic scenery, history and traditions. Starting in Almaty, you’ll explore landmarks like Zenkov Cathedral and Kok Tobe Hill before heading into the Tian Shan mountains to visit Charyn Canyon, Saty Village and the stunning Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. These alpine landscapes provide a dramatic contrast to the buzzing life of the city, and time in the remote countryside gives insight into rural Kazakh life. The tour includes scenic walks, a falconry demonstration, and a visit to Shymbulak, one of Central Asia’s most picturesque ski resorts.
From the mountains, the tour moves south to Shymkent and Turkestan, exploring Kazakhstan’s ancient and spiritual heritage. You’ll visit sites including the Otyrar archaeological complex, the Arystan-Bab Mausoleum and the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a revered UNESCO-listed site. The journey also includes a visit to Sauran’s medieval ruins and its unique underground water systems. Throughout, the tour balances natural wonders with cultural depth, offering comfortable accommodation, guided excursions and a real taste of Kazakhstan’s rich and varied identity.

Discover Kazakhstan
11 day holiday
Astana, Borovoe National Park, Almaty, Medeo Gorge, Shymbulak, Saty Village, Kolsoi Lakes, Charyn Canyon, Hunns Ethno Village
This 11-day tour through Kazakhstan offers a rich mix of modern culture, natural beauty and traditional heritage. Starting in the capital city of Astana, highlights include visits to the iconic Bayterek Tower, the National Museum, and the impressive Khazret Sultan Mosque. A day trip to Borovoe National Park reveals serene lakes and forested landscapes, providing a peaceful contrast to the city. The journey then moves to Almaty, where visitors explore bustling bazaars, green parks and the scenic Kok Tobe Hill, before venturing into the mountains to visit the alpine resort of Shymbulak and the spectacular Medeo Gorge.
From Almaty, the itinerary continues into the wild beauty of the Tien Shan range, where travellers will visit the surreal underwater forest of Lake Kaindy and the tranquil Kolsai Lakes. A stop at Charyn Canyon adds dramatic rock formations to the journey’s visual highlights. The tour ends with a day immersed in Kazakh nomadic traditions at the Hunns Ethno Village, where guests take part in cultural demonstrations, cooking classes and archery. Throughout the trip, there’s a blend of urban exploration and rural immersion, all set against the vast and varied landscapes that define Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan Explored
13 day holiday
Astana, Aralsk, Aksu Zhabalgy Reserve, Shymkent, Almaty, Altyn Emel
The 13-day Kazakhstan Explored tour offers an immersive journey through the country’s diverse landscapes, blending vibrant cities with remote villages and stunning national parks. Beginning in Almaty, visitors enjoy an introductory tour of the city’s cultural landmarks before heading to Altyn Emel National Park, known for its desert terrain and the remarkable Singing Dune. The tour continues with a visit to the Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,” before returning to Almaty for leisure and exploration. The trip then takes a scenic overnight train journey to Shymkent, followed by visits to the Aksu Zhabagly Reserve, where visitors can enjoy its green valleys, rivers, and the mighty Tien Shan Mountains.
After exploring Shymkent’s historical ruins of Otrar and Turkestan, the tour moves to Aralsk, a town that once thrived on fishing before the Aral Sea’s dramatic shrinkage. Visitors then head to the futuristic capital, Astana, where they explore modern architectural marvels like the Bayterek Monument and Khazret Sultan Mosque. The tour wraps up with a flight back to the UK after a full day of sightseeing in Astana. This journey offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, and modern grandeur, highlighting Kazakhstan’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Summer Adventure
17 day holiday
Bishkek, Kochkor, Karakol, Chon-Kemin Valley, Son-Kul Lake, Almaty
The Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Summer Adventure is a 17-day trek that immerses travellers in the landscapes, culture, and nomadic traditions of these two Central Asian gems. Starting in Bishkek, the tour explores the Chong Kemin Valley and Burana Tower before venturing to the Kochkor region for a half-day hike. The journey continues through remote regions, including a trek to Song-Kul Lake, where visitors experience the life of nomadic shepherds. Highlights include visits to Kel-Suu Lake, Karakol, and the stunning Ala-Kol Lake, followed by a trip to Kazakhstan, where travellers explore Kaindy Lake and the picturesque Kolsai Lakes, set amidst alpine meadows and fir-wood forests.
The adventure also takes in the grandeur of Charyn Canyon, known for its “Valley of Castles,” and a tour of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s vibrant cultural centre. From exploring the National Museum and Panfilov Park to ascending Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views, the tour offers a blend of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural discovery. The trek includes multiple hiking opportunities through Kyrgyzstan’s rugged terrain, including mountain passes and alpine lakes, providing a perfect mix of physical challenge and relaxation in stunning landscapes.
Notes from The Journal
CALL US
We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
SEND A MESSAGE
If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.
VISIT US
Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.