Central Asia High Road – Five Stan Tours

Upon arrival at Tashkent international airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel, the rest of the day is free at leisure.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Lotte City Tashkent Palace
• Tourist Class: Florence Boutique or Ateca Suits
Meals Included: Dinner

Begin the day with visiting the Hazrati Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of the city. Explore the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Hazrati Imam Mosque, and Mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi, together forming one of Tashkent’s most important historic and religious landmarks.

Continue to Chorsu Bazaar, one of Tashkent’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Wander through colourful stalls filled with spices, dried fruits, fresh produce, sweets, and traditional Uzbek foods. Be sure to visit a traditional tandir bakery, where local bakers press non bread by hand against the walls of a clay oven. Try it warm from the oven for an authentic taste of everyday Uzbek life.

See another side of Tashkent aboard the city’s famous Metro, stopping at some of its most impressive stations, including Alisher Navoi, Uzbekistan, and Kosmonavtlar. Each station features its own distinctive architecture, mosaics, chandeliers, and artistic design.

Continue to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in an elegant historic residence. Its collection of intricate embroidery, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and wood carving offers an insight into Uzbekistan’s rich artistic and craft traditions.

The tour then continues to Independence Square, Tashkent’s principal ceremonial space and an important symbol of the country’s independence. Finish at Amir Timur Square, one of the city’s central landmarks, dominated by the monument to Amir Timur, the celebrated 14th-century ruler and statesman.

Note: The State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan is currently closed for renovation. We will add it back to the itinerary once it reopens to visitors.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Lotte City Tashkent Palace
• Tourist Class: Florence Boutique or Ateca Suits
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

In the morning, transfer to Tashkent Airport for a domestic flight to Urgench, followed by a short drive to Khiva City. Depending on the flight schedule, a half-day sightseeing tour of Khiva.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Farovon or Orient Star
• Tourist Class: Malika Khivek or Shaherezada Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Legend holds that Khiva was founded when Shem, the son of Noah, discovered a well at this very site. By the 8th century, the town had already emerged as a small fortress and trading post along a branch of the Silk Road leading to the Caspian Sea and the Volga River.

In the early 16th century, Khiva became the capital of the Timurid Empire, developing into a bustling slave market and the political and economic center of the khanate. This lasted for over three centuries, until the Russian Empire absorbed the region in the 19th century.

Today, Khiva is one of the best-preserved walled cities in Central Asia open-air museum where it’s easy to imagine life during the time of the emirs. We will spend the morning exploring its maze-like alleys, ancient ruins, and majestic mosques.

Later, we will embark on a guided tour of the city’s key landmarks, including the Ichon-Qala gates, the Muhammad Amin and Muhammad Rakhim Khan Medressas, the Tosh-Khovli Palace, and the striking Islom-Hoja Medressa and Minaret.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Farovon or Orient Star
• Tourist Class: Malika Khivek or Shaherezada Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

In the morning, we drive through the vast Kara Kum Desert toward the ruins of ancient Kunya Urgench. After crossing the border at Dashoguz, we continue to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the capital of the Khorezm Empire.

At the Kunya Urgench historical complex, we explore impressive mausoleums dedicated to Turebek-Khanym, Sultan Tekesh, Sultan Il Arslan, Najm ad-Din al-Kubra, and Sultan Ali. We also visit the towering Kutlug Timur Minaret and the sacred site of Kyrk Molla.

In the afternoon, we journey deeper into the desert to witness one of Turkmenistan’s most surreal sights: the Darvaza Gas Crater—also known as the “Door to Hell.” In 1971, while drilling for gas, Soviet geologists accidentally collapsed the ground beneath their rig, exposing a cavern full of natural gas. To prevent the release of toxic fumes, they set the crater alight, expecting it to burn out in a few days. Over 50 years later, the fire still burns.

En route, we stop to visit a traditional nomadic village nestled in the Karakum Desert. Enjoy stunning desert views and a picnic dinner under the open sky. Sleeping bags and mattresses will be provided for an overnight stay near the crater.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Yurt Camp
• Tourist Class:  Yurt Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, drive to Ashgabat and check into your hotel. Later, embark on an excursion to the ancient Nissa Fortress, the Sanctuary of the Parthian Kings.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, Nissa is believed to be one of the earliest capitals of the Parthian Empire. Founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211 BC), it is thought to have served as the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, though it remains unclear whether it functioned as a royal residence or mausoleum.

The ruins of this significant archaeological site are located approximately 18 km from Ashgabat, near the village of Bagyr.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Sport Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Yildiz Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, drive to visit the “Altyn Asyr” Oriental Bazaar (open Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun), also known as Jygyldyk Bazaar, located 20 km north of Ashgabat. It is one of the largest open-air markets in the world, offering a vibrant display of Turkmen carpets, rugs, jewellery, silk, traditional clothing, and even livestock. 

Alternatively, visit Gulistan Bazaar one of the oldest and largest covered markets in Ashgabat. The ground floor offers a wide selection of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and dairy, as well as spices, nuts, and dried fruits. The second floor features shops selling clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts. 

Next, visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum, one of the finest in Central Asia. The museum showcases around 2,000 carpet exhibits, including traditional designs from Tekke, Yamud, Sarik, and Chodor tribes. Highlights include the world’s smallest carpet, designed to hold keys, and the world’s largest handmade carpet (301 m²), woven in 2001 and recorded in the Guinness Book of Records in 2003. 

Later, drive to a horse stable to see the Akhalteke horses the national pride of Turkmenistan and one of the oldest pure breeds in the world. These magnificent horses, bred by the Turkmen for over 5,000 years, were prized by historic figures like Alexander the Great and Darius I. The farm houses over 35 purebred Akhalteke horses, known for their speed, elegance, and legendary status. According to local belief, touching an Akhalteke horse brings healing and good fortune. 

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Sport Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Yildiz Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Merv (390 km) to explore the ancient city once known as the “Queen of the World.” Merv was one of the most important capitals of the Islamic world, alongside Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus. Your sightseeing tour of ancient Merv includes:Greater and Lesser Kyz Kala (6th–7th centuries), Complex of Askhabs (8th–14th centuries), Erk Kala (6th century BC), Gyaur Kala (4th century BC), Hoja Yusup Hamadani Complex, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Muhammed Ibn Zeid Mausoleum 

After the tour, continue to the city of Mary for your overnight stay.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mary Hotel
• Tourist Class: Mary Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, drive to the Turkmen–Uzbek border. After completing border formalities, you will be met by our Uzbek guide and continue the journey to Bukhara.

In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of Bukhara — one of the best places in Central Asia to experience the atmosphere of pre-Russian Turkestan. Much of the city center is a protected architectural preserve, featuring a massive royal fortress (the Ark), numerous historic madrassas, ancient hammams (public baths), and the remains of a once-thriving market complex. Today, Bukhara boasts over 140 officially protected historical monuments, offering a rich and immersive glimpse into the region’s past.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium, Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique, Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

Today, we explore Bukhara’s old quarter on foot. This ancient city is alive with bustling “trade domes,” vibrant mosques, and the iconic Kalyan Minaret known as the “Tower of Death,” one of Central Asia’s tallest structures. We’ll wander through the winding streets and visit the old town center, where elderly men with long white beards gather to gossip over tea, soaking in the timeless atmosphere.

Bukhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many of its mosques, built between the 11th and 15th centuries, have been lovingly restored to their former glory. Remarkably, some buildings still stand that date back to Zoroastrian times, nearly 2,500 years ago.

Our tour includes a visit to The Ark, a massive fortress featuring the Emir’s open-air throne room. We’ll also see the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a beautifully intricate and well-preserved 10th-century brick structure.

Later, we’ll venture to the outskirts of Bukhara to visit the summer palace of the last Emir, constructed with the help of a Russian Czar, featuring grand halls and a harem. Finally, we will explore Char Minar, the gate of an ancient madrassa long vanished. Built in 1809, its design reflects Indian artistic influences rather than local styles.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium, Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique, Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

Enjoy a full day at your leisure to discover the old town independently or unwind at your own pace.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium, Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique, Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

We depart early for Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane (Timur), where we’ll explore the Ak-Saray Palace, Kok-Gumbaz Mosque, House of Meditation, and the Crypt of Timur — a man who dramatically shaped the history of Central Asia.

Though little remains of Timur’s Ak-Saray Palace beyond fragments of its massive 40-meter (130-foot) high entrance adorned with exquisite blue, white, and gold mosaic filigree, it’s awe-inspiring to imagine the grandeur of this once-glorious summer palace.

Later, we continue to Samarkand, a city as legendary as Atlantis or Timbuktu for many. The city’s sublime, larger-than-life monuments commissioned by Timur, its vibrant technicolor bazaars, and its rich, layered history create a unique and magical atmosphere. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the famous old bazaars that showcase the exotic charm of this ancient city.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Hilton Garden Inn, Continental, Mövenpick, Zafshon Parkside
• Tourist Class: Medina, Rayyan, Registon Saroy
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

Samarkand, often called the ‘Rome of the Orient,’ was already thriving long before the founding of Rome and Babylon. During our full-day tour, we will visit some of the city’s most iconic sites, including the famous Registan Square, the majestic Bibi Khanum Mosque, the Mausoleum of Tamerlane, and the Observatory of Ulughbek, where Ulughbek, Tamerlane’s grandson, made groundbreaking astronomical discoveries in the 15th century, well before the invention of the telescope.

We’ll also explore the regal mausoleums of Shah-i-Zinda, home to Central Asia’s most sacred Islamic shrine, and wander through the vibrant market next to the grand Bibi Khanum Mosque. Here, you can sample Samarkand’s famous bread, a delicacy so prized that even Alexander the Great tried, unsuccessfully, to replicate it in Greec,e as well as taste the region’s local produce, including grapes and some of the world’s most flavorful melons in multiple varieties.

Our afternoon includes a visit to the Afrosiab Museum, where the rich history and archaeology of ancient Samarkand are beautifully showcased.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Hilton Garden Inn, Continental, Mövenpick, Zafshon Parkside
• Tourist Class: Medina, Rayyan, Registon Saroy
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

In the morning, we drive to the Uzbek–Tajik border crossing at Penjikent. After completing border formalities, you will meet your Tajik guide and continue to the Seven Lakes (approximately 80 km), passing through the settlement of Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Seven Lakes of Marguzor lie in the western Fan Mountains, each lake boasting its own unique color from calming turquoise to mesmerizing purple. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to hike around this stunning mountain landscape. Following a picnic lunch, we return to Penjikent.

In the afternoon, visit the Penjikent Museum and explore the vibrant local market.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Umaion Hotel, Panjakent Plaza
• Tourist Class: Sugd Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast –Lunch- Dinner

In the morning, we drive to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. En route, we stop at the stunning Iskandar Kul Lake, nestled high in the mountains at an elevation of about 2,200 meters. This serene alpine lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and lush meadows, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a leisurely walk and photography.

After enjoying time to explore the lakeshore and take in the natural beauty, we have lunch nearby. Following lunch, we continue our scenic drive to Dushanbe, where the landscape gradually transitions from mountainous wilderness to the vibrant energy of the city.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel
• Tourist Class: Shumon or Atlas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, visit Hissar Fortress, the remains of the Bukhara Emirate beks’ palace. Its thick walls once protected a pool, garden, and palace, while guarding a lively market and caravanserai. Today, only parts of the walls and gate towers remain, reflecting 18th and 19th-century architecture. The site also includes an 8th-century mosque, highlighting its long history as a center of commerce and learning.

You’ll also visit the Old Madressa (16th–17th century) and Madrasai Nav (17th–18th century), along with the Caravan Saray.

Later, explore the Museum of National Antiquities, showcasing Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations, including a 1,500-year-old reclining Buddha statue.

Finish with a stroll around the Ismoili Somoni Monument and Rudaki Park in the city center.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel
• Tourist Class: Shumon or Atlas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Today we begin our journey toward the Pamir Mountains, crossing mountain passes to reach Kalaikum, about halfway to Khorog. Enjoy stunning views of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and traditional villages along the way.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Karon Palace
• Tourist Class: Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Drive to the Jizev Valley in the Bartang region. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike along the river beyond Bhagoo village, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Homestay
• Tourist Class: Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Drive to Khorog, the capital of the Gorno-Badakhshan (GBAO) region, following the Panj River, which marks the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. Afternoon visit Khorog’s bazaar, fascinating museum, and serene botanical gardens.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel
• Tourist Class: Lall or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Today we drive to the Wakhan Valley. En route, we stop at Garm Chashma (Hot Spring), the Pamirs’ most popular open-air hot spring, beloved by locals. We then visit the ruins of Kah Kahah Fortress, dating back to the Kushan period in the 4th century AD.

In the afternoon, we continue to Bibi Fotima hot spring, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the village and soak in the peaceful mountain surroundings.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Homestays
• Tourist Class: Homestays
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, we visit a small museum dedicated to the local astronomer and poet Sufi Muboraki Wakhoni. Afterwards, we travel to the village of Vrang to see a Buddhist complex dating from the 4th to 7th centuries, perched dramatically on a cliff-face. This site serves as a reminder of the ancient pilgrim caravans that once passed through the region.

We then continue driving to Langer. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk around the village with an opportunity to meet the locals. For those feeling energetic, there is an optional hike up the hill to visit the petroglyph site above the village. This fairly demanding climb rewards you with ancient rock carvings depicting goats, caravans, and horses, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Homestays
• Tourist Class: Homestays
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Today, we will visit the local shrine Mazor-i Shoh Qambar-i Oftob (Master of the Sun). Afterwards, our journey continues along the scenic Pamir River, crossing the Khargoshi Pass (4,344 m), before reaching Murghab.

Murghab, the highest village in Tajikistan at an altitude of 3,600 m, lies at the crossroads of the Pamir Highway, which connects the region with Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan and the main road leading to China through the Kulma Pass.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Guest House
• Tourist Class: Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

We continue our journey along the legendary Pamir Highway, making a stop at the stunning Karakul Lake. Here, the still waters reflect the surrounding snowcapped peaks, offering unforgettable views and a perfect pause to soak in the high-altitude beauty.

From the lake, we drive towards the Kyzyl-Art Pass (4,280 m), where we complete border formalities before crossing into Kyrgyzstan. On the other side, your Kyrgyz guide will be waiting to welcome you, and together you’ll descend into the wide valleys leading to the village of Sary-Tash.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Guest House
• Tourist Class: Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Drive to Osh, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, rich in history and culture. Begin your exploration with a visit to Suleyman Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sacred pilgrimage destination offering panoramic views of the Fergana Valley. Continue to Babur’s House, a museum dedicated to the founder of the Mughal Empire, who once sought spiritual retreat on the mountain. Visit several historic mosques nestled around the slopes, and immerse yourself in local life at the Osh Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in the region, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse goods. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Bishkek.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Orion Hotel
• Tourist Class: Golden Dragon or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, take a short drive (41 km) to Ala-Archa National Park, a picturesque alpine reserve in the Tian Shan mountains, known for its dramatic gorges, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear rivers. Enjoy a leisurely hike along scenic trails, surrounded by lush forests and mountain views. Take time to relax and soak in the natural beauty with a picnic lunch in the fresh mountain air.

In the afternoon, return to Bishkek for a city tour. Begin at Victory Square, dedicated to the heroes of World War II, followed by a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, a fine example of traditional Eastern architecture. Continue to the Osh Bazaar, a bustling local market filled with spices, textiles, and local delicacies. Then stroll through the heart of the city at Ala-Too Square, home to important monuments and cultural landmarks. End the tour with a visit to the State History Museum, which offers a comprehensive overview of Kyrgyzstan’s rich cultural heritage and Soviet past.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Orion Hotel
• Tourist Class: Golden Dragon or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Morning drive to Song Kul Lake, with an en route visit to Burana Tower, a surviving monument of the ancient city of Balasagun, founded by the Karakhanids in the 9th century. Continue to Don-Aryk village to experience a traditional horseback game, Buzkashi, a dynamic and culturally significant Central Asian sport. 

Next, stop in Kochkor to visit a local felt workshop, where you will learn about the Kyrgyz felt-making process and traditional handicrafts. 

Proceed to Song Kul, a high alpine lake nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains at an elevation of 3,016 meters. The lake, known for its striking turquoise waters and reaching depths of up to 14 meters, serves as a seasonal stop for migratory birds. 

During summer, its surrounding grasslands come alive with nomadic herders grazing cattle and horses in the open pastures.

Hotel Options

• Comfort Class: Kyrgyz Yurt
• Tourist Class: Kyrgyz Yurt
  Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

After breakfast, depart from Song Kul Lake and begin the scenic drive to Tamga village. Along the way, stop at Kyzyl-Tuu village, renowned as the “Town of Yurt Masters” for its craftsmanship in traditional yurt-making. 

Here, a local Kyrgyz family will introduce you to the traditional process of building a yurt. You’ll have the unique opportunity to participate in assembling a yurt alongside the masters. Enjoy a homemade lunch with the host family. 

After lunch, take a short drive to Jaychi, where you’ll meet a local eagle hunter and his Golden Eagle. Enjoy a demonstration of traditional eagle hunting, set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. 

Continue your journey to the Fairy Tale Canyon (Skazka Canyon). Explore the striking red rock formations shaped by wind and time, resembling mythical creatures and landscapes. 

Later, arrive in Tamga village, located on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Anyutaika Guest House 
• Tourist Class: Anyutaika Guest House 
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning, drive from Tamga to Karakol, with a scenic stop at the Djeti-Oguz Gorge, also known as the Gorge of Seven Red Rocks arguably the most beautiful gorge in Kyrgyzstan. Enjoy the opportunity to hike and explore the stunning canyon and its striking red sandstone formations. 

In the afternoon, continue to Yrdyk, a unique ethnic Chinese Dungan village. Here, savor a traditional Dungan national cuisine lunch, experiencing the rich flavors of this cultural fusion. 

Later in the afternoon, proceed to Karakol for a city tour. Highlights include visits to the historic Russian Orthodox Church (built in 1885) and the distinctive Dungan Mosque (built in 1910), showcasing the town’s multicultural heritage. 

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Green Yard or Karagat
• Tourist Class: Green Yard
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

In the morning visit museum and grave of Nikolai Prjevalskiy, the renowned Russian explorer of Central Asia and Mongolia, gaining insight into his pioneering expeditions. 

Afterwards, drive to the Kegen border crossing and cross into Kazakhstan, continuing onward to Saty village. 

Upon arrival at Saty, board Russian 4WD vans for an exciting journey to Kaindy Gorge. Enjoy a scenic hike around this stunning gorge nestled among a magnificent pine forest at an altitude of 2,000 meters. 

Kaindy Lake (Birch Lake) is famous for its remarkable origin. Formed in 1911 by a powerful earthquake that caused a landslide to block the valley with a natural dam, the flooded valley created this mystical lake. The water is exceptionally cold, preserving the submerged fir tree needles, visible beneath the crystal-clear surface, while the dry tree trunks rise above the water like masts of a submarine fleet. The breathtaking beauty of Kaindy Lake is truly indescribable it must be seen firsthand to be fully appreciated. 

Afterwards, drive to Kolsai Lake, explore the picturesque surroundings, and later return to Saty village for overnight.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Saty Guest House
• Tourist Class: Saty Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

After breakfast, depart for Almaty, with a stop to visit the spectacular Charyn Canyon for hiking and exploration. 

Charyn Canyon (Kazakh spelling: Sharyn) lies approximately 195 km east of Almaty, near the border with China, stretching 154 km along the Charyn River. This impressive natural monument is made up of sedimentary rocks formed around 12 million years ago, with canyon slopes rising between 150 and 300 meters in height. 

Enjoy hiking through the canyon, taking in the breathtaking landscapes carved by nature over millennia. 

For lunch, stop at a local restaurant in the Ethnic Uighur village of Bayseyit, experiencing authentic regional cuisine. Later continue driving to Almaty. 

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Rixos Almaty or Dostyk Hotel
• Tourist Class: Kazzhol Park Almaty or Resident Abay
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Begin your day with a city tour of Almaty, starting at the vibrant Arbat Street a lively pedestrian zone adorned with fountains and live sculptures. Here, local artists display their crafts, and street musicians add to the energetic atmosphere. 

Next, visit Panfilov Park, home to the colorful and historic Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. 

Continue to the National Musical Instruments Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of traditional Kazakh instruments, some dating back to the 17th century. 

Complete the morning tour with a visit to the bustling Almaty Green Bazaar, a perfect spot to experience local flavors and shop for fresh produce and souvenirs. 

Afternoon: Medeu Gorge and Shymbulak Ski Resort 

Drive to the Medeu Gorge in the Tian Shan Mountains, located about 15 km from Almaty. Medeu Valley is famous for its stunning natural beauty and the world’s largest high-altitude speed skating rink. 

Take a scenic cable car ride up to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, where you can enjoy panoramic mountain views while relaxing with coffee or cake at one of the popular mountain cafes. 

On the return to Almaty, visit the Central State Museum, which offers a comprehensive overview of Kazakhstan’s history and culture. Highlights include a detailed miniature replica of the Golden Man — an ancient warrior’s suit crafted from over 4,000 gold pieces, richly decorated with animal motifs. 

End the day with a visit to Republic Square, featuring Kazakhstan’s three main national symbols and the Obelisk of Independence.  

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Rixos Almaty or Dostyk Hotel
• Tourist Class: Kazzhol Park Almaty or Resident Abay
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals Included: Breakfast