2025 Kazakhstan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

#100WaysOfTravel Kazakhstan is a large country with an area ranked 9th in the world, bordering Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, known as a land of majestic nature that can experience many types of terrain at the same time. It is a peaceful steppe or a barren desert, a dense forest or a beautiful lake along the Tianshan range, a zigzag mountain slope or a million-year-old stone canyon. All seem to converge in the land of Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan, and the city of Almaty is often the starting point for a journey to these interesting surprises.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

#europetrip Beautiful cafe in Almaty! Found them on Google and decided to visit as they had great reviews and the location was near us. Ah, where to begin? The food was very fresh, we ordered their chicken noodle soup and buckwheat porridge for lunch and tried their Napoleon cake alongside two smaller pastries for dessert. Their coffee and dark chocolate were both strong and easy to drink. Everything was so yummy! Also big thank you to the cashier and service staff as they could speak a little English, which made ordering less intimidating. Highly recommend that you visit this cafe, their dessert counter and floor to ceiling window panes alone are just lovely to look at.

#europetrip Mediocre at best, with a very good environment and staff; however, the tea was overly sweet and didn't have a strainer; therefore, all of the herbs and fruit pieces escaped into the tea. We also ordered the "Almaty Breakfast." I must say it's gorgeous looks-wise; however, the actual taste wasn't that special and didn't hit the spot. The toast was too dry and flavorless to be considered French toast but too fluffy and eggy to be considered plain toast. As for the caramel apple oatmeal, I was very glad they had other milk options-the appearance was great, taste-wise it was good, but I was just expecting the caramel to be a bit more noticeable as there was barely any flavor. Overall, the food isn't anything special.

Amazing trip home 🥰

Snow mountain ❄️

🕰️Business Hours:

When thinking about skiing in Kazakhstan, Shymbulak, the largest ski resort in Central Asia, often comes to mind. However, nestled in Almaty is the hidden gem of Ak Bulak. On my last day in Kazakhstan, I decided to explore this treasure, and it truly was a remarkable find. Transportation 🛫 Unlike Shymbulak's advantageous location, Ak Bulak (AK) is situated 50 kilometers west of Almaty city center, about an hour's drive into the mountains. The name 'Bulak' means spring in Russian, and the resort is indeed beautiful, far from the tourist crowds, especially peaceful on weekdays. Using the Yandex Go app, a ride from the city costs around 100 RMB. It's wise to allow extra time for the return trip as prices may increase or you might encounter traffic. Ski Resort 🎿 Compared to Shymbulak, AK offers a smaller marked ski area but boasts extensive off-piste terrain at the summit. With one gondola and one chairlift, you can ascend from 1,652 meters to a peak of 2,664 meters, with a chairlift offering a 664-meter vertical drop. Tickets are consistently affordable, with a four-hour weekday pass costing only 80 RMB, excluding card fees. Due to its orientation, the resort receives little sunlight, but the abundant trees help preserve the snow after snowfall. Even a week after the last snowfall, the conditions remain excellent, with almost no rocks on or off the trails compared to Shymbulak. Local ski instructors speak good English and proudly showcase the off-piste areas at the summit, often dismissing Shymbulak. Skeptical, I ventured to the top, where the sun cast its rays over the ridge, revealing breathtaking views and endless ungroomed areas that invigorated me. From the ridges, there are numerous steep off-piste sections, which are thrilling after fresh snow. Traversing through the trees, you can find untouched snow, but a certain level of skill is necessary; otherwise, skiing in rough snow can be challenging. The lower section features groomed trails with natural half-pipes and tree-lined wave paths, catering to advanced skiers. Overall, AK's snow conditions and terrain are unique and wild, but without a solid technical foundation, it can be difficult to enjoy. The off-piste areas are regulated, and with a guide, post-snowfall adventures could be exciting, though I didn't experience this on my visit, leaving something to look forward to. Facilities 🥢 Facilities are AK's weak point. There are hotels, but likely not chosen by international tourists. The resort has a few restaurants and cafes, and the rental area looks sparse, with even the restrooms requiring a fee. However, considering the 80 RMB ticket price, these shortcomings are tolerable. If you have an adventurous spirit and enjoy off-piste skiing and varied terrain, Ak Bulak is a must-visit hidden gem and a great complement to skiing at Shymbulak. Stay tuned for the next update on Almaty travel highlights. #SkiTogether #Almaty #KazakhstanSkiing #AkBulak #Skiing #BillyWhiteSkiDiary

Deciding to ski in Kazakhstan was a rare spur-of-the-moment decision. To sum it up, it was a trip that exceeded expectations in terms of convenience, ski resort fun, leisure dining, and the skiing experience itself. While Shymbulak, the largest in Central Asia, may not have as much skiable area as Hemu in Xinjiang, its direct flights from various cities in China, comparable convenience to Jiangjun Mountain, comprehensive facilities, and exotic Central Asian charm make it a highlight of any ski trip. Transportation 🛫: There are direct flights from Xi'an, Hangzhou, Beijing, and Urumqi to Almaty, with Urumqi being about a 2-hour flight. Due to the time difference, you can "turn back time by a few minutes." China Southern Airlines offers a new route promotion "New Route, Enjoy Flying," allowing unlimited exchanges for flights between Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Almaty for 1600 RMB plus a small amount of fare and tax until the end of June. The main cost of the ticket can be eliminated. It takes about half an hour from Almaty Airport to the city center, and the same from the ski resort to the city center, although it may take longer if there's traffic. The "Russian-speaking Didi" Yandex Go is very convenient for taxis, costing about 50 RMB. For larger groups, you can choose a minibus, but the economy taxis can be quite wild. Ski Resort 🎿: Shymbulak, also known as Chimbulak, was the host of the 2011 Asian Winter Games and lost the bid for the 2022 Winter Olympics to Beijing. Starting from the Medeu at an altitude of 1626 meters, you take a cable car, which is similar to the lower section of the Keketohai cable car or the position of Gem Valley, and reach the 2260-meter Base in about 15 minutes. There are two more mixed cable cars and chairlifts that go straight to the 3200-meter summit. The ski resort has a significant vertical drop, is long and narrow, with forests, valleys, snow gullies, and white slopes. It has a European feel but is far smaller in skiable area than European resorts, more like a stop in a ski area. The summit has a separate chairlift to a small back mountain, with off-piste areas on the left snow gully and right valley, offering varied terrain that is fun and challenging for those with some skill. There are rocks on the slopes, and you need to avoid the "Central Asian torpedoes." The snow quality is decent at the end of January, but the snow outside the trails is thin, requiring caution. The terrain is very diverse, resembling a mix of Keketohai and Hemu. A full-day ski pass, excluding the ski card fee, is about 120 RMB, which reminds me of my trip to Gudauri, Georgia, six years ago, so I can't complain. Facilities 🥢: There are ski-in, ski-out hotels at various altitudes, from resort hotels to unbeatable top-door cabins, though the prices are not low. We used Marriott points to stay at the Ritz-Carlton in the city for over 20,000 points, costing about 1200 RMB per night, which is a good deal compared to the 3000+ RMB rack rate. Restaurants, shops, rentals, and ski schools are all well-equipped, but the only inconvenience is the low prevalence of English. It's recommended to have a basic understanding of Russian or a translation app to avoid difficulties. Stay tuned for the next update on the small Akbulak ski resort and Almaty travel highlights. To be continued. #KazakhstanSkiing #Skiing #SkiTravel

For those planning a trip to Almaty, the Shymbulak Ski Resort offers a convenient and scenic experience. You can easily reach the resort by taking bus number 12 from the city center, with a ticket costing just 200 KZT. Once there, you can enjoy a round-trip cable car ride for 6000 KZT, which includes three segments. If you prefer, you can also purchase tickets for individual segments. The final segment takes you up to an altitude of 3200 meters, offering breathtaking views. #Almaty #Kazakhstan #Shymbulak #ShymbulakSkiResort #CableCar

Kazakhstan offers an incredible skiing experience that rivals Europe, with fewer crowds, great snow, and affordable prices. Plus, it's visa-free, making it a convenient destination. Shymbulak, Central Asia's largest ski resort, is located in the Ile-Alatau National Park and has been operating for 70 years. It's just 20 kilometers from Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, with a 30-40 minute drive. 🏠 Accommodation: Staying in Almaty is recommended for easy access to dining and shopping. Alternatively, you can stay near the ski resort, though it might be quieter. 🚗 Transportation: Taxis from the city to the ski resort are convenient, taking about 40 minutes and costing around 50 RMB. 🎫 Ski Passes: Passes are available for full day, morning, afternoon, and night sessions. A full-day adult pass costs about 120 RMB on weekdays, slightly more on weekends. Youth under 23 get a discount. First-time visitors need to purchase a 30 RMB ski card, which is reusable for future visits. 🏔️ Ski Resort: Shymbulak is a high-altitude resort, similar to Hemu Jikepulin and Koktokay ski resorts, with a European feel. The highest altitude is about 3100 meters, with a vertical drop of 900 meters. The resort offers 27 km of slopes and off-piste areas for varied terrain. 🚠 Lifts: There are four lift lines. After purchasing tickets at the base, take a lift to the ski gear hall, then transfer to another lift or chairlift to reach mid-mountain, and another to the summit. There's also a skiable area behind the summit with a chairlift. 🍽️ Dining: The ski gear hall has nearly ten restaurants offering various cuisines, slightly more expensive than in Almaty, comparable to major cities in China. #Kazakhstan #Almaty #Shymbulak

If you're looking for a place to enjoy skiing and capture beautiful snowy landscapes, Chimbulak is a must-visit ski destination! As the first snow falls, Chimbulak transforms into a pristine winter wonderland, offering an exhilarating skiing experience amidst breathtaking scenery. The ski slopes offer a thrilling ride, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, creating a picturesque view that takes your breath away. Each turn and acceleration makes you forget the passage of time, as the wind whistles by and snowflakes gently fall, making you feel like the world is yours. Standing atop the mountain, you can overlook the entire Chimbulak ski area, where snow-covered pine forests and towering peaks create a stunning winter landscape. Every scene here showcases the raw power and pure beauty of nature. Skiing at Chimbulak offers a dual enjoyment of sport and scenery. Whether it's the thrill of speeding downhill or pausing to soak in the snowy surroundings, every moment is refreshing and unforgettable. It's not just about skiing; it's about connecting with nature. Every photo captures the beauty of this winter day. Chimbulak is not only a skier's paradise but also a place to slow down and enjoy the tranquility of winter and nature. If you long for this pure snowy realm, come to Chimbulak to experience the perfect blend of skiing and nature! The best part is the unbeatable value! A taxi from the city center takes about half an hour and costs around 50. The cable car is unlimited for the whole day at just 80, allowing you to ski to your heart's content! A full set of ski gear costs 150, ensuring warmth and style. If you have your own equipment, the daily ski fee is only 80, making it a haven for ski enthusiasts! Chimbulak offers skiing, photography, and scenic enjoyment all in one place! #Chimbulak #SkiingValue #WinterTravel

Shymbulak Ski Resort, nestled in the picturesque Zailiyskiy Alatau Gorge at an altitude of 3,500 meters, is a haven for alpine skiing enthusiasts worldwide. The resort boasts high-quality dry powder snow, and on clear days, the sunset casts a soft golden glow over the mountains, creating a surreal painting-like experience. Getting There: The resort is conveniently located just 10 kilometers from Almaty city center. Use Yandex GO for transportation, and remember to select the 'with ski equipment' option. The taxi fare is approximately 4,000 KZT. Ticket Prices: Prices vary by season. During peak season, a full-day ticket costs 11,000 KZT, while in non-peak seasons, it can be less than 10,000 KZT. Equipment Rental: Ski equipment can be rented at the mountain top, next to the ski gear hall, but expect queues and higher prices. It's recommended to rent in the city at TOBE, a ski chain store offering full sets for 8,500 KZT. The gear is new, affordable, and available in all sizes, with excellent and patient service. (More options for double-board suits than single-board suits.) Cable Cars: From the entrance, take a cable car to the service center/ski gear hall/ski school, which also houses restaurants, cafes, and a ski school. Several cable cars are available to ascend the mountain from here. Ski Slopes: Shymbulak features two magic carpets (50m/100m) and a gentle 900m beginner slope at the summit. All other slopes are advanced. #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #AlmatyTravel #Skiing #HotSprings #ShymbulakMountain #AlmatySkiing #AlmatyMountain #AlmatyCuisine

The night scene at Shymbulak Ski Resort is quite cold, but it's this extreme weather that makes the blue hour particularly dreamy. After watching the sunset at 3200 meters, waiting for the snow grooming is the most romantic blue hour of the day. As you glide down the freshly groomed KOMBI2 slope, you experience the freedom of skiing combined with the enchanting blue tones. I love Shymbulak for this magical experience!

Almaty Shymbulak is a renowned high-altitude ski resort that offers an exhilarating experience for ski enthusiasts. Located in Kazakhstan, this global ski destination is perfect for those looking to enjoy the thrill of skiing amidst breathtaking mountain views. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, Almaty Shymbulak provides a range of slopes to suit all skill levels. Plan your visit to this winter wonderland and make unforgettable memories on the slopes. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the joy of skiing at one of the world's most famous ski resorts. #Almaty #Kazakhstan #Skiing

Shymbulak Ski Resort, the largest in Central Asia, is located on Medeo Mountain in Almaty, Kazakhstan, just 15 kilometers from the city center, about a half-hour drive. Ski pass prices are as follows: Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM costs 11.05 EUR, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM costs 8.45 EUR, and from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM costs 7.80 EUR. On weekends and holidays, the prices are 22.10 EUR for 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, 20.15 EUR for 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, and 18.20 EUR for 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Night skiing is available for 16.90 EUR. The resort offers English-speaking instructors and private Chinese tutors. Ski equipment rental is available along the route from Almaty to Medeo Mountain, with prices ranging from 14.30 to 19.50 EUR for a full set (including ski suit, pants, helmet, goggles, gloves, mask, boots, and board). Transportation options include shuttle buses from ski rental shops to the resort, with private car rentals costing 6.50-9.10 EUR and shared rides costing 3.25 EUR per person. For accommodation, staying in the lively Almaty city center is recommended, with plenty of short-term rental options ranging from 26 to 78 EUR, depending on location and amenities. Shymbulak Mountain Resort, established in 1954, is situated at an elevation of 2,260 meters, offering picturesque views of Almaty.

Embark on a transcontinental journey across Eurasia and explore the must-visit hiking route in Almaty, Kazakhstan: Shymbulak Mountain. **Transportation**: From Almaty city center, take bus number 12 directly to the destination. It's convenient as you can pay the driver with cash coins, no need for a bus card. Get off at the second-to-last stop, and the ticket office is right across the street. The bus ride takes about an hour one way. Use the app to search for 'Shymbulak Mountain' for directions. **Ride-Hailing Apps**: Download the Yandex Go app for easy navigation. It offers an English interface and is usable across the five 'Stan' countries and the three Caucasus countries. It provides real-time public transport information, which is highly accurate. **Tickets**: You can pay for tickets with a credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash. **Cable Car**: There are three cable car routes, but only the first two operate outside the ski season. The first route is a fully enclosed cable car, with tickets available at the entrance for about 55 RMB, taking you to a mid-mountain viewing platform. To save money, you can hike the first route, which takes about 3-4 hours on a well-maintained uphill cement road. The second route is a chairlift, costing around 35 RMB, leading to the snowline viewing platform. Tickets include round-trip rides, so keep them for the return journey. Both routes offer a worthwhile experience with long ride times. **Dining**: There are several restaurants and cafes on the mountain, with prices similar to those in the city, not inflated due to being a tourist spot. **Accommodation**: If visiting during the ski season, there are guesthouses both in the mountains and on the slopes, with excellent environments. It's advisable to book in advance. **Mountain Climbing**: If time permits, after the second cable car ride, you can climb towards the snow-capped ridge. The altitude is not high, but the paths are rugged, so exercise caution. **Skiing**: During the winter ski season, Shymbulak Mountain offers great value skiing, and you can take the third cable car to the mountain top. #ShymbulakMountain #EurasianTravel #CableCarViews #NaturalSkiResort #FairytaleSnow #KazakhstanTravel #AlmatyTravelGuide #NaturalIceSnowDestination #DiverseSkiSlopes #SnowyScenery

How can a 24,000-step mountain hike be easier than a 22,000-step city walk? After visiting Shymbulak, I envy Almaty residents even more. They have a suburban snow mountain accessible by bus, which can be climbed in half a day. 🕑 Suggested schedule: Arrive around 2 PM, hike up and down the mountain, enjoy afternoon tea at the summit café, and leave the scenic area by 7 PM. Near the foot of the mountain, you can catch the 'pink mountain' sunset. ✨ 🚌 Take bus 12 to the last stop, with a ticket costing 200 tenge, approximately half a Euro. Look for the large ski resort billboard at the second-to-last stop, and make sure to ride to the end to start your climb. 🎫 The hiking trail is free, while a round-trip cable car ticket costs 5,000 tenge. We unanimously agreed that compared to the Kok Tobe cable car in the city, this is a much better deal and worth it! For those not keen on hiking, consider taking the cable car up and hiking down for a more relaxed experience with different views. Don't worry if you're not in great shape; taxis frequently pass by, and you can flag one down anytime. Our group of four had a member who got tired before reaching the top, so we hailed a taxi for 2,000 tenge, which was quite reasonable at just over 1 Euro per person. #Almaty #AlmatySnowMountain #ShymbulakSnowMountain

If you're planning a trip to Almaty, don't miss the chance to visit the Shymbulak Ski Resort. Known for its stunning mountain views and excellent skiing conditions, Shymbulak offers a perfect getaway for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort provides various packages that cater to different needs, whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier. To make the most of your visit, consider traveling during off-peak times to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Additionally, keep an eye out for special deals and discounts that can make your trip more affordable. #Almaty #Shymbulak #Skiing

✨Preparation: Passport (visa-free between China and Kazakhstan), thick down jacket, warm gear, some money (can be exchanged for Tenge in Almaty), common medicines, electronic devices, and hand warmers. 🚗Transportation: • Departure: Fly directly from Urumqi Diwopu Airport to Almaty, about 2 hours. Alternatively, take a train to Khorgos and then transfer to an international bus. • In the city: Buses are cheap but old, keep an eye on your belongings; official taxis are convenient; the metro is efficient. 🏠Accommodation: • In the city: The Ritz-Carlton Almaty offers high-end comfort; Ramada Hotel is cost-effective and well-located. • Near ski resorts: Resorts near Shymbulak Ski Resort are convenient for skiing and sightseeing. 🍜Cuisine: • Horse sausage: Unique flavor, marbled with fat, great with sauce. • Beshbarmak: Traditional 'five meat noodles', noodles cooked in meat broth with horse meat. • Grilled lamb: Tender and juicy, sprinkled with cumin. • Pilaf: Made with lamb, carrots, and rice, fragrant and delicious. • Dairy products: Milk tea, yogurt, and curd, rich and creamy. 🗺️Attractions: • Day 1: City tour • Ascension Cathedral: Located in Panfilov Park, wooden structure, pale yellow exterior, onion domes, looks like a fairytale castle in the snow, with exquisite interiors. • Arbat Street: Features Soviet-era colors and a blend of European and Asian atmospheres, with food and souvenirs. • Green Bazaar: A specialty market with a variety of local products, full of Soviet charm. • Day 2: Natural landscapes • Charyn Canyon: About 200 km from the city, the 'second largest canyon in the world', with red rock formations and rugged stones, perfect for hiking and enjoying the majestic scenery. • Big Almaty Lake: A high-altitude lake in the southeast, frozen blue in winter, ideal for sightseeing and photography. • Day 3: Skiing fun Shymbulak Ski Resort: Famous in Central Asia, with good snow quality and many slopes, for skiing or taking a cable car to see the snowy mountains and sea of clouds. • Day 4: Cultural experience • Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: The largest in Central Asia, showcasing Kazakhstan's history and culture, with rich collections. • Independence Monument: In the center of Independence Square, 28 meters high, with a golden warrior and snow leopard statue on top, surrounded by reliefs depicting major historical events. 🎉 Notes: Almaty is cold in winter, keep warm to prevent frostbite; keep your belongings safe in crowded places; respect local religions and customs; be mindful of internet usage fees. #AlmatyTravelGuide #WinterTravel #UrumqiDeparture

Almaty residents are truly fortunate to have access to powder snow skiing anytime at Shymbulak Ski Resort, located in Almaty, Kazakhstan. For those traveling from China, you can cross the border from Yining to Khorgos for RMB 45, and then carpool to Almaty for an average of RMB 150 per person (more detailed guide available on the homepage). ❄️ Ski Gear Rental: At the mountain top, you can rent ski equipment for 7,000 KZT for a three-piece set or 13,000 KZT for a full set, but be prepared for long queues. It's recommended to rent in the city at TOBE, a ski chain store, where a full set costs 8,000 KZT, with a student discount available at 6,500 KZT. I navigated to the TOO Gxp Training building for my rental. 🚌 Transportation: There are two ways to reach Shymbulak from Almaty city center: 1. Taxi: Use Yandex Go, with the currency being KZT at an exchange rate of 1:68. Renting a snowboard in the city requires a taxi, costing around 2,600 KZT (RMB 38). 2. Bus: Take route 12 for 150 KZT one way (RMB 2.2), which is convenient for those renting ski gear directly at the ski resort. 🚠 Cable Car: Shymbulak Ski Resort, at an altitude of 3,500 meters, is a popular destination for alpine skiing enthusiasts. The views are breathtaking, and many visitors take the cable car to enjoy the scenery. The ski slopes cater to all levels, with the first segment of the cable car ride lasting 20 minutes and the second 10 minutes, making the ticket price worthwhile. Both segments have cafes and restaurants for resting. 💰 Skiing Fees: Daytime full-day (8:30-18:00) costs 7,600 KZT for adults and 5,300 KZT for youths (under 23 years). Morning session (8:30-13:30) is 6,800 KZT/4,200 KZT, afternoon session (12:30-18:00) is 5,800 KZT/3,800 KZT, and night session (19:00-23:30) is 8,500 KZT/5,500 KZT. The snow quality at Shymbulak is excellent dry powder, giving a floating sensation while skiing. I attended the afternoon session, which cost RMB 86, plus RMB 2 for round-trip bus fare, making it RMB 90 for those bringing their own ski gear to enjoy the alpine slopes. #Kazakhstan #Almaty #Skiing

The Altai Mountains are one of the most beautiful and remote mountainous regions in Russia, located on the borders of Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China. The mountains are famous for their spectacular natural scenery, ranging from taiga forests, meadows, large rivers, to crystal clear lakes. In addition, Altai is also home to very rich flora and fauna. The Altai Mountains stretch across Central Asia and Southern Siberia, separating the Siberian plains from the Mongolian steppes. The region spans four countries, but the majority of the mountainous area in Russia is located in the Altai Republic. The Altai Mountains have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list since 1998. The region is recognized for its extremely rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Taiga forests, subalpine meadows, and highland areas provide habitat for many rare species. One of the main attractions in the Altai Mountains is Lake Teletskoye, often referred to as "little Baikal" because of its beauty and purity of water. The lake is about 78 km long and over 300 meters deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in Russia. In addition, there are also Lake Kucherla and Lake Akkem which offer extraordinary views. The Altai Mountains are an alluring destination for those seeking wilderness adventure and untouched natural beauty. In addition to the stunning landscapes, the region is also rich in cultural and spiritual history, making it one of the most unique and valuable places in Russia and the world.

Sharing the stunning scenery of Kazakhstan. We flew from Beijing to Almaty, then from Almaty to Oskemen. This is on the way from Oskemen to Katon-Karagai National Park. A stretch of road that spans several dozen kilometers, all covered with sunflowers.

Dinner time~ Beijing-Almaty-Öskemen First meal It has a bit of a local 'Michelin' feel. The prices in East Kazakhstan are really reasonable~ I also highly recommend the outdoor environment here. Wooden villas under the blue sky and white clouds, surrounded by babbling streams, the feeling of dining and drinking tea in the big forest is fantastic The only thing to note is that the signal here is generally weak, so there might be intermittent disconnections haha Kazakhstan·Asia

Amazing!!!!

Wow... It's a dessert cafe with delicious bread. They also serve brunch... There are coffees and special drinks that only Kazakh people enjoy... They have a unique blend of flavors and aromas... I'm just so-so, so I went with a cappuccino... The bread called 'pen cake' is served warm and tasty because it's baked on the spot. Their pen cakes are more similar to crepe bread... So it's even more delicious when dipped in condensed milk... LOL As much as the locals call this place a paradise... With its spacious cafe and beautiful interior... And the delicious cappuccinos... Here, they use fresh milk, which makes the cappuccinos even tastier... Highly recommended...

1. **Research and Plan:** Begin by researching about Kazakhstan's culture, attractions, and visa requirements. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and the duration of your trip. 2. **Obtain Necessary Documents:** Check the visa requirements and ensure you have a valid passport with sufficient validity. Obtain any necessary visas well in advance of your travel dates. 3. **Choose the Best Time to Visit:** Kazakhstan experiences extreme temperatures, so choose the best time to visit based on your preferences. The spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months are generally pleasant. 4. **Explore Almaty:** Start your journey in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. Visit attractions such as the Zenkov Cathedral, Kok-Tobe Hill, and the Central State Museum. 5. **Visit Charyn Canyon:** Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon, known for its stunning natural beauty resembling the Grand Canyon. Hike through the canyon and admire the unique rock formations. 6. **Experience Nomadic Culture:** Explore the rich nomadic heritage of Kazakhstan by visiting traditional yurt camps on the outskirts of cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Experience nomadic hospitality, try traditional cuisine, and learn about their way of life. 7. **Marvel at Big Almaty Lake:** Embark on a day trip to Big Almaty Lake, located in the Tian Shan Mountains near Almaty. Enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. 8. **Discover Nur-Sultan (Astana):** Explore the futuristic capital city of Nur-Sultan, formerly known as Astana. Visit landmarks such as the Bayterek Tower, Astana Opera, and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center. 9. **Visit UNESCO Sites:** Kazakhstan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan and the Petroglyphs within the Archaeological Landscape of Tamgaly. 10. **Experience Local Cuisine:** Indulge in Kazakh cuisine, which includes dishes like beshbarmak (meat and noodles), plov (pilaf), and kumis (fermented mare's milk). Don't forget to try traditional snacks like baursaki (fried dough) and kazy (horse meat sausage).

Beautiful country

In Kazakhstan, eagle shows are riveting spectacles that highlight the nation's rich cultural heritage and mastery of falconry. These shows often take place during festivals and events, showcasing the impressive skills of golden eagles and their skilled handlers, known as "berkutchi." The eagles soar majestically through the air, demonstrating incredible speed and precision. Participants demonstrate the ancient art of eagle hunting, offering a glimpse into the deep connection between humans and these magnificent birds. The performances, often accompanied by traditional music and attire, provide a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing spectators to appreciate the centuries-old tradition of eagle hunting while marveling at the natural grace and power of these awe-inspiring birds. #tripstars

#historicallandmarks