Almaty – A City of Apples and Adventure
Nestled at the foot of the snow-capped Tian Shan Mountains, Almaty is Kazakhstan’s cultural soul and former capital, blending modern lifestyle with majestic natural surroundings. Known as the “City of Apples” due to its origin of wild apples, Almaty enchants travelers with leafy boulevards, upscale cafés, green parks, and vibrant street life. Explore iconic landmarks like the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, panoramic Kok Tobe Hill, and the bustling Green Bazaar. Outdoor enthusiasts can escape to nearby mountains for hiking, paragliding, or skiing at Shymbulak. Almaty is also the best base to start day trips to Charyn Canyon and Big Almaty Lake.
Best Time to Visit: March to May & September to October – when the weather is mild, and the city blooms with color.
Distance: ~1,200 km from Astana (1.5-hour flight or 15-hour train ride).
Travel Tips: Use the cable car to Kok Tobe for panoramic views. Ride-sharing apps like YandexGo are cheap and safe. Always carry small cash for markets.
Culture & Food: Almaty’s dining scene is a delicious mix of Kazakh, Uyghur, and Russian influences. Must-try dishes include beshbarmak, plov, and lagman. Try fresh apples, street samsas, and wash it all down with kumis (fermented mare’s milk). The city also hosts modern coffee houses and trendy rooftop restaurants.
Near by places
Carved by millions of years of wind and water, Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural wonders—often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.”
Tucked high in the Ile-Alatau National Park, Big Almaty Lake is a shimmering turquoise alpine reservoir set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-draped peaks.
Step into the sacred soul of Kazakhstan with a visit to Turkistan, one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in Central Asia.
Located in the scenic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range, just a short drive from Almaty, Shymbulak Ski Resort is Kazakhstan’s top alpine getaway and a four-season destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Bold, visionary, and strikingly modern—Astana (officially Nur-Sultan) stands as a symbol of Kazakhstan’s futuristic ambitions and cultural transformation.
Most Popular Kazakhstan Tour Packages
