17-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a land where ancient Silk Road history meets futuristic urban design and untouched wilderness. This 17-day luxury itinerary is designed for the discerning traveler who seeks the comfort of five-star accommodations while traversing the vast, diverse landscapes of the world's largest landlocked country.
From the cosmopolitan energy of Almaty and the avant-garde architecture of Astana to the spiritual heart of Turkestan, you will experience the pinnacle of Kazakh hospitality. Enjoy private helicopter transfers, world-class spas, and fine dining that blends nomadic traditions with modern culinary techniques.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Almaty, Kazakhstan - Arrival & Urban Elegance
Arrival & Luxury Check-in
Arrive at Almaty International Airport and enjoy a private chauffeur transfer to your suite at the Ritz-Carlton, Almaty, offering panoramic views of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains.
Gourmet Lunch at SEVEN
Dine at one of the city's highest restaurants, featuring a fusion of European and local flavors with impeccable service.
Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
Take a private guided walk through the lush Panfilov Park to see the Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world, built without a single metal nail.
Fine Dining at Villa dei Fiori
Conclude your first day with an exquisite Italian dinner in an elegant villa setting, popular with Almaty's elite.
Day 2: Almaty, Kazakhstan - Alpine Grandeur
Medeu High-Altitude Rink
Visit the world's highest Olympic-sized skating rink, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks.
Shymbulak Mountain Resort
Take a private VIP gondola to the Shymbulak Ski Resort. In summer, enjoy the alpine meadows; in winter, the pristine slopes.
Lunch at S.N.e.G.
Enjoy lunch at a boutique mountaintop hotel with breathtaking views of the valley below.
Evening at Kok Tobe Hill
Ride the cable car to the highest point in the city for sunset views and dinner at the upscale Abay restaurant.
Day 3: Almaty, Kazakhstan - Cultural Immersion
Central State Museum
Explore the rich history of Kazakhstan with a private historian, focusing on the 'Golden Man' and Scythian artifacts.
Wine Tasting at Arba Wine
Experience a private tasting of award-winning Kazakh wines, produced from ancient vines in the Assa Valley.
Museum of Musical Instruments
Discover the unique sounds of the Dombra and Kobyz in this beautifully restored wooden building.
Abay Opera House
Attend a world-class ballet or opera performance at this historic venue, the pride of Almaty's cultural scene.
Day 4: Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan - The Valley of Castles
Private Expedition Departure
Depart Almaty in a luxury 4x4 vehicle for a 3-hour journey to Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon.
Guided Canyon Exploration
Hike through the 'Valley of Castles,' admiring the dramatic sedimentary rock formations with a private guide.
Gourmet Riverside Picnic
Enjoy a catered luxury picnic by the Charyn River, featuring local delicacies and chilled beverages.
Eco-Resort Check-in
Check into a premium yurt or luxury lodge near Kolsai Lakes for an immersive nature experience without sacrificing comfort.
Day 5: Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan - Mirror of the Sky
Kolsai Lake 1 Boat Tour
Take a private boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of the first Kolsai Lake, reflecting the surrounding spruce forests.
Lakeside Lunch
A fresh trout lunch prepared by a private chef, overlooking the emerald waters.
Horseback Trek to Lake 2
A gentle horseback ride through the mountains to reach the more secluded second Kolsai Lake.
Stargazing & Dinner
Relax by a luxury campfire under the incredibly clear Milky Way, followed by a traditional Kazakh feast.
Day 6: Kaindy Lake, Kazakhstan - The Sunken Forest
Expedition to Lake Kaindy
Visit the surreal Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged spruce trees that rise from the water like ship masts.
Rural Fine Dining
Enjoy a high-end interpretation of village life with a gourmet meal in the village of Saty.
Photography Workshop
Join a professional photographer for a private session on capturing the unique light and landscape of the sunken forest.
Return to Almaty
Travel back to the city in your luxury SUV for a relaxing evening at the hotel spa.
Day 7: Astana, Kazakhstan - The Northern Capital
Esentai Mall Shopping
Morning visit to Kazakhstan’s premier luxury mall for designer brands and high-end souvenirs.
Flight to Astana
Private transfer to Almaty Airport for a first-class flight to the futuristic capital, Astana.
St. Regis Check-in
Arrive at The St. Regis Astana, located on the banks of the Ishim River, offering the city's most refined service.
Dinner at Selfie
Experience cutting-edge gastronomy at Selfie, located on the 18th floor of the Talan Towers.
Day 8: Astana, Kazakhstan - Modern Architecture
Bayterek Tower
Visit the symbolic monument of Astana and enjoy a private viewing from the observation deck at the top.
Khan Shatyr VIP Beach
Explore the world's largest tent, and relax at the Sky Beach Club, featuring tropical sand imported from the Maldives.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
Tour the Norman Foster-designed pyramid, dedicated to religious harmony and global peace.
Traditional Feast at Qazaq Gourmet
Dine at the country's most famous restaurant for traditional Kazakh cuisine elevated to Michelin standards.
Day 9: Astana, Kazakhstan - Spirit and Science
Hazrat Sultan Mosque
Explore the largest mosque in Central Asia, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and Kazakh ornament.
Lunch at The Kitchen
A trendy, high-end spot known for its international menu and sophisticated atmosphere.
Nur Alem Future Energy Museum
Visit the giant sphere from EXPO 2017, now a cutting-edge museum dedicated to renewable energy.
Astana Opera
Witness a spectacular production at the Astana Opera, renowned for its incredible acoustics and neo-classical design.
Day 10: Astana, Kazakhstan - National Treasures
National Museum of Kazakhstan
View the Hall of Gold and the Hall of Modern Art on a private tour through the country's largest museum.
Brunch at Ritz-Carlton Lounge
Relax with a sophisticated afternoon tea or brunch with views over the city's futuristic skyline.
Aland Garden & Park Walk
A tranquil stroll through the Presidential Park, beautifully landscaped with views of the Ak Orda Presidential Palace.
Dinner at Tiflis
Enjoy premium Georgian cuisine, a favorite in Kazakhstan, known for its rich flavors and world-class wines.
Day 11: Turkestan, Kazakhstan - The Silk Road Legacy
Flight to Turkestan
Take a morning flight south to the spiritual capital of Kazakhstan, Turkestan.
Karavansaray Check-in
Check into the Karavansaray Turkistan Hotel, a luxury resort designed like a grand Silk Road caravanserai.
Flying Theater Experience
Enjoy a 5D immersive flight over Kazakhstan’s history and landscapes located within the Karavansaray complex.
Dinner & Water Show
Dine at the complex while watching the spectacular evening boat parade and fountain show.
Day 12: Turkestan, Kazakhstan - Ancient Spirituality
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, a masterpiece of Timurid architecture with the world's largest brick dome.
Silk Road Lunch
Enjoy authentic southern Kazakh cuisine, including 'Turkestan Plov,' at a top-tier local eatery.
Azret-Sultan Historical Center
Explore the ruins of the ancient city, the bathhouse, and the underground mosque of Hilvet with a private guide.
Sunset at the Citadel
Walk the reconstructed city walls as the sun sets over the desert landscape.
Day 13: Shymkent, Kazakhstan - The Southern Hub
Luxury Transfer to Shymkent
A private 2-hour drive through the steppe to Shymkent, the vibrant trade hub of the south.
Rixos Khadisha Check-in
Check into the grandest hotel in the south, the Rixos Khadisha Shymkent, famous for its opulent spa.
Lunch at Kazakhasia
Savor high-end Pan-Asian and Kazakh fusion in a stunningly designed restaurant.
Independence Park Walk
Visit the colorful park and the giant 'Zher-Ana' monument, symbolizing the mother earth of the Kazakh people.
Day 14: Shymkent, Kazakhstan - Aksu-Zhabagly Nature
Aksu-Zhabagly Day Trip
A private excursion to Central Asia's oldest nature reserve, home to snow leopards and rare tulips.
Aksu Canyon Viewing
Stand on the edge of the dramatic Aksu Canyon, one of the deepest and most picturesque in the region.
Gourmet Eco-Lunch
Enjoy a high-end picnic lunch prepared with organic local produce in the heart of the reserve.
Spa Evening at Rixos
Return to Shymkent for a traditional Turkish Hammam and massage session at the hotel's world-class spa.
Day 15: Almaty, Kazakhstan - The Return Journey
Shymkent Bazaar
Visit the bustling Upper Bazaar for high-quality dried fruits, nuts, and local textiles before your flight.
Southern Traditional Lunch
Experience the legendary hospitality of Shymkent with a final southern feast.
Flight to Almaty
Private transfer and flight back to Almaty for your final days in the country.
Dinner at Buro 24/7
Celebrate your return to Almaty at this stylish restaurant, a hub for the city's fashion and business world.
Day 16: Almaty, Kazakhstan - Relaxation & Rituals
Arasan Wellness & Spa
Experience the VIP suite at the Arasan Baths, a legendary complex featuring Russian, Finnish, and Turkish saunas.
Lunch at Parmigiano
Dine at Almaty’s premier Italian restaurant, located in the scenic foothills.
Kasteev State Arts Museum
A private tour of the finest collection of Kazakh fine art, including works by Abylkhan Kasteev.
Jazz & Cocktails
Spend your final full evening at a premium jazz club or the bar at the top of the Ritz-Carlton.
Day 17: Almaty, Kazakhstan - Farewell
Leisurely Hotel Breakfast
Enjoy a slow morning at your hotel, reflecting on your 17-day journey across the Great Steppe.
Green Bazaar Visit
A final stop at the Green Bazaar to buy premium caviar, mountain honey, and chocolates from the Rahat factory.
Final Kazakh Lunch
A final farewell lunch at Gosti, featuring high-end Slavic-Kazakh comfort food.
Airport Transfer
Private chauffeur transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departure home.
Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan
The ideal time for this luxury journey is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild across both the northern and southern regions, making it perfect for exploring the canyons near Almaty and the modern architecture of Astana. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, Almaty is world-class from December to March, though the northern cities like Astana will be extremely cold.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). While credit cards are widely accepted in luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and malls in Almaty and Astana, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases in Turkestan or remote regions. Tipping is generally expected in upscale establishments, with 10% often being added to the bill automatically; however, leaving an additional tip for exceptional service is a common practice in the luxury sector.
Getting Around Kazakhstan
Given the vast distances, the most efficient way to travel between major hubs like Almaty, Astana, and Turkestan is by domestic flight. Air Astana offers excellent business class service. For local transfers and day trips to national parks, private 4x4 luxury SUVs with professional drivers are highly recommended for comfort and safety. For a unique experience, the 'Tulpar-Talgo' high-speed trains offer comfortable sleeper cabins for overnight travel between cities.
