18-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a land where ancient Silk Road history meets the hyper-modern architecture of the future. This 18-day epic journey is designed for the discerning traveler who seeks both the raw beauty of the Steppe and the refined comfort of world-class luxury. From the snow-capped peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau to the gleaming skyscrapers of Astana, every moment is curated for exclusivity and style.
Your journey will blend first-class intercity travel with private excursions to UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden natural gems. Expect to dine in award-winning restaurants serving reimagined nomadic cuisine and retreat to the country's most prestigious hotels, ensuring your Central Asian odyssey is as comfortable as it is breathtaking.
Day 1: Almaty - Arrival & Golden Hour Luxury
VIP Airport Arrival
Arrive at Almaty International Airport and breeze through customs with a pre-arranged VIP meet-and-greet service before your private limousine transfer to the city center.
Check-in at The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty
Settle into your suite at the city's most prestigious hotel, located in the Esentai Tower, offering panoramic views of the Alatau Mountains.
Private Tour of Zenkov Cathedral
Explore the stunning Panfilov Park and the Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world's tallest wooden buildings, built entirely without nails, guided by a local historian.
Sunset Dinner at Kok Tobe
Ascend the Kok Tobe hill via private cable car for a gourmet dinner at Abay Restaurant, featuring traditional Kazakh flavors with a modern twist overlooking the city lights.
Day 2: Almaty - Alpine Elegance at Shymbulak
Private Transfer to Medeu
Drive to the Medeu High-Mountain Ice Rink, the highest in the world, in a luxury SUV. Enjoy a private tour of the facility before heading higher.
Shymbulak Mountain Resort VIP Experience
Take the gondola to Shymbulak Ski Resort. Even in summer, the views are spectacular. Relax at a private lounge or enjoy a guided easy hike at 3,200 meters.
Lunch at S.N.e.G Hotel & Restaurant
Enjoy a high-altitude lunch at this boutique spot known for its incredible views and modern European-Kazakh fusion menu.
Fine Dining at Qazaq Republic
Return to the city for a contemporary culinary experience that celebrates local ingredients and nomadic heritage in a sophisticated setting.
Day 3: Almaty - The Emerald Waters of Big Almaty Lake
Private 4x4 Expedition to Big Almaty Lake
Depart early in a professional off-road vehicle to reach the stunning turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake, situated at 2,511 meters above sea level.
Gourmet Picnic by the Shore
Enjoy a catered luxury picnic set up by your private guide, featuring local cheeses, cold meats, and sparkling wine with the mountains as your backdrop.
Falconry Show at Sunkar
On the way back, witness a private demonstration of traditional Kazakh hunting with birds of prey at the Sunkar Raptor Center.
Spa Evening at Six Senses
Unwind at the Esentai Fit + Spa, utilizing the world-class Six Senses facilities for a relaxing massage after your mountain adventure.
Day 4: Almaty to Charyn Canyon - Grandeur in Red
Departure for Charyn Canyon
Embark on a private day journey to the 'Grand Canyon's Little Brother.' Your luxury transport ensures a smooth ride across the diverse Kazakh landscape.
Guided Walk through Valley of Castles
Explore the most scenic part of Charyn Canyon. Your guide will share the geological history of these dramatic red sedimentary rock formations.
Riverfront Lunch
Dine at a private setup near the Charyn River, enjoying the cool breeze and the sound of rushing water deep within the canyon walls.
Return to Almaty
Relax on the drive back to the city, arriving in time for a late evening cocktail at the Ritz-Carlton bar.
Day 5: Kolsai Lakes - The Blue Pearls of Tyan-Shan
Travel to Kolsai Lakes National Park
Head further east toward the border of Kyrgyzstan to discover the stunning Kolsai Lakes, often called the 'Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.'
Check-in at Kolsay Nomads Luxury Glamping
Experience the ultimate 'glamping' experience in a high-end yurt that combines traditional aesthetics with modern luxury comforts.
Private Boat Ride on Lower Kolsai Lake
Glide across the mirror-like surface of the first lake on a private wooden boat, surrounded by dense spruce forests.
Traditional Nomadic Feast
Enjoy a private dinner featuring Beshbarmak, the national dish, prepared by a master chef in your glamping site.
Day 6: Lake Kaindy - The Sunken Forest
Off-road Excursion to Lake Kaindy
Travel by specialized vehicle to Lake Kaindy, famous for its 'underwater forest' created after an earthquake in 1911.
Photography Session
Spend time capturing the surreal sight of dried spruce trunks rising from the turquoise water with a professional photographer provided for your group.
Lunch in Saty Village
Enjoy an authentic, high-quality lunch hosted by a local family, providing a deep dive into rural Kazakh hospitality.
Transfer back to Almaty
Conclude your wilderness loop with a private transfer back to the city, reflecting on the natural wonders of the south.
Day 7: Almaty to Astana - Steppe to Skyline
Domestic Flight to Astana
Take a morning flight from Almaty to the capital, Astana. Opt for business class to enjoy the premium lounge facilities at Almaty airport.
Check-in at The St. Regis Astana
Arrive at the capital's most opulent hotel. The St. Regis is known for its legendary butler service and prime location on the Ishim River.
Lunch at The Grill
Dine at one of Astana's top-rated steakhouses, located within the hotel, known for its selection of premium meats and local caviar.
Bayterek Tower Private Access
Visit the iconic 'Tree of Life' tower. Enjoy a private viewing from the observation deck 97 meters above the ground, offering views of the futuristic city.
Day 8: Astana - Futuristic Architecture Tour
Ak Orda Presidential Palace
View the exterior of the stunning Presidential Palace and the surrounding administrative buildings, showcasing the scale of Kazakhstan's ambition.
Lunch at Khan Shatyr
Dine inside the world's largest tent-shaped structure. After lunch, visit the Sky Beach Club on the top floor, which features sand imported from the Maldives.
Nur-Alem Pavilion (EXPO 2017 Site)
Explore the massive sphere dedicated to the 'Future of Energy,' a masterpiece of modern glass and steel architecture.
Astana Opera Evening
Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance at one of the most technologically advanced theaters in the world.
Day 9: Astana - Cultural Deep Dive
National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Take a private tour of the museum, focusing on the 'Hall of Gold,' which houses the famous Golden Man, an ancient Saka warrior.
Gourmet Lunch at Selfie
Located on the 18th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, this restaurant offers modern Russian-Kazakh cuisine with an open kitchen and stunning views.
Hazrat Sultan Mosque
Visit the largest mosque in Central Asia, an architectural marvel of white marble and intricate blue domes.
Ishim River Yacht Cruise
Enjoy a private sunset cruise on the Ishim River, seeing the city's illuminated bridges and skyscrapers from a unique perspective.
Day 10: Astana to Burabay - The Kazakhstan Switzerland
Luxury Transfer to Burabay
Depart Astana for a 3-hour drive north to the Burabay National Park, a lush oasis of pine forests and blue lakes in the middle of the steppe.
Check-in at Rixos Borovoe
Check into the only true 5-star resort in the region, situated right on the shores of Lake Shchuchye.
Nature Walk to Zhumbaktas Rock
Take a private guided walk to see the famous 'Sphinx' of Burabay, a rock formation that changes its appearance depending on the viewing angle.
Dinner at Chalet
Enjoy a cozy, rustic dinner at the Rixos Chalet restaurant, specializing in grilled meats and local game in a mountain-lodge atmosphere.
Day 11: Burabay - Lake Serenity & Spa
Private Boat Tour of Lake Burabay
Explore the hidden coves and small islands of the main lake with a private boat and a picnic basket prepared by the hotel.
Lunch at the Yacht Club
Enjoy fresh lake fish and international favorites at the Rixos Yacht Club restaurant.
Anjana Spa Experience
Spend the afternoon indulging in traditional Turkish hammam treatments and wellness therapies at the hotel's award-winning spa.
Casino Night
For those feeling lucky, visit the Cash Ville Casino, one of the most upscale gaming establishments in the country, located nearby.
Day 12: Burabay to Shymkent - To the Silk Road
Return to Astana
Private transfer back to Astana International Airport for your flight to the southern city of Shymkent.
Flight to Shymkent
Fly south to the historic heart of Kazakhstan, where the climate is warmer and the culture is deeply rooted in the Silk Road.
Check-in at Rixos Khadisha Shymkent
Stay at this neoclassical luxury hotel, often cited as the best in southern Kazakhstan, known for its massive indoor pool and opulent decor.
Dinner at Bar Villa
Enjoy a sophisticated dinner in a lush garden setting, featuring a mix of Italian and high-end local cuisine.
Day 13: Turkistan - The Spiritual Capital
Private Transfer to Turkistan
Drive 2 hours to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Turkistan in a premium vehicle.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
Explore this 14th-century masterpiece of Timurid architecture, featuring the largest brick dome in Central Asia.
Lunch at Karavansaray
Dine at the new Karavansaray complex, a modern 'Venice-style' resort built around the ancient city monuments.
Flying Theater Experience
Visit the 'Altyn Samuryq' flying theater for a 12D cinematic journey through Kazakh history and legends.
Day 14: Turkistan - Ancient Ruins of Otrar
Excursion to Otrar City Ruins
Visit the ruins of the ancient Silk Road city that was once a major center of trade and science, famous for being the site of Tamerlane's death.
Arystan Bab Mausoleum
Visit this important pilgrimage site dedicated to the teacher of Ahmed Yasawi, showcasing unique architectural layers.
Steppe Tea Ceremony
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony set up in the steppe, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of the ancient trade routes.
Evening Boat Parade at Karavansaray
Watch the spectacular evening show of boats and lights on the canals of the Karavansaray complex before returning to Shymkent.
Day 15: Shymkent - Gastronomy & Parks
Shymkent Arbat & Central Park
Walk through the pedestrianized Arbat street and explore the city's green heart, enjoying the slower pace of the south.
Shashlik Masterclass
Participate in a private cooking class at a top local restaurant to learn the secrets of making the perfect southern-style shashlik.
Visit the 'Baizana' Winery
Enjoy a private tasting of premium Kazakh wines at a local boutique winery, discovering the burgeoning wine scene of the region.
Dinner at Atrium
Conclude your Shymkent stay with a gala dinner at the Atrium restaurant, known for its grandeur and live classical music.
Day 16: Return to Almaty - The Final Shopping
Morning Flight to Almaty
Catch a short flight back to Almaty for your final two days in the 'Apple City.'
Personal Shopping at Esentai Mall
Meet with a personal shopper at Central Asia’s most luxury shopping destination, featuring brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Prada.
Visit the Green Bazaar (VIP Tour)
Experience the traditional side of shopping with a private guide who can help you source the finest caviar, mountain honey, and artisanal chocolates.
Farewell Dinner at Seven
Dine at the top of the Ritz-Carlton one last time for a farewell feast with the best views of the city you first arrived in.
Day 17: Almaty - Relaxation & Culture
Arbat Art Walk
Explore the local art galleries and outdoor stalls where talented Almaty artists sell paintings of the steppe and mountains.
Lunch at Afisha
Enjoy a trendy, high-concept lunch at Afisha, a restaurant that has redefined the modern dining scene in Almaty.
A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts
Take a private guided tour of Kazakhstan's finest art museum, housing an impressive collection of Kazakh, Russian, and Western European art.
Jazz Night at EverJazz
Enjoy an evening of live music at Almaty's premier jazz club, a perfect sophisticated end to your journey.
Day 18: Almaty - Departure
Leisurely Breakfast & Souvenir Selection
Enjoy a final luxury breakfast at your hotel and pick up any last-minute high-end souvenirs, like Rakhat chocolates or handmade felt crafts.
Private Transfer to Almaty International Airport
Your private driver will ensure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time for your international departure.
Final Departure
Board your flight home, carrying memories of an epic journey through the heart of Eurasia.
Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan
The ideal time to experience this luxury itinerary is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild, the mountains are either blooming with wildflowers or turning golden, and the cities are vibrant without the extreme heat of summer or the biting cold of the steppe winter. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, Almaty is also spectacular from December to March.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). While credit cards are widely accepted in luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and shopping malls in Almaty and Astana, it is advisable to carry some cash for visits to remote areas like Charyn Canyon or the Green Bazaar. Tipping is generally 10% in high-end establishments, though often a service charge is already included in the bill.
Getting Around Kazakhstan
For this luxury route, the best way to travel between major hubs like Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent is via domestic flights on Air Astana, which offers an excellent Business Class service. Within cities, private car services or premium apps like Yandex Go (Business Class option) are the most efficient. For the scenic route to Burabay or Charyn Canyon, a private SUV with a professional driver is highly recommended for comfort and safety.
