Kazakhstan New Year Tour Package | Almaty Astana 7 Nights 8 Days | From Dec 25

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your guide arrives to show you why Almaty is called the cultural heart of Kazakhstan. Your first stop is Panfilov Park, where locals gather under ancient trees and the famous Zenkov Cathedral rises like something out of a fairy tale. This isn’t just any cathedral—it’s one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings, painted in colors so bright they look almost unreal against the blue sky. You’ll visit the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, a moving tribute that tells the story of Kazakhstan’s history and resilience.

But the real magic happens when you ascend Kok-Tobe Hill. As the cable car climbs higher and higher, watch Almaty spread out beneath you like a living map—the grid of streets, the mountains standing guard in the distance, the glittering buildings catching the winter sun. At the top, you’re standing 1,100 meters above sea level with the entire city at your feet. There’s a mini amusement park up here, quirky statues (including the famous Beatles monument), and plenty of spots for those Instagram-worthy shots. When you’re ready to descend, the cable car ride back down gives you a whole new perspective of this beautiful city as the afternoon light paints everything golden.

Day 2 Highlights:

• Hearty breakfast at hotel to fuel your day
• Guided tour of Panfilov Park and its ancient trees
• Visit to stunning Zenkov Cathedral (wooden architectural marvel)
• Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame tribute
• Cable car ride up to Kok-Tobe Hill (1,100m above sea level)
• Panoramic views of Almaty from the observation deck
• Explore Kok-Tobe’s attractions and photo opportunities
• Scenic cable car descent back to city center

Today you’re heading higher into the mountains, and trust us—this is the day you’ve been waiting for. After breakfast, you’ll drive up to Medeu, home to the world’s highest skating rink at 1,691 meters above sea level. The air is thinner up here, the mountains tower around you, and even if you don’t skate, just standing on this legendary ice rink where Olympic records have been set is absolutely thrilling.

Then comes Shymbulak, one of Central Asia’s premier mountain resorts. The cable car journey up is breathtaking—literally. Pine forests give way to snow-covered peaks, and suddenly you’re in an alpine wonderland. Whether it’s ski season or not, Shymbulak’s beauty is year-round. Feel like you’re on top of the world as you breathe in that pure mountain air and snap photos that’ll make everyone back home jealous.

After all that mountain adventure, it’s time to engage your other senses at Green Bazaar. This isn’t your average market—it’s a sensory explosion. Mountains of colorful spices, vendors calling out their deals, the sweet smell of fresh bread, dried fruits piled high in rainbow arrangements. Try some local delicacies, practice your bargaining skills, soak in the authentic atmosphere. Then finish your day at the Lotte Rakhat chocolate shop, where you’ll discover why Kazakh chocolates are beloved across the region. Sample different varieties, pick up gifts for folks back home, and maybe sneak a few treats for yourself.

Day 3 Highlights:

• Breakfast and departure to mountain areas
• Visit legendary Medeu ice skating rink (1,691m altitude)
• Cable car journey to Shymbulak mountain resort
• Stunning alpine views and mountain photo opportunities
• Explore Shymbulak’s facilities and scenic trails
• Return to city for Green Bazaar shopping experience
• Immerse in local market culture and vibrant atmosphere
• Taste testing at Lotte Rakhat chocolate factory shop
• Shop for traditional Kazakh treats and souvenirs

Your last full day in Almaty takes you deep into nature. Alma-Arasan Gorge isn’t just beautiful—it’s the kind of place that makes you stop talking and just stare. Located at 1,780 meters above sea level, this mountain valley is where the Prokhodnaya River carves through the northern slopes of the Zailiyskiy Alatau range. Pine forests, crystal-clear streams, mountain peaks stretching toward the sky—this is Kazakhstan at its most pristine.

Bundle up and take a walk through the gorge. The silence here is different from city silence—it’s full of bird calls, rushing water, wind through the trees. If you’re feeling adventurous, your guide can point out trails that lead higher up the valley. The eco-tax you’re paying helps preserve this natural wonder, and honestly, one look around and you’ll understand why it’s worth protecting. Breathe deep, take your time, and let the mountains work their magic on you. This is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Day 4 Highlights:

• Final breakfast in Almaty
• Scenic drive to Alma-Arasan Gorge (1,780m elevation)
• Guided nature walk through pristine mountain valley
• Prokhodnaya River views and photo stops
• Learn about local flora and fauna from your guide
• Optional hiking trails for the adventurous
• Peaceful mountain atmosphere away from city crowds
• Eco-tax included for nature preservation
• Return to Almaty for evening at leisure

After breakfast and checking out of your Almaty hotel, you’re off to the airport for your flight to Astana (also known as Nur-Sultan). When you land in Kazakhstan’s capital, you’re stepping into a completely different world. If Almaty is about mountains and traditions, Astana is about ambition and the future.

After settling into your Wyndham Garden Hotel (or similar), your guide whisks you off to see the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation—a striking glass pyramid designed by world-renowned architect Norman Foster. It’s not just beautiful; it’s symbolic of Kazakhstan’s commitment to harmony among different faiths and cultures. Next, you’ll explore the National Museum of Kazakhstan, where you’ll come face-to-face with the famous “Golden Man,” a Scythian warrior whose gold-covered remains tell stories from 2,500 years ago. This museum isn’t dusty or boring—it’s a journey through time with interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping artifacts.

Then comes the iconic Baiterek Tower, Astana’s most recognizable landmark. Take the elevator up to the observation deck and place your hand in the golden handprint of Kazakhstan’s first president—locals say it brings good luck. From here, the entire city spreads before you in all its futuristic glory. End your evening at the massive “Kazakh Eli” Monument and Independence Square, one of the largest squares in all of Eurasia. If you’re up for it, there’s optional shopping at Khan Shatyr Mall, a giant transparent tent that’s like a city within a city.

Day 5 Highlights:

• Breakfast and hotel check-out in Almaty
• Private airport transfer and flight to Astana
• Meet and greet at Astana airport
• Check-in to Wyndham Garden Hotel or similar
• Visit Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (Foster’s pyramid)
• Explore National Museum and see the Golden Man
• Ascend Baiterek Tower for panoramic city views
• Golden handprint photo opportunity (local tradition)
• Kazakh Eli Monument and Independence Square visit
• Optional Khan Shatyr Mall shopping experience

Today might just be the most unique day of your entire trip. After breakfast, you’re heading to Burabay, a region so beautiful that locals call it “the Kazakhstan Switzerland.” Your first stop is the Burabay Visitor Center, where multimedia exhibits and interactive displays bring the region’s legends and natural history to life. This isn’t just looking at boring plaques—it’s an immersive experience that sets the stage for everything you’re about to see.

The Burabay Zoo lets you get up close with native Kazakh wildlife, and there’s even a petting area where you can interact with friendly animals. But here’s where things get really special—you’re visiting the Santa Claus Residence in Burabay. Yes, you read that right. This is a full amusement park dedicated to Father Christmas, where you can meet real reindeer and huskies, go sledding down snowy hills, ice skate on pristine rinks, and even encounter a traditional Kazakh Shaman. It’s whimsical, it’s unexpected, and it’s absolutely delightful—especially this close to New Year’s.

Your final stop is Abylai Khan Glade, the heart of Burabay National Park. Here you’ll discover the main landmarks of this protected area, try on traditional Kazakh costumes for photos (hello, social media!), and even try your hand at archery. As the sun starts to set and you head back to Astana, you’ll be buzzing with stories that nobody back home will quite believe until they see your pictures.

Day 6 Highlights:

• Breakfast and departure to Burabay region
• Interactive exhibits at Burabay Visitor Center
• Wildlife viewing at Burabay Zoo with petting area
• Visit to Santa Claus Residence amusement park
• Meet and feed reindeer and husky dogs
• Sledding and ice skating activities
• Traditional Kazakh Shaman encounter
• Abylai Khan Glade exploration in National Park
• Traditional costume photo session
• Archery experience with local instructors
• Scenic return drive to Astana

It’s New Year’s Eve, and you’re spending it exploring one of the world’s most fascinating capital cities. After breakfast, your comprehensive city tour begins at the Main Square, where you’ll see the “Mangilik El” Triumphal Arch—a towering 20-meter monument celebrating Kazakhstan’s 20 years of independence. The symbolism is powerful, and your guide will share the stories that make these monuments meaningful.

Next, you’ll visit the Central Mosque, the largest in all of Central Asia. Even if you’re not religious, the sheer scale and beauty of this building will leave you speechless. The white marble, the intricate designs, the sense of peace inside—it’s a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Then it’s off to the EXPO City area, built for the 2017 World Expo and now a symbol of Kazakhstan’s forward-thinking vision.

Your day concludes with a stop at Mega Silk Way Mall, where you can shop for last-minute souvenirs or simply marvel at yet another example of Astana’s ambitious architecture. Tonight, as the clock counts down to midnight, you’ll be celebrating New Year’s in a city that feels like it belongs in a science fiction movie—except it’s real, and you’re actually here.

Day 7 Highlights:

• New Year’s Eve breakfast at hotel
• Comprehensive Astana city sightseeing tour
• Main Square and central attractions
• Mangilik El Triumphal Arch (20m monument)
• Visit to Central Mosque (largest in Central Asia)
• Stunning Islamic architecture and peaceful atmosphere
• EXPO City exploration and futuristic buildings
• Mega Silk Way Mall visit for shopping
• Optional souvenir and gift shopping
• Free evening to celebrate New Year’s Eve

Your final morning in Kazakhstan arrives with mixed emotions—excitement to share your adventures with everyone back home, but sadness to leave this incredible country. After one last breakfast and hotel check-out, your guide ensures you reach the airport with plenty of time to spare. As your plane takes off and you watch Astana’s futuristic skyline fade into the distance, you’ll already be planning your return trip.

You’re not the same person who arrived eight days ago. You’ve experienced things most people only dream about. You’ve stood on mountaintops, explored futuristic cities, met Santa’s reindeer, tasted chocolates in ancient bazaars, and welcomed a new year in one of the world’s most unique destinations. These stories are yours forever, and Kazakhstan—with all its surprises and wonders—will always have a piece of your heart.

Day 8 Highlights:

• Final breakfast at Wyndham Garden Hotel
• Hotel check-out with assistance from guide
• Private transfer to Astana International Airport
• Departure with unforgettable memories
• Journey home with stories to last a lifetime