Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Adventure

11 Days | An adventure from the vast steppe of Kazakhstan to mountainous Kyrgyzstan

5 out of 5 based on 7 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
CAD $3,520
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See the contrast of the futuristic and the ancient on this 11-day journey from Astana to Bishkek. You’ll see the Central Asian landscape change from the vast expanse of flat countryside to winding mountain roads. Visit the Silk Road ruins of Otrar, stand in awe of the grand Yasaui Mausoleum, explore Astana’s monuments (that might remind you of Star Trek) and wander the cultural capital of Almaty. Hike the incredible Kolsai Lakes to see sunken forests, deep canyons and valleys and take a scenic boat ride on the alpine waters of Issky-kul Lake, bringing it home in charming Bishkek.

Trip overview

Map of Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Adventure including Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Start
Astana, Kazakhstan
Finish
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 16
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
KFSK
We’re in the process of figuring out how much CO2-e this trip generates. In the meantime, find out more about our climate commitments and carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • See Kazakhstan – a place truly off the beaten track that sees few foreign travellers, especially outside Astana and Almaty. For much of this trip, you’ll truly feel the remoteness of Central Asia.
  • Witness incredible scenery at every turn – marvel at the sight of the little 'Grand Canyon' at Charyn and see the beauty of the sunken forest in Kolsai Lakes.
  • Discover the history and architecture of the Silk Road and uncover the charm of the legendary Turkistan.
  • Travel alongside locals and admire wild, sweeping vistas on epic train rides across the Kazakh steppe.
  • Go overland into Kyrgyzstan for a change of scene and hike the magnificent Jeti Oguz, explore Karakol and take a boat ride on the vast waters of the alpine Issyk-kul lake.

Is this trip right for you?
  • Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service. In other words, while you’ll be comfortable, don’t expect luxury.
  • In true adventure style, the trip involves some long travel days by private vehicle and trains. While tiring, this is a great opportunity to sit back, unwind and let the sweeping views roll by.
  • The conditions at home stays and guest houses are basic with shared facilities. This means the group being split between different houses, multi-share rooms and the bathroom facilities are separated from your sleeping quarters.

Itinerary

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Map of Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Adventure including Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Inclusions

Meals

10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Plane, Overnight Sleeper Train

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nights), Overnight Train (1 night), Guesthouse/Homestay (3 nights)

Activities
  • Astana - City tour
  • Astana - Local Jewler Visit
  • Turkistan – Caravan Serai complex
  • Otrar - Ancient settlement
  • Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum
  • Almaty – Winery visit and wine tasting
  • Almaty – Turgen Gorge
  • Almaty – Lake Issyk
  • Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
  • Almaty - Panfilov Park
  • Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
  • Almaty - Zelenyi Bazaar
  • Charyn Canyon - National Park
  • Kolsay Lakes National Park - Hiking
  • Karakol - Dungan Mosque
  • Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
  • Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike
  • Cholpon Ata - Petroglyphs
  • Lake Issyk-Kul - Boat tour

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 & 7, where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight and train tickets booking no later than 45 days prior to departure. Fees may apply for amendments or failure to provide the required details within 45 days of departure.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

5 out of 5 based on 7 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

Filter by rating

sarah jayne · Traveled April 2024
Great introduction to the "Stans". Exceeded my expectations. You really need a guide for translating and Xeniya certainly fulfilled that. Dress for all climates north and south.
Review submitted 20 May 2024

Carlos · Traveled September 2023
This tour is a must you wont regret it you can see a lot
Review submitted 01 Oct 2023

Elizabeth · Traveled September 2023
You may use anything I offered, but I don't want to rewrite
Review submitted 03 Oct 2023

Lynn · Traveled September 2023
A wonderful trip through a region of great contrasts, with a first-class tour leader and excellent drivers. Be prepared for wide variations in temperature!
Review submitted 25 Sep 2023

thea · Traveled April 2023
this was a fantastic trip to Kazakstan! The trip covers so much different environments - from cities to desert to canyons and waterfalls. Our Tour leader Nazira was amazing! i had so much fun and would recommend this trip. Thanks Intrepid
Review submitted 19 May 2023
Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Adventure
From
CAD $3,520