BEST KAZAKHSTAN GROUP TRIP (2024)
1 country : 6 Landscapes
QUICK OVERVIEW
Date
March 21 - 28
Arrival Airport
Almaty
Accommodation
3 star hotels
Duration
7 nights
Meals
7 breakfasts
Group size
18-20
TURQUOISE LAKES - DESERT- CITIES - CANYONS-SNOW - MAN MADE BEACH
KAZAKHSTAN GROUP TRIP ITINERARY:
Let's dive deep into the best Kazakhstan group trip and get ready to explore the most amazing Kazakhstan tourist places;
DAY 01 : ARRIVE AT ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN
Take an afternoon flight to reach Almaty. We will Check into hostel and head to Kok-Tobe. It gives you the best sunset of this European town. Today, we'll share some interesting facts about Kazakhstan people, Kazakhstan religion, Kazakhstan tourism, Kazakhstan language, etc.
DAY 02 : ALMATY CITY EXPLORE
On the second day of Kazakhstan trip, we will visit the closest lake to the city : one of the most beautiful one at that : Big Almaty lake. We walk around the lake and have some nice coffee as we head back.
By afternoon we will be back at Green bazaar and see Palfinov park. We will Head to the hotel by 5pm and repack for the night drive to sati. Tonight by 9ish, after dinner , we will start our trip to Sati. Sati will be our stay from Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon.
DID YOU KNOW?
Kazakhstan is only 1 out of 4 countries to denuclearize. Imagine, taking the opposite path.
DAY 03 : KOLSAI LAKE 1 AND 2
Today after a quick Nap in Sati, we will head to kolsai lake 1. Whoever wants to hike upto kolsai lake 2 can join us and remaining people can take a walk around Lake 1 and relax at the cafe there.
The hike is about 10km , both the side.
Today evening, our team will be split into different homestays. You will be staying with the locals and Kazakhstan participants. I believe this will give us a chance to talk with the locals and get to know them better.
We will also have a campfire and some games with our Kazakhstan group. Our total group size is of 30 people. 12 of us and rest of the Kazakh people. Click here to see stories
DID YOU KNOW?
Kazakhstan is the ninth largest country in the world by land size.
DAY 04 : KANDAI LAKE & CHARYN CANYON
Today morning, we will head to kandai lake. After our lake visit and lunch in sati , we will head to the Charyn Canyon. We will walk down to Charyn Canyon’s river bed and relax at the chilled river for a while. Click here to see stories
By 3pm, we will start heading to Zharkent , which is 2 h 30 min away (183 km) .This Is not a place in the tourist map but since we are doing a roadtrip, I want you to see the real backcountry lifestyle in a small kazak town.
DID YOU KNOW?
Kazakhstan has 5 Unesco World Heritage Sites: 3 cultural and 2 Natural Sites.
DAY 05 : ALTYN AMYL NATIONAL PARK
Check out from our hotel and head to singing Dunes. Today we will have to carry something to eat because there are no options to eat out. Click here to see stories
In the legends the singing sands of the desert are explained by the activities of spirits, imaginary animals, sound of the bells of the buried cities, powerful and raging underground rivers and a lot of other unusual causes.
After lunch we will head towards the Ak - Tau mountain range. We will stop at Zharkent for the night. We will drive through amazing steppes of this largest landlocked country and continue our journey to Almaty tomorrow. Stay in Kalinino.
DID YOU KNOW?
During the Kazakh Famine (also known as the Goloshchekin Genocide), the Soviet Union pushed collectivization and starved the nomadic Kazakh population of food, shipping it to Russia instead. It will take decades before the Kazakhs can now outnumber the russians.
DAY 06 : DRIVE TO ALMATY WITH A DIP IN THE BEACH
We will stop at Kapchagay Enroute Almaty, best-known as the beach of Almaty. Its located on the shore of an artificial lake of the same name formed by a dam across the Ili river. Besides sandy beaches, Kapchagay also has a lot of casinos and ruined factories, earning it the moniker “Lost Vegas”. Lets do some beach photoshoots here. We will reach Almaty by evening and relax for the night .
DID YOU KNOW?
Have you heard about the fierce Amazons? The ancient Scythian warriors, originally from Kazakhstan and southern Russia, are popularly touted as the inspiration for the ancient Greek myth about the tribe of female warriors known as the Amazons.
DAY 07 : SHAMBHULAK CABLE CAR & HEAD FOR CLUBBING IN THE EVENING.
Shymbulak is a ski resort near Almaty. It is the largest ski resort in Central Asia. It is located in the upper part of the Medeu Valley in the Zaiilisky Alatau mountain range, at an elevation of 2,200 metres (7,200 ft) above sea level. There won't be snow now but it's a beautiful view to take the Gandola to the top.
Today is our last day in Kazakhstan. We can go out to a good Bar after we freshen up at the hostel. Bring your nicest clothes. Let's dress up today.
DAY 08 : FLY OUT OF KAZAKHSTAN
We check out at 11am, you can book any flight today. Click here to see stories.
SOME PHOTOGRAPHS AROUND ALMATY
ROUTE MAP
COST ( excluding 5% GST )
USD 699 / person ( Before 10th Feb )
USD 719 / person ( After 10th Feb )
Note: Indian customers can pay using todays conversion rate from INR-USD
FLIGHTS CONSIDERATION :
KAZAKHSTAN GROUP TRIP DATES
You can also join for the Kyrgyzstan trip along with this trip and will save 50k worth of tickets
SLOTS AVIALBLE :
HOW TO BOOK A SLOT ?
You can block the slot by paying a token amount of 21,000 INR ( ~255$ ) for this Kazakhstan trip either by UPI or by Bank transfer. As discussed the total amount is 54,000 INR ( ~699$ ). Once it’s done, please share the payment details with us via the WhatsApp button on right bottom of the site. Choose UPI or Bank transfer by clicking on the tab below.
SCAN TO PAY
UPI : 9746721789.ibz@icici
BANK DETAILS :
A/C HOLDER'S NAME: Orange jacket Adventures LLP
A/c No : 169105000957
RTGS/NEFT IFSC CODE : ICIC0001691
BANK NAME AND BRANCH: ICICI , Thoppumpady
Account type : Current account
UPI : 9746721789.ibz@icici
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Is it true that Kazakhstan is home to the world's greatest collection of giant hats?
While Kazakhstan is known for its rich cultural heritage, it's not specifically famous for giant hats. However, you can explore traditional Kazakh nomadic culture and discover unique headwear during your visit.
2. Can I communicate with Kazakh nomads through a secret code of chai recipes, or should I brush up on my language skills instead?
While chai recipes are always appreciated, it's a good idea to brush up on some basic Kazakh phrases to connect with the nomads. Learning a few greetings and expressions will go a long way in forging connections and experiencing the hospitality of the Kazakh people.
3. Is it true that Kazakhstan has the most beautiful sunsets in the world, or is it just a clever marketing ploy?
Kazakhstan's sunsets are indeed a sight to behold! Whether it's the golden hues over the endless steppe or the vibrant colors reflecting off the mountains, prepare to have your breath taken away by the stunning sunsets that will make you feel like you're in a painting!
4. What are the transportation options within Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan has a well-developed transportation system. You can travel within the country by air, train, or bus. Domestic flights connect major cities, while trains are a popular option for longer journeys. Buses and shared taxis are available for shorter distances and for exploring rural areas.
5. What is the local currency in Kazakhstan, and can I use credit cards?
The local currency in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and in more remote regions.
6. Can I try traditional Kazakh cuisine during my visit?
Absolutely! Kazakh cuisine offers a variety of delicious dishes. Don't miss trying specialties like Beshbarmak (a meat and pasta dish), Manty (steamed dumplings), and Shubat (camel milk). Also, be sure to taste the famous Kazakh tea and enjoy the hospitality of the local people.
7. Are there any specific cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Kazakhstan?
Kazakh culture is rich and diverse. It's polite to greet people with a handshake, and it's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home. It's also respectful to ask for permission before taking photographs, particularly in religious or sacred places. Familiarize yourself with local customs to show respect to the Kazakh culture.
8. Will I encounter nomads and yurts everywhere I go in Kazakhstan?
While nomadic traditions are still preserved in certain regions of Kazakhstan, modern urban areas are developed with modern infrastructure. However, you can visit rural areas to experience the nomadic lifestyle and stay in traditional yurts.
WHAT ARE THE INCLUSIONS ?
- Homestay/ Lodging
- Transportation : Almaty Airport to Almaty Airport
- Accommodation : 7 Nights in hotels
- Breakfast Bed tea/ coffee with “Wake uuuuup guys” call from me
- Permits
- Local Transportation
- Government taxes and service charges except tips for tour guides and drivers
- A Trained Outdoor leader to keep you safe. I Promise 🙂
WHAT ARE THE EXCLUSIONS ?
- Mineral Water or any other room service
- Camera Charge
- Cost of any Extra Day
- Lunch and dinner
- Cost for Skiing at Shymbulak
- Any expenses due to deviation from itinerary
- Visa ( 60$ ) and letter of invitation ( LOI ) charges ( 60 $ ), Travel Insurance
DO YOU HAVE A CANCELLATION POLICY ?
- Before 45 days of trip, there will be 10% cancellation charge.
- Before 30 days and within 44 days of arrival, there will be 25% cancellation charge.
- Before 15 days and within 29 days of arrival ,there will be 50% cancellation charge.
- Within 14 days of trip there will be 100% cancellation charges.
All this been said if you or me can find a replacement for the slot. I will be happy to refund the entire amount. 🙂
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING ?
- *Mandatory : Original ID Proof
- Clothes : 2 Fleece jacket , 3 Synthetic / cotton pants ,4 Full sleeves tees , Sunhat , Woollen head-scarf/ muffler ,Towel , 2 pair of thermals , 1 down jacket ( zero degree equivalent ), Water proof jacket or poncho.
- Shoes & socks: High ankle shoes , cotton socks
- Skin care essentials : Sunglasses with UV protection ,Lip balm Cold cream, Sunscreen lotioniv)Other accessories : LED Torch/ headlamps (If already bought)
I AM COMING SOLO. IS THAT A PROBLEM ?
Most people come alone for my trips. About 25% of the people bring a friend or partner.Honestly It really doesn't matter. I have seen on all the batches I have lead. Most people really gel with everyone, even the ones who thought wouldn't gel up, surprise themselves always with the way they got comfortable with everyone.
YOUR ITINERARY LOOKS DIFFICULT FOR ME. CAN I DO IT ?
Each trek/ trip is rated according to the number of days we spend outdoors . If you aren't sure where to start, go with an easy trip or trek.
For trips,
I dreamed of trips where we could go out hike , get exhausted , come back to hotel and have a great evening. This is exactly why some of my trips have Day hikes in it. It is a perfect chance for people who have never hiked in their entire life. Don't worry, We are there :).
For treks,
you can start with Sandhakphu or Chandrashila . You can also benchmark yourself for the treks.
- If you can run for 30 mins and cover around 3-3.5 km , then you can go ahead with an easy trek
- If you can run for 30 mins and cover around 3.5-4 km , then you can go ahead with an moderate trek
- If you can run for 30 mins and cover around 4-5 km , then you can go ahead with an difficult trek
If you have never done a high altitude trek, then start with a easy or Easy- moderate trek. That way you will understand how your body reacts to high altitude and you can check you cardio strength too.
WHAT ARE TRIPS LIKE ?
Usually, most batch sizes are between 12-20 people who are aged between 16-38. Most people come alone or with a friend. The trip would feel like you are travelling more with college friends than strangers. We tend to do more outdoorsy things than regular trips .
For example : If we find a very pretty waterfall/ a beautiful sunset / Rainbow on the way. We would stop the vehicle right away to catch the beauty of it.
We usually sleep very late on these trips as we play a lot of group games and most people feel they will miss the precious time with the group members and decides to stay awake.
I HAVEN'T HEARD ABOUT THIS COMPANY BEFORE, WHERE CAN I READ MORE ?
Here are few places you can read more about the brand and trips
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