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Add another of the “’Stans” to your Central Asia travels with this extension into Kazakhstan. Almaty is renowned not only for its postcard-pretty setting in the foothills of the snowcapped Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains, but for its status as Kazakhstan’s most cosmopolitan city. Your three-night extension includes visits to Zenkov Cathedral, the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, and Panfilov Park. You’ll also learn about the culture and history of Kazakhstan during a visit to a folk music instrument museum as well as the Central State Museum. In addition to seeing the city from the ground, you’ll experience it from above when you take a cable car up for a panoramic view of this striking city and landscape. You’ll also visit the scenic shores of Great Almaty Lake and stop by a local falcon farm. This is a superb opportunity to broaden your perspective on this region and get to know the culture and beauty of yet another Central Asian city.
Settle into Almaty, then take a night tour to Kok-Tobe Hill
Arrive in Almaty, one of Central Asia’s most beautiful cities. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to your well-located hotel in the city’s heart. Settle in here, before setting off on a night tour up to Kok-Tobe Hill. Here we’ll enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Almaty’s twinkling lights — a wonderful introduction to Kazakhstan.
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View the Tian Shan Mountains, and admire Great Almaty Lake
Today we venture to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, where a cable car ride takes us further skyward for a panoramic view of the Tian Shan Mountains. For more of the region’s natural splendor, we head to Great Almaty Lake, admiring the stunning beauty of the aquamarine waters set against the backdrop of the Tian Shan mountain range. Here you’ll stop at Sunkar Falcon Farm, founded as a conservation center to breed the endangered saker falcon and reintroduce it to its natural habitat in the mountains. Watch a dazzling educational show that explains how people traditionally hunt with specially trained birds of prey — a unique feature of the Kazakh way of life.
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City tour of Almaty and visit to the popular Green Bazaar
Your morning is at leisure to explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, we embark on a comprehensive tour of the city, from Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral to the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Later, we visit a couple of museums — the folk instrument museum and the Central State Museum — to gain a deeper understanding of this country and its culture. We’ll also visit the bustling Green Bazaar, a food market that is popular with locals. Our farewell dinner will take place at a local restaurant, complete with a folk show to end your trip on a high.
Return home
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, reflecting on an incredible trip.
