Day 1: Arrival in Almaty.

Welcome to Almaty! Upon arrival, you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. To ease into the adventure, we begin with a light city excursion. First, we visit Medeu, the world’s highest-altitude ice-skating rink (2,100 m), famous for setting over 170 world records in speed skating. Next, prepare to be amazed by a 150-meter-high dam, built to protect the city from mudflows. If you're up for a challenge, climb its 842-step staircase and make a wish at the top—it's a local tradition! From here, we continue to the Shymbulak ski resort before heading to a restaurant serving delicious Kazakh cuisine, where you’ll savor traditional dishes made from lamb and horse meat. After lunch, we’ll visit the Falcon Show, where you’ll witness the breathtaking skills of Kazakhstan’s majestic birds of prey. Dinner and return to the hotel.

Day 2: Almaty – Aral-Tobe

After an early breakfast, our convoy of off-road vehicles will be ready. A short briefing, and we hit the road! Our first challenge: the Koraoi Plateau, an endless expanse of wild Kazakh steppe. After lunch, the journey intensifies as we tackle the Tau-Kum Desert, a daunting stretch of 120 km of rolling sand dunes. By evening, we arrive at a desert oasis, a comfortable rest base offering delicious food, a refreshing pool, and cozy accommodations.

Day 3: Aral-Tobe – Kapchagai Lake

We start early, driving along the Ili River, one of Kazakhstan’s largest and a vital trade route of the ancient Silk Road. Today, we explore the Nomad City, a film set from the movie Nomad, perfectly replicating ancient Kazakh steppe settlements. By evening, we arrive at Kapchagai Lake, where a luxurious resort awaits. From here, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Zailiysky Alatau Mountains, mirrored in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.

Day 4: Kapchagai Lake – Altyn-Emel National Park

Today, we leave civilization behind. Say goodbye to phone signals—this is where the real adventure begins! We venture into the vast Kokhan Plateau, driving through rolling hills and ravines along the Kaprek Mountain Range. By midday, we reach the Altyn-Emel Pass, where local nomads prepare mouthwatering lamb kebabs by the roadside. By evening, we settle in a cozy guesthouse inside the Altyn-Emel Nature Reserve, surrounded by pristine wilderness.

Day 5: Altyn-Emel – Charyn Canyon

The Altyn-Emel National Park is a protected wonderland. Accompanied by a local guide, we set out to witness its unique marvels. First, the Singing Dune, known for its mysterious, melodic hum when dry. Next, we explore the Ak-Tau Mountains, whose vibrant hues—red, yellow, blue, and even violet—paint a surreal landscape. After a short trek, we continue our journey. By evening, we reach the Charyn Canyon, where we'll stay in traditional yurts by the Charyn River, surrounded by the canyon's dramatic rock formations.

Day 6: Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes

After breakfast, we stretch our legs with a scenic trek through Charyn Canyon, before hitting the road again. The climb out of the canyon is as thrilling as the descent! Leaving behind the red rock formations, we ascend into the cool, green forests of the Zailiysky Alatau Mountains. The day’s journey includes challenging off-road passes—hold on tight! By evening, we arrive at the Kolsai Lakes, where we stay in a guesthouse overlooking the pristine mountain waters.

Day 7: Kolsai Lakes – Assy Plateau

We begin the day with a short trek to the lake, where the crystal-clear water reflects the towering Tian Shan pine forests. Today’s drive is one of the most exhilarating yet! We cross three high mountain passes—Alabaytal, Bakaly, and Assy—traversing wild river valleys and rocky slopes. At 2,500 m altitude, the Assy Plateau is a hidden paradise. Blue skies, endless green meadows, fresh air, and wild horses—this is nature’s ultimate retreat. Tonight, we stay in nomadic yurts under a blanket of stars.

Day 8: Assy Plateau – Almaty

After breakfast, we descend through the stunning Turgen Gorge and stop for lunch in an open-air restaurant. A short drive brings us back to Almaty, where you'll have time to rest before our farewell dinner. Over traditional food, we’ll exchange stories, photos, and gifts—a perfect ending to an unforgettable journey.

Day 9: Transfer to Airport

After a well-deserved rest, you may have time for a morning stroll in Almaty before your airport transfer. As you board your flight, you'll carry home not just souvenirs but memories of a lifetime. This adventure with Silk Off Road will stay with you for decades to come!

A Journey Beyond Words This itinerary covers only the highlights—what makes this adventure truly special are the countless hidden trails, unpredictable terrain, and the pure thrill of exploration. From asphalt to sand, gravel, rivers, and rocky mountain passes, you will experience Kazakhstan in a way no one else can offer. Join us on the trails of the Great Nomads and write your own story of adventure! 🚙🔥 🚵‍♂️✨