Kazakhstan by Wander Womaniya (23 - 27 December 2026)
A day-wise itinerary specially designed by Wander Womaniya for solo women travelers.
Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world, yet it remains very sparsely populated and is still an offbeat international destination. What that means for you is the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos without the crowds!
Day 1: Welcome to Kazakhstan
On arrival at Almaty International Airport, we will clear immigration and transfer to our hotel for check-in. Enjoy a relaxing evening to settle in.
Overnight: Almaty
Day 2: Shymbulak Mountain Resort
After breakfast, we will visit the beautiful mountains you might have spotted right before landing at Almaty airport. We will head to Medeu, a world-famous high-altitude sports complex located 1,691 meters above sea level.
From here, we will take the scenic ropeway to Level 1, where you can enjoy panoramic views and a variety of cafes and restaurants. For the adventurous, activities like cliff jumping and rock climbing are available (chargeable). However, the highlight of the day is taking the chairlift to the highest point (Level 2 — optional, and subject to weather conditions). At the top, you will step into a Narnia-like winter wonderland perfect for incredible photos!
Please carry a windcheater, gloves, and a warm cap for today’s mountain excursion. On our way down, we will take an electric eco-bus back to Medeu.
Overnight: Almaty
Day 3: Almaty City & Festive Vibes
Post-breakfast, we will visit Zenkov Cathedral, a stunning wooden Russian Orthodox cathedral and an architectural masterpiece built entirely without nails. Next, we will explore the historic Panfilov Park to pay tribute to the heroes of World War II.
For lunch, you will have free time to explore Arbat Street, a lively pedestrian avenue packed with souvenir shops, cozy cafes, ice cream parlors, and talented street musicians. We will end our day with a visit to the Old Square, the city's grandest plaza and the heart of Almaty’s festive winter events.
Overnight: Almaty
Day 4: Day Hike to Ayu Gorge
Today, we head to Ayu Gorge, a scenic, forested ravine nestled in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains just outside the city. Famous for its beautiful 5-meter and 8-meter frozen waterfalls, the gorge features an easy 1.5-hour hiking trail and a visitor center with local cafes. It is the perfect dose of nature and easily accessible from Almaty.
Overnight: Almaty
Day 5: Charyn Canyon & Departure
We will check out of the hotel this morning and head out for a day trip to the spectacular Charyn Canyon (also known as Sharyn Canyon). Part of the Charyn National Park, this geological wonder stretches 154 km along the deep Charyn River. Over 12 million years, wind, water, and sand have sculpted the red sandstone into dramatic shapes and shades ranging from deep orange to light brown.
Often called the "Grand Canyon of Asia," this breathtaking landscape will immediately remind you of the movie 127 Hours. We will take an easy 2.5 km hike through the canyon floor, with so many incredible photo spots that you might literally run out of phone storage!
After the excursion, we will transfer directly to the airport for your late-night flight back to India.
