8-day Where Desert Meets Sea Tour8 Days | Private | Astana, Kyzylorda, Aral, Akespe village, Kambash lake, Kokaral Dam, Turkestan

Private Tour from US$ 1,890
  • Aral SeaAral Sea
  • AstanaAstana
  • AstanaAstana
  • AstanaAstana
  • Korkyt Ata ComplexKorkyt Ata Complex
  • Aral SeaAral Sea
  • Aral CityAral City
  • Aral CityAral City
  • Kokaral DamKokaral Dam
  • TurkestanTurkestan
  • Mausoleum of Arystan-babMausoleum of Arystan-bab
  • AlmatyAlmaty
  • AlmatyAlmaty
  • AlmatyAlmaty
  • Aral Sea
  • Astana
  • Astana
  • Astana
  • Korkyt Ata Complex
  • Aral Sea
  • Aral City
  • Aral City
  • Kokaral Dam
  • Turkestan
  • Mausoleum of Arystan-bab
  • Almaty
  • Almaty
  • Almaty

Embark on an 8-day Where Desert Meets Sea Tour through the hidden treasures of Kazakhstan. From the bustling modern capitals of Astana and Almaty to the spiritual heart of Turkestan, and finally, to the beautiful landscapes of the Aral Sea. Explore untold stories of one of the world's greatest environmental tragedies and witness the remnants of a bygone era where the sea once thrived. Discover Kazakhstan’s uncharted wonders, rich history, and natural beauty.

Tour itinerary:

Day 1: Astana
 
Arrival at Astana International airport early in the morning.
After passing border control and collecting luggage, you will be met by a local guide holding your nameplate.
You are going to the hotel first for check-in and short rest after the flight. Early check in is included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Sightseeing tour in Astana will last from 11.00 to 19.00. The tour includes:
This day you will visit the city’s main attractions. Our first stop is National Museum – opened in 2014, currently the museum is the biggest in Kazakhstan and consists of 10 thematic halls, including ancient and medieval history, ethnography, history of Kazakhs and other.
  • Hazret Sultan Mosque is the 2nd biggest mosque in Central Asia that can place 10,000 persons at one time. The building is designed as an Oriental palace.
  • Palace of Peace and Reconciliation – pyramid that was designed by world famous architect - Norman Foster. The uniqueness of this building is its golden section proportion: 62 meters of length and 62 meters of height.
Then you are going to visit another fabulous work of Mr. Foster – Baiterek Monument. This is a main symbol of Astana. The height of the tower is 97 meters and visitors can go up by lift and experience the panoramic view of the city.
After the excursion, we visit Khan Shatyr, one of the new symbols of the capital, the first and only lifestyle center of Astana. The center combines shopping and entertainment under one roof. The building itself is the world’s biggest tent–shaped installation, which makes it unique.
Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast
Day 2: Astana – Kyzylorda – Aral
 
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out and transfer to the airport.
11:05 Flight to Kyzylorda city.
12:55 Arrival.
Upon arrival transfer to the restaurant for lunch (not included).
After lunch, transfer to the Aral city via Korkyt Ata complex (2 hours).
This is a complex dedicated to the great thinker, storyteller, kobyz (national instrument) player - Korkyt Ata, one of the holy men of the Syr Darya. It is located one kilometre from his burial place.
The most interesting monument in the complex is the "Singing Trumpets". It represents four kobyz, which look in four directions of the world. In the mazar, pipes are suspended from the ceiling, and the blowing of the steppe wind extracts the melodies of the kobyz from them. "Pyramid of Wishes" is another unusual structure. You should walk around it three times, and then take off your shoes, go inside the pyramid and ask the sky to fulfill your cherished wishes.
After exploring the area, we will head further to Aral city (3 hours).
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Total distance: 445 km
Day 3: Aral – Akespe – Village Aral
 
08:00 Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we have a busy day ahead, exploring some unique and remarkable locations.
Visit the Aral Fishing Museum, opened in 2013. This unique virtual museum vividly tells the story of fishing in the Aral Sea, offering deep insights into the lives of the Aral fishermen through a fascinating array of exhibits, photographs, and documents. The museum is strategically located next to the former Aral Sea Port, where three real ships stand as silent witnesses to the sea’s history. The interior is designed like a captain’s bridge, transporting visitors into the heart of sea life. Walk through the exhibits and feel the spirit of the Aral Sea’s past as you explore the tools, stories, and artifacts that shaped the lives of the fishermen and the entire region.
We head to the village of Tastubek, a small fishing community by the Aral Sea. Life here nearly stopped when the sea became shallow, but the Kokaral Dam brought water back, reviving the area. Though the northern Aral Sea is shrinking again, life in Tastubek continues as fishermen set their nets daily, following the traditions of their ancestors.
Lunch at the local guesthouse.
Visit the fishing village of Akespe, partially buried in sand and now divided into two parts. As the sand advanced, residents moved to higher ground, and a new settlement is now being built and developed. On the way, we will stop at Bird’s Beak chink. Few people know that the Aral region hides secret natural monuments known as "chinks" – the ancient cliffs of the former sea – between the villages of Akespe and Zhalanash. These remote formations hold the history of the ancient Tethys Ocean, offering a glimpse into a time when this land was submerged underwater. Fossilized shark teeth, remnants of that prehistoric era, can still be found here.
Interestingly, this unique location served as the backdrop for the iconic music video Louder than Words by the legendary band Pink Floyd. It was also featured in the cult film “The Needle”, starring the famous rock musician Viktor Tsoi, adding a rich cultural layer to its natural and historical significance.
A short climb to the top offers beautiful views of the surroundings. Take a walk, enjoy the scenery, and capture unforgettable moments—drone video recording is included to make your memories even more special.

Next, we will visit a hot thermal spring near the village of Akespe with a temperature of 63°C. Rich in minerals, this natural thermal spring is renowned for its healing properties. A soak here offers relaxation and rejuvenation, providing not only health benefits but also a unique experience.
Then you will visit the old, abandoned village of Akespe, where only a few people still reside. Like the ships, the village is slowly being overtaken by sand as the wind shapes dunes that creep across the landscape, resembling the Sahara. These dunes move and constantly change their form, making it one of the most beautiful spots in the area. Take a walk around, capturing the scenery with photos – drone video shooting is included.
Dinner at the local guesthouse in Akespe village.
Late in the evening return to the city of Aral and overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Total distance (Jeep tour): 270 km
Day 4: Aral – Kambash lake – Kokaral Dam – Aral – Turkestan
 
08:00 Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Kokaral Dam (4-5 hours including stops at lake and for lunch).
On the way, we’ll stop at Lake Kambash (Kamystybas), a unique natural landmark known for its crystal-clear, stunning blue waters. The lake’s formation remains a mystery, as no studies have been conducted in this region. Locals claim the water in Lake Kambash has healing properties—small cuts and wounds supposedly heal faster when in contact with the water. The lake stretches 26 kilometers in length and 8 kilometers in width, making it not very large but incredibly picturesque. It’s also a key stop for migratory birds, making it a wonderful spot for birdwatchers.
At this magnificent lake, you will have the opportunity to take photos and videos with drone footage included.
Next, we head to the village of Karashalan for lunch at a local guest house. 14:30 Arrival at the Kokaral Dam, built in 2005: The dam, named after the nearby Kokaral Peninsula that ceased to exist in the 21st century, stretches 13,034 meters long and up to 150 meters wide. This massive structure has had a profound impact on the Northern Aral Sea and the surrounding region. By reducing the salinity of the water, the Kokaral Dam has allowed fish populations to recover, with species like bream, carp, and silver carp returning. The revitalization of fish processing plants has not only created jobs but also attracted people back to their homes in nearby villages. The dam has also significantly altered the local climate—summers are cooler, dust storms are less frequent, and the distance from Aralsk to the sea has shrunk from 100 to 25 kilometers. The Kokaral Dam stands as a symbol of human ingenuity, correcting some of the environmental damage caused by past mistakes and bringing life back to this once-barren region. 15:30 Returnt to Aral city.
18:00 Dinner.
During dinner or after (depending on your wishes) you will have the opportunity to listen to a mini concert of 2-3 people on the national musical instrument “Dombyra”.
Have some rest at the hotel before transfer to Railway Station. (Extra night at the hotel included).
23:50 Late evening train to Turkestan city.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Total distance (Jeep tour): 210 km
Day 5: Turkestan
 
11:40 Arrival to Turkestan city. Meet your guide and driver. Transfer to the restaurant for breakfast (if needed) (breakfast is not included).
Begin your city tour in Turkestan, a spiritual and historical center of Kazakhstan.
Explore the Azret-Sultan State Historical and Cultural Reserve, including The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
The site, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, remains a pilgrimage destination and a testament to the spiritual and cultural significance of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Central Asia.
Commissioned in the late 14th century by Timur (Tamerlane), this grand edifice was constructed to honor Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a distinguished Sufi master who greatly influenced Islam in the region. The mausoleum stands as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring a distinctive turquoise dome, intricate tile work, and majestic interior spaces. Despite remaining unfinished after Timur's death, its scale and the craftsmanship of its decorations have amazed visitors for centuries.
Then visit the Turkestan Necropolis, the Hilvet Semi underground mosque, and a hammam, as well as seeing a fragment of the fortress wall and the gates of the old citadel.
Visit flying theater “Altyn Samruk” and experience "Virtual Flight" that offers an immersive journey through Kazakh mythology and landscapes. Visitors enter a state-of-the-art projection sphere, where they are "transported" into the mythical world of the Samruk bird. Through stunning 3D visuals and motion effects, participants experience the sensation of flying over the vast steppes, mountains, and historical sites of Kazakhstan.
Experience the magical Boat Parade show at the Karavansaray complex in Turkestan, inspired by the Kazakh poetic legend of 'Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen.' This theatrical performance, set on a picturesque water channel, combines music, dance, and storytelling to bring to life a timeless tale of love and bravery. The parade begins at the Caravanserai harbor, where beautifully adorned boats depict characters from the legend, creating an unforgettable journey through history and folklore.
Transfer to the hotel, check in and overnight.
Day 6: Turkestan – Shymkent – Almaty
 
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today you will visit the "Uly Dala Eli" Center, which showcases exhibits on Kazakhstan's history, culture, and achievements. Highlights include halls dedicated to metallurgy, horseback culture, the Kazakh Khanate, and the legacy of the First President. A key attraction is the Turkic Hall with a 3D projection sphere, alongside a glass bridge over Kazakhstan's map and the "Baiterek Tree" art installation.
Then transfer to Shymkent via Otrar, an ancient city (2.5 hours).
Otrar (also known as Farab) was an important trading center in the history of Central Asia, situated at the intersection of the caravan ways of the Great Silk Road.
On the way to Turkestan city, tourists also pass the Museum in the Shaulder village and the Mausoleum of Arystan-bab of XII century - one of Muslim shrines in Central Asia that is also famous as pilgrimage place. Then transfer to Shymkent (1 hour).
Upon arrival to Shymkent, short city tour and transfer for dinner (not included).
22:30 (Only on odd days) Train to Almaty city.
Meals: breakfast
Day 7: Almaty
 
09:55 Arrival to Almaty city. Meet your guide and driver. Transfer to the restaurant for breakfast (if needed) (breakfast is not included).
You are going to explore the city’s main attraction – the Ili Alatau mountains.
The National Park of Ili Alatau was founded in 1996, the park extends for 120km and the total area is 202,292 hectares. The altitude varies from 600 to 5,000 meters.
Medeo is an essential part of the Ili Alatau Park and it is a historical object of Almaty’s development as a city. Located at the height of 1,690 meters, the Medeo skating rink is the highest rink location in the world. However, our main purpose of visit is Shymbulak – a mountain resort located at the elevation of 2,260 meters above sea level. In 1950s, ski lovers used to climb the mountain for 3 hours for a 15 minutes’ descent. Nowadays, it is a developed resort with high-level equipment and infrastructure.
Then you will visit the city’s old center and cover one of the main sites that best highlight Almaty’s history. The first stop is Park of 28 Panfilov soldiers – named after the division during WWII, formed of men from the Almaty region under command of General Ivan Panfilov. The park itself is popular among locals and guests of the city. Inside the park visitors will find the eternal flame, memorials of different heroic characters, the Ascension Cathedral – Russian Orthodox wooden church that magically withstood a strong earthquake in XX century, and Museum of musical instruments, where you can admire the collection over 1000 exhibits including rare exhibits dating back to XVII century.
Just in a walking distance, you can enjoy another touristic attraction of Almaty – “Green Bazaar” or Green market. This is a perfect way to experience the true Eastern market, where you can find main delicacies of different nations living in Kazakhstan.
Transfer to the hotel, check-in and overnight.
Day 8: Almaty
 
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out, and transfer to the airport. We bid you farewell with warm memories and hopes of welcoming you again to explore more of Kazakhstan's charm. The End of Where Desert Meets Sea Tour.
Meals: breakfast

Price includes:

  • - 2 nights' accommodation in the hotel in Astana city on BB in double/twin room;
    - 3 nights' accommodation in the hotel in Aral city on BB in double/twin room;
    - 1 night in Train Aral city – Turkestan (4 bed compartment);
    - 1 night' accommodation in the hotel in Turkestan city on BB in double/twin room;
    - 1 night in Train Shymkent – Almaty (4 bed compartment);
    - 1 night' accommodation in the hotel in Almaty city on BB in double/twin room.
  • Private A/C transport with driver as per program in Astana, Almaty, Turkestan, Shymkent:
    - 1-2 pax – sedan up to 3 seats;
    - 3-7 pax – minivan up to 10 seats;
    - 8-14 pax – minibus up to 18 seats;
    - 15 pax and more coach up to 48 seats.
    Note: Transport in Aral.
    1) Day 2:
    - 1-2 pax – sedan up to 3 seats;
    - 3-5 pax - minivan up to 8 seats.
    2) On days 3-4 guest will have a Jeep tour, SUVs, 4WD, 3 pax per car.
  • Sightseeing tours according to the program;
  • English speaking guide services;
  • Entrance tickets;
  • Train Tickets Aral – Turkestan and Shymkent – Almaty;
  • Meals: Breakfasts at the hotels, 3 lunches, 3 dinners;
  • Mini concert on the national instrument;
  • Drone footage included on Days 2-4;
  • Cable car to Talgar Pass in Shymbulak;
  • Mineral water 1L p/p daily.

Price doesn't include:

  • International air tickets;
  • Domestic air tickets Astana – Kyzylorda (exact fare is guaranteed after 100% of prepayment and air ticket is issued) – 120 USD (subject to change) p/p;
  • Meals: full board;
  • Tips and gratuities;
  • Personal expenses.

Recommendations when planning your trip:
Green Bazaar, Museum of musical instruments and Green Bazaar are closed on Mondays. Temperature is different in and outside the city; therefore, warm clothes are needed when travel outside.

Important:

  • Some changes are allowed in the program, except reduction of number of booked excursions;
  • In case place of visit is closed to visitors it will be replaced with an alternative. During big events proposed accommodation may be changed and replaced with a similar category;
  • Sequence of itinerary and hotels given is subject to change without prior notice;
  • Hotel booking is subject to availability. No reservations are made before confirmation and 100% prepayment received from client;
  • Domestic flights are subject to change in timing and availability. If mentioned flight is not available, it will be changed to convenient one, depending on tour program;
  • Proposed hotels are not available; it will be substituted with another hotel of same category.

 

Prices, per person

 
 
Economy
Comfort
Lux
1 person
US$ 4,620
US$ 4,700
US$ 4,830
2 persons
US$ 2,490
US$ 2,530
US$ 2,600
3 persons
US$ 2,290
US$ 2,345
US$ 2,420
4 persons
US$ 1,890
US$ 1,935
US$ 2,015
Single supplement
US$ 260
US$ 280
US$ 360
Prices are for 2025 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.

Accommodation

Astana - 1 night
Economy:
IBIS or similar
Comfort:
Wyndham Garden
Lux:
Rixos President
Aral - 2 nights
Aral hotel
Turkestan - 2 nights
Economy:
Khanaka
Comfort:
Grand Royal
Lux:
Karavansaray
Almaty - 2 nights
Economy:
Grand Sapphire
Comfort:
Kazzhol Park
Lux:
Royal Tulip

Tour Request

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