Day 1: Arrival in Shymkent
Arrival in Shymkent, one of the oldest cities in Kazakhstan. Meet and greet at the airport, transfer to the hotel, and check-in after 2:00 PM. Free time for rest or independent exploration of the city, known for its Eastern charm and Central Asian atmosphere.
Overnight in Shymkent.
Day 2: Shymkent – Turkestan – Sauran
After breakfast, depart for Turkestan, the spiritual capital of Kazakhstan. Visit the city's main attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, the Historical and Cultural Complex, the Underground Mosque, the Oriental Bathhouse, and Karavansaray tourist complex. Learn about the Great Silk Road, Sufi traditions, and the legacy of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
After lunch, continue to the ancient settlement of Sauran, one of the largest medieval cities of the Silk Road, famous for its well-preserved fortress walls and caravan trade history. Return to Turkestan.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Turkestan – Otrar – Ordabasy – Wild Tulip Fields – Shymkent
After breakfast, travel toward Shymkent. Visit the ancient city of Otrar, a major medieval center and birthplace of Al-Farabi, followed by Ordabasy, an important historical site of Kazakh unity.
The highlight of the day is visiting the blooming wild tulip fields. In spring, the steppes of Southern Kazakhstan are covered with rare Greig's and Kaufmann's tulips, ancestors of many modern tulip varieties. Enjoy walks through natural tulip habitats, photo stops, and panoramic views of the steppe landscapes.
Arrival in Shymkent and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Shymkent – Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve – Kshi-Kaindy Waterfall
Depart for Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, the oldest reserve in Central Asia and part of the UNESCO Western Tien Shan Biosphere Reserve. Hike to the scenic Kshi-Kaindy Waterfall through mountain gorges, juniper forests, alpine meadows, and panoramic viewpoints.
Enjoy the pristine mountain landscapes and rich biodiversity of the region. After the hike, accommodation at Ruslan Tourist Base.
Dinner and overnight at the guesthouse.
Day 5: Aksu-Zhabagly – Shubaykyzyl Red Hill – Shymkent
After breakfast, visit Shubaykyzyl Red Hill, one of the most spectacular spring destinations in Southern Kazakhstan. Red clay hills, endless steppes, and blooming tulips create unique landscapes often compared to Mars. The area is especially popular among photographers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Return to Shymkent and overnight at the hotel.
Day 6: Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Shymkent International Airport.
End of the tour.
