Top Family-Friendly Activities to Do in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, with its vast landscapes, modern cities, and rich cultural heritage, is an ideal destination for family vacations. This Central Asian country offers a unique blend of activities, from exploring its sprawling steppes and stunning mountains to enjoying modern attractions in its cities. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, Kazakhstan provides plenty of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. If you’re planning a trip from India, you’ll find many options for a Kazakhstan tour package from Delhi that makes the journey convenient and enjoyable for the whole family.

Here are some of the top family-friendly activities you can enjoy in Kazakhstan.

1. Explore the Capital City: Nur-Sultan (Astana)

Nur-Sultan, formerly known as Astana, is Kazakhstan’s vibrant and modern capital, filled with exciting attractions for families. The city’s impressive skyline and well-designed urban spaces make it a great destination to explore with children.

• Bayterek Tower: This iconic monument is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Families can take an elevator to the top of the 105-meter-tall tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Children will love the experience of standing in the observation deck, which is shaped like a golden egg, symbolizing a popular Kazakh legend.

• Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: The largest tent-like structure in the world, Khan Shatyr is a shopping mall and entertainment complex where the entire family can enjoy a variety of activities. Inside, you’ll find everything from retail stores to a beach club with sand brought in from the Maldives. The amusement park, indoor water slides, and play areas make it a perfect place for kids to have fun, regardless of the weather outside.

• City Parks: Nur-Sultan is home to several beautiful parks where families can relax and spend quality time together. The Presidential Park, located near the Ak Orda Presidential Palace, offers large green spaces, fountains, and pathways for a peaceful family outing.

2. Visit Almaty’s Natural and Cultural Wonders

Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is surrounded by the stunning Tian Shan mountains and offers a variety of outdoor and cultural experiences for families.

• Big Almaty Lake: Located just outside the city, Big Almaty Lake is a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Families can enjoy a scenic drive to the lake, followed by a picnic in the stunning natural surroundings. The view of the turquoise waters against the mountain backdrop makes it a memorable spot for photos.

• Medeu Skating Rink: This high-altitude ice skating rink, nestled in the mountains above Almaty, is a must-visit for families during the winter months. Medeu is the highest outdoor ice rink in the world and offers a unique experience for both adults and children. Even if you’re visiting in the summer, the area around Medeu is perfect for hiking and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

• Kok-Tobe Hill: Families can take a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill, which offers panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a small amusement park, a zoo, and several restaurants. The Ferris wheel and roller coasters are sure to keep kids entertained, while the Beatles monument adds a cultural touch for music-loving parents.

3. Discover the Natural Beauty of Charyn Canyon

For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, Charyn Canyon is a fantastic destination. Often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, this natural wonder is located about 200 kilometers from Almaty. The canyon’s unique rock formations, especially in the Valley of Castles, provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and exploration.

Charyn Canyon offers several family-friendly hiking trails that are suitable for children. The short walks along the canyon floor allow you to experience the rugged beauty of the landscape without too much exertion. There are also shaded picnic spots where families can take a break and enjoy the view.

For a unique experience, you can opt for guided tours that include a visit to the Charyn River, where kids can splash in the water and enjoy the natural surroundings.

4. Learn History at Turkistan’s Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

A trip to the ancient city of Turkistan offers a fascinating educational experience for families interested in history and culture. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important historical landmarks in Kazakhstan.

Families can explore the architectural beauty of the mausoleum, which was built in the 14th century and remains a significant religious and cultural site. The area around the mausoleum is filled with history, and guided tours provide insights into the life of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a revered Sufi mystic. Children will enjoy exploring the large courtyards and learning about Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage.

5. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve: A Wildlife Adventure

For families who love nature and wildlife, a trip to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve is a fantastic option. As the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia, Aksu-Zhabagly is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including rare snow leopards, ibex, and golden eagles.

Families can enjoy guided nature walks through the reserve, where children can learn about the local flora and fauna. The reserve also offers opportunities for birdwatching, horse riding, and camping, making it a great destination for an outdoor family adventure.

6. Adventure in Borovoe National Park

Located north of Nur-Sultan, Borovoe National Park is often referred to as “Kazakhstan’s Switzerland” due to its stunning lakes, pine forests, and rocky outcrops. This picturesque area is perfect for a family getaway, offering activities like hiking, boating, and fishing.

Families can enjoy leisurely hikes around Lake Borovoe and Lake Shchuchye, where the clear waters and surrounding greenery provide a serene atmosphere. For more adventurous families, there are opportunities for rock climbing and exploring caves in the nearby mountains.