Activities to do in Kazakhstan with kids
Kazakhstan, with its vast landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and modern cities, is an ideal destination for family vacations. From outdoor adventures in nature to interactive museums and cultural experiences, there are plenty of activities in Kazakhstan that both kids and parents will enjoy. Whether you are exploring the bustling city of Almaty or venturing into the natural beauty of the country’s national parks, Kazakhstan offers endless opportunities for fun and learning.
For families looking to expand their adventure, a Kazakhstan Uzbekistan tour is a perfect way to explore the neighboring countries, each offering unique attractions that appeal to kids of all ages. Let’s dive into some of the best activities to do with kids in Kazakhstan, making it an unforgettable family experience.
1. Visit the Medeu Ice Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort
For families that enjoy winter sports and activities, a trip to the Medeu Ice Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort near Almaty is a must. Medeu is the world’s highest outdoor ice skating rink, and it provides a fun and exciting experience for both beginners and experienced skaters. The rink is open year-round, so even in the warmer months, kids can enjoy ice skating while surrounded by stunning mountain views.
After ice skating, you can take the cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort, where families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even snow tubing in the winter. In the summer, the resort offers hiking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. The cable car ride itself is an adventure, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains.
Shymbulak is family-friendly, with lessons available for kids who are new to winter sports. It’s a great way to introduce children to skiing or simply enjoy a day in the snow as a family.
2. Explore the First President’s Park in Almaty
The First President’s Park in Almaty is a perfect place for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. This large park, named after Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, offers vast green spaces, fountains, and walking paths. The park is a peaceful escape from the city, and kids can run around, play, or have a picnic on the well-kept lawns.
The highlight for many children is the dancing fountain, which puts on a colorful display in the evenings with synchronized water jets and lights. The park also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a great place for family photos.
For families visiting Almaty, the First President’s Park is a perfect spot to let kids burn off some energy while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
3. Big Almaty Lake
A family trip to Big Almaty Lake is a fantastic way to introduce kids to Kazakhstan’s natural beauty. Located just a short drive from Almaty, this turquoise alpine lake is surrounded by mountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting that will awe both kids and adults alike.
Although swimming in the lake is not allowed, families can enjoy picnicking by the water, hiking in the surrounding area, or simply admiring the stunning views. There are several easy hiking trails that are suitable for children, allowing them to explore the area at their own pace.
In the winter, the lake and its surroundings are transformed into a snowy wonderland, making it a beautiful destination year-round. A visit to Big Almaty Lake is often included in many Kazakhstan Uzbekistan tour packages, making it a convenient stop for families exploring Central Asia.
4. Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
For a more educational experience, take your kids to the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan in Almaty. This museum is one of the largest in Central Asia and offers a fascinating look at Kazakhstan’s history, culture, and traditions.
The museum has exhibits that cover everything from ancient artifacts to the modern history of Kazakhstan, and many of the displays are interactive, which will keep children engaged. Kids can learn about Kazakhstan’s nomadic past, see traditional costumes, and even explore replicas of ancient yurts.
The museum also hosts special exhibitions and activities for children, making it an educational and fun experience for the whole family. It’s a great way for kids to learn about the country they are visiting and gain a deeper appreciation for its rich history and culture.
5. Visit the Nur-Sultan (Astana) City Parks and Bayterek Tower
Kazakhstan’s capital, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), is a modern city filled with architectural wonders, and there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy. The city’s parks and attractions make it a fun and educational destination for families.
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Bayterek Tower: A visit to Bayterek Tower is a must when in Nur-Sultan. The tower symbolizes a mythical tree of life and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Kids will love the elevator ride up to the top, and the glass observation deck provides stunning views of the city’s futuristic skyline.
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City Parks: Nur-Sultan is home to several beautiful parks, including Presidential Park and Central Park, which offer playgrounds, walking paths, and plenty of space for kids to run and play. The parks are a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon with your family, and in the summer, you can enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals.
6. Explore Charyn Canyon
A family trip to Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon, is an exciting adventure that kids will love. Located about 200 kilometers from Almaty, Charyn Canyon is a geological wonder with stunning rock formations and deep gorges.
The Valley of Castles is the most famous part of the canyon, where the towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses. Kids will enjoy exploring the trails, climbing rocks, and learning about the canyon’s formation from local guides. It’s an ideal destination for a family hike, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Although it’s a bit of a drive from Almaty, many tours offer day trips to Charyn Canyon, making it a convenient and family-friendly destination.
7. A Day at the Almaty Zoo
For families with younger children, a visit to the Almaty Zoo is a fun way to spend the day. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including big cats, bears, birds, and reptiles. It’s one of the oldest zoos in Central Asia and offers a chance for kids to see and learn about different species.
The zoo is located within a larger park that also includes a small amusement park, so families can spend the day enjoying rides, snacks, and animal exhibits. It’s a great place to relax and let the kids have fun while also learning about wildlife.
8. Turkistan and the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
For a cultural experience, take your family to Turkistan, a historic city in southern Kazakhstan. The city is home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important religious monument in Central Asia.
Kids will be fascinated by the massive blue-tiled dome and the intricate details of the mausoleum, which was built in the 14th century. While exploring Turkistan, families can also visit local markets and learn about the region’s rich history.