Kazakh-stunned! – A Solo Adventure in Central Asia

A former Soviet Republic, Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia and the ninth-largest country in the world. With its modern, cosmopolitan cities, to scenic landscapes, this country has everything you would want in a travel destination. It is also the most underrated travel destination that I have been to, so far. As a travel enthusiast, I love looking into new and unique destinations each time I want to travel. When I started reading about its vast landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural blend, I knew I had to go.

After taking a direct flight from Delhi, I arrived in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, well past midnight. Since I was travelling alone, I was a bit anxious about taking a taxi alone in the middle of the night. However, after researching safety in the city and talking to a few women who had already travelled there solo, I felt reassured. 

At 2:00 AM, I took a taxi from the airport to reach my hostel, which was a thirty-minute ride away. When I arrived, I realised I didn’t have enough change, and since it was dark, it was also hard for me to locate the hostel. As I started to panic, the driver accepted the cash, despite it being less than the fare. His kindness warmed my heart and set the tone for the wonderful hospitality I would experience throughout my trip.

First Impressions: A Land of Contrasts

On my first morning in Almaty. I took a stroll through the city’s leafy avenues that reminded me of a mix between Europe and Central Asia. The city had a distinct blend of Soviet-era architecture and gleaming skyscrapers. After breakfast,  I took a taxi to go to Shymbulak Ski Resort. On my way there, I was struck by the contrast between modern city life and the towering trees and mountain peaks in the distance.

As a solo traveller, the main challenge was navigating the language barrier. English isn’t widely spoken in Kazakhstan, but luckily, I made a local friend at the hostel, which made navigating the city much easier. Whenever I was alone, I would simply use Google Translate, and with the friendly locals eager to help, I managed just fine!

Chasing Waterfalls and Endless Horizons

Eager to explore Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, I set off on a day trip to Bear Waterfall and Assy Plateau. A forty-minute ride from the city brought us to the starting point of the hiking trail to Bear Waterfall. The sound of rushing water from the flowing streams along the hiking trail, combined with the crisp air, made it a perfect way to soak in nature. After a tiring, thirty-minute hike, I made it to the top! The waterfall is located in a deep rocky niche, where the Bear Stream flows. 

Next stop was Assy Plateau, a huge mountain valley, located on the altitude of 2500 meters above sea level. The drive to get to the top, was probably the most unforgettable experience of my trip. Along the way, we passed herds of horses grazing and traditional yurts belonging to Kazakh herdsmen, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. After driving through the beautiful mountain landscapes, we were greeted by the picturesque high-mountain plateau of Assy. When we finally reached the top, I was captivated by breathtaking, panoramic views that stretched endlessly in every direction. The highlight of my visit was a horseback ride across the plateau, an experience that made me feel truly connected to the wild beauty of Kazakhstan. Assy Plateau is also a popular camping spot, making it a perfect place for stargazing.

Visiting Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

One of the highlights of my trip was Charyn Canyon, located about 200 kms east of Almaty, close to the Kazakh–Chinese border. Often compared to the Grand Canyon in the U.S., the Charyn Canyon features many formations formed by the weathering of sedimentary rock.  The moment I arrived, I was blown away by the dramatic rock formations that stretched across the horizon. Hiking through the Valley of Castles, I noticed a unique blend of desert landscapes, spectacular rock formations, and breathtaking natural beauty. The hike ends at the beautiful Charyn river, that flows through the Charyn National Park. It was the perfect spot to relax after the long, tiring hike. Charyn Canyon is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Off-Road Adventure to Lake Kaindy

Located in the south of Kazakhstan, Lake Kaindy was formed as the result of a major limestone landslide triggered by an earthquake. The lake contains trunks of submerged trees that rise above the surface of the lake. The area is often referred to as a "sunken forest". Getting to the lake was an adventure in itself. Our ride was an old Soviet-era van, with worn-out seats and rattling windows! The ride was anything but smooth—the bumpy, off-road trail had us bouncing in our seats, gripping onto whatever we could to stay steady. By the time we reached the lake, the rough ride had been well worth it—the sight of the turquoise waters and the submerged trees was nothing short of magical.

A Perfect Evening at Kok Tobe

Located on the top of a 1,100-meter hill at the southeastern edge of the city, Kok Tobe is one of Almaty’s most iconic landmarks. A short yet scenic cable car ride takes you to the top, where you'll find amusement park attractions, restaurants, and viewing platforms offering stunning views of the city below. We arrived just in time for sunset and were greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of Almaty. After strolling through the area and exploring its various attractions, we grabbed some hotdogs and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. It was the perfect way to spend my last evening in Almaty, soaking in the beauty of the city one last time.

Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend Kazakhstan for Solo Travellers?

Absolutely! Kazakhstan is a hidden gem for solo travellers, offering breathtaking landscapes and a rich culture. The country feels safe, even for solo female travellers. Its mix of adventure, history, and nature makes it a dream destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Whether you’re trekking through canyons, riding horseback on high mountain plateaus, or strolling through vibrant city streets, Kazakhstan will surprise and inspire you at every turn. If you’re up for an adventure, don’t hesitate—Kazakhstan might just be your next favourite destination!