Astana & Burabay Lakes
Spend two days exploring the modern architecture of the steppe capital, then take a train to the pine forests, granite peaks, and lakes of Burabay.
Perfect for a short holiday starting and ending in Astana. The first two days focus on the landmarks of the Left Bank, museums, and the Expo site. On the third day, take a train north to stay in Borovoye Village, which gives you an extra half-day compared to a day trip to walk the forest trails and climb Bolektau for lake views. The pace is relaxed; the trade-off is skipping the ALZHIR Memorial on the outskirts of the city.
Winters are extremely cold; while the city is still visitable, hiking and boat trips in Burabay are mostly suspended.
Day by day
Day 1 · Left Bank & Nurzhol Boulevard
Astana（Ak Orda Presidential Palace、Baiterek Tower、Nurzhol Boulevard、Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center）
The drive from the airport to the Left Bank takes about 40 minutes. Walk along Nurzhol Boulevard to connect the landmarks.
Stay: Left Bank of Nurzhol Boulevard
Day 2 · Expo Site & National Museum
Astana（Nur Alem (EXPO 2017)、National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan、Independence Square & Kazakh Eli Monument、Palace of Peace and Reconciliation、Hazrat Sultan Mosque）
Take a taxi (about 15 minutes) to the Expo site. Transfer to the Independence Square area in the afternoon, walking between the museums.
Opening hours for Nur Alem can vary; check the official website before you go.
Stay: Left Bank of Nurzhol Boulevard
Day 3 · Head North to Burabay Lakes
Burabay (Borovoe)（Burabay Nature Museum、Lake Burabay (Borovoe)）
Take a train (2.5–3.5 hours) to the Burabay station area, then take a taxi to Borovoye Village. Walk along the lake in the afternoon.
The electric trains are relatively new; double-check the timetables and departure stations in advance.
Stay: Borovoe Village
Day 4 · Rock Formations, Woodlands & Return to the Capital
Burabay (Borovoe)（Abylai Khan Glade、Okzhetpes Rock、Zhumbaktas Rock、Bolektau Viewpoint） → Astana
Charter a car or hike through the forest in the morning, then take a train back to Astana in the afternoon (about 2.5–3.5 hours).
Cash is more widely accepted outside the village; it is recommended to have Kazakhstani Tenge ready.