Ust-Kamenogorsk: 5-Day Katon & Altai Tour with Meals

Summer Kazakh Culture and Nature Tour in East Kazakhstan

This 5-day guided tour from Ust-Kamenogorsk to Katon suits travelers interested in Kazakh cuisine, nomadic heritage, and mountain landscapes.

Highlights

• Savor modern Kazakh cuisine and European dishes during gourmet dinners
• Explore the Berel Burial Mounds, a key monument of nomadic culture
• Enjoy a river cruise along the Irtysh River to its confluence
• Visit the Museum of History and Local Lore featuring the Saka exhibition
• Stay in authentic village houses and a cozy guesthouse in Katon

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Ust-Kamenogorsk – Culture and River Cruise
Arrive in Ust-Kamenogorsk and check into your hotel. Visit the Museum of History and Local Lore to see the “Gold of the Saka and Turkic Nomads” exhibition. Take a river cruise along the Irtysh River to the confluence of two rivers. End the day with a specially crafted gastro dinner featuring modern Kazakh cuisine.

Day 2: Transfer to Katon and Village Life
Enjoy breakfast at La Festa restaurant before transferring six hours to Katon through mountain serpentines and riversides. Arrive at Korobiha village, central to Russian Old Believers in the region. Stay in authentic village houses, visit the Old Believers school museum, and explore local honey production. Optionally, unwind in a traditional black-style banya. Dinner includes Katon-style tea, homemade jam, and natural honey.

Day 3: Yasnaya Polyana and Mountain Pass
Sample Katon kumys on the way to the guesthouse “Yasnaya Polyana,” a well-known base in Katon. Meet the owners who relocated from Almaty. Experience handcrafted works inspired by Altai shamanism and an Altai tea ceremony with mountain views. Hike to Burkhat Pass (2100 m), a prime viewpoint, and learn about the Old Austrian Road engineering project. Return to Yasnaya Polyana for rest.

Day 4: Berel Burial Mounds and Return to Ust-Kamenogorsk
After breakfast, visit the Berel Burial Mounds archaeological site. Optionally take a horseback route (additional cost and upon request). Enjoy a farewell lunch at Yasnaya Polyana. Depart back to Ust-Kamenogorsk and check into the SEVEN boutique hotel or apartments. Evening includes a European-style gastro dinner.

Day 5: Farewell
Have breakfast at the hotel and take farewell photos before checking out in the first half of the day.

What is Included

• Transportation between Ust-Kamenogorsk and Katon
• Accommodation in hotels and guesthouses
• Meals including gastro dinners and themed lunches
• Museum entrance fees
• Excursion support and guide services throughout the tour

What is Excluded

• Travel insurance
• Flights to and from Ust-Kamenogorsk

Important Information

• This remote mountain region has limited infrastructure and occasional lack of mobile signal. Comfort is secondary to authentic experience.
• We recommend packing:
  • High-quality hiking boots with ankle support
  • Layered clothing (thermal base layer, fleece or sweater, waterproof jacket)
  • Hat or cap and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (UV exposure is stronger at altitude)
  • Small backpack for day trips
  • Personal medication
  • Power bank (electricity supply may be limited)
• A detailed packing list will be provided before departure.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance, bring suitable clothing for mountain weather, and prepare for limited connectivity during the trip.