With their secrets etched in every corner, the vast steppes of Kazakhstan recently opened up their arms to welcome an eclectic group of international media representatives and influencers. Organized by the Embassies of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of International Affairs of RK, in collaboration with Qazaq Geography and Qazaq National Parks, the week-long press tour aimed to showcase Kazakhstan's immense cultural-touristic potential.
The journey commenced in the futuristic city of Astana, where representatives from Kazakh Tourism and the Ministry of Culture and Sports of RK set the tone for the adventure ahead. The authentic taste of Kazakhstan's national cuisine, introduced by the revered scientist-ethnographer Aigerim Musakhazhinova at the Tary coffee shop, lingered on our taste buds, creating memories of rich flavors and warm hospitality.
Next on the itinerary was the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan: Turkestan. It was evident from the awe-struck expressions that the rich historical tapestry of Otyrar and Sapar cities and the magnificent mausoleums of Arystan-bab and Khodja Akhmed Yassawi deeply resonated with many.
The journey further took us to Almaty, a city with a harmonious blend of urban luxury and natural splendor. Qazaq National Parks and Qazaq Geography had something special in store for us. The freshly inaugurated visit centers in the Ile-Alatau, Charyn, and Altyn-Emel national parks - funded generously by kaspi.kz - were a testament to Kazakhstan's commitment to sustainable tourism.
A high-octane Saturday kicked off with the serene Altyn-Emel national park, where the majesty of The Singing Dunes left us in wonder. Though the dunes remained silent due to the recent rain, the sight of the rare saigas made up for it. The day was interspersed with the local flavors and warm hospitality of Ardak in the village of Bashy. And as the rain-painted group’s journey, the vibrant Aktau mountains stood as nature's canvas, taking everyone’s breath away.
Christian Grosse, the journalist from Germany, couldn't hide his fondness for Kazakhstan, expressing,
"Each visit is a new revelation"
For Meeser Garsia Padilia from Mexico, her maiden voyage to Central Asia was a marathon of journey with a duration of 40 hours. Dana-Gabriela Stefan from Belgium, armed with her camera, chronicled every moment, aiming to bring Kazakhstan's national parks to global screens via her documentary.
The final escapades in Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes culminated the journey.
"While Charyn reminds me of the canyons back home in Colorado, there's an indescribable aura here," shared Juliana Broste, a U.S. travel blogger.
As we bid goodbye to the lands of Kazakhstan, each of the group members carried a piece of this wondrous country in our hearts. Through soaring mountains, vast deserts, and historic cities, Kazakhstan unveiled its soul, promising that each visit would always be a unique tale waiting to be told.
