Journey to the Soul of Eastern Kazakhstan │ Visit Eagle Huner, Shaman and Katon Karagay

Journey to the Soul of Eastern Kazakhstan: Encounter with an Eagle Hunter and a Shaman

Embark on a 7-day immersive tour into the heart of Eastern Kazakhstan, where tradition and nature intertwine. Discover Ust-Kamenogorsk's historical landmarks, from the majestic "Kazakhstan" mountain to its spiritual centers. Journey through breathtaking landscapes to Rahmanov Springs, explore ancient burial mounds, marvel at the Mars-like Kiin-Kerish formations, and experience the rich culture through encounters with a traditional eagle hunter and a shaman. This tour offers a unique blend of exploration, cultural immersion, and natural wonders.

Itinerary

Day 1: Walking tour of Ust-Kamenogorsk. Visit local attractions

▸Visit the “Kazakhstan” mountain, the highest point in the city, where you can see the entire Ust-Kamenogorsk
▸Visit the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Monastery, the oldest church in Kazakhstan
▸Visit the Main Mosque of Eastern Kazakhstan
▸Visit the hydroelectric power station, one of the largest in Kazakhstan
▸Walk through the ethno-park, where you can see the homes and traditions of the peoples of Kazakhstan
▸Stroll along the Irtysh Embankment, visit the “Arrow”, where two rivers – Irtysh and Ulba – intersect
▸In the evening, I will take you to the hotel.

Day 2: Trip to Rahmanov Springs (470 km, 8 hours of driving)

▸Along the way, we will enjoy the scenic views of the Katon-Karagay Nature Park. We will make stops and get out to appreciate the nature.
Depart by car to the Rahmanov Springs Nature Reserve, where you can admire beautiful mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes.
▸Arrive and settle in a guesthouse, then take a walk to explore the attractions.
▸Dinner
▸Overnight stay in guest house

Day 3: Exploring Rahmanov Lake

▸Breakfast
▸We will explore the Rahmanov Springs.
▸Enjoy bathing in natural hot springs.
▸Take a boat ride on the lake and see the highest point in Kazakhstan, Mount Belukha.
▸Experience a traditional Maral blood therapy in a sauna.
▸Enjoy a cup of ponkatarin (traditional Kazakh tea).
▸Nature walk
▸Overnight stay in guest house

Day 4: Visit the Berel burial mound and the Golden Tree Museum (51 km, 1.5 hours drive)

▸Travel by car to the Berel Valley, where one of the most significant archaeological sites in Kazakhstan is located – the Berel burial mound, which is the tomb of a Saka king. Here you can see original Saka and Turkic finds and visit the Golden Tree Museum.
▸Visit the burial place of the Saka Kings
▸Visit the national museum, where you can learn about the culture and history of the Saka and Turkic period in this region
▸In the evening we’ll drive back to the city. I’ll take you to the hote

Day 5: Visit Kiin Kerish (310 km, 5 hours drive) one of the most unique geological formations in Eastern Kazakhstan

▸Kiin-Kerish is a remarkable creation of nature, known for its colorful rock formations. It feels as if you are on Mars, surrounded by a vibrant red ground. The area features canyons and many other fascinating sights
▸Here you can enjoy the most beautiful landscapes
▸Visit the Shekelmes tract
▸Visit Lake Zaysan
▸In the evening, we’ll either drive back home to the city or stay at a local hotel, according to your preference

Day 6: Meeting with a hunter with Golden eagles

In the morning, we will go to the hunter’s house with the golden eagle. He will show us his eagle, how he feeds and trains it.
Since golden eagles are not suitable for hunting during this time of year, he will simply demonstrate how he can hold the golden eagle on his arm and perhaps ride on horseback in the mountains.
We’ll have lunch at his home, inside a yurt, with traditional dishes. He will sing traditional songs on a traditional instrument. We can take photos with them dressed in traditional clothing.
In the evening, I will take you back to the hotel.

Day 7: Trip to the home of a practicing Shaman and throat singing performer. (200km, 2.5 hour)

▸We will head to the neighboring city, taking a good road.
▸We will visit his home; he has a special tent in a shamanic style where he sometimes stays.
▸We will listen to how he sings and learn about his beliefs and traditions; he still practices shamanism.
▸We can stay overnight in his tent or go back to the hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.