Almaty is a city that offers more than just good food; it’s a gateway to stunning natural landscapes, intriguing history, and rich culture. For lunch lovers, that means plenty of options that combine great meals with memorable experiences. We particularly like the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Lunch Included tour because it pairs a hearty meal with a day exploring some of Kazakhstan’s most iconic sights. Imagine enjoying traditional Kazakh dishes after walking through the colorful Charyn Canyon or kayaking around the crystal-clear waters of Kaindy Lake. It’s not just a lunch—it’s a full-day adventure that feeds your eyes and your stomach.
If culture is more your style, the Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm offers a lively taste of Kazakh traditions, from horse riding tricks to traditional music, topped off with a delicious local meal. Whether you want to appreciate natural beauty or dive into Kazakh culture, these tours promise authentic experiences paired with satisfying lunches. Read on to find the best fit for your appetite and curiosity.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of lunch experiences in Almaty that combine culinary delights with sightseeing or cultural activities. For outdoor lovers, the Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Lunch Included offers a full-day trip to stunning lakes and canyon landscapes. For those interested in Kazakh traditions, the Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm provides cultural performances and farm activities. If a more personalized experience appeals to you, the Private ethnic tour in Almaty combines museum visits, bird shows, and craft lessons. Lastly, the Lake Issyk Tour with trout farm and lunch offers scenic driving along the Silk Road with a fresh trout lunch. Next, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyon Lunch Included
Starting early, this 14-hour tour is perfect for travelers eager to see some of Kazakhstan’s most famous natural wonders. The day kicks off with a pick-up from Almaty at 5:00 am, so be prepared for an early start. First, you’ll visit the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Valley of the Castles,” where you’ll walk along the colorful, dramatic rock formations. The canyon’s towering walls and unusual formations make it a photographer’s paradise. Admission tickets are included, and the guide will point out the best angles for photos.
Next, the tour stops at Black Canyon in Charyn National Park, offering a quick chance to snap more stunning scenery. After a short drive, you’ll arrive in Saty village for your main highlight: Kaindy Lake. The lake’s sunken forest and turquoise waters are unforgettable. The car gets you close to the parking lot, and from there, you’ll walk about 2 km to the lake, with options to hire horses or taxis if you prefer not to walk.
The highlight lunch is in a local guesthouse, offering traditional Kazakh dishes—perfect fuel for the rest of the day. Afterward, you’ll head to Kolsai Lake, where reflection-perfect waters and mountain scenery await. The tour wraps up with a coffee stop and return to Almaty by around 10:00 pm.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for outdoors enthusiasts and photographers eager to see three iconic sites in one day, with a well-organized itinerary and comfortable transport.
2. Live show in Huns Gunny Ethno Village with lunch and Troat Farm
For a taste of Kazakh culture combined with authentic cuisine, this roughly 9-hour tour delivers a lively experience. The day begins with a scenic drive past Talgar Gorge, the Halyk Arena sports complex, and the mountains leading to Huns (Gunny) Ethno Village. Here, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Kazakh bread and drinks, setting the tone for the culture to follow.
The main event is a ceremonial show featuring Jigitovka, a spectacular horseback display of acrobatics and skill. You’ll see young riders perform tricks, demonstrating the horsemanship that is central to Kazakh life. The tour includes an opportunity to participate in activities like archery or traditional crafts, making it a fun and interactive day.
Later, you’ll visit the Troat trout farm, an idyllic spot where you can try your hand at fishing in a peaceful natural setting. The farm’s fresh fish and tranquil surroundings make for a memorable lunch. This tour is perfect for families or anyone seeking a lively cultural experience with good food in a relaxed environment.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Kazakh traditions, horsemanship, and rural scenery, this tour offers an engaging and tasty day out.
$99.00 per person
3. Private ethnic tour in Almaty (including lunch)
This 8-hour private tour offers a more personalized look at Almaty’s cultural and historical highlights. It begins with a visit to the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, where you’ll learn about the country’s history and ethnicity through exhibits and artifacts. Admission is included, and the guide will tailor the commentary to your interests.
Next, the tour visits Falcon Farm Sunkar, home to rare and endangered birds. The farm is the only one of its kind in Kazakhstan, and you’ll get to see falcons, eagles, and other raptors up close—an exciting experience for bird lovers. The guide will explain the importance of these birds in Kazakh culture and their conservation.
The journey continues to Qazaq-Oner, a craft center where you can try making felt products, a traditional nomadic craft. The hands-on workshop provides a tangible connection to Kazakh artisanship. Finally, the tour visits the D.A. Kunayev Museum, dedicated to one of Kazakhstan’s most influential politicians, offering insight into recent history.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an in-depth cultural experience with the comfort of a private guide. It balances history, craft, and nature, making it a full but relaxed day.
Bottom line: Ideal for cultural explorers seeking a personalized, well-rounded introduction to Kazakh heritage.
4. Lake Issyk Tour with the exclusive trout farm and lunch
This 5-hour scenic drive along the historic Silk Road is perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for beautiful views and good food. The trip begins with a drive through Almaty’s city center toward Al Farabi Kazakh National University, then continues into the countryside with views of the Tian Shan mountains.
The highlight is a stop at the Almaty State Nature Reserve, home to the Golden Man artifacts and ancient Turkic burial mounts. Here, you’ll learn about Kazakhstan’s early nomadic civilizations. It’s a short, informative stop with opportunities to take photos of the sweeping mountain vistas.
Next, you’ll visit Lake Issyk, a tranquil mountain lake where you can enjoy the scenery and possibly a quick walk along the shoreline. The main treat is the exclusive trout farm, where you can try freshly caught fish prepared on-site. The farm’s natural setting makes for a peaceful break from city life.
This tour offers a good blend of history, nature, and culinary delights, especially if you’re interested in trying local fish and experiencing a bit of Kazakhstan’s Silk Road past.
Bottom line: Great for travelers short on time who want a scenic drive with a tasty trout lunch and some cultural context.
$122.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting your lunch adventure in Almaty, consider your main interests: Do you want stunning outdoor landscapes? The Kolsai Kaindy Lakes tour is perfect. Looking for a cultural experience? The ethnic tour offers a deep dive into Kazakh traditions. If your time is limited but you want beautiful scenery and good food, the Lake Issyk trip is a solid choice. For a more interactive cultural show combined with farm activities, the Huns Gunny Ethno Village is ideal.
Think about your budget, preferred pace, and whether you’re more interested in nature, history, or cultural performances. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular full-day trips or private tours.
Final Thoughts
Almaty offers a surprising variety of lunch experiences that go beyond simple meals. Whether you want to see dramatic landscapes, learn about Kazakh traditions, or enjoy a scenic drive with fresh fish, these tours have something for all. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon is hard to beat. Culture lovers will appreciate the ethnic tour, which provides a rich, personalized perspective.
Remember, early booking helps secure the best spots, especially for guided, full-day adventures. Whatever your interests, Almaty’s diverse lunch experiences promise memorable moments—so pick your tour, pack your camera, and enjoy every bite and view.