
Borovoe and Maral Farm in a day
Tour to Borovoye from Almaty starting in Astana: in one day you will see the pearl of Kazakhstan. Visit a deer farm, relax on the beach and enjoy mountain views. The day's programme is included in the price.
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Choose by direction, duration, and season — the price is per person

Tour to Borovoye from Almaty starting in Astana: in one day you will see the pearl of Kazakhstan. Visit a deer farm, relax on the beach and enjoy mountain views. The day's programme is included in the price.

Tour to Burabay from Almaty starting in Astana: a one-day trip to Burabay National Park — picturesque landscapes of Northern Kazakhstan, ancient history, an eco-trail, a museum and a boat ride on the lake. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
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TransferLocal guides, fixed price per person, and care on every route. — everything for a relaxing vacation.
The price includes the transfer from Astana and back, a guide, lunch and the entrance tickets in the programme. You arrange your own way to Astana.
Departure from Astana early in the morning, return in the evening — everything on schedule.
Lunch is included in both tours, and the Burabay tour also includes a boat ride on the lake.
How it works
Message us on WhatsApp. The manager will clarify the date, number of people, and route preferences.

We will suggest the right option: the tour with the maral farm and the beach, or the national park tour with the museum and a boat ride.

The day before departure, we will remind you of the meeting time and place, and provide a list of items to bring.

At 06:00 you board a comfortable bus in Astana; the drive to Borovoe takes 3–4 hours.

Visit lakes, rocks, lunch at a national cuisine cafe, free time for photos.

Arrival in the city in the evening, drop-off at a convenient location.

Team
Routes are led by working guides and instructors. The same people answer in WhatsApp and accompany groups on tour.
★4.9Aidos Serikov
Senior guide, mountain routes
★5Dinara Kassymova
Guide-lecturer in Almaty
★4.8Marat Zhunussov
Trekking instructor
★4.9Oleg Kim
Driver-guide, jeep tours
★4.8Zhanna Abenova
Tour manager
★4.9Timur Beketov
Multi-day tour guide
★5Aliya Nurlan
Group coordinator
★4.8Sergey Volkov
Instructor, ski tours
Useful
Borovoe, known in Kazakh as Burabay, is a national park and resort area in the Akmola region of northern Kazakhstan, roughly 250 kilometres north of Astana and about 1,450 kilometres from Almaty by road. The name "Borovoe" comes from the Russian word for pine forest, and the landscape here is a rare mix of pine woods, granite hills, and more than a dozen lakes. The highest point of the area, Mount Kokshetau, reaches 947 metres above sea level, while the main lake, Lake Borovoe, sits at 320 metres. The climate is sharply continental: winters are long and cold, with temperatures dropping below minus 30 degrees Celsius, and summers are short but warm, with July averages around plus 20 degrees. This is why most visitors come between June and September, when the lakes are warm enough for swimming and the trails are dry.
Our section offers two one-day group tours to this region. The first is "Borovoe and the Maral Farm in One Day", a 14-hour bus trip priced at $62 per person. The second is "Burabay: Nature and History in One Day", a 16-hour bus tour priced at $71 per person. Both depart from Astana and are designed for travellers who want to see the main highlights of the park without spending a night in the area. Dates for both tours are confirmed on request, so you can plan around your own schedule. Below we describe what you can expect from the place itself, how to prepare, and how the two routes differ.
It is worth understanding from the start that Borovoe is not a single lake but a whole cluster of them, scattered among low granite hills. The park covers about 83,500 hectares, and its territory includes steppe, forest, and wetland ecosystems. The combination of clean air, pine scent, and calm water has made this area a favourite holiday spot for generations of Kazakhstanis. For visitors from Almaty, it is a chance to see a completely different part of the country: greener, cooler, and much more forested than the semi-desert around the former capital.
Borovoe lies in the Akmola region, close to the town of Shchuchinsk. The nearest major city is Astana, about 250 kilometres to the south, and the drive from Astana takes around three hours on a good road. From Almaty, the distance is roughly 1,450 kilometres by road, so visitors from Almaty make their own way to Astana first — by plane (about 1 hour 40 minutes) or by train — and join the tour there; as both tours leave at 06:00, it is best to arrive the day before. The park is easily accessible by paved roads, and the main entrance is near the village of Burabay. If you are travelling independently, you can reach Shchuchinsk by train or bus from Astana, and then take a local taxi to the park. However, our tours are organised as group departures from Astana, with transport to the park and back provided as part of the route.
The territory of the park is compact enough to explore in a day, but the distances between the main sights still add up. Lake Borovoe, Lake Bolshoye Chebachye, and Lake Maloye Chebachye are the three most visited. The road that circles the main lakes is about 20 kilometres long, and it offers constant views of water and pine forest. Mount Kokshetau, the highest point, stands separately and requires a short but steep walk to the top. The natural boundary of the park is formed by low ridges and steppe, which means the microclimate inside the forest is noticeably milder than outside.
Because the park is a protected area, there are rules about where you can walk, swim, and light fires. Camping is allowed only in designated spots, and you should not leave marked trails in the forest. The lakes are clean, but swimming is officially permitted only in certain areas, usually near the beaches. In summer, the water temperature in the shallow lakes can reach plus 22 degrees, while the deeper ones stay cooler. In winter, the lakes freeze solid, and the park becomes a destination for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Our day tours run in the warm season, when the roads are clear and the outdoor activities are most comfortable.
The main feature of Burabay is the combination of forest and water in the middle of the steppe. Pine trees here grow on granite rocks, which is unusual for northern Kazakhstan, and the air is filled with the smell of resin. The lakes are not just scenic; they are also home to fish such as perch, pike, and carp, which makes the area popular with anglers. The park is also rich in wildlife: roe deer, wild boar, foxes, and hares are common, and birdwatchers can spot ducks, herons, and even swans on the lakes. The name "Burabay" is linked to a local legend about a white camel (bura).
Another highlight is the granite rock formations, which have been shaped by wind and water over millions of years. Some of them have names and legends attached, such as the Rock of the Elephant and the Rock of the Girl. These are not official names but local nicknames, and they are easy to find on the main trails. The park also has several observation points that offer panoramic views of the lakes and the surrounding hills. On a clear day, you can see for tens of kilometres, and the contrast between blue water and green forest is striking. For photographers, the best light is in the early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is low and the colours are saturated.
The cultural history of the area is also worth mentioning. Burabay has been a sacred place for local peoples for centuries, and some rocks and springs are considered healing. In the 19th century, the area became a resort for Russian officials and merchants, and the first sanatoriums were built here. Today, the park is a popular weekend destination for residents of Astana, and in summer the beaches can get crowded. If you prefer quiet, it is better to visit on weekdays or in early June, before the main holiday season starts. Our tours are group departures, so the exact timing depends on the group, but we always aim to avoid the busiest hours at the main sights.
The best time to visit Borovoe is from late May to early September. June is usually the wettest month, with occasional thunderstorms, but the greenery is at its peak. July and August are the warmest, with daytime temperatures between plus 25 and plus 30 degrees, and the lakes warm up enough for swimming. September brings cooler nights and fewer people, but the water starts to cool down. Winter is a completely different experience: the lakes freeze, the forest is covered in snow, and the park is quiet. However, our day tours are designed for the warm season, when the roads are open and the outdoor activities are comfortable. If you are interested in a winter visit, you should check the conditions separately.
Weather in the park can change quickly because of the hills and water. A sunny morning can turn into a windy afternoon, and rain is possible even in July. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, sometimes up to 15 degrees. That is why we recommend bringing a windproof jacket and a warm layer, even in summer. The sun can be strong, so sunscreen and a hat are essential. In spring and autumn, the trails can be muddy, so waterproof shoes are a good idea. If you are planning to swim, bring a towel and a change of clothes, as the beaches have no changing facilities in some areas.
| Month | Average daytime temperature | Water temperature in lakes | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | plus 15–20 °C | plus 8–12 °C | Cool, occasional rain, trails may be muddy |
| June | plus 20–25 °C | plus 15–18 °C | Warm, green, frequent short rains |
| July | plus 25–30 °C | plus 20–22 °C | Hot, sunny, best for swimming |
| August | plus 24–28 °C | plus 20–22 °C | Warm, dry, peak season |
| September | plus 15–20 °C | plus 15–18 °C | Cooler, fewer people, golden autumn |
Both of our tours start early in the morning from the centre of Astana, and the drive to the park takes about three to four hours each way. The route goes through the steppe and small towns, and the landscape changes gradually from open steppe to forest-steppe. You will see vast fields, grazing horses, and occasional lakes. The whole day lasts about 14 hours for the first tour and 16 hours for the second, including stops, and most of that time is spent in the park itself. The first tour is back in Astana at around 20:00; the second stays longer in the park, adds a museum and a boat ride, and returns at around 22:00.
Once you arrive in Borovoe, the first thing you notice is the freshness of the air and the smell of pine. The park is well-maintained, with paved paths around the main lake and several cafes and shops near the entrance. The main beach on Lake Borovoe is sandy and shallow, which makes it safe for swimming. There are also boat rentals and small piers where you can take a short ride. For those who prefer walking, there are trails leading to the top of Mount Kokshetau and to the observation decks. The trails are marked, but some sections are steep and rocky, so good shoes are necessary. In total, you can easily walk 5 to 10 kilometres during the day, depending on your pace.
Lake Borovoe is the most famous. It covers about 10 square kilometres and has a maximum depth of 7 metres. The water is clean and slightly mineralised, and the bottom is sandy in the shallows. On the northern shore, there is a large beach area with umbrellas and sun loungers, which can get crowded on weekends. Lake Bolshoye Chebachye is the largest and is known for its clear water and rocky shores. It is less developed, with fewer facilities, but it offers a quieter atmosphere. Lake Maloye Chebachye is smaller and shallower, and it warms up faster in summer, making it a good spot for families with children. All three lakes are connected by a road, and you can easily visit them in one day.
Other notable lakes include Lake Shchuchye, which is located near the town of Shchuchinsk, and Lake Kotyrkol, which is known for its healing mud. These are slightly off the main tourist route, but they are worth a visit if you have extra time. The lakes are home to a variety of fish, and fishing is allowed with a permit in certain areas. The park administration issues permits, and the rules are strictly enforced. If you are interested in fishing, you should arrange it in advance. Our tours do not include fishing, but you can ask your guide for advice on where to go if you have free time.
The lakes are also important for migratory birds. In spring and autumn, you can see flocks of ducks, geese, and swans resting on the water. The park is part of a larger wetland system, and birdwatching is a popular activity. The best spots for birdwatching are the quieter lakes and the marshes around them. You will need binoculars and patience, as the birds are easily scared. Early morning is the best time, before the boats and swimmers appear. If you are a nature photographer, the reflections of the pine trees in the calm water are a classic shot, especially at sunrise.
Mount Kokshetau is the highest point in the park, at 947 metres. It is not a difficult climb, but the trail is steep in places and takes about 40 minutes to an hour to reach the top. From the summit, you get a panoramic view of the entire lake district, with the blue lakes surrounded by green forest. On a clear day, you can see the steppe stretching to the horizon. The trail starts near the village of Burabay and is well marked. There are a few benches along the way where you can rest. The descent takes about 30 minutes, but you should be careful on the loose stones.
Another popular viewpoint is the Rock of the Elephant, a natural granite formation that resembles an elephant. It is located near the shore of Lake Borovoe and is easy to reach on foot. The rock is about 10 metres high, and you can climb on it for a better view. Nearby, there is the Rock of the Girl, which is associated with a local legend. These rocks are not official monuments, but they are popular photo spots. The area around them is shaded by pine trees, so it is a pleasant place to rest. There are also several observation decks along the road that circles the lake, each offering a different perspective.
For those who want a longer walk, there is a trail that goes around Lake Borovoe. The full circle is about 15 kilometres and takes 4 to 5 hours at a relaxed pace. The trail passes through forest and along the shore, with several beaches and picnic spots. It is mostly flat, with a few small hills. This is a good option if you want to escape the crowds and see the lake from different angles. However, you should carry water and snacks, as there are few shops along the way. In summer, the trail can be hot, so start early. Our tours usually include a shorter walk, but you can always ask the guide for more time if the group agrees.
The park is home to a variety of animals, although most of them are shy and avoid people. Roe deer are common in the forest, and you might see them grazing at dawn or dusk. Wild boars are also present, but they are more active at night. Foxes and hares can be seen in the meadows. The park also has a population of squirrels, which are used to tourists and can be quite bold. Birdlife is rich: woodpeckers, owls, and birds of prey such as kites and hawks are often spotted. On the lakes, you can see ducks, grebes, and sometimes swans. If you are lucky, you might even see a muskrat or a beaver near the water.
Because the park is a protected area, feeding animals is prohibited. You should also keep your distance and not try to touch them. The best way to observe wildlife is to walk quietly and slowly, especially in the early morning. Binoculars are very useful. If you are interested in a guided nature walk, you can ask your guide, but this is not a separate service. The park administration also organises educational tours, but they are usually in Russian or Kazakh. Our tours are conducted in Russian, and the guide will point out interesting plants and animals along the way. The flora includes rare species of orchids and ferns, which are protected.
The park's ecosystem is fragile, and visitors are asked to follow the rules: stay on trails, take your trash with you, and do not pick flowers or disturb nests. In dry periods, lighting fires is strictly forbidden. These rules are enforced by rangers, and fines can be issued. It is also important to remember that the park is a national treasure, and preserving it is everyone's responsibility. By following the rules, you help keep Borovoe beautiful for future generations. Our guides will remind you of the main rules at the start of the tour, but it is good to know them in advance.
We offer two one-day tours to Borovoe, and they differ in duration, programme, and price. The first, "Borovoe and the Maral Farm in One Day", lasts 14 hours and is priced at $62 per person. It is a group tour by bus, and it includes a visit to a maral farm, where you can see these deer-like animals and learn about their breeding. The second, "Burabay: Nature and History in One Day", lasts 16 hours and is priced at $71 per person. It is also a group tour by bus, and it focuses on the national park, its landscapes, and its history. Both tours start from Astana and return the same day. The choice depends on your interests and budget.
The maral farm is a unique attraction. Marals are a species of deer that are farmed for their antlers, which are used in traditional medicine. At the farm, you can see the animals up close, feed them, and take photos. The farm is usually located near the park, and the visit takes about an hour. This tour is ideal for families with children and for those who want a mix of nature and animal interaction. The bus is comfortable for long distances. The tour is designed to be affordable and accessible, which is reflected in the price.
The second tour costs a little more because its price also covers a boat ride on Lake Burabay and a visit to the park museum. The focus is on the national park itself: its lakes, mountains, and historical sites. The guide will tell you about the geology, flora, and fauna, as well as the legends and history of the area. This tour is better for those who want a deeper understanding of the park. The duration is 16 hours, from the 06:00 departure to an approximate 22:00 return, so it is the longer of the two days, but the pace stays unhurried. You will still have time to walk, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
The 14-hour tour starts very early, often before dawn, to make the most of the day. The drive from Astana to Borovoe takes about three to four hours each way. The group can be large, so you should be prepared for waiting at some stops. The 16-hour tour also leaves at 06:00 by comfortable bus; it leaves the park at 18:00 and is back in Astana at about 22:00, so plan a late dinner and an easy next morning.
Both tours are group tours, meaning you will be with other travellers, and both run on a comfortable bus. The group size for both tours is confirmed at booking. If you prefer a private tour, you can contact us to discuss options, but the prices listed are for group departures. The choice affects the price: the Burabay tour costs a little more ($71 against $62), because it adds a boat ride and a museum visit. You should consider how long a day you are ready for and which programme interests you more.
In terms of itinerary, both tours cover the main highlights: Lake Borovoe, Mount Kokshetau, and the viewpoints. The first tour adds the maral farm, while the Burabay tour adds the eco-trail to Mount Kokshe, the park museum and a boat ride on Lake Burabay. The exact route can vary depending on weather and road conditions. The guide will adjust the schedule to ensure you see as much as possible. If you have specific interests, such as photography or birdwatching, you can inform us in advance, and we will try to accommodate them within the group format. However, we cannot guarantee personalised stops for everyone.
The price for the first tour is $62 per person, and for the second, $71 per person. These prices are for the tour as described, and they are the only prices we publish. Lunch is included in both tours. Everything else, such as extra drinks, personal expenses and any additional activities, is paid separately, and the cost is announced at the time of booking. The first tour includes the maral farm tickets, but any extras at the farm are not included. For the second tour, entry to the national park, lunch and the boat ride are already included in the price. We recommend carrying some cash for small purchases.
It is important to understand that the price reflects the transport, the guide services, and the organisation of the route. The maral farm tour is cheaper because the cost is shared among more people. The Burabay tour costs a little more because it includes the national park entry, a boat ride and a museum visit. Neither tour includes accommodation, as they are day trips. They also do not include travel to the starting point in Astana; you need to make your own way there. The meeting point will be provided at the time of booking. We do not offer discounts or special offers, and the price is fixed. Payment is made in tenge on the day of the trip — via Kaspi, by card or in cash.
| Feature | Borovoe and the Maral Farm in One Day | Burabay: Nature and History in One Day |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 14 hours | 16 hours |
| Price per person | $62 | $71 |
| Transport | Bus | Bus |
| Group size | Group, size confirmed at booking | Group, size confirmed at booking |
| Main focus | Borovoe highlights and maral farm | National park nature and history |
| Dates | On request | On request |
Preparation for a day trip to Borovoe is straightforward, but you should keep a few things in mind. The most important is comfortable clothing and shoes. You will be walking on uneven terrain, so sneakers or hiking boots are better than sandals. The weather can change, so layering is key: a T-shirt, a fleece, and a windproof jacket will cover most situations. In summer, a hat and sunglasses are essential, as the sun can be strong. If you plan to swim, bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes. A small backpack is more practical than a large bag, as you will carry it with you during the walks.
Food and water are also important. Lunch is included in both tours, but bring your own snacks and at least 1.5 litres of water per person. There are cafes near the main beach, but they can be crowded and more expensive. If you have dietary restrictions, it is better to bring your own food. We also recommend bringing a power bank for your phone, as there are limited charging points. A camera is a must, but remember that drones are not allowed in the national park without a permit. If you take medication, bring enough for the day. A basic first-aid kit with plasters, painkillers, and personal medicines is a good idea.
It is also wise to check the weather forecast before you go. If rain is expected, bring a raincoat or an umbrella. In July and August, the park can be hot, so light, breathable clothing is best. In May and September, it can be cool, so a warm jacket is necessary. The trails can be slippery after rain, so tread carefully. If you have knee problems, trekking poles can be helpful. Remember that you will spend a lot of time in the vehicle, so a neck pillow and entertainment (book, music) can make the journey more pleasant. The bus has air conditioning, but the temperature can vary, so a light blanket or scarf is useful.
No special preparation is needed: it suits people of ordinary fitness and children; you just need comfortable shoes. On the Burabay tour the walking part is an easy eco-trail, the park museum and a boat ride on the lake; on the maral farm tour there are a short, unhurried climb to the Bolektau viewpoint and a walk to Zhumbaktas rock. Between the stops the group travels by bus. If you have serious heart conditions or mobility issues, keep in mind that the terrain on the trails is uneven. If you have any concerns, you should consult your doctor before booking. Age and weight restrictions, if any, are confirmed at the time of booking.
The tours are popular with families, couples, and solo travellers. Children are welcome, but they should be supervised, especially near the water. The maral farm tour is more suitable for families because it is cheaper, shorter and includes time on the beach. The Burabay tour is better for those who want more time in the national park and are willing to pay a little more for the museum and the boat ride. If you are travelling with elderly relatives, the walking on the Burabay tour is unhurried, but the day is long. Both tours involve an early start and a late return: the total time from departure to return is 14 or 16 hours, depending on the tour.
For those who enjoy photography, the tours offer many opportunities. The light is best in the morning and late afternoon, so the maral farm tour, which arrives earlier, might have an advantage. The Burabay tour stays in the park until 18:00, so you catch the softer evening light on the lake. If you have specific photographic interests, you can discuss them with the guide. However, the schedule is fixed, and you cannot extend the tour beyond the stated duration. If you want more time, you would need to book a private tour, which we can arrange on request. The prices for private tours are different and are provided at the time of booking.
Borovoe is a safe place, but you should follow basic precautions. Do not swim in areas where it is not allowed, and do not dive in shallow water. The lakes have sudden drop-offs in some places, so check the depth before entering. If you are not a strong swimmer, use a life jacket. When walking in the forest, stay on the trails and do not approach wild animals. Ticks are present in spring and early summer, so use repellent and check yourself after the walk. In dry weather, the fire hazard is high, so do not light fires or smoke in the forest. The park rangers can issue fines for violations, so it is better to comply.
It is also important to respect the local culture and environment. Do not litter, and take your trash with you. Do not pick flowers or disturb the rocks. The park is a national treasure, and preserving it is everyone's responsibility. If you see someone breaking the rules, you can inform a ranger. The guides will remind you of the main rules at the start of the tour. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. They are there to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember that the park is a protected area, and some activities, such as fishing and hunting, require special permits. We do not organise these activities, but we can provide general information.
While the main lakes and Mount Kokshetau are the highlights, the surrounding area has more to offer. The town of Shchuchinsk, about 20 kilometres from the park, is known for its sanatoriums and mineral springs. The town of Kokshetau, the regional capital, is about 70 kilometres away and has museums and theatres. If you have extra time, you could explore these places, but our day tours do not include them. The park itself has several smaller lakes and hidden corners that are less visited. For example, Lake Kotyrkol is known for its mud, which is believed to have healing properties. Lake Shchuchye is popular for fishing. These are not part of the standard itinerary, but you can ask your guide for directions if you want to visit them on your own.
The region is also known for its hunting and fishing opportunities. The forests and lakes are home to roe deer and various fish species. Hunting is regulated and requires a license, which is issued by the local authorities. Fishing is allowed with a permit in certain areas. If you are interested in these activities, you should arrange them separately, as they are not included in our tours. The park administration can provide more information on the rules and seasons. Keep in mind that hunting and fishing are seasonal and subject to strict quotas. The best time for fishing is early summer and autumn, while hunting seasons vary by species.
For those who want to extend their stay, there are guesthouses and hotels in the villages around the park. They range from simple rooms to comfortable cottages. Prices vary, and you should book in advance during the high season. Our tours are day trips, so we do not arrange accommodation. If you need recommendations, we can suggest some options, but we do not book them. The park also has designated camping areas, but you need to bring your own equipment and pay a fee. Camping is a good option for those who want to experience the park at sunrise and sunset, when the light is best and the crowds are gone.
If you are travelling from Almaty, you might want to combine a trip to Borovoe with other destinations in northern Kazakhstan. Astana, the capital, is only 250 kilometres away and has many attractions, including the Bayterek Tower and the National Museum. You could spend a day in Astana before or after the tour. Another option is to visit the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, which is known for its flamingos and other waterbirds. It is about 120 kilometres from Astana. These combinations require more time and planning, but they can make your trip more diverse. Our tours are focused on Borovoe, so we do not include these places, but we can provide general advice.
For nature lovers, the region offers several other lakes and forests. Lake Zerenda, about 100 kilometres from Borovoe, is another beautiful spot with clear water and pine forests. It is less developed and more tranquil. Lake Imantau, further north, is known for its healing mud and clean air. These places are not as easily accessible by public transport, so a car is recommended. If you have your own vehicle, you can explore them on your own. Alternatively, you can join a tour from Astana. Our tours do not cover these lakes, but they are worth considering if you have more time.
It is also possible to visit Borovoe in winter, when the lakes freeze and the park becomes a winter wonderland. However, our tours are not designed for winter conditions, and the roads can be icy. If you are interested in a winter visit, you should check the conditions and dress warmly. The park offers ice skating, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing in winter. Some sanatoriums remain open year-round. The experience is completely different from summer, and it can be magical if you are prepared for the cold. But again, our day tours are for the warm season, so you would need to make separate arrangements.
Booking a tour is simple. You contact us, choose the date, and confirm the number of people. Dates are on request, so you can suggest a date and we will check availability. The price is per person and is paid in tenge. We will provide the meeting point and time. You should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. The guide will give you a brief introduction and answer any questions. The tour then begins. The itinerary may change due to weather or other factors, but we will always try to cover the main sights. If you have any special requests, such as dietary needs or mobility issues, let us know in advance so we can advise you.
After booking, you will receive a confirmation with all the details. You do not need to print anything; just have your ID with you. The guide will have a list of participants. If you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible. We do not charge cancellation fees, but we appreciate early notice so we can offer your spot to someone else. The tours run in all weather conditions unless it is unsafe. If we cancel due to weather, we will inform you and offer an alternative date; if it does not suit you, you pay nothing. We do not offer compensation for inconvenience. Our goal is to provide a reliable and enjoyable experience.
We recommend booking at least a few days in advance, especially in July and August, when the tours fill up quickly. For the Burabay tour, early booking is recommended, as seats on the bus are limited. If you are a solo traveller, you can join a group and share the experience with others. The group atmosphere is friendly and informal. You will have time to socialise during the drive and the walks. Many people make new friends on these tours. If you prefer to be alone, you can still enjoy the scenery and the guide's commentary. The choice is yours.
Both tours offer a full day in one of Kazakhstan's most beautiful natural areas. The maral farm tour is affordable and includes the farm, making it a great choice for families and budget-conscious travellers. The Burabay tour costs a little more but offers a longer, more in-depth day in the national park. Your choice should depend on your interests, budget, and how long a day you are ready for. If you love animals and want a fun, social trip, the maral farm tour is for you. If you are a nature enthusiast who wants to learn more about the park, the Burabay tour is better. Either way, you will see the best of Borovoe in one day.
Remember that Borovoe is a place of stunning contrasts: pine forests and granite rocks, calm lakes and rolling steppe. It is a place to breathe fresh air, swim in clean water, and walk among ancient hills. The park is easily accessible and well-maintained, making it suitable for most travellers. With a bit of preparation, you can have a memorable day. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you choose the right tour and make your visit to Borovoe enjoyable and hassle-free.
In conclusion, Borovoe (Burabay) is a must-see destination in Kazakhstan. Whether you choose the 14-hour tour with the maral farm or the 16-hour tour focused on nature and history, you will experience the beauty of the national park. The prices are $62 and $71 per person respectively, and dates are on request. Everything else is paid separately, and the cost is announced at the time of booking. We look forward to showing you this remarkable place.
Reviews
The Borovoe tour is simply a fairy tale! Great organisation, Zhanna helped us choose the programme. Turquoise lakes, ancient pines — your soul rests. We left on time, no delays.
I liked everything, only the road was a bit bumpy. But the views are incredible! The guide told us a lot of interesting things. I recommend it.
The nature is amazing! The lakes are sky-blue, the pines are old. Thanks to the guide, the trip went very well.
A good tour, but we waited about 40 minutes for the boat at the pier. Otherwise it was great. The guide led us along the eco-trail and knows every tree.
We went with the family and the kids loved it. Top organisation, everything ran like clockwork. The guide showed us the best photo spots. We will definitely come back!
Everything was great, but there was a small delay at departure. The guide gave very useful tips.
Borovoe is the pearl of Kazakhstan! The guide talked so interestingly that the time flew by. The only downside: lunch was served a bit cold.
Great vacation! The lakes are clean, the air is fresh. Thanks to Aliya for her care.
I really liked the tour, especially the boat ride. The guide was attentive to our requests. A small downside: the stops on the way were a bit short.
I took the tour for my family, everything is very well organized. Manager Zhanna helped with choosing the program. I recommend it!
Indescribable beauty! Ancient pines, turquoise lakes — just like a picture. Thanks to the guide for the warm company. Departure was slightly delayed because of traffic, but that is a trifle.
The nature is very beautiful, but we got shaken up quite a bit on the road. The guide ran the program well.
I had long dreamed of seeing Borovoe, and the dream came true! The guide is a treasure trove of knowledge. Everything was great, only once we had to wait 10 minutes for the bus.
A good tour, great value for money. Not enough time for walking on our own. The guide offered extra options for an extra fee, but we declined.
The trip was a success! Aliya took such good care of the group. The lakes are crystal clear, the air is intoxicating. The only thing: the lunch portion was small.
I liked everything except the crowds in nature. But that's not the tour company's fault. We had a great rest!
Thanks for the organisation! Zhanna took all our wishes into account. The road is bumpy, true, but the view from the window makes up for everything.
I booked the tour for my parents and they were happy. The guide is very polite and knowledgeable. Downside: the hot dish took a long time to arrive at the cafe.
Amazing! The lakes are sky-blue, the forest is beautiful. Thanks to the guide, the trip was unforgettable.
A great tour, though I missed civilisation a little. The nature is gorgeous. The manager recommended a great route.
I spent a long time choosing a tour, settled on this one and have no regrets. Zhanna helped a lot with the choice. Everything went smoothly, even the weather was nice.
The nature is very beautiful. Even though the road is rough, the beauty before your eyes makes you forget everything. Thanks to the guide!
I went with a friend and we loved it. The guide showed us the best spots. The only thing: it was a bit stuffy on the bus.
Great tour, bring your friends. Aliya organized everything perfectly. Small hiccup with departure time, but they warned us in advance.
Delight! Thanks to the guide for paying attention to everyone in the group. Indescribable beauty, I will definitely come back. Downside: in Astana I had to get up very early, the meeting time is 6 a.m.
My wife chose the tour, I agreed — and did not regret it. Nature calms you down. The guide led us along the eco-trail. Excellent!
The nature is amazing, especially at sunset. The guide put the program together well. The only downside: the vehicle broke down on the road, but they fixed it quickly.
This is my second tour with this company. Everything is top-notch. The guide is as professional as always. This time we waited 15 minutes for the group.
Everything is awesome! The lakes are turquoise, the panoramas are very beautiful. The guide told many legends. I recommend it to everyone!
A great tour, thanks to Aliya for keeping everything on track. The lakes are magical, the pines ancient. Only the road was a bit tiring, but it was worth it.
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FAQ
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Ask a questionNo special preparation is needed: it suits people of ordinary fitness and children; you just need comfortable shoes.
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, water and a snack. Lunch is included in the tour price.
May to September is ideal for swimming and walks. Routes are also available in the off-season.
Yes, the tour is suitable for children aged 6 and above accompanied by adults.
Cancellation is free — we take no money in advance; just let us know on WhatsApp as early as possible.
The "Borovoe and the Maral Farm in One Day" tour costs $62 per person, and "Burabay: Nature and History in One Day" costs $71 per person. The trip from Almaty to Astana is not included.
Write to us — a guide will pick a route for your dates and budget and send you the price per person.