eco · steppe · BIRD WATCHING
The Art of Contemplation: Ornithology in the Steppe
Kazakhstan is one of the world’s major bird migration hubs. From the alpine meadows of the Zailiyskiy Alatau to the deserts of Taukuma, this itinerary has been put together for those who appreciate birdwatching and tranquillity.
An ornithological expedition through Kazakhstan is a journey across the steppes, lakes and mountains to observe rare birds in the wild and discover the country’s unique landscapes.
The Art of Contemplation: Ornithology in the Steppe
Over 260 species of birds, including the extremely rare savka and the little grebe – birds that are almost impossible to spot outside Central Asia. The expedition is led by professional ornithologists and is organised around habitats rather than tourist routes.
premium campsite
A wealth of species diversity
guides — professional ornithologists
10 days
260+ species of birds
May–June
On arrival in Almaty, we’ll head north, into the heart of Kazakhstan’s wilderness. We’ll spend two nights at a comfortable campsite amidst the fragrant wormwood-scented steppes and the sands of the Taukum Desert. On the way, we’ll stop by a lake to observe the bird colonies. We’ll spend the night at a comfortable premium campsite.
Day 01
Arrival in Almaty and transfer to the Taukhum Desert
Our campsite is situated by an artesian spring, which attracts a great many birds, both local and migratory. Early in the morning, we’ll watch them at the watering hole. Later, we’ll head to the Ili River delta — a unique natural landscape featuring alternating dunes, marshes and turango groves. In the evening, we’ll explore the nearby trees and pools. We’ll spend the night at a comfortable premium campsite.
day 02
Birds of the desert and the Ili River delta
After a morning walk around the campsite, we’ll head back to Almaty, stopping by the lake to watch the new migratory birds. On the way, you can admire the endless poppy fields. Accommodation in a cosy hotel in Almaty.
day 03
Return to Almaty
The ascent into the Tien Shan mountains will take us through coniferous forests and alpine valleys. Here, we will go birdwatching along the river, by the streams, around the Great Almaty Lake, and at the high-altitude Josaly Kezen Pass.
We will spend the night in a cosy guesthouse.
Days 04–05
The Tien Shan Mountains
Today we’ll head east – to the Charyn Canyon area, where the desert plains give way to steppes, hills and snow-capped peaks on the horizon. We’ll spot birds in the gorges, by the springs and in the foothills. Overnight at a guesthouse.
day 06
The Charyn Canyon and the Soget Valley
We’ll be on the lookout for rare steppe species that can only be found here. Later, we’ll head to the vast reed beds on the banks of the Ili River. Overnight at a guesthouse.
day 07
In the steppe
After breakfast, we return to Almaty and take a domestic flight to Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The city is situated in the heart of the Great Steppe, amidst vast plains. Overnight at a hotel.
day 08
Return to Almaty and flight to Astana
These two days are devoted to exploring the natural riches of the northern part of the country. We will also visit the famous Kurgaldzhinsky Nature Reserve. Overnight at a hotel in Astana.
day 09
The northern steppes and lakes of the Akmola Region
End of the trip.
After breakfast, a transfer to the airport and the flight home.
day 10
The end of the journey
Day-by-day itinerary:
The main attractions on this route
What is included in the expedition:
Accompanied by a professional ornithologist or guide
Comfortable transport along the route
Entrance tickets to national parks and nature reserves
Round-the-clock support from the team
Full board and accommodation
Stories of those who saw the world differently
‘I really liked the fact that the route took us through a wide variety of natural habitats. Every day brought new sightings and new species of birds.’
— Melanie, BBC Natural History Unit
‘The trip exceeded my expectations. We visited places that are difficult to reach on your own and saw a large number of bird species in a relatively short time.’
— Russell Dickinson
‘I came to Kazakhstan to go birdwatching and was very pleased with the itinerary. Over the course of a few days, I managed to see many rare species, and the tour was very well organised.’
— Drew, independent director
‘Rare birds, beautiful scenery and a small group. Everything was comfortable and well organised.’
— Milana, head pastry chef
‘Searching for rare steppe species in the vast reed beds of the Ili River made me feel like a true explorer of the planet’s uncharted corners.’
— Rustem, a businessman
‘The expedition was the highlight of the whole trip for me — it was there that I was lucky enough to see a rare curlew in its natural habitat.’
— Dana, Commercial Director
Answers to important questions:
Kazakhstan is situated on key migration routes between Europe and Asia. Thanks to its combination of high mountains, steppes, lakes and deserts, it is home to a wide variety of bird species.
The best time for birdwatching is May and June. This is when many species are actively migrating and nesting, allowing you to see the widest variety of birds.
As a rule, group sizes do not exceed 10 people. A small number of participants ensures a comfortable birdwatching experience, more opportunities to interact with the ornithologist guide, and a more flexible itinerary.
Kazakhstan is situated on key migration routes between Europe and Asia. Thanks to its combination of high mountains, steppes, lakes and deserts, it is home to a wide variety of bird species.
The best time for birdwatching is May and June. This is when many species are actively migrating and nesting, allowing you to see the widest variety of birds.
As a rule, group sizes do not exceed 10 people. A small number of participants ensures a comfortable birdwatching experience, more opportunities to interact with the ornithologist guide, and a more flexible itinerary.
Are you ready for the next chapter in your story?
Please leave your contact details. We will get in touch with you to discuss the details of your upcoming trip or answer any questions you may have.
‘Travel Club Kazakhstan’ LLP
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