Authentic Burabay Embrace Nature, Wine, Cheese, and Local Life

Exploring the Authentic Charm of Burabay: A Practical Guide to the Nature, Food, and Local Life Tour

If you’re in Nur-Sultan and craving a taste of Kazakhstan’s countryside, this 10-hour tour to Burabay offers a well-rounded day filled with wildlife encounters, regional delicacies, and scenic adventures. While it’s not a backpacker’s budget trip, the experience provides a generous mix of culture, authentic food, and stunning landscapes—all prepared for an intimate group setting of up to 10 travelers.

What I love about this tour is how it balances nature, local craftsmanship, and leisure into a single day. The chance to feed majestic marals, sample Kazakh cheeses and wines, and enjoy a horseback ride across beautiful terrain makes it feel like a proper escape from city life. One potential consideration? The journey from Astana is quite long—about 2 hours and 40 minutes one way—so if you’re after a more relaxed pace, it’s worth noting.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, authentic local tastes, and cultural insights. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate well-organized trips that include all expenses—transport, tastings, meals, and photos—making it a hassle-free way to discover Kazakhstan’s rural side.

Key Points

Authentic rural experience with visits to farms and local artisans.
All-inclusive pricing covers transportation, meals, tastings, and a professional photo shoot.
Scenic landscapes and wildlife encounters, including feeding marals and riding through mountains.
Cultural immersion with traditional Kazakh snacks like baursaks and local cheeses.
Comfortable group size of up to 10 travelers ensures personalized attention.
Ideal for active, curious explorers seeking genuine local experiences.

A Deep Dive Into the Burabay Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning Prep

The adventure begins in Nur-Sultan at the Botanical Garden meeting point, where you’ll be greeted with a mobile ticket. From there, a comfortable ride through Kazakhstan’s countryside takes just over two hours. Before setting off, the tour provides a small snack—freshly made baursaks—to fuel your journey. This traditional treat, accompanied by tea or coffee, offers a taste of Kazakh hospitality and sets the tone for the day ahead.

This part of the trip is straightforward, with transportation included and a chance to settle in comfortably. Some reviewers note that the vehicle is clean and modern, offering a smooth ride with plenty of room for stretching out during the long drive.

Visiting the Maral Farm

Arriving in Borovoe, the first highlight is the maral farm. These graceful deer-like creatures are a symbol of Kazakh natural heritage and are surprisingly approachable. The chance to feed and interact with them offers a rare glimpse into wildlife that is both majestic and gentle.

One reviewer highlighted the emotional connection they felt feeding the marals, describing them as “beautiful and curious.” The farm setting is peaceful, with the surrounding natural beauty emphasizing the harmony between animals and environment. The guide shared insights about the marals’ role in local culture, adding educational value to this wildlife encounter.

Exploring the Cheese Cellar in Katarkol

Next stop is the local cheese farm, which is notably the only cheese cellar in Kazakhstan. Here, you’ll meet a passionate cheesemaker who has built his own cellar to craft regional specialties. The tasting session presents a variety of cheeses paired with local wines, showcasing Kazakhstan’s emerging wine and dairy craftsmanship.

A reviewer appreciated this stop, mentioning, “The cheeses were surprisingly complex, and the pairing with local wines made for a very enjoyable tasting.” It’s a chance to see how traditional ingredients blend into modern artisanal foods, with the cheesemaker eager to share his craft and story.

The included lunch, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, is hearty yet authentic, emphasizing regional flavors. Expect traditional Kazakh dishes with a modern twist, served in a relaxed setting.

Horseback Riding Through Beautiful Landscapes

Following lunch, the tour offers a one-hour horseback ride. This activity is suitable for most levels, and the trail winds through lush forests and climbs towards the mountains. The ride allows you to take in spectacular views and feel closer to Kazakhstan’s rugged terrain.

Readers who’ve done it note that the horses are well-behaved, and the guides are friendly and safety-conscious. This part of the tour provides a fun, active break from the sightseeing, letting you connect with nature in a more personal way.

Return Journey with a Photoshoot

As the day winds down, the group heads back to Astana, approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes away. Throughout the return trip, the tour includes a professional photoshoot—a thoughtful touch that leaves you with high-quality images to remember your adventure.

The return journey is comfortable, with water, mint candies or gum, and wet wipes offered to keep everyone refreshed. Several travelers reported that the photoshoot was a highlight, especially since the guides and photographer helped capture natural, candid moments amidst the stunning backdrop.

Analyzing Value and Practical Aspects

The $300 per person price tag might seem steep at first glance, but considering everything included—transportation, all tastings, meals, snacks, and professional photos—it offers good value for those wanting a curated, immersive experience. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention and meaningful interactions with local hosts.

Timing-wise, the 10-hour itinerary is a full day but feels well-paced. The long drive is offset by engaging stops and scenic views, though travelers who dislike lengthy transfers might find it a bit tiring. The tour confirms that most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, adding to its accessibility.

The tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring given the weather-dependent nature of outdoor activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers looking for a tailored, authentic taste of Kazakhstan outside the city. It suits those who appreciate small group interactions, scenic landscapes, and local craftsmanship. If you’re keen on wildlife, regional cheeses, and scenic horseback rides, this trip delivers a thorough introduction to Kazakhstan’s rural charm.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter travel times, you might find the long transfer a bit demanding. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy photography, given the inclusion of a professional photoshoot amidst stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts

This Burabay tour provides a satisfying blend of nature, local food, wildlife, and culture. The visits to the maral farm and cheese cellar allow you to see and taste Kazakhstan’s traditional pursuits firsthand, while the horseback ride and scenic views add a sense of adventure and escape. It’s a well-organized, all-inclusive day that caters to curious travelers eager to discover the countryside beyond Nur-Sultan.

The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, with all logistics handled for you. While the long drive might be a consideration for some, the rewards—beautiful landscapes, engaging local stories, and delicious regional flavors—are worth it for those seeking authentic Kazakhstan.

For anyone eager to explore Kazakhstan’s rural side without hassle, this tour offers an excellent balance of activity, education, and relaxation, making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the trip from Nur-Sultan to Burabay take?
The journey is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes each way, offering scenic views along the way.

What’s included in the tour?
All expenses are covered—transportation, tastings, meals, snacks, and a professional photoshoot.

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is suitable for most levels, with guides ensuring safety and comfort during the activity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, with full refunds processed accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, possibly a hat or sunglasses, and a camera for photos.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
While not specified, since all meals and tastings are included, it’s best to request dietary info in advance if needed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely yes, especially for families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

This detailed, well-rounded tour offers a genuine peek into Kazakh countryside life, making it a rewarding choice for those looking to experience the heart of Kazakhstan beyond the capital.