Kazakhstan Hosts First Winter Season of Pékin Express

France’s largest media group has launched a new season of the travel show Pékin Express, entirely filmed in Kazakhstan.

Titled La Route des Glaces, the season is unique in the show’s 21-year history: it was filmed during winter, and Kazakhstan became one of the few countries where an entire season was shot within a single state. The final episode highlighted Astana, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Eight pairs of contestants, or binômes, faced challenges across seven episodes, navigating harsh winter conditions and Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes. The season, hosted by French TV presenter Stéphane Rotenberg, combines adventure, competition, and cultural exploration, emphasizing the country’s traditions and natural beauty.

French channel M6 expects the season to attract up to seven million viewers across France, Belgium, Monaco, and French-speaking Switzerland, showcasing Kazakhstan as a winter adventure destination.