KAZAKHSTAN
Prepare to be captivated by Kazakhstan, Central Asia’s giant! A land shaped by nomadic traditions and Soviet history, it boasts vast steppes, dramatic mountains, and futuristic cities. Discover a vibrant culture where East meets West, offering unique experiences for every traveler.
Region: Central Asia, with a small portion in Eastern Europe
Capital: Astana
Official Language: Kazakh (Russian is widely used for interethnic communication)
Level of Travel Safety: Generally moderate. Petty crime like pickpocketing occurs, especially in major cities. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. Exercise normal precautions as you would in any major city.
Why Visit Kazakhstan?
Epic Landscapes: From the alpine lakes of Kolsai to the Martian red Charyn Canyon, nature lovers will be in awe.
Nomadic Heritage: Experience Kazakh hospitality in a traditional yurt and taste fermented mare’s milk under the stars.
Almaty’s Mountain Charm: A leafy, café-filled city with ski slopes and hiking trails just 30 minutes away.
Modern Nur-Sultan: Marvel at bold architecture like the Khan Shatyr and Bayterek Tower in this planned capital.
Silk Road History: Ancient caravanserais and mausoleums in Turkestan tell stories of Central Asia’s trading past.
Low Crowds, High Value: Fewer tourists, affordable costs, and unspoiled sites make it an explorer’s paradise.
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Many nationalities, including citizens of the US, EU, UK, Canada, and Australia, can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for varying periods (typically 30-90 days).
Always check the latest visa requirements and regulations specific to your nationality on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan: https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa?lang=en
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Upon arrival, you may be asked to provide proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.
For longer stays or specific purposes, a visa may be required. Application procedures and fees vary.
Currency
Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (₸). Common bills: ₸500–₸20,000. Coins: ₸1–₸100.
Best Ways to Handle Currency
Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount at your home airport or use ATMs upon arrival.
During Your Trip: ATMs in cities (Halyk Bank, Kaspi Bank) offer favorable rates. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in urban areas.
What to Avoid: Exchange kiosks at borders (poor rates), and accepting change in foreign currency.
Language
Kazakh (official) and Russian (widely spoken).
English is limited, especially in rural areas—download a translation app.
Helpful phrases:
“Salem” = Hello
“Rakhmet” = Thank you
“Qaida?” = Where is…?
Safety & Security
Generally safe for tourists, even solo travelers.
Be cautious in poorly lit rural areas after dark.
Petty theft can occur in busy markets and train stations.
Emergency number: 112
Health & Insurance
No vaccinations required, but typhoid and hepatitis A are recommended for extended stays.
Tap water is not reliably safe—use bottled water.
Pharmacies are well-stocked in cities. Carry common meds for rural trips.
Medical care is basic outside major cities—travel insurance is essential.
Transportation
Domestic Flights: Great for covering vast distances (e.g., Almaty to Aktau).
Trains: Reliable, scenic, and budget-friendly (book early for sleeper cabins).
Yandex Go: The go-to taxi app; works in most cities.
Metro: Only in Almaty, clean and easy to use.
Buses/Marshrutkas: Cheap and widespread, but limited comfort.
Driving: Roads vary greatly in quality—GPS + offline maps essential.
Price Level
Kazakhstan is affordable, especially outside major cities.
Accommodation
Budget: Guesthouses/hostels (US$15–40/night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$50–90/night)
Luxury: High-end hotels (US$120–250+/night)
Food
Street food: Samsa, lagman, kebabs (US$2–5)
Local restaurants: US$7–15/person
Upscale dining: US$25+/person
Drinks
Beer: US$1–3 (supermarkets), US$4–6 (bars)
Cocktails: US$8–12
Transportation
Metro (Almaty only): ₸100 (US$0.22)
Intercity train: US$10–50 (depending on class/distance)
Taxis: US$2–10 (use apps like Yandex Go)
Marshrutkas (minibuses): US$1–3 per ride
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local canteens for hearty, cheap meals.
Use Yandex Go instead of hailing taxis on the street.
Overnight trains are cost-effective for long distances.
Explore Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan’s largest city and former capital, nestled at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in the southeast. It’s a vibrant hub with a European flair, renowned for its green spaces, lively cafes, and easy access to stunning mountain scenery, perfect for hiking and skiing.
The futuristic capital city located in the north-central part of Kazakhstan. Astana is a showcase of modern architecture, featuring iconic structures like the Baiterek Tower and Khan Shatyr, reflecting the nation’s rapid development and ambition.
Often called the “Grand Canyon’s little brother,” this dramatic natural wonder is located about 200 km (124 miles) east of Almaty. It boasts striking red rock formations carved by the Charyn River, offering incredible views and opportunities for hiking.
A series of three pristine alpine lakes, often referred to as the “Pearls of the Tien Shan,” situated in the northern Tien Shan mountains, southeast of Almaty. Surrounded by coniferous forests, they are popular for trekking, horseback riding, and enjoying serene nature.
An eerie and beautiful sunken forest lake formed after an earthquake in 1911, located within the Kolsai Lakes National Park area, southeast of Almaty. Its turquoise waters conceal submerged spruce trees, creating a unique and captivating underwater landscape.
The world’s first and largest operational space launch facility, located in the Kyzylorda Region in southern Kazakhstan. It’s a fascinating site for space enthusiasts, offering tours to museums and even opportunities to witness rocket launches with prior arrangement.
A historically significant city in southern Kazakhstan, known as a spiritual and cultural center. It is home to the magnificent Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Timurid architecture.
Kazakhstan’s oldest nature reserve, established in 1926, located in the western Tien Shan mountains in southern Kazakhstan. It’s a biodiversity hotspot, famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards and ibexes, making it ideal for wildlife watching and botanical tours.
A diverse and rugged region in southwestern Kazakhstan, bordering the Caspian Sea. Known for its otherworldly desert landscapes, unique rock formations (like the Valley of Balls), and ancient underground mosques, offering a glimpse into a different, mystical side of Kazakhstan.
One of the largest lakes in Asia, situated in the southeast of Kazakhstan. What makes it unique is that its western part is freshwater while the eastern part is saline, divided by a narrow strait, offering diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities like fishing and swimming.
Smart Travel
Key Advantages:
- Lowest Prices
- Fewer Crowds
- Authentic Local Vibe
- Winter Sports (skiing, ice skating)
- Cozy Atmosphere
Main Drawbacks:
- Cold Temperatures (can drop to -58ºF/-50ºC)
- Shorter Days
- Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
- Some closures
- Challenging travel conditions (snow, ice)
Key Regions:
- Almaty: Excellent for skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Shymbulak.
- Astana: Experience the capital’s futuristic architecture under a blanket of snow.
- Northern Kazakhstan: Witness the vast, frozen steppes for a truly unique experience.
Key Advantages:
- Ideal Weather
- Manageable Crowds
- Reasonable Prices
- Festivals & Events
- Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)
Main Drawbacks:
- Spring Mud Season (especially in rural areas)
- Unpredictable Weather (can still have sudden shifts)
- Some higher elevation passes might still be closed in early spring
- Autumn crowds for popular natural attractions
Key Regions:
- Almaty Region: Perfect for hiking to the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon as temperatures are pleasant.
- Turkistan: Explore ancient Silk Road history and mausoleums in comfortable weather.
- Mangystau Region: Discover unique desert landscapes and underground mosques before summer heat.
- Altai Mountains (East Kazakhstan): Experience stunning autumn foliage and crisp air for trekking.
- Mid-Summer (June – August)
- Nauryz (Spring Equinox in March)
Planning Your Trip
Local Customs And Etiquette
Hospitality: Visitors are often offered tea and snacks—accept politely.
Dress Code: Casual in cities, but cover shoulders/legs in villages or mosques.
Tipping: 10% at restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory.
Photography: Always ask before taking photos of people, especially elders.
Language: Russian is widely spoken; Kazakh is official. Learn a few greetings!
Cultural Sites: Remove shoes at mosques. No shorts in religious areas.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation:
- Hostels: US$10–25/night
- Mid-range hotels: US$40–100/night
- Luxury: US$150–300+/night
Food:
- Local cafes (canteen-style): US$3–8
- Restaurants: US$10–25
- High-end: US$50+
Transport:
- Train rides: US$10–50 depending on class/route
- Domestic flights: US$50–90
- Taxis: US$2–8 within cities
Activities:
- Museum entry: US$1–5
- National Park permits: US$2–10
- Tours (hiking, canyon visits): US$25–70
Daily Budget:
- Budget: US$40–70 (hostels, local food, train)
- Mid-range: US$100–180 (hotels, domestic flights, guided day trips)
- Luxury: US$250+ (top hotels, private drivers, gourmet meals)
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and major public spaces in cities.
SIM Cards: Easily purchased at airports or official mobile provider stores (e.g., Kcell, Beeline, Tele2). Expect to pay US$5–15 for a prepaid plan with sufficient data for a typical trip. Bring your passport for registration.
eSIMs: Some international providers offer eSIMs for Kazakhstan, which can be convenient for immediate connectivity upon arrival.
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage. Healthcare in Kazakhstan may not be up to Western standards, and medical evacuation can be very costly.
Coverage: Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation.
Adventure Activities: If you plan on hiking, skiing, or other adventure sports, check that your policy specifically covers these activities.
Accomodation Options
Kazakhstan offers everything from luxury hotels in cities to cozy yurt stays in nature.
Luxury:
- High-end hotels: The Ritz-Carlton (Almaty), St. Regis (Astana).
- Mountain resorts: Lesnaya Skazka (Ile-Alatau NP), Oi-Qaragai.
Mid-range:
- Stylish city stays: Renion Park Hotel (Almaty), Hilton Garden Inn (Astana).
- Boutique lodges near national parks (~US$50–100/night).
Budget:
- Hostels: Sky Hostel (Almaty), Nomad Hostel (Astana) – from US$10–25.
- Guesthouses and apartments: US$20–50 in smaller towns.
Unique Stays:
- Yurt camps in Charyn Canyon, Altyn-Emel or Lake Alakol (~US$30–70/night).
- Homestays in Saty village (near Kolsai Lakes) for a cultural immersion.
Tip: Book mountain or yurt stays in advance during weekends and summer holidays.
Getting Around
Kazakhstan is vast—distances are long, and transport choices vary based on your route.
Trains:
- Comfortable for cross-country travel (Almaty–Astana: 12–15 hrs, ~US$20–60).
- High-speed Talgo trains are reliable and clean.
- Book online at railways.kz or use apps like Tutu or Rail Europe.
Domestic Flights:
- Ideal for saving time (Almaty–Astana: 1.5 hrs, ~US$50–90).
- Multiple airlines (Air Astana, SCAT).
Buses:
- Budget-friendly (US$5–15 for long routes) but slower.
- Available between major cities and rural areas.
Taxis & Ride-hailing:
- Yandex Go is the go-to app—safe and affordable (US$2–8 for city rides).
- Intercity taxis can be negotiated at bus terminals.
Car Rentals:
- Possible in Almaty or Astana (~US$50–70/day), but road conditions vary.
- Recommended only for confident drivers—watch for speed traps and wildlife.
Bold Recommendation: Use domestic flights for long distances, and Yandex Go or trains for regional travel.
Handy Tips
Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (₸). Notes come in ₸200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 denominations; coins are in ₸1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100.
Exchanging Currency: Best rates at banks or official exchange offices (“обмен валют”). Avoid street money changers and kiosks at airports.
Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major cities (Almaty, Astana). Carry cash when traveling to rural areas or markets.
Tipping Etiquette:
Restaurants/Bars: Not mandatory but rounding up or 5–10% is appreciated in nicer venues.
Taxis: No tipping required, but locals often round up.
Hotel Staff: Around US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–4 per day for housekeeping.
Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person is appreciated for full-day tours.
Kazakh is the official language, while Russian is widely spoken. English is limited, especially outside major cities.
Helpful phrases:
“Сколько стоит?” (“How much is it?”)
“Где туалет?” (“Where is the toilet?”)
“Вы говорите по-английски?” (“Do you speak English?”)
“Спасибо” (“Thank you”)
Pro Tip: Download Google Translate with offline Russian/Kazakh. Most signs in cities are bilingual, but rural areas can be tricky.
Kazakhstan is generally safe for travelers, but use caution in isolated areas or late at night in cities.
Emergency Contacts:
- 112: All emergencies (police, fire, ambulance)
- 101: Fire
- 102: Police
- 103: Medical assistance
Embassy: Most are located in Astana (Nur-Sultan) — note down your embassy’s contact info before arrival.
Kazakhstan uses 220V/50Hz with Type C and F plugs (two round pins). Travelers from the U.S. will need a voltage converter and plug adapter.
Tap water is not recommended for drinking, even in cities. Use bottled or filtered water. Boiled tap water is usually safe for tea or coffee.
Expect closures of banks, offices, and some stores on:
Jan 1–2: New Year’s Day
Jan 7: Orthodox Christmas
Mar 8: International Women’s Day
Mar 21–23: Nauryz (spring festival with music, street food)
May 1: Unity Day
May 7: Defender of the Fatherland Day
May 9: Victory Day
Jul 6: Capital City Day (Astana Day)
Aug 30: Constitution Day
Dec 1: First President’s Day
Dec 16–17: Independence Day
Note: Nauryz is the most vibrant time to visit — expect yurts, street feasts, and traditional games.
Stores: Generally 10:00–20:00. Shopping malls often open until 22:00.
Pharmacies: Open 9:00–21:00; 24/7 pharmacies exist in big cities.
Bazaars/Markets: Best from 10:00–18:00, closed Mondays (e.g., Green Bazaar in Almaty).
Beshbarmak: Kazakhstan’s national dish—boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) over noodles with onion broth.
Plov: Central Asian rice pilaf with lamb or beef, carrots, and spices.
Kuurdak: Hearty stir-fry of lamb or beef with potatoes and onions.
Shashlik: Grilled skewered meats, often served with vinegar-marinated onions.
Lagman: Hand-pulled noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and rich spices.
Manty: Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions.
Samsa: Baked meat pastries (try the lamb version at street stalls).
Baursak: Fried dough balls—served as a side or snack with tea.
Horse Sausage (Kazy): Traditional and symbolic; often served cold in slices.
Camel Milk Cheese: Rare, salty, and worth a try if you visit western regions.
Chak-Chak: Fried dough coated in honey—chewy and sweet.
Zhent: Millet-based dessert with sugar and butter, flavored with raisins or nuts.
Kurt: Not quite sweet—these dried yogurt balls are tangy and salty but very local.
Alcoholic:
Vodka: Widely consumed and cheap. Local brands like “Kazakhstan Vodka” are solid.
Kymyz (Fermented Mare’s Milk): Slightly alcoholic, sour, and deeply traditional.
Local Beer: Brands like Efes Kazakhstan or Shymkent Premium are popular.
Arak: Central Asian spirit—powerful and served at celebrations.
Imported Wine: Available, but expensive. Try Kyrgyz or Uzbek wines as alternatives.
Non-Alcoholic:
Shubat: Fermented camel’s milk—milder than kymyz and often sweetened.
Airan: Salted yogurt drink (similar to kefir).
Kvas: Slightly fermented bread drink—mild and sweet.
Black Tea: Consumed everywhere—expect it after meals, meetings, and at rest stops.
Baikal Soda: A local cola alternative flavored with herbs.
Compote: Boiled fruit drink—sweet and refreshing.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (UNESCO site): Pilgrimage site in Turkestan.
Nomad’s Land Experiences: Visit yurts and watch eagle hunters.
Petroglyphs at Tamgaly: Thousands of Bronze Age rock carvings.
Baikonur Cosmodrome: Spaceport that launched Gagarin—requires permit but unforgettable.
Museum of the First President (Astana): Political history meets personal legacy.
Ethno-villages: Recreated nomadic life, e.g., Huns EthnoVillage near Almaty.
Independence Monument (Almaty): Central landmark with Kazakh symbolism.
Central Mosque of Almaty: Ornate interior and peaceful gardens.
Aisha Bibi Mausoleum: Love legend meets architectural elegance.
Kazakh National Museum: Massive, modern, and full of artifacts from ancient to Soviet times.
Medeu Ice Rink (Almaty): World’s highest-altitude skating rink.
Shymbulak Ski Resort: Winter sports + summer hikes with stunning alpine views.
Astana Opera: Attend a classical performance in a world-class venue.
Arbat Street (Almaty): Open-air art and craft market + street music.
Kok-Tobe Hill: Cable car, mini zoo, panoramic views of Almaty.
Almaty Metro: Art-filled subway stations (yes, it’s an attraction).
Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments: Learn about dombra, kobyz, and more.
Nur Alem Sphere (Astana): Futuristic pavilion from Expo 2017—now a science museum.
Lake Kaindy: Underwater forest in a mountain lake (day trip from Almaty).
Horseback Riding: Tours in the steppe near Turkestan or Altyn Emel.
Line Brew (Almaty, Astana): Steakhouse + Kazakh beer in a castle-like pub.
Sky Lounge Astana: Cocktails with panoramic views from the top of the Ritz-Carlton.
The Shakespeare Pub (Almaty): Cozy British-style pub with live music.
Bar 3200: Highest bar in Central Asia—atop the Shymbulak ski resort.
Mad Murphy’s: Irish bar with expat vibes and hearty food in Almaty.
Terrassa Almaty: Rooftop bar with DJs and mountain views.
Underground Clubs: Look for electronic music events in venues like The Bus or HIT.
Opera and Ballet Nights: Affordable tickets, elegant atmosphere.
Jazz at East: Local live jazz and Central Asian fusion performances.
Dostyk Plaza Cinema: Modern theaters with English subtitles available.