Kazakhstan Travel Guide

Kazakhstan, the largest country in Central Asia and the ninth-largest in the world, is a land of striking contrasts and vast landscapes. Known for its steppes, mountains, deserts, and lakes, Kazakhstan offers incredible natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage shaped by its nomadic traditions and Soviet-era history.

The cities of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and Almaty showcase modern architecture alongside historical landmarks. Visitors can explore diverse attractions like the Altai Mountains, the ancient Silk Road city of Turkistan, and the serene Charyn Canyon. With its warm hospitality and unique blend of East and West, Kazakhstan promises an unforgettable experience.

Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate, with extreme temperatures in both summer and winter:

• Summer (June-August): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25–35°C in the lowlands, making it ideal for mountain treks and outdoor adventures.
• Autumn (September-November): Cool and pleasant, with stunning foliage and harvest festivals.
• Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, especially in northern regions, with temperatures dropping as low as -30°C. Perfect for winter sports in Almaty’s ski resorts.
• Spring (March-May): Warm and fresh, with blooming tulips across the steppes.

The best time to visit is spring and autumn when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are enjoyable.

Kazakhstan is well-connected to the rest of the world by air, rail, and road:

• Airports: Nur-Sultan Nazarbayev International Airport and Almaty International Airport are the main international gateways.
• Trains: Kazakhstan’s rail network connects it with neighboring countries, including Russia, China, and Uzbekistan, making it a great option for travelers.
• Land Borders: Accessible from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, and China, with well-maintained border crossings.

Kazakhstan offers a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in its major cities:

• Almaty: Known for its trendy bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The city also offers rooftop lounges with panoramic mountain views.
• Nur-Sultan: A mix of upscale bars and cultural performances, reflecting the city’s modern vibe.
• Shymkent: Offers a more laid-back nightlife experience with local eateries and traditional music performances.

For a cultural experience, attend a traditional Kazakh opera or folk music concert, or visit a local tea house to enjoy chai and snacks.

Kazakhstan offers unique souvenirs that reflect its nomadic and cultural heritage:

• Shapan Coats: Traditional embroidered robes.
• Felt Products: Handmade felt items, including carpets and yurts, crafted by local artisans.
• Kumis and Shubat: Traditional Kazakh drinks made from fermented horse and camel milk, often packaged as souvenirs.
• Jewelry: Intricate silver and turquoise jewelry inspired by nomadic designs.
• Chocolates: Local brands like Rakhat Chocolates are a favorite among visitors.
• Handmade Rugs: Beautifully crafted rugs and carpets with traditional patterns.

• Nauryz (March 21): Celebrating the Persian New Year with traditional music, food, and games.
• Astana Day (July 6): Marking the foundation of Nur-Sultan with parades and cultural events.
• Almaty Apple Festival (September): A tribute to Almaty’s role as the birthplace of the apple, with tastings and festivities.
• Nomad Games: Celebrating Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage with traditional sports and cultural performances.

• January 1-2: New Year’s Day.
• March 8: International Women’s Day.
• March 21-23: Nauryz.
• May 9: Victory Day.
• December 16: Independence Day.

• Russian and Kazakh are the official languages; learning basic phrases like “Rahmet” (Thank you) is appreciated, though English is becoming more common in urban areas.
• Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water.
• Dress modestly when visiting mosques and rural areas, and respect local customs.
• Kazakhstan’s currency is the Tenge (KZT); ATMs are widely available in cities but may be limited in remote areas.

Kazakhstan has a well-developed transportation network:

• Trains: Affordable and scenic, with sleeper trains connecting major cities like Nur-Sultan, Almaty, and Shymkent.
• Buses: Widely available for intercity travel, though conditions vary.
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Yandex Go and InDriver are popular for urban transportation.
• Domestic Flights: A convenient way to cover large distances between cities.

Kazakhstan’s culture is deeply rooted in its nomadic traditions, reflected in its music, cuisine, and crafts:

• Cuisine: Kazakh food is hearty and meat-based, showcasing its nomadic heritage. Must-try dishes include:
  • Beshbarmak: The national dish, consisting of boiled meat served with flat noodles.
  • Kazy: A sausage made from horsemeat.
  • Plov: A rice dish with meat, carrots, and spices.
  • Baursaki: Fried dough snacks often served with tea.
  • Kumis: Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional beverage.
• Music and Dance: Traditional Kazakh music often features the dombra, a two-stringed lute, and lively folk dances performed at celebrations.

Kazakhstan’s economy is the largest in Central Asia, driven by its abundant natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals. The country is also investing in agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism as part of its economic diversification efforts. Major cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan are emerging as financial and cultural hubs in the region.

Kazakhstan offers several visa options:

• Visa-Free: Citizens of many countries, including the EU, the USA, and the UK, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.
• e-Visa: Available for select nationalities, allowing easy online application.
• Tourist Visa: For longer stays or specific purposes.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Kazakhstan has embassies and consulates in major cities worldwide, providing assistance to travelers and fostering international relations.