about kazakhstan tourism

The Best Guide to Travel in Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know to visit Kazakhstan in 2024

This is the most complete and updated online guide to travel in Kazakhstan. If you find yourself fascinated by this vast, beautiful country and love unusual destinations , this travel guide will tell you everything you need to know to prepare you to visit Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan , a former Soviet republic, is a Central Asian country that extends West from the Caspian Sea to the Altai Mountains in the East. It’s one of the few countries in the world that can still be considered an off-the-beaten-path destination.

Kazakhstan borders both Russia and China and is the 9th largest country in the world so there’s a lot for you to explore. The word Kazakhstan literally translates to ‘the Land of the Wanderers’.

From arid plains, endless steppes, and dusty desert villages where you’ll see more camels than people; to lush valleys, snow-capped mountains, and modern cities, travel in Kazakhstan will surprise you every step of the way.

This travel guide will provide you with useful and up-to-date travel information, tips, and recommendations to visit Kazakhstan.

Tip: See my  Kazakhstan Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Kazakhstan!

Join the 10-day Best of Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan Adventure and visit Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Karakol, Son Kul lake, and many more! 

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Kazakhstan

• 18 useful things you should know to visit Kazakhstan
• Itinerary Planning for Kazakhstan
• Tours & Experiences:  City Tours, Adventure Tours
• Getting there:  Search for flights to Almaty or Nur Sultan
• Where to stay :  Find a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or homestay in Kazakhstan
• Travel Insurance:   Choose the best travel insurance for Kazakhzstan
• Getting around :  Rent a car in Kazakhstan  or  travel by train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Visit Kazakhstan in 2024 – Kazakhstan Entry Requirements

As the world regains some kind of new ‘normal’ following the global pandemic, it’s really important that you do your research on the current regulations in place regarding Covid-19.

You may be wondering, ‘is Kazakhstan open for tourism?’ and the answer would be yes. The majority of Kazakhstan travel restrictions have been lifted and international flights into and out of the country have now resumed. All commercial flights to and from Kazakhstan are operating as normal too.

1.1 Kazakhstan entry Requirements COVID

Travelers arriving in Kazakhstan no longer need to present a negative PCR test result or proof of vaccination.

Almost all Covid restrictions have been lifted in Kazakhstan, except for medical facilities where face coverings must still be worn.

Upon taking your outgoing flight from Kazakhstan, you may be screened and have your temperature taken and assessed for any coronavirus symptoms. It’s still important that you check with your airline for the latest updated travel information.

1.2 Kazakhstan vaccination requirements

It is not compulsory to get any vaccinations in order to travel to Kazakhstan. You only need proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’re arriving from a country where there’s a risk of yellow fever.

2.  Do I need a visit to travel in Kazakhstan?

2.1 kazakhstan visa requirements.

There is a list of the countries eligible to visit Kazakhstan without a visa. If your country is on the list , you’ll get a free visa (in the form of a stamp and a registration card) on arrival at the airport or at any land border.

If your country is on this list , you’ll have to apply for a visa at the embassy where your residence is. The embassies are willing to make an exception if you don’t have an embassy in your home country. Find out what you need to apply for a visa for Kazakhstan here .

The Kazakhstan Tourist visa is valid for a single visit of up to 30 days, two visits of up to 30 days each within a 60-day period, or three visits of up to 30 days each within a 90-day period.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months beyond the expiry date of your visa. Your passport should also have at least 1 blank page for your visa.

When visiting Kazakhstan, no matter if arriving in the country at the airport or at a land border, all visitors must fill in a registration card . This card will then be stamped twice at passport control upon arrival, showing that you’re registered. If you only see one stamp, make sure you ask nicely for the second one.

You must then keep this registration card with you throughout your stay in Kazakhstan. If you don’t have this card with you when you leave the country, you will have to pay a fine or even face deportation.

Since 10 January 2020, it’s the responsibility of the host or hotel to register travelers. They have to do this within three working days from the date of the guest’s arrival in Kazakhstan and can be done on the Visa and Migration online portal or in writing to the Migration Service.

Travelers who need to obtain a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to visit Kazakhstan, must register with the Migration Police. 

2.2 Can I extend my Kazakhstan visa?

It is no longer permitted to enter and re-enter visa-free as many times as you like, indefinitely.

Now all visa-free nationalities are only allowed a maximum of 90 days within 180 days of traveling in Kazakhstan . You can still leave and re-enter the same day. A tourist visa however can not be changed or extended once issued.

2.3 What happens if I overstay my Kazakhstan Visa?

If you happen to overstay your visa whilst in Kazakhstan, you’ll need to go to the nearest OVIR station and pay $4 for an extension and a B20 exit visa valid for up to 15 days.

Extensions are usually only granted for reasons such as flight cancellations or emergency medical care.

3. When is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?

Depending on what you want to do during your trip, you can visit Kazakhstan any time of the year. Kazakhstan has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers and the temperature will vary depending on the region of the country.

The period between May – October is the best time to visit Kazakhstan, especially the northern region and the southeastern region. The temperatures are not too high to go hiking and camping in places like Charyn Canyon , the Kolsai Lakes and the Tian Shan mountains around Almaty as well as in the highlands of the Altai mountain range.

If you can cope with the heat, it’s also a good period to go on a road trip or a train trip through the steppes and visit other parts of the country .

Spring and Autumn each last for about a month every year: April and October in the south, and May and September in the north.

The temperature on average can be a pleasant 20°C which is ideal for sightseeing in the steppes and visiting the cities and areas in the south of the country.

The 26 best and most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan

3.1 What is the hottest month in Kazakhstan?

The Summer in Kazakhstan is between late May and September and the hottest month is July. The summers in the south of the country and in the steppes can be scorching hot with temperatures known to reach 40°C (104°f).

4. Kazakhstan Travel Insurance

It’s not mandatory to have travel insurance if you are traveling to Kazakhstan. However, it’s always a good idea to have international travel insurance just in case the unforeseeable happens.

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, I highly recommend  HeyMondo travel insurance   as it covers both medical costs and theft or the budget-friendly travel medical insurance by  SafetyWing .

The 3 best travel insurance companies compared!

5. What is the best way to get to Kazakhstan?

You can fly to Kazakhstan, enter by road via a border crossing, or by taking a cargo ship across the Caspian Sea .

5.1 Flying into Kazakhstan

There are many daily international flights to Kazakhstan.

There are the 3 main international airports in Kazakhstan: Almaty International Airport (ALA), Astana International Airport (TSE) and Shymkent International Airport (CIT). 

5.2 How to travel to Kazakhstan by road

Kazakhstan shares borders with Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan , Uzbekistan , and Turkmenistan.

Are you planning to travel overland between the Central Asian countries? Then the following guides will come in handy:

• How to get from Almaty to Tashkent (Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan) by train or bus?
• How to get from Almaty to Bishkek (Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan) by bus?
• How to get from Bishkek to Almaty (Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan) by bus?

For information about the different border crossings, read this page on Caravanistan

5.3 How to travel to Kazakhstan By boat

I entered Kazakhstan by taking a cargo ship from Baku (Azerbaijan) to Aktau (port in West Kazakhstan) across the Caspian Sea.

8 things you need to know about how to cross the Caspian Sea from Baku to Aktau by ferry.

6. IS Kazakhstan a safe country to visit?

A lot of people are concerned about travel safety in Kazakhstan because of the ‘stan’ part. But I can assure you, it’s very safe to travel in this vast country!

Kazakhstan is not a country where you’ll see a lot of violence. The majority of the locals are very helpful and hospitable and the only way you might get hurt is from a bad hangover from drinking too much vodka.

Some people are concerned about travel safety in Kazakhstan, but it’s very safe to travel in this vast country. There are the normal risks of pickpockets and petty crime, and travelers are advised to be cautious of corrupt police. They are also advised to be cautious at night in and around clubs and bars. However, Kazakhstan is generally a very friendly country and foreigners are respected.

I have walked many times on the streets in Almaty and Shymkent alone at night as a woman and not once did I feel uncomfortable or unsafe. During our road trip through the steppes , I’ve never encountered a person who wanted to harm me and my friends in any way.

There’s not as much corruption in Kazakhstan as there used to be, but if you travel around the country with your own car, the traffic police might stop you and find a reason to fine you.

How do you deal with bribes and corruption? First of all, don’t panic, get angry or be impatient. Stay calm and friendly, keep smiling and act like you have all the time in the world.

Most officials only speak Russian so even if you understand the language a bit, pretend that you don’t. If the office happens to speak English, you suddenly can’t speak English anymore.

Talk to them in a foreign language, and pretend that you have no idea what’s going on. They’ll soon realize they aren’t going to get any money from you and that you’re wasting their time and will eventually give up and let you go.

Remember: never give in and pay a bribe. If you do, you’ll encourage the offices to continue doing this. This doesn’t only affect tourism and travelers in a bad way, it also affects the local people as they become victims of bribery as well.

Is Kazakhstan Safe? 15 useful tips to travel safely in Kazakhstan

7. Money and Currency in Kazakhstan

7.1 what kind of money do they use in kazakhstan.

The official currency of Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).

• Banknotes circulating in Kazakhstan: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000 and 20,000 tenge.
• Coins circulating in Kazakhstan: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 tenge.

I always use the  Xe.com app  to convert and stay up-to-date with the current exchange rates. At this time of writing, the current exchange rates are:

• $1 USD = 460 KZT
• €1 Euro = 494 KZT
• £1 British Pound = 585 KZT

7.2 Which credit cards are accepted in Kazakhstan?

Visa is probably the most widely accepted credit card. However, Kazakhstan has a cash economy which means paying with a credit card can be quite difficult in many places.

Many taxis, restaurants, local tour operators, and small shops will still only take cash, not cards. It’s only been over the last few years that credit card usage has been more widely accepted. So make sure you’re prepared to bring plenty of cash with you if you’re planning a trip.

7.3 ATMs in Kazakhstan

ATMs are very easy to find in the cities but make sure to bring cash money when you visit remote villages and regions. You can use Visa, Maestro, and Mastercard to withdraw cash from ATMs in Kazakhstan.

It’s also worth noting that withdrawing small amounts of cash from ATMs can be costly due to the charges by the credit card companies and the banks handling the transactions.

7.4 Exchanging money in Kazakhstan

There are plenty of exchange offices, especially in the big cities, if you want to exchange some of your currency.

Rates are competitive as soon as you leave the airport and an important tip once you have exchanged your cash into tenge is to hold onto your small change.

Your 10, 20, 50, and 100 tenge will be really handy and useful when paying for bus tickets and snacks, larger notes won’t be accepted in small shops.

7.5 How much money do you need in Kazakhstan?

You may be wondering about how to budget for your trip and asking ‘Is it cheap to travel in Kazakhstan?’. Like most of Central Asia, travel in Kazakhstan is relatively cheap.

A good meal will cost around $5 in a local restaurant, a dorm bed in a hostel for around $10, and a train ticket around $15 every 1000km or so.

Tourism is still pretty new In Kazakhstan but with more visitors coming each year, more services are being offered which means that tours and activities are still relatively cheap.

7.6 Should you tip in Kazakhstan?

Tipping is not compulsory in Kazakhstan because a service charge is usually included in restaurant and hotel bills.

However, it is becoming a more common practice based on the growing number of tourists. Taxis and train travel have a fixed charge already included in the price.

8. Kazakhstan transportation: How to Get around Kazakhstan

8.1 does kazakhstan have good transportation.

The public transport in Kazakhstan is quite well developed. You can get around Kazakhstan by train, bus, mashrutka (min-bus), (shared) taxi, and plane.

8.2 Are there trains in Kazakhstan?

Yes, Kazakhstan has a rather good railway system. As it’s a huge country and the easiest and most comfortable way of getting around Kazakhstan is by taking a train.

Not only is it a cheap way to travel long distances, but there are also regular connections between all of the main cities and towns and you’ll meet many locals along the way.

It’s better to buy your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out during the summer and on holidays. You can book your train tickets on tickets.kz where you can select your seat/bunk bed in advance.

If you’re going on an overnight journey you will get sheets, a pillow, and a blanket. Bring enough food and drinks with you as the food prices on the train are very expensive. It’s also forbidden to drink alcohol on the train.

Kazakhstan Railway Guide: How to travel by train in Kazakhstan

8.3 Getting around Kazakhstan by bus

Buses are great for travel within cities like Almaty , Shymkent and Nur Sultan for short and quick journeys.

The average price for a bus ticket in Almaty is around 200 tenge, which you pay to the driver when you get onto the bus. Don’t forget to ask for a receipt so you can show it to the ticket inspector when he/she comes around.

Every bus has a number and it can sometimes be confusing trying to find out which one to take. You can ask your hostel or hotel which number you need to get on or you check the bus routes within cities via  maps.me  and  wikiroutes .

Just type in the name of your location and destination and the app will show you the number of the bus going there.

For longer journeys and travel in Kazakhstan, I would recommend taking the train for reasons regarding both cost and comfort.

8.4 Getting around Kazakhstan by minibus (marshrutka)

A marshrutka is a mini-bus that looks like a van and is a popular public transport for the locals. It’s not the fastest way to get around but it’s definitely a cultural experience.

They run on fixed routes around a city and you’ll also see many marshrutkas within smaller cities and towns. When taking a marshrutka in a city, each marshrutka has a number, and to avoid any confusement, you can either ask at your hostel or hotel which number to get on or you can download the app called Maps.me .

Just type in the name of your location and destination and the app will show you the marshrutka going there.

8.5 Getting around by (shared) taxi

Taking a shared taxi is more expensive than a bus or a marshrutka (about triple the price) but it is a much faster way to get around in a city. Sharing a taxi means that you share the car with other people and you split the costs so you pay per seat.

As it is a shared taxi, with many seats, it’s important that you tell the driver that you only wish to pay for one seat, not for the entire taxi before leaving. They leave when all of the seats have been filled. You’ll find these taxis everywhere in the cities and near bus and train stations.

You’ll often see locals waving down cars on the side of the road. The drivers that stop for them are often unofficial taxi drivers who earn a bit of extra money by giving locals a ride and charging them for the gas costs. If you want to catch a ride like this, it’s good to know in advance how much you should pay (some drivers like to charge foreigners more).

If you want to take a taxi in a city but you don’t feel confident waving down cars and/or bargaining for a good price, you can always use the Yandex Go app . This app works similar to Uber and these taxis work with a standard rate per kilometer which you can see on the app or on the meter inside the taxi. 

8.6 Domestic flights in Kazakhstan

If you don’t have much time to make a long-distance journey by train, you could always take an airplane to fly between the main cities in Kazakhstan. You can book your tickets on this website .

8.7 Hitchhiking in Kazakhstan

Hitchhiking in Kazakhstan is similar to hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan . Although you’ll see a lot of people standing on the side of the road waving down cars as a sign that they want to get a lift, it’s standard to pay the driver for the costs of the petrol.

If you’re after getting free rides, you’ll have to explain this to your driver before you get in the car.

If you’re hitchhiking long distances in Kazakhstan, you’ll often have to travel across the steppes and desert. Make sure you bring enough water and food in case you’re stuck without a ride in the middle of nowhere!

8.7 Driving in Kazakhstan

Going on a road trip in Kaz akhstan is definitely a worthwhile adventure. It’s a brilliant way to explore this vast country at your own rhythm.

As long as you’re an experienced and confident driver, renting a car gives you the opportunity to reach far and remote places. Since many of the country’s attractions are difficult to reach on public transport, hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore places off of the beaten path.

The state of the roads is generally good if you are driving along the main highways. If you want to drive across the steppes or on secondary roads, you can expect dusty tracks and countless potholes, so take care!

There are a few ‘must haves’ when hiring a car that is important to take note of before you set off on a road trip.

You’ll need an international driving license and proof that you have insurance. You will also need to have the vehicle’s ownership documents with you as most likely, you will meet traffic cops along the way.

If you are driving your own car with a foreign registration plate, you will probably be stopped a few times. As long as you haven’t broken any traffic law, you won’t be fined (see how to deal with bribes in section 6. Is Kazakhstan safe ).

You have to drive on the right side of the road in Kazakhstan and crossing a solid white line is a big no-no. Another traffic law that you should keep in mind is that your car lights must always be switched on when you’re outside of a city. Here’s a great guide with info about driving and traffic rules in Kazakhstan here.

There are several petrol stations along the way but make sure you have enough petrol in the car to drive a distance of a minimum of 300km before you come across the next petrol station. A good tip is to bring a spare jerry can for fuel if you’re planning on driving long distances.

And lastly, be aware that whilst on the road, some Kazakh drivers love to push the gas pedal and overtake other cars in the craziest ways!

Going on a road trip through Kazakhstan is definitely worthwhile as long as you’re an experienced and confident driver! You’ll be able to reach very remote places and camp under the stars!

Almaty City Guide: The 19 best things to do in Almaty

9. Kazakhstan Tours

With more tourists choosing to travel to Kazakhstan, tourism in Kazakhstan is developing slowly.

Because of this growth in tourists, there are more tour companies now than ever before meaning that there are more scheduled tours for you to choose from.

Going on a tour is particularly interesting to get to remote destinations like Charyn Canyon , Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy , Altyn-Emel National Park , etc., as they are hard to reach by public transport.

You can search online for tours in Kazakhstan , organized by local tour companies or you can join my 10-day Best of Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tour!

10. Where to stay in Kazakhstan

There are now many great accommodation options in the big cities and towns of Kazakhstan.

10.1 Hostels, hotels, and guesthouses in Kazakhstan

Hostels are the cheapest option for accommodation, starting from $5 per night for a bed in a dorm.

Most of the country’s cities now have at least 1 modern backpacker haunt, Almaty has more than 20 now. These hostels are often located in refurbished apartments in the center of town and run by young people themselves. Hostels in Kazakhstan are a good place to meet other young, budget-conscious travelers.

You can find a nice private room in a guesthouse, starting from $15 per night .

Nur-Sultan and Almaty have many great hotel options ($40-$250) for luxury and business travelers, and there are also plenty of apartment rentals ($15-$50). 

10.2 Staying in a yurt in Kazakhstan

Unlike in its neighboring country Kyrgyzstan , it is difficult nowadays to experience real nomadic life in Kazakhstan.

Most Kazakhs have never even slept in a yurt themselves as there are only a few people who still spend time living in a yurt during summer, either herding camels in the Kyzylkum desert, or whilst shepherding in the Altai mountains.

If you happen to have your heart set on staying in one, it is possible through a holiday rental company or you can pay a visit to a pop-up restaurant or shop/market in a yurt but they are no longer homes for nomadic people in Kazakhstan.

10.3 Camping in Kazakhstan

There aren’t many designated camping sites in the country but wild camping in Kazakhstan is permitted anywhere.

If you can, you should definitely experience camping for at least one night in the steppes ( watch this video to get inspired ). It’s an incredibly unforgettable experience! There are so many scenic spots to spend a night under the stars.

It’s important to note that there are some dangers to watch for when it comes to camping. Bears and wolves roam in the wild in Kazakhstan and ticks are very common, especially in the mountains.

There are also some snakes, spiders, and scorpions in the dryer landscapes, and although they shouldn’t stop you from camping in Kazakhstan, it’s wise to be mindful of these creatures when traveling in Kazakhstan.

11. Kazakhstan Food and drinks

The cuisine in Kazakhstan is quite similar to the food in both Kyrgyzst an and Uzbekistan .

The majority of meals consist of beef, mutton, and chicken, either served within dumplings or on top of noodles, rice, or potatoes. However, if you happen to be feeling adventurous, you could try the canned camel or horse meat.

When eating out, food is generally served with either a soft drink or water. Kazakhs love drinking tea and most meals are followed by tea with milk, salt, sugar, and/or butter.

If you happen to be a coffee lover, instant coffee is usually your main option but coffee culture is now rapidly establishing itself nationwide.

11.1 5 Kazakh Dishes you have to try

1) what is the national dish of kazakhstan.

Beshbarmak is Kazakhstan’s national dish which is eaten daily in homes throughout the country. It is a slow-cooked dish made with boiled mutton, beef, horse or camel, and it is served with either boiled or flat dumplings or thin noodles, and onions.

This dish is usually eaten with your hands which explains its name which translates to ‘five fingers.’ Traditionally, the meat is served in small portions to make sure that the male elders can chew it without difficulty.

Pilaf , also known as plov, is a rice dish that is considered to be a sign of wealth and prosperity in Kazakhstan. The dish contains meat that’s cooked together with onions and carrots and then rice is then added and once plated, the dish is then decorated with dried fruits.

Pilaf is very commonly a centerpiece when celebrating occasions that are meant to bring success and happiness, like weddings.

Kazy is a type of sausage made from horse meat along with a mix of spices. The ancestors of modern Kazakhs, who were hunters, consumed large quantities of horsemeat.

They created kazy as they thought it was a clever way in which to preserve meat. It is considered to be an obligatory dish at weddings.

Manti are dumplings that have been stuffed with meat and then boiled are served with dried mint. If you decide to try Kazakhstani manti, be ready to say goodbye to your voice of reason as these are delicious.

Baursak is a type of soft dough made using wheat flour that has been fried in either lamb or beef fat. Different regions in Kazakhstan are known for different-sized baursak. Kazakhstanis love them so much that they celebrate a day dedicated to them called ‘Baursak Day’ every Autumn.

They are normally rounded or diamond-shaped with some recipes incorporating cottage cheese into the dough. Often served with either tea, shurpa (a traditional soup) or as an appetizer or dessert.

11.2 Is vegetarian food available in Kazakhstan?

It might be challenging for vegetarians to find some typical Kazakh dishes without meat. However, it’s not impossible and you can definitely ask for meals to be made without meat.

In cities like Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent you’ll find many small restaurants that serve vegetarian meals.

If you happen to be traveling during summer, you’ll find your dose of vitamins in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables from the markets in the towns and cities.

However, when in the steppes, you won’t find many options when looking for fresh fruits and veggies so be sure to take some with you if you can.

11.3 What is the national drink of Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan’s national drink is fermented horse (mare’s) milk known as Kumys or Koumiss. A drink that’s been around for thousands of years, this bitter and sour-tasting milk drink is made with yeast cultures and mare or camel milk (known as shubat) and is believed to be medicinal.

It is slightly alcoholic and said that drinking kumys will improve your overall health, make your soul younger and your feet stronger.

Traditionally made by the nomads of Central Asia, this drink still remains important to people in both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan today.

11.4 Alcohol in Kazakhstan

Although the majority of people in Kazakhstan are Muslim, vodka is still a popular drink. Kazakhstan is the world’s seventh-biggest consumer of vodka.

It is customary that young people do not drink alcohol in front of elderly people. The legal drinking and buying age for alcoholic beverages is 21 years old.

11.5 Is tap water safe to drink in Kazakhstan?

I wouldn’t advise you to drink the tap water in Kazakhstan, especially not in small towns and villages. Buy bottles of water in the local supermarkets or better, bring a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle .

This is a reusable bottle that filters water using a microfiltration device. When you drink water using this bottle, any dirt, bacteria, or parasites will be trapped in the fibers of the filter, while the clean water passes through.

It’s not only good for your belly and wallet, but it’s also great for the environment because you don’t have to buy any plastic bottles of water!

They are very light to carry and super useful for when you go trekking in the mountains . You can use it to drink the water from the rivers and lakes without becoming sick! Another way to filter water is by using a  steripen .

12. Packing list for Kazakhstan

12.1 what should i wear in kazakhstan.

The cities in Kazakhstan are very westernized so for the majority of the time, you can wear whatever you like.

However, if you’re planning on visiting rural areas, don’t wear miniskirts, short shorts and revealing tops as most people living there are quite conservative. Also, if you are visiting religious buildings and places, such as Turkestan, wear a long skirt or trousers as well as cover your shoulders.

You should also pack appropriate clothes for the period in which you’re going to travel in Kazakhstan and the type of activities you’re planning on doing.

In winter (November – March) you should always bring warm clothes, a down jacket , a hat, a scarf, thermal underwear , warm boots and maybe a few lighter clothes for the mild days in the southern regions.

The summer (June – September) can be very hot, especially in the southern part of the country so bring light clothes.

If you’re planning on hiking and camping in the mountains around Almaty during the summer, you should also bring warm clothes as the temperature at night can still drop to 0°C.

The Complete Packing List for Traveling and Trekking in Central Asia

12.2 Travel essentials for Kazakhstan

There are a few items that I would class as essential when traveling in Kazakhstan:

• Water Filter Bottle : I highly recommend bringing a reusable bottle with a microfiltration device (see 11.5 Is it safe to drink the water in Kazakhstan?) . I use and highly recommend the  Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle .  Another way to filter water is by using a  steripen .
• Portable power bank :  you won’t always have electricity available to charge your electronic devices, especially not when you’re planning on spending time in the mountains or in the steppes. I use and recommend  Anker Power Bank   as it has a 20,000mAh cell capacity providing at least 5 full charges for my phone. I can even charge my camera batteries with it!
• International travel adaptor : the power sockets in Kazakhstan are of type C and F (the same as in Europe). The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. In case you need an adaptor, I use and recommend this  all-in-one Universal Travel Adaptor  as you can use it worldwide.
• Biodegradable toilet paper :  you’ll have to be comfortable using a squat toilet in Kazakhstan. With the exception of the guesthouses where you’ll have a western-style toilet, most toilets will be outside in the form of a separate small building with a hole in the ground. Sometimes there’s toilet paper but you should definitely bring  biodegradable toilet paper  with you. I mention biodegradable as the toilet paper disappears in the ground so we can keep it environment-friendly!
• The same goes for   biodegradable wet wipes . Some homestays don’t have showers so wet wipes are very handy if you want to refresh.
• Immodium  (or any other anti-diarrhea medicine) : a lot of the travelers eventually suffer from diarrhea at one point or another throughout their first trip to Kazakhstan. As prevention, I use  activated charcoal  (it helps your body get rid of toxins and unwanted substances, ask about it in your local pharmacy).
• a head torch 
• a good pair of walking boots
• appropriate clothing depending on the time of year and planned activities 
• a good day backpack for walking and hiking 
• sun protection (a hat/headscarf/sunscreen)
• passport and a copy of your passport and any other relevant documents
• a copy of your travel insurance policy number written down somewhere  

13. Are drones allowed in Kazakhstan?

According to KAA, drones are allowed in Kazakhstan, subject to AAK regulations .

You must register your drone and gain a license for using it whilst in Kazakhstan. If you do not get a license, you could face a fine, detention, or your drone could be confiscated .

You can get a license from the Aviation Committee in Nur-Sultan and there are certain rules you must follow when operating your drone whilst in the country.

What’s in my camera bag: photography essentials for travel photography

14. How is the internet in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is not a place to head to if you depend on the internet for work. Access to a fast-speed WiFi connection is rare and many websites have been blocked by the government.

In January 2022, there were nationwide anti-government protests in Kazakhstan. Some of these protests turned violent and in order to regain control, the government intentionally shut down the internet across the entire country for five days.

This was permitted due to a law that came into place in 2012, regarding national security in Kazakhstan. This law states that the government can disrupt communication channels for the containment of riots.

14.1 Which is the best sim card in Kazakhstan and how to get one?

The Beeline KZ card is a great SIM card to buy whilst in Kazakhstan and you can pick it up in any local shop.

It will give you enough coverage to update your Instagram feed or call your mum on What’s App and tell her that you’re doing fine.

14.2 REcommended apps for traveling in Kazakhstan

• M aps.Me : This is one of the most practical apps you could use in Kazakhstan. You can download the map of the country so you can use it offline. It gives you very accurate directions and shows you where you can find the nearest restaurants, bus stations, ATM, hotels, places with wi-fi, points of interest, etc. It also tells you the number of the marshrutka you need to take when you travel within a particular city. This is also a great app to use while hiking as it shows most of the trails.
• 2GIS :  This is very similar to Maps.Me but only works for big cities such as Almaty, Shymkent, and Astana. You can download the map of the city for offline use. This app only works in Russian but it’s the most popular and accurate navigation app in Central Asia.
• Booking.com :  You’ll need internet to use this app but it’s a great tool to find (last-minute) accommodation in the country.
• Google Translate:  Translates written and spoken Russian or Kyrgyz. Only Russian is available to download for offline usage.
• Xe currency:  very handy to check exchange rates, also works offline.
• iOverlander: Great app for when you go on a road trip. This app serves as a database of places for overlanders. It includes information about (free) camping sites, restaurants, mechanics, petrol stations, water sources,…
• Yandex Go : Great app to use if you want to take a taxi in the major cities without getting ripped off. All the Yandex taxis have a meter so you’ll always know how much to pay. It works similarly to Uber. Just enter your location and a taxi will arrive within 5 to 10 minutes.

15. Culture and etiquette in Kazakhstan

The Kazakh people are descendants of ancient Turkic nomadic tribes and used to travel along the Kazakh steppes for centuries. Their culture was very similar to the nomadic culture that we can still see in Kyrgyzstan today.

The word “Kazakh” means “a free and independent nomad” in Turkic. However, their way of life has changed dramatically over the past century.

When Kazakhstan was still a republic of the former USSR, it rapidly developed its agricultural and industrial sectors because of its massive oil and gas reserve. The majority of the Kazakh people left their nomadic lifestyle and moved to the cities to work. Unlike in its neighboring country Kyrgyzstan, it’s nowadays very difficult to experience the nomadic culture in Kazakhstan.

Many people from other USSR republics were sent to Kazakhstan to work in the industrial sector. That’s why Kazakhstan became a multinational state inhabited by 17.8 million people belonging to more than 120 nationalities !

Kazakhstan is doing economically very well, better than any other country in Central Asia and when you visit a city like Nur Sultan and Almaty, you can tell that there’s money in the country!

It’s therefore important to tell you that the people of all ethnic groups living in Kazakhstan are called Kazakhstani . Only the people of the Kazakh ethnic group are called Kazakhs and they are becoming a minority in their own land!

The Kazakh are extremely hospitable people. In ancient times, there was an unofficial law that said ‘ Meet a guest as God’s messenger’ and hospitality is seen as a type of sacred duty.

If you are invited to someone’s home, it is customary to be served tea and bread even if you have not been invited for a meal. The serving of bread is seen as a sign of respect in Kazakhstan culture. Meals tend to take a long time as they are seen as social events.

It is common to greet people with a handshake using both hands. The majority of rules and social etiquette circle around the country’s Muslim faith and nomadic traditions.

If you want to learn about the Kazakh people and their traditions, you should go on a road trip and visit the small villages in the steppes. Most people there still live and work as shepherds. But you’ll see that their culture has become a mix of Kazakh and Russian traditions.

16. What is the Religion in Kazakhstan

The vast majority of the Kazakh people are Muslims, but the Islamic religion came late to the area.

The practice of the religion differs from region to region and is in general not so strict. You won’t see many women wearing a hijab and the majority of the men won’t say no to a good shot of vodka.

17. Do people in Kazakhstan speak English?

In the cities and more tourist areas, you will find more and more people who know and understand English.

However, it’s mostly the younger generation who seem to know more, with the percentage growing since the fall of the Soviet Union.

If you want to talk to the locals, it would serve you to learn some Russian. A Russian phrasebook would definitely come in handy.

17.1 Which languages are spoken in Kazakhstan?

The official languages of Kazakhstan are Kazakh and Russian. Only 64.4% of the population speaks Kazakh while Russian is spoken by almost everyone.

You’ll notice that the people living in the Almaty region and northern areas are predominantly Russian speakers. If you want to be able to communicate with the locals, I’d suggest you learn some Russian.

l study  Russian by using the audio classes of Pimsleur . This is a great learning method to study a new language.

A phrasebook will definitely be useful. I recommend both the  Lonely Planet Central Asia Phrasebook  and  the Lonely Planet Russian Phrasebook & Dictionary .  I also recommend installing the Google Translate app and downloading the Russian language pack for offline use.

18. Recommended books about Kazakhstan

I recommend the following books and guides for traveling in Kazakhstan: 

• Kazakhstan Bradt Travel Guide   is one of the most comprehensive travel guide books about Kazakhstan.
• Kazakhstan – Culture Smart!   offers an insider’s view of Kazakhstan’s fascinating history, national traditions, various cuisines, and cultural scene.
• Lonely Planet Central Asia  is ideal if you’re also planning on visiting other destinations in Central Asia
• Apples Are from Kazakhstan: The Land that Disappeared is Christopher Robbins’ both hilarious and grim travelogue of his travels in Kazakhstan. He finds Eminem-worship by the shrinking Aral Sea, hears the Kazakh John Lennon play in a dusty desert town, joins nomads hunting eagles, eats boiled sheep’s head (a delicacy), and explores some of the most beautiful, unspoiled places on earth.
• Dark Shadows: Inside the Secret World of Kazakhstan is a compelling portrait of Kazakhstan by journalist Joanna Lillis. This book explores how a president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, transformed himself into a potentate and the economically-struggling state he inherited at the fall of the USSR into a swaggering 21st-century monocracy.

I wish you such wonderful and fantastic adventures in Kazakhstan! If you still have questions about your upcoming journey, let me know in the comments below, or don’t hesitate to send me an email . I would love to help you plan your visit to Kazakhstan.

Related Posts

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

How to visit Turkistan Kazakhstan’s spiritual and historical center

The Complete Hiking Guide to Sayram Ugam National Park, one of the most beautiful Kazakhstan National Parks

19 Best Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan  – The Complete Guide to visit Almaty City

How to visit the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy, The most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan

Blown away by the beauty of Charyn Canyon – The Complete Travel Guide

More kazakhstan travel resources:.

• The Travel Guide to Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know before you go
• The 26 most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Kazakhstan
• Is it safe to travel to Kazakhstan: 15 useful safety tips
• Almaty City Guide: The 19 best things to do in Almaty
• The 5 best and most beautiful hikes in the mountains near Almaty
• Charyn Canyon Travel Guide
• Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy Travel Guide
• Sayram Ugam National Park Travel Guide
• Turkestan Travel Guide: discover the spiritual center of Kazakhstan
• Visiting the ship graveyard of the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan
• Trekking in Kazakhstan: 5-day hiking itinerary in the Northern Tian Shan Mountains
• A beginner’s guide to skiing in Shymbulak, Almaty

10 thoughts on “The Best Guide to Travel in Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know to visit Kazakhstan in 2024”

Very useful and comprehensive information

Excellent informative article…

Hi. I want to thank you for good article. I hope you liked Kazakhstan. I would like to add a few comments: You wrote, “Despite being a Muslim country …” Kazakhstan is not a Muslim country, it is a secular state. I know that many people confuse Turkic and Turkish. The word “Kazakh” means “free and independent nomad” in Turkic (non-Turkish). The Kazakh people are a descendant of the ancient Turkic nomadic tribes. Thank you!

Hello Kamshat, thank you! We really enjoy traveling in Kazakhstan 🙂 And thank you for your feedback, I’ve adjusted it in the text! Much appreciated!

Hi! Great article and very useful! Just few comments: Kazakhstan is not Muslim country, even though its true that majority of people are Muslims; Kazakhs are not becoming minority in Kazakhstan, we (Kazakhs) represent almost 70% of the Kazakhstan’s population; there are more than 3 international airports in Kazakhstan (minimum 10).

Hi Zhuldyz, thanks for your comments. I’ve re-read this article and can’t see where I wrote that Kazakhstan is a Muslim country. I mention that the majority of the people are Muslims. I’ve talked with people in Kazakhstan and read several reports on the population of Kazakhstan that tell that the Kazakh ethnic group is becoming a minority. With this I don’t mean the Kazakhstani people. And there are indeed more international airports in Kazakhstan, I’ve just mentioned that those are the 3 main ones 🙂

Cheers to that ability to share your inner-riches got a good tip. nice website I will bookmark this. I like these type of article which enhances my vocabulary keep it up ill be looking forward to your next articles.

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Kazakhstan Travel Guide

Updated March 2024,  The Kazakhstan Travel Guide was originally written in February 2020

No matter what type of traveler you are Kazakhstan probably has something for you, from awesome city breaks (especially so with new direct  flights  to Almaty and Astana from Europe), treks ranging from an hour to several days deep into the Tien Shan, the world’s largest cosmodrome, wind-blown steppe, craggy canyons, beautiful glacier lakes, arid rainbow mountains, and even a few ski resorts. In this Kazakhstan travel guide, you’ll learn everything to plan your very own trip, from the best things to do in Kazakhstan, where to visit, tips, how to get around, and more.

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Quick Kazakhstan Info

The currency in Kazakhstan is the Kazakh Tenge. The exchange rate as of  March 2024  is  $1 USD = 450 KZT . You can find ATMs and money exchangers in most major towns and cities.

Kazakhstan is largely bilingual with Kazakh and Russian being the main languages spoken in the country. I’d advise learning some basic phrases in either before arriving, but know that English has been growing in popularity.

What To Wear

In cities in Kazakhstan, you’ll see people dressing similarly to many other major cities in the world. Some people would describe the outfits as Russian-style.

Outside cities in villages and small towns you’ll see that people, especially the women tend to dress more traditionally with longer dresses with trousers, long sleeves are quite common. It’s best to err more on the conservative side outside cities to avoid stares and glares. For women that mostly means just covering knees and shoulders at least. Men tend to wear T-shirts or button-downs with trousers.

Kazakhstan has a pretty brutal winter owing to the country being comprised largely of steppe. The best times to visit largely depend on what your interests are.

For hiking and trekking, the summer months of July and August are best, though still pretty good in September and even into early October. Spring and fall April-May and September-October are best for the more arid sites like Charyn Canyon and Altyn Emel National Park that are uncomfortably hot in the summer.

Most would tell you winter should be largely avoided owing to frigid temperatures, but Kazakhstan is home to a few ski resorts.

How Long To Visit

Kazakhstan is a huge country. In fact, Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country on earth, which makes planning for it a bit intimidating. With all that said, Kazakhstan is quite sparse.

In 3-4 weeks you can visit most of the major stops in the country, but you’ll need to keep up a decent pace. In about 10 days you can tick off most of the highlights surrounding Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan Visas

Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Kazakhstan for 30 days. A single entry e-visa is available for several nationalities.

Going to Kyrgyzstan too? Check out my two week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan itinerary

Getting There & Around

The most common entry points are Almaty and Nur Sultan (formerly Astana) international airports that are well connected with a number of destinations in Asia and Europe.

Other common entry points are the Kordoi Border Crossing between  Bishkek  and  Almaty  (though it is closed at the moment due to renovation and traffic is being diverted to nearby Ak Tilek), the Navoi-Kaplanbek and Chernayevka-Jipek Joli crossings that connect Tashkent and Shymkent.

There are several border crossings with China and Russia.

Getting around in Kazakhstan is mostly done by shared taxi, marshrutka (minibus), and train. For large distances like Almaty to Astana many people may opt to fly to save time.

Kazakh Food & Cuisine

Kazakh cuisine has a lot in common with its neighboring Central Asian nations. Kazakh and Kyrgyz traditional food I find to be the most similar owing to both groups’ nomadic tendencies and meat-heavy diet.

Much like the other post-Soviet ‘stans Kazakh cuisine has quite a bit of Russian influence. Dishes to try in Kazakhstan are:

Beshbarmak:  Beshbarmak is a staple traditional dish that dates back centuries among Kazakh nomads. It translates out to ‘five fingers’ because it is meant to be eaten with your hand. The dish consists of handmade noodles, boiled meat (usually mutton), and onions. This is the closest thing to a national dish in Kazakhstan. I’ll admit that it’s not my favorite dish as I’m not a connoisseur of boiled meats, but then again it’s not the worst thing I’ve eaten either.

Baursok:  These fried little chunks of dough are common appetizers in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Baursok are typically served with kaymak as a dip, a thick cream.

Non:  Non literally means bread, and you’ll find beautiful wheels of non at bazaars around the country. Non is served with pretty much every meal.

Chai:  Much like non, chai is impossible to avoid as it’s served with nearly every meal. You’ll almost always be asked chorny (black) or zelony (green)? before it’s prepared.

Qazi:  Qazi is a sausage of horse meat, in which a slice may accompany your beshbarmak, plov, or other common main meals on special occasions. I quite like Qazi, but many foreigners I have found turn up their noses at the idea of eating horse. A great place to sample Qazi is at the Green Bazaar in Almaty- there’s a smoke horse sausage that is to die for in my opinion. Qazi is typically saved for special occasions because it is expensive.

Plov:  Plov is the ubiquitous Central Asian dish of fried rice, garlic, carrots, meat and sometimes raisins and garbanzo beans.

Shorbo:  Shorbo is a simple soup served throughout Central Asia of boiled meat (usually mutton or beef), carrot and potato.

Chakchak:  Chakchak is a sweet that originated in Tatarstan and spread throughout the Soviet Union. Chakchak is common in Kazakhstan following a meal. It reminds me of rice crispy treats and other sticky cereal treats my Mom would make when I was a kid.

Places To Visit & Things To Do In Kazakhstan

Almaty & around.

Almaty is Kazakhstan’s former capital and largest city. The leafy green city is unlike other Central Asian capitals (former or present) as it has a very European feel to it. Almaty very much reminded me of Odessa, Ukraine in several ways.

Check out my  14 best things to do in Almaty  blog post for more info

Things to do in Almaty

• Zenkov Cathedral
• Panfilov Park
• Green Bazaar
• Tour the Almaty Metro Stations
• Jipek Joli Pedestrian Street
• Arasan Baths
• Academy of Sciences

Best Restaurants In Almaty

• Shavlego Georgian Restaurant
• Coffeedelia

Where To Stay In Almaty

Almaty Backpackers |  Booking.com  |

Hotel Mildom |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Rixos Almaty Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is located just outside the city, perched in the Alatau Mountains, and can easily be reached by taxi, I recommend using  Yandex.taxi  (similar to Uber) to hire a car.

Depending on the time of year Big Almaty Lake can range from a beautiful turquoise to an opaque pastel seafoam green. Try to visit Big Almaty Lake early in the morning for reflections of the sky and surrounding mountains.

Plan your own visit with my  Big Almaty Lake guide  or  book a group tour  of Big Almaty Lake

Southeastern Kazakhstan

Saty is a small village that serves as a great jumping-off point for further explorations to the Sunken Forest of Lake Kaindy, trekking around Kolsai Lakes, and visiting Charyn Canyon. There are several guesthouses in Saty that rent rooms to tourists and can help arrange transport to Kaindy, Kolsai, and Charyn. Saty doesn’t boast many must-sees itself, but the mosque and the cemetery are worth a visit if you find yourself with some spare time.

Where To Stay In Saty

Guesthouse Arcabay-Karligash |  Booking.com  |

A-Frame Kolsai |  Booking.com  |

The Sunken Forest Of Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is among the most unique lakes in the world. Not only is absolutely stunning it all boasts an unusual feature: a sunken forest.

After a large earthquake in 1911 unleased a large landslide damming off the Kaindy River, the valley began filling with beautiful turquoise glacial water. Eventually, much of the Shrenk spruce forest in the bottom of the valley was submerged. The branches and green needles eventually fell off the upper parts of the trees that rise out of the water, but the lower halves that remained submerged managed to retain theirs thanks to preservation properties of the ice-cold water, giving the sunken forest the appearance of being upside down.

For those wanting to make an overnight trip of Kaindy Lake, it’s possible to bring your own gear and camp. For those up for a real challenge, it’s possible to trek between Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes.

Plan your visit to Lake Kaindy with my  How to get to Lake Kaindy guide

Kolsai Lakes 1, 2, & 3

Kolsai Lakes are a strand of blue-green lakes, commonly referred to as the pearls of the Tien Shan. Arrange a car from Saty and walk down the steep hill for views of the first Kolsai Lake. A short walk along the shore will bring you to a dock jutting out into the lake that makes for a great photo op.

For those that wanna take on a day hike, you can continue along a trail that connects to Kolsai Lake 2, and if you’re up for it, Kolsai Lake 3. You can bring your own gear if you’d like to spend a night at Kolsai Lakes, or there is a yurt camp at the first lake.

It’s possible to travel to Kolsai 2 by horseback.

Click here  to read my blog post on Kolsai Lakes

Wanna join a group? Check out this  Kaindy, Kolsai & Charyn Canyon 3 day tour

Charyn Canyon

Southeastern Kazakhstan is pretty diverse for its size. From city to alpine lakes to desert landscapes that rival the Grand Canyon in appearance.

Charyn Canyon is comprised of several canyons that all have their own persona, but probably the most popular is the Valley of Castles pictured above.

Planning your own Charyn Canyon visit? Read:  How to get to Charyn Canyon

Join this  Charyn Canyon day trip  from Almaty

Altyn Emel National Park is probably most famous for its unique singing dunes, that create an organ-like sound when winds blow from the west. The Aktau Range is another not-to-miss stop in the national park for its striated, colorful appearance.

Book this  2 day Altyn Emel National Park Tour

Karkara Border

For those that plan to combine a visit to southeastern Kazakhstan with eastern  Kyrgyzstan , the Karkara border is going to be the shortest option to get between the two countries without having to backtrack back to Almaty.

Check out my  Karkara Border Crossing report  for info on how to cross between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Turkistan & Southern Kazakhstan

Shymkent & Around

Just a hop across the border from Tashkent, Shymkent has a long history along the Silk Road. From its early beginnings as a caravanserai to becoming a center of trade between Turkic nomads and Sogdians, later devastated by Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde before being absorbed by the Khanate of Kokand and later sacked by the Russians. Back in Shymkent’s heyday, the city was well known for its fine kumis, however, these days, alcohol speaking, Shymkent is known for producing Kazakhstan’s two finest beers.

Don’t miss out on shopping at Shymkent’s famed bazaars. Shymkent is surrounded by plenty of natural wonders. Don’t miss out on Sayram Ugam National Park or Aksuu Zhabagyly Nature Reserve.

Things To Do In & Around Shymkent

• Central Bazaar
• Samal Bazaar
• Shymkent Regional Museum
• Sayram Ugam National Park
• Aksuu Zhabagyly Nature Reserve

Where To Stay In Shymkent

City Hostel Shymkent |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Megapolis Hotel Shymkent |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Rixos Khadisha Shymkent |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

I’ll admit, I haven’t yet had the chance to visit Turkistan, but it’s high on my to-visit list. Turkistan boasts Kazakhstan’s best wealth of architectural gems, the centerpiece being Mausoleum to Kozha Akhmed Yasaui, the first Turkic Muslim holy man.

Check out this  2 day Turkistan group tour  from Almaty

Things To Do In Turkistan

• Yasaui Mausoleum & History Museum
• Mausoleum of Rabigha Sultan Begum
• Hilvet Underground Mosque

Where To Stay In Turkistan

Hostel Top |  Booking.com  |

Hotel Khanaka |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Boutique Hotel Silk Way |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Over the course of 40 years, the once large endorheic lake whose shores once spanned both into Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan has nearly dried up completely. The town of Aral (formerly Aralsk) serves as a good jumping-off point for further explorations into the Aral Sea area.

Aralsk once sat at the shores of the Aral Sea and served as an important fishing port, but now is somewhat defunct, albeit easier to visit than former Aral Sea ports on the Uzbek side of what was once the sea. Efforts are being made by Aral Tenizi, an NGO working to revitalize the Aral Sea fishing industry.

Things To Do Around Aral

• Zhalanash Ship Cemetery
• Fishermen’s Museum
• Arask History Museum
• Kok Aral Dam
• Swim in the Aral Sea

Where To Stay In Aral

Gostinitsa Karavanserai |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Space nerds rejoice, Baikonur is the world’s largest space launch facility. The cosmodrome is leased out to the Russians from the Kazakhs until at least 2050. Sputnik, Vostok, and Yuri Gagarin have all launched from pads within the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

For those of you that don’t wanna journey far but still want in on a little space action, you can always visit the Baikonur Metro Station in Almaty that’s interior looks like a spaceship and plays videos of space launches on a mounted TV.

Wanna tour Baikonur? Check out this  3 day space ship launch tour  at Baikonur

Northern Kazakhstan

Nur Sultan (Formerly Astana)

Nur Sultan, still more commonly referred to as Astana is essentially a planned city with an identity crisis. First referred to as Akmola, it dethroned Almaty and became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997 and changed names to Astana in 1998. In 2019 its name changed yet again after President Nursultan Nazarbayev resigned.

For transparency, I have not personally been to Astana… but my friend Dan from  Dan Flying Solo  recently paid a visit to the Kazakh capital on a two day stopover on his way home from a trek with me in  Tajikistan  in 2019.

His take: it’s like Vegas meet Dubai with a twist of  Central Asia . So think big grandiose buildings, unique and strange architecture set smack in the windswept Kazakh steppe.  Photos of Astana provided by Dan .

Join this  day tour of Astana

Things To Do In Nur Sultan

• Hazrat Sultan Mosque
• Khan Shatyr
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
• National Museum of Kazakhstan

Where To Stay In Astana

Hello Inn Budget Hotel |  Booking.com  |

King Hotel Astana |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Rixos President Hotel Astana |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Western Kazakhstan

Set on white cliffs, Aktau looks out over the Caspian Sea. If you’re looking for a Kazakh beach break Aktau is the spot with surrounding fluffy white sand beaches. Outside of Aktau don’t miss the Mangistau necropolises and underground mosques along with the epic landscapes of the Ustyurt Plateau.

Visit the  best of Mangistau and the Ustyurt Plateau on a 5 day tour  from Aktau

Things To Do In Aktau

• Laze on Dostar Beach
• Visit the Aktau Regional Museum

Where To Stay In Aktau

ZhanaOtel |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Caspian Riviera Grand Palace |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kalpak Travel – Central Asia (@kalpak_travel) on Oct 2, 2019 at 11:11am PDT

Ustyurt Plateau

The Ustyurt Plateau is a moon-like landscape that straddles both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s semi-autonomous region of  Karakalpakstan . Luck would have it that I first saw images of the Kazakh side of the Ustyurt Plateau the morning I was flying home from my last Central Asia trip, so there I was at the airport immediately planning my next adventure back to the region (needless to say Ustyurt is on the list).

Wild canyons, colorful craggy formations, and underground mosques dot the region that was once a lesser-used route of the Silk Road. It’s possible to cross the Ustyurt Plateau by train between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, but looking at how vast an area this is, I would opt to go with my own transport or jump on an organized tour.

Read more about crossing Ustyurt Plateau  here .

Check out this  5 day tour of Mangistau & Ustyurt Plateau 

Given Uralsk’s position right off the border with Russia, Uralsk feels more like Russia than it does Kazakhstan. Most who visit Uralsk are either coming from or going to Russia, given its location. The main attraction here is the Russian-style architecture.

Things To Do In Uralsk

• Cathedral of Archangel Mikhail
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Abay Square
• Uralsk Regional History Museum

Where To Stay In Uralsk

Apart-Hotel Vegus |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Hotel Pushkin |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Festivals in Kazakhstan

Kurban Ait (Eid al Adha):  The feast of the sacrifice that is known as Eid al Adha in the Arab world. Tradition is to visit the mosque, sacrifice an animal (usually a sheep) and feed everyone in sight.

Nowruz:  Nowruz is celebrated all across the Central Asian region and Iran, marking the start of spring, or the kick-off of the New Year according to the Persian calendar. You can expect to find feasts and festivals all around the country, as well as Kokpar matches (the dead goat polo called Kok Boru in neighboring Kyrgyzstan and Buzkashi in Tajikistan and Afghanistan).

National Unity Day:  Kazakhstan is comprised of different cultures, traditions, and people. National Unity Day takes place on May 1st and usually includes parades and street festivals that show just how diverse a country Kazakhstan is.

Independence Day:  December 16th marks Kazakhstan’s Independence Day. You can expect to find fireworks, parades, and concerts around the country.

Almaty Alma (Apple) Festival:  Almaty is famed for its apples, so much so that in mid September the city holds a festival dedicated to the fruit.

Kazakhstan Travel Budget

Kazakhstan on a budget.

8,350 KZT/$22 USD per day

A midrange Kazakhstan budget

19,000 KZT/$50 USD per day

Live it up in luxury in Kazakhstan

30,000 KZT/$80 USD per day

Kazakhstan Packing List

General packing list.

• Bradt’s Kazakhstan Guidebook
• Long sleeve
• Light fleece
• Trekking pants
• Warm Jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen 
• Mosquito Repellant 
• Prescription & Over the counter medications

For Trekkers

• Inreach Explorer+ GPS/SOS beacon
• Solar charger
• External battery pack
• Hydration pack or water bottle
• 3 Season tent  
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking Boots
• Lightweight cooking camp set
• Water Purifier  
• Trekking Poles  
• Headlamp  

Safety In Kazakhstan

Overall, Kazakhstan is a pretty safe country to travel in. Petty theft and corruption do happen so it’s worth being aware while traveling in Kazakhstan, but generally, the usual standard travel precautions apply.

Solo Female Travel In Kazakhstan

My first visit to Kazakhstan was solo and I never faced any problems as a solo female traveler in Kazakhstan on that visit. I did end up meeting another solo female backpacker who I joined and traveled with a couple of days, but otherwise, I was on my own.

My most recent visit was on assignment with USAID, in which I was with a group.

It’s worth mentioning that Kazakhstan still has a rather patriarchal culture, similar to its neighbors, though personally, I’ve found the Kazakhs to be a bit more progressive than the Tajiks in comparison.

Have Any Questions About Traveling  Kazakhstan ?

Ask your Kazakhstan travel questions in the comments section below.

More Posts from Kazakhstan:

32 Photos That Will Put Kazakhstan On Your Bucketlist

A Simple Guide To Central Asia Visas

7 Tips For Solo Female Travel In Central Asia

The Karkara Border Crossing Between Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

How To Get To Big Almaty Lake

Lake Kaindy & Kolsai Lakes: Everything You Need To Know

How To Get To Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

A Tour Though The Almaty Metro

A Beginner’s Guide To Central Asia Travel: Discover The Silk Road

The 14 Best Things To Do In Almaty + Almaty Day Trips

3 Days in Almaty, Kazakhstan

A Two Week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

10 Off The Beaten Path Destinations For 2021

6 thoughts on “kazakhstan travel guide”.

Hey! I should try the Baursok on my next trip! Is it like a staple ? I am Abu doing oet preparation course with the UOWD. #oetpreparationcourse

Yes, baursok is a staple in Kazakh cuisine.

A very excellent blog post.Thank you so much for such a well-written article.

Nice article with useful details !!! For info about MBBS in North Kazakhstan, visit : https://www.pacificeducation.in/north-kazakhstan-state-university/

Nice article with useful details !!!

good article thank you

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Must-see attractions in Kazakhstan

Some 285km east of Aktau, Beket-Ata is an important and extremely popular place of pilgrimage for those wishing to visit the underground mosque and final…

National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Nur-Sultan (Astana)

This huge blue-glass-and-white-marble museum covers the history and culture of Kazakhstan from ancient to modern times. Themed halls comprise interactive…

Charyn Canyon

Over millions of years, the swift Charyn (Sharyn) River has carved a truly spectacular 150m- to 300m-deep canyon into the otherwise flat steppe some 200km…

Yasaui Mausoleum

This astoundingly beautiful, tiled mausoleum with a turquoise dome is home to Kozha Akhmed Yasaui. The main chamber is capped with an 18m-wide dome, above…

KarLag Museum

Housed in the old KarLag headquarters building, this poignant museum walks you through KarLag's role in the Soviet Gulag Archipelago. The repression of…

Khan Shatyr

Nur-Sultan's most extraordinary building (so far), the Khan Shatyr is a 150m-high, translucent, tentlike structure made of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene …

Kolsai Lakes National Park

Located around 12km by paved (from 2018) road from Saty village, these three spruce-and-mountain-hemmed lakes are Alpine-esque beauty at its best and a…

Palace of Peace & Reconciliation

This beautiful glass-and-steel pyramid was opened in 2006 as the home for the triennial Congress of World and Traditional Religions, hosted by Kazakhstan…

Shakpak-Ata

Perhaps the most intriguing of all Mangistau’s underground mosques, 10th-century Shakpak-Ata is a cross-shaped affair with three entrances and four…

A trip to the slowly replenishing Aral Sea is the main – the only! – reason to come to Aral. Near its northern shore rise the sculpted rock formations of…

Kaiyndy Lake

Created by a major earthquake in 1912, this deep, cerulean lake is fed by a glacial river and is notable for its forest of drowned spruces, the branches…

ALZhIR Museum-Memorial Complex

During the Stalin years, Akmol, 35km west of Nur-Sultan, housed ALZhIR, a notorious camp for wives and children of men who were interned elsewhere as …

Right on the border between Kazakhstan and Russia, the myth-rich, snow-tipped peak of Mt Belukha (4506m) – Altay's highest – attracts true mountaineers…

Semipalatinsk Polygon

Between 1949 and 1989, 456 nuclear tests were conducted on the territory of the Polygon, the Soviet Union's primary nuclear test site, both above and…

Central State Museum

Almaty’s best museum takes you through Kazakhstan’s history from Bronze Age burials and nomadic culture to WWII sacrifices, telecommunications and the…

Bayterek Monument

Nurzhol bulvar's centrepiece is this 97m-high monument, a white latticed tower crowned by a large glass orb. This embodies a Kazakh legend in which the…

Aysha-Bibi & Babazha-Katun Mausoleums

In Aysha-Bibi village, 16km west of Taraz, are the tombs of two 11th- or 12th-century women, legendary protagonists of a local Romeo and Juliet tale. The…

This 1100m hill on the city’s southeast edge is crowned by a 372m-high TV tower visible from far and wide, and affords great views over the city and the…

Levoberezhny Park

This large park on the south bank of the Irtysh contains several interesting exhibits and is well worth a couple of hours of your time. Moving west from…

Big Almaty Lake

This picturesque turquoise lake, 1.6km long, rests in a rocky bowl at 2500m altitude, reflecting the Tian Shan mountains and the giant fir trees in its…

Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve

With more than 200 steppe lakes in and around the reserve, the area is a vital stop on major bird migration routes from Africa, the Middle East and India…

One of the most important Golden Horde settlements, the medieval town of Saraychik lay along the caravan route to the Golden Horde capital of Sarai, on…

Museum of Victims of Political Repression

This small museum documents Soviet oppression in Kazakhstan, from the dekulakisation (Soviet campaign of political repression from 1929 to 1932) and…

Kazakhstan Museum of Arts

This is the best art collection in the country, with Kazakh, Russian and some Western European art and a room of top-class modern Kazakh handicrafts, with…

Museum of the Armed Forces

The yurt-shaped museum showcases beautifully presented exhibitions on weaponry and warfare, with striking murals greeting visitors. On the ground floor,…

Turgen Gorge

Part of the Ile-Alatau National Park and located 70km east of Almaty, this beautiful, densely forested gorge, carved out of rock by the whitewater of…

Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments

In a striking 1908 wooden building (designed by cathedral architect Zenkov) at the east end of Panfilov Park, the city’s most original museum is a must…

Soviet Grain Silo

This rare relic of the 1950s may be gone in a few years' time, banished by the relentless wrecking ball, but for now you can see this enormous, decaying…

Lake Markakol

This gorgeous lake is a thriving habitat of over 200 different bird species. Apart from its attraction for birdwatchers and general scenic beauty, there…

Singing Dune

A couple of hours' drive from the settlement of Basshi that's part of the Altyn-Emel National Park, this sand dune emits a rumbling sound not unlike an…

Lenin Statues

A curious collection of 15 communist busts and statues, mostly Lenins – including Kazakhstan's tallest Lenin! – stands in a small park behind Hotel Semey…

Panfilov Park

This large and attractive rectangle of greenery is one of central Almaty's most popular strolling and hangout places for all ages. At its heart stands the…

Respublika Alany

This broad, Soviet-created ceremonial square provides a panoramic view of the snowcapped mountains on a clear morning and is surrounded by several…

Lovers of mysterious, remote ruins should venture out to Akyrtas – Kazakhstan's Stonehenge – on the steppe 6km south of Aksholak village. What you'll find…

Some 48km northwest of Turkestan stand the best preserved and most atmospheric ruins of all the many ruined Silk Road cities in the Syr-Darya valley. Its…

Around 22km northwest of the town of Shetpe, this awe-inspiring, 332m-high, 1km-long chalk outcrop that resembles a lion's head looms over the desert. To…

Tamgaly Petroglyphs

The World Heritage–listed Tamgaly Petroglyphs are the most impressive of many petroglyph groups in southeastern Kazakhstan. Set in a lushly vegetated…

Regional Museum of Southern Kazakhstan

In its shiny new quarters on the northern outskirts of the city, this regional museum has well-presented, trilingual displays on local geology, Iron Age…

Green Market

This large, two-level market has a true flavour of Central Asia, and is worth putting on your itinerary even if you're not really food shopping. It's been…

Ploshchad Poyushchykh Fontanov

The eastern half of Nurzhol bulvar starts with this plaza, which springs to life with music-and-water shows at 9pm on summer evenings. Further east stand…

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Dive Into Central Asia

Top 11 Things To Do In Kazakhstan: Your Bucket List!

Considering a trip to Kazakhstan? Wondering what to do in Kazakhstan?  What are the best places to visit in Kazakhstan? Want to make sure you don’t miss the top things to do in Kazakhstan?

You are in the right place!

If you are asking yourself, is Kazakhstan a good place to visi t? The answer is yes! Kazakhstan is a great country to visit. 

Despite being little known among even avid travellers, this big country in Central Asia has many great things to do and an interesting culture and history to explore. In fact, one of the great parts about visiting here is that Kazakhstan is not on the main tourist trail. In my opinion, this makes it so much fun to explore and have an amazing trip that exceeds all your expectations. It can feel like a real adventure.

Before planning my first trip here, I had no idea just how many great Kazakhstan places to visit there are and I was very excited as my planning progressed. Finding great resources online is hard though which is why I want to help here! There are some Kazakhstan attractions you won’t want to miss – and I have them here!

Below, you will find my list of the top places to visit Kazakhstan. I hope it will help you feel very excited to visit this amazing destination and your experiences are as positive as mine.

Whether you are interested in the top Kazakhstan tourist places or getting away from it all at the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan, we cover it all in the best things to see in Kazakhstan below!

• 1.1 1. Explore The Futuristic Capital, Nur-Sultan
• 1.2 2. Hang Out In Almaty
• 1.3 3. Go Skiing At Shymbulak
• 1.4 4. View Glaciers In Tian-Shan
• 1.5 5. Trek At The Kolsai Lakes
• 1.6 6. Explore Charyn Canyon
• 1.7 7. Visit Kazakhstan’s Holiest Site In Turkestan
• 1.8 8. Go Horse Riding At Aksu-Zhabagly
• 1.9 9. Watch A Space Launch At Baikonur Cosmodrome
• 1.10 10. Experience The Infamous Aral Sea
• 1.11 11. Explore The Desert, Canyons And Ancient Necropolises In Mangistau
• 2 Map Of The Best Places To Visit In Kazakhstan

Top 11 Best Things To Do In Kazakhstan

1. explore the futuristic capital, nur-sultan.

Welcome to Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan’s new capital that has risen from the northern steppe like a glimmering sculpture garden.  Previously known as Astana, in 2019 the city was renamed Nur-Sultan after the former president.  A showpiece for the 21st-century, the Kazakh city’s skyline grows by the year, with plans scheduled for expansion through to 2030 when it will be home to over a million people.  

Landmark buildings spring up faster than we can keep track of.  Designed by leading international architects in all manner of styles – Asian, Western and Soviet – along with the odd futuristic design.  It’s not hard to see why the city is often referred to as the “Singapore of the steppe”.  Wide open boulevards, international shops, English signage and a young, forward-thinking vibe, the city is full of interesting Kazakhstan tourist attractions.

Start your city exploration at the very centre at the Bayterek Tower, the most famous attraction in Nur-Sultan.  Soaring high, the monument is shaped like an oversized vase, with a sphere at its very tip.  Not only a beautiful building, it also holds important meaning for the culture and history of the Kazakh people, with the tower said to resemble a mythological tree and a large golden egg from the magical bird of life, Samruk.  Discover more about this nomad fable at the on-site museum or visit the observation deck for splendid city views. 

Next stop is at The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, nicknamed The Pyramid.  Representing humanity and religious equality, it was built in 2006 on behalf of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.  Representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity and more, try to catch a show in their 1500-seat auditorium or take the 30-minute tour, keeping an eye out for the gorgeous stained glass doves.

Spend the afternoon at the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the newest and largest museum in Central Asia.  The building itself embodies the city’s futuristic design with large blue glass windows and a white marble interior.  There’s a lot to discover here as the museum covers the history and culture of Kazakhstan – from ancient to modern times – through nomadic eras, Russian domination and independence. 

In the evening drop by the Astana Opera, on the left bank of the Ishim River.  Opened in 2013, this vast complex is the third largest opera in the world and is inspired by Italian theaters of the 19th century mixed with elements of national heritage.  Home to more than opera, you can also catch a ballet or orchestra performance.

A second day of exploring the city, and there’s nowhere better to start than at the Hazret Sultan Mosque, a highly regarded and beautiful place in Kazakhstan.  Recently built in 2012, the mosque is often noted as one of the most beautiful buildings in Nur-Sultan.  Resembling a large palace, it can hold up to 10,000 people.  Don’t miss a stop here to see the outstanding architecture.

Other sights worth a visit include the Kazak Yeli Monument – 91-metres high and topped by a golden eagle – it’s intended to symbolise the historic destiny of Kazakhstan’s people.  And, in a yurt-shaped building, The Museum of the Armed Forces.  This splendid museum showcases exhibitions on weaponry and warfare, beautifully presented with chainmail armour, swords and heroic statues.  Check out their Hall of Ancestry with it’s interesting look at weapons through the ages and the cavalry tactics of Turkic, Mongol and Kazakh armies. War historians will find this at the top of their list of “Kazakhstan best places to visit”.

For those interested in renewable energy, drop by the Museum of Future Energy, The Nur Alem.  This eight-story building was designed by prominent American architects to represent Kazakhstan at the International Specialised Exhibition EXPO 2017.  Following the exhibition, the pavilion was transformed into the country’s first technological museum that focuses on ideas for the world’s future energy sources.  Each floor of the museum represents a different type of renewable energy – ie. wind, sun, water, etc. 

End your day at the Khan Shatyr – an enormous tent-like shopping mall and perhaps one of Nur-Sultan’s most extraordinary buildings.  Boasting a variety of designer stores, entertainment,  and arcades with a drop tower, flume ride and 500m-long monorail, it will keep you busy for hours.  Also, don’t forget to check out the climate-controlled Sky Beach Club waterpark with a real beach on the top floor!

Not in the mood for shopping?  Hit the city park at the south side of the Ishim River.  You’ll find the Atameken, a 200 metre walk-around country map with models of major buildings  – children find this one of the best places in Kazakhstan.  Also nearby is another treat for families, the Duman Recreational Complex.  This amusement centre houses an oceanarium holding over 2000 creatures from the world’s oceans and an exciting shark tunnel.

We also recommend you visit the Nur-Sultan Circus – the building itself deserves to be visited, designed as a giant UFO spaceship that is brilliantly lit up at night.  Inside, the Circus arena is equipped with modern mechanisms that allow the stage area to magically change.  The award-winning international troupe of more than 300 put on a stunning show, including clowns, acrobats, trapeze acts, gymnastics, illusions, plus horse-riding and ice skating exhibitions.  

One of the best places to go in Kazakhstan is to the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve  – included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The largest reserve in Kazakhstan, at over half million hectares, it’s only 30km south-west of the city.  Visit towards the end of July or in August as its nesting time for birds – pink flamingos, pelicans and more – or in early May to catch dramatic tulip fields.  Start at the onsite Birds Paradise centre, then on to eco-routes for park tours.  You can drive an old Soviet off-road jeep (provided by the Reserve), or join an organised group day-tour from Nur-Sultan.  Don’t forget binoculars as you’ll be observing from some distance.     

Reach the city by flying into Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport or connect on the A17 Highway from Tashkent. 

We suggest staying at the Ritz Carlton, Astana .

2. Hang Out In Almaty

This former capital is still the largest city in Kazakhstan, set in the foothills of the Trans-lli Alatau mountains in the extreme southeast.  A bustling city, it’s remained the country’s centre of commerce, home to the largest stock exchange in Central Asia and all the main banks. 

Almaty means “City of Apple Trees” and a traditional story links the taking of the apple from the tree in the old testament to Almaty.  Whether or not close to the Garden of Eden, the city is certainly  breathtaking, with the constant backdrop of the mountains against the city’s tall buildings and close to many places of interest in Kazakhstan.

Republic Square is a great starting point for discovering the history of Almaty and the world’s ninth largest country, Kazakhstan.  This large Square is home to the Akimat House of Almaty, the official Government building, and also the Monument of Independence, both interesting places in Kazakhstan.  

Nearby you’ll find the Central Mosque, a truly magnificent building constructed in the Timurid style of architecture, and also the equally splendid Russian Orthodox church, St Nicholas Cathedral.  Visit the Central State Museum with its comprehensive history of Kazakhstan display, and the State Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan to appreciate works of art from around the world.

We hear mixed reports about Almaty Zoo, home to a collection of unique Kazakhstan wildlife, thus you might choose to skip a visit here.  Instead, have some fun at the  Interactive-Entertainment Park EVRIKUM, where you can explore the world of rocket science.  Families participate in science, physics and gravity experiments.  Another favourite for children is the Kazakh State Circus, combining horsemen and acrobatics in stunning displays, along with clowns, trapeze artists, tumblers and more!

You’re bound to notice the dominating TV mast that stands out like a huge minaret on top of the highest point of the city – The Kok-Tobe Park.  Located at the top of the mountain of the same name, this is a regular tourist stop.  From downtown Almaty take a cable car up to the mountain, and enjoy the amusement park attractions – including ferris wheel and roller coaster – petting zoo, ponds, and restaurant.

Spend an hour at the Zelioni Bazaar, one of the most famous local markets and then head to Panfilov Park.  Here, you’ll find one of the stranger tourist attractions of Kazakhstan, the Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments.  A high-tech and interactive look at local folk music instruments, it’s definitely worth a visit.  Also inside the park, check out Zenkov Cathedral, possibly the world’s only wooden cathedral.  Another popular park very nearby is Central Park (Gorky Park), with amusements for the young at heart.

Many visitors use Almaty as a base to explore the country’s wild southern landscapes.  Head to the Ile-Alatau National Park – a spectacularly diverse natural area with 300 species of animals and birds, including the famed snow-leopard, Central-Asian lynx and Tian-Shan brown bear, set in woodlands, alpine meadows, glaciers and lakes, including the Big Almaty Lake, a stunningly turquoise reservoir set at 2500 metres.  All possible to visit by bus or car, in any season, on day trips from Almaty.

Reach the city by flying into Almaty International Airport, 25 km outside of the city.  From Nur-Sultan travel 14 hours by train.  

We suggest staying at the Rixos Almaty Hotel .

3. Go Skiing At Shymbulak

A cheap alternative to European ski destinations and at the forefront of tourist places in Kazakhstan, Shymbulak is Central Asia’s largest ski resort.  Only 25km from Almaty, it offers diverse slopes for all levels, whether skiing or snowboarding.  Located in a picturesque valley of the Ile-Alatau Mountains at an altitude of 2510 metres, the resort is noted for its mild climate, sunny wintery days and constant snow levels.

As the mountains are fairly high there’s a long ski season, from early December until late March.  Lift passes can be purchased from the Cable Car Station, with a selection of options based on age, family and the number of lifts you plan on using.  

For a roundtrip – from the bottom of the mountain to the base of the ski resort and up to the top of the mountain at 3200 metres – you’ll need to purchase a combi-pass covering three cable car rides (including the 1 ride back down).  The lifts usually open at 10am until 6pm on weekdays, sometimes with an hour’s extension for the weekends.  Night skiing is available on sporadic days, with lifts open until midnight.  Check locally for the latest information. 

Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available, with English-speaking instructors.  Group and private classes, with prices dependent on your length of package.

With over 20km of slopes you’ll find a good split of courses – approx. 4km for beginners, 10km for intermediate level skiers and snowboarders, and 6km for advanced skiers.  There’s a half-pipe for snowboarders and extreme bends for the pros, and most years a special mogul track. 

Also, don’t forget to check out the off-piste skiing around the Shymbulak area – but best to have a guide with you for this.  And head to the yurt bar at the Talgar Pass, the highest point of the ski resort, for a fabulous lunch time stopover.

Most people choose to stay in Almaty and drive in 30 mins to reach the slopes or take the bus towards Medeu and jump off one stop earlier at the Cable Car Station.  However, if you’re a fan of fresh mountain air you’ll find accommodation options at the first cable car level, around 2260 metres.  Luxury and budget hotels, and cheap hostels are available, along with fancy restaurants, ski and snowboarding schools and a handful of bars. 

Not in the mood for skiing?  This winter wonderland has some great day hikes – namely the Four Peaks Trail, taking you across four mountain peaks, approximately 11km and usually completed in 7-8 hours.  

Starting at Medeu, the trail winds uphill to 3000 metres at Peak Furmanov.  You can choose to turn back at this point, or continue along past Peak Panorama and Peak Bashuta, ending at Peak Shymbulak at 3450 metres.  Return by taking the ski lifts and cable car down to the bus station. 

A more leisurely hike is to Butakovskiy Waterfalls, starting at the same point as the Four Peaks Trail.  Refer to the map at the start of the trail, and don’t forget that it’s winter so the sun drops early. 

Needless to say, if you’re visiting in summer there are numerous splendid hikes.  Take the cable car up for alpine walks along high mountain trails.

Still have energy?  Head to Medeu for the world’s highest ice-skating rink. Built in 1949, it was one of the top speed skating venues during the Soviet era.  10,500 sqm of ice, at 1691 metres above sea level, it’s great fun!  

Stay in Almaty or at the Shymbulak Resort Hotel .

4. View Glaciers In Tian-Shan

The Tian Shan mountains cover a massive 2500km, spanning across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and China.  Known as Tengri Tagh – Mountains of Heaven – in Kazakhstan, the mountain range is a mixture of lakes, gorges and valleys with stunning panoramic scenery, flora and fauna, local nomads and more. 

There are 370 glaciers in the central part of the Northern Tian Shan and hiking to these are one of the top activities in Kazakhstan.

The easiest to reach within a day is from Almaty, the 4-km long Touyuk-Su Glacier, located in the upper part of Maloalmatinsky gorge.  To reach here, take a bus from Almaty up to the Shymbulak Ski Resort by cable car.  From the top of the cable car, it’s a 3.5 hours trek along the Touyuk-Su gorge passing Molodezhny Glacier (3500m) to Touyuk-Su Glacier (3600m).  Surrounded by snowy 4000 metre mountain peaks it’s a magical place. 

On average the hike can be completed within a roundtrip of 6 hours and is thus possible as a long day trip from Almaty.  Available all year round, if you wish to spend longer to discover other nearby glaciers, look at booking accommodation at Shymbulak, where you’ll find a mixture of hotels and hostels. 

In total there are 12 glaciers in the upper reaches of the Small Almaty River, with the central and main Touyuk-Su Glacier being a valley type surrounded by fan-shaped smaller ones located only on the northern slopes.  Popular day hikes – all possible from Almaty – include to the Bogdanovich Glacier (3600m) offering views of hanging glaciers Til and Ayak, or to the Manshouk Mametova Glacier (3550m) which slides down in the form of a fantastic solid waterfall.

5. Trek At The Kolsai Lakes

Kazakhstan beautiful places don’t come much grander than this!  Kolsai National Park is perhaps the ultimate haven for nature lovers, with the trek to the Kolsai Lakes usually a winner in top-10 most beautiful places in Kazakhstan lists. 

Wild strawberries, dancing flowers and spectacular sapphire lakes are the prize for anyone who makes the arduous journey to the Kolsai Lakes region.  Breathe in the healthy mountain air, slosh through muddy trails, hike through alpine forests and learn about the simple life in the Kazakh countryside. 

Kolsai Lakes is a series of three glacial lakes in the Tian Shan Mountain Range.  The first being reachable by taxi from the nearby village of Saty, and from there you can trek or horse ride to Kolsai 2 (8km) and Kolsai 3 (5km).  Choose to hike to the first two lakes within a day – staying overnight in Saty at a homestay –  or trek to all three across a multi-night stay camping or sleeping in yurt camps. 

Horses are available at Kolsai 1 which can also take you around all three lakes in the same day.  Alternatively, an ideal option for riders with basic horse-riding skills, is a 4-day trek.  Offered from May to October, the route takes you to all three lakes, unexplored remote places, quiet local villages, and overnights at rustic mountain huts with breathtaking views of the snowy peaks of Kungey-Alatau.

Try to also include a visit to Lake Kaindy, another bright turquoise lake famed for the forest that seems to rise out from its cold waters.  Formed in the early 20th century after the damming of the Kaindy River, water levels in Lake Kaindy have slowly risen.  These days, the water almost covers the forest of schrenk spruce trees in the valley, which now poke out from the lake in eerie fashion, resembling masts of sunken ships.  

You’ll need a 4WD to reach the lake, and from the car park it’s a steep ten minutes hike.  Of course, if you have a few days you can combine both hikes and see all four lakes. 

The Kolsai Lakes are approximately 300kms from Almaty, and Lake Kaindy another 36km south.  Reaching the area by public transport can be tricky and we recommend taking a shared taxi from Almaty or, ideally, rent a 4WD in Almaty and self-drive.  Private and group tours can also be arranged from Almaty.  

A minimal fee is charged for entering Kolsai Lakes and secondly for Lake Kaindy, with additional costs for camping.  Campfires are allowed next to the lakes to help get through the chilly nights, but do go prepared for the weather.  Visit between June and September for ideal conditions or mid-late May and late September to miss crowds but expect some snow.  Yurts and homestays are closed at Kolsai from October to early May, with trails covered in snow and the lakes mostly frozen over. 

6. Explore Charyn Canyon

If you’re staying in Almaty you also shouldn’t miss a visit to the Charyn Canyon (Valley of the Castles), one of the most famous places in Kazakhstan.  Definitely one of the more popular attractions in the region, it’s best to avoid the busier weekends when locals descend for an overnight stay.

Known as the Mini Grand Canyon, the Charyn Canyon appears as if from nowhere amongst the almost monotonously desolate rolling steppe.  Suddenly, the deep amber crack appears, carved through the heart of the Kazakh desert.

The history of the Charyn Canyon stretches back 12 million years, when the river started to slowly erode the surrounding stone. Older, darkest layers at the base of the canyon are volcanic lava rocks, on top of which debris has slowly accumulated to form natural sculptures. 

Lizards, snakes, steppe hares, foxes and groundhogs thrive here.  Endemic fish, the naked Osman, swim in the cold fast-flowing waters of the Charyn river. 

The walk to the river is approximately 4km (about an hour) from the entrance.  Pay the minimal entrance fee and elect to follow the steep path downwards to experience the canyon from below or walk along the rim for stunning gorge views.

An eco-park sits beside the river, with yurts and wooden bungalows available for an awesome night’s stay, allowing you to explore longer and away from the daytime crowds.  Here you’ll find a small restaurant selling Kazakh basics or bring your own picnic. 

We highly recommend staying overnight as at both dawn and dusk sun rays dart around the canyon, turning the cliffs magical golds and ambers.  You will not regret it.

Up for a real adventure?  Equipped with your own 4WD or if you’re a keen hiker, set off to discover the other three rarely-explored canyons in the area.  Along the way look out for companies offering rafting on the Charyn River.

Termirlik Canyon is of the reddest iron red and children tend to love this canyon, playing on the towers and overhangs.  Set up camp here and enjoy a cozy fire, whilst waiting for the awesome night sky.  No tent?  Head to nearby Chundzha offering a number of guest houses built around hot springs.

Yellow or Moon Canyon – Uzunbulak Canyon – is another cozy canyon with a great picnic spot beside the river.  You’ll find more nature here in bright steppe colours.

Lastly, Bestamak Canyon is over 6km and has wide u-shaped valleys mixed with narrow passages.  Constantly changing, this canyon throws off pink and orange glows as you walk the dry riverbed. 

To ensure you really experience the beauty of the area we recommend making this a minimum 2-day visit.  The Kazakh steppe is freezing (down to -30) in winter and sizzling (up to +40) in summer, so dress appropriately and ensure to hydrate in summer!   Take snacks, water, sun hats and lotion, and warmer clothes for the evening.

Day tours are available from Almaty, but be prepared for the 4-hour drive in and out.  Alternatively, rent a 4WD and explore more canyons freely.  Extend your stay by connecting through to Saty (1h30m) and trek to the Kolsai Lakes.

7. Visit Kazakhstan’s Holiest Site In Turkestan

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yesevi can be found in the north-eastern part of the modern-day town of Turkestan.  Once an ancient centre of caravan trade, and named Khazret, it is located in the southern part of Kazakhstan. 

The mausoleum was commissioned in 1389 by Timur, who ruled the area as part of the expansive Timurid Empire.  However, with his death in 1405, construction was halted.  Though it was never completed the building has survived centuries and is one of the best-preserved Timurid constructions. 

Innovative architectural ideas for the vault and dome and unique ornamentations using glazed tiles – showing Iranian influences – made the mausoleum a prototype which spread across the empire culminating in the famous monuments of Samarkand.

Including the central hall, there are 36 rooms in the Mausoleum, covered by what is still the largest existing brick dome in Central Asia at 18 meters in diameter and towering up to 44 metres.  A monumental building.

Inside, discover the huge ritual bowl that weighs over two tons and the bronze lamp which was a gift from Tamerlane.  You’ll discover the Grand Palace, with the khan’s throne and scepter, and the Small Palace with the pantheon of 43 tombstones of the Qazaq khans.  Also explore  Hoja Akhmed Yassaui’s tomb and the Small Mosque – the main prayer area – along with many ancillary rooms.  

Next, explore the underground mosque – Hilvet – of the Mausoleum, considered a sacred Sufi underground structure.  Located 150 metres from the Mausoleum, the Hilvet was home to the followers of the Yassaui school who for more than five centuries conducted their ritual ceremonies here.  A semi-underground extensive structure with prayer rooms, sleeping rooms for pilgrims and rooms for ritual ceremonies, now only a small part of the original structure has remained intact.

Pilgrims from across Central Asia continue to visit these attractions in Kazakhstan, paying their respects.  The buildings have come to embody the Kazakh national identity and were protected by UNESCO in 2003 as possibly the top historical places of Kazakhstan.  Turkestan remains the cultural heart of modern Kazakhstan and the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yesevi at its centre, one of the Islamic world’s greatest mausoleums. 

There are also many other Islamic Kazakhstan places to see in the historical center of Turkestan: the Zhuma Mosque Museum (XVIII century), the Oriental Bath Museum and the Turkestan City History Museum, the Museum of Archeology and Ethnography and the Rabia Sultan Begim Mausoleum of the XV century. 

There are always a lot of people in Turkestan, mainly tourists from all over Qazaqstan and Central Asia, because the three-time pilgrimage to Turkestan is recognized among Muslims of Central Asia as Hajj to Mecca. 

Reach Turkestan by flying into Shymkent and taking a 3-hour taxi.  By rail, there’s a connection from Almaty to Shymkent, and directly on a high speed link from Nur-Sultan to Turkestan. All involve lengthy travel across this vast country.  

We recommend staying at the  Boutique Hotel Silk Way .

8. Go Horse Riding At Aksu-Zhabagly

Aksu-Zhabagly Reserve is located in South Kazakhstan, covering part of the Talasskyi Alatau ridge in Western Tian-Shan.  Starting from 1,100 metres at Zhabagly village the reserve stretches to 4200 metres at Sairamskyi Peak as the steppe disappears and the mountains begin.

The reserve is noted for its splendid flora, with over 1200 species including many tulips.  More than 51 species of mammals inhabit the region, including the notoriously shy snow leopard, Tian-shan white-clawed bear, lynx, mountain goat and hundreds of furry marmots.  A hot-spot for birdwatchers, keep your binoculars at easy reach for eagles, storks, cranes and bee eaters.

Discovering the foothills by horseback is a favourite activity for many visitors and we recommend as a highlight of Kazakhstan things to do. One or two-day rides, through immersive ten-day treks are available on tame and well-trained horses, all possible without prior riding experience. 

Knowledgeable guides lead you to the grandiose 500-metre-deep canyon Aksu and assist as you make an ascent of mountain passes at more than 3000 metres.  Visit a stalactite cave at the peak of Kaskabulak, famed for its ancient petroglyphs of wild animals and horsemen etched into the rockface.  

See glaciers, mountain lakes and waterfalls as you ride through alpine forests and learn myths and legends of the region.  Overnight in established summer camps or set up tents in high meadows filled with summer wildflowers. 

Enjoy meeting locals as you stop off at local villages along the route, or learn the ways of nomadic herders in the pastures as you relax after a day’s ride.

From Almaty or Nur-Sultan take a train to any city near to Shymkent.  From there it’s approximately 30 minutes by road to Aksu Zhabagly.  It’s best to organise a pick-up by your guest house as there are almost no taxis in the Shymkent region.

Overnight buses run between Almaty City (Sairan Bus Station) and Shymkent City, approximately a 12-hour journey.  Alternatively, self drive taking approximately a whole day from Almaty Airport to Aksu Zhabagly.

Within the national park you will need to be accompanied by a ranger or guide (rarely English-speaking).  Jeep safaris to the Aksu Canyon are available and if within your budget we thoroughly recommend.

If staying in the area, a number of homestays and guesthouses are available in Zhabagly.  Note there are currently no restaurants in the village, and guests eat at their guest houses dining on classic central Asian dishes such as plov.  Visit between July and September for ideal conditions.

9. Watch A Space Launch At Baikonur Cosmodrome

There aren’t too many internationally known Kazakhstan famous places, but the stand out is definitely the Baikonur Cosmodrome launch site complex.  You’ll discover where Sputnik 1 – Earth’s first artificial satellite – and Yuri Gagarin – the first human in orbit – launched from.  Since then, all Russian-crewed missions have been launched from Baikonur – including those to the Space Station – along with lunar, planetary and ocean surveillance missions.

In an era when the Soviets wanted to hide the location, the complex was purposefully named after a small mining town that sits over 322 km away.  Actually based at Tyuratam in Kazakhstan, the launch complex is still referred to as Baikonur.

A remote area, this semi-arid zone, is approx. 2100 kms southeast of Moscow.  The complex includes an airport, the town of Leninsk, an oxygen and nitrogen plant, various international and Russian military launch pads, and a military airfield.

In recent times international crews blast off to space only twice a year from Baikonur, with the dates being determined by the State Commission at meetings held approximately one month prior to launch.  

Baikonur Cosmodrone Space Launch Tour Programmes are available here . 

Arrive at Kyzylorda Airport, where you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to Baikonur.  Accommodation and transfers are included in the packages, along with hangar and launch pad experiences.  Guests have the opportunity to learn about the history of the complex and previous missions at the onsite Museum.  VIP packages for small groups are also available.  

Don’t miss this chance to watch the next space mission as the roaring engines light up the sky!  A highlight of places to see in Kazakhstan.

Fly in to Kyzylorda Airport, with direct flights from Moscow, Almaty and Nur-Sultan.

10. Experience The Infamous Aral Sea

Once the world’s fourth largest freshwater lake, covering an area of some 67,000 sq km, the Aral sea became the victim of the Soviet Union’s agricultural policies in the 1950’s.  Water from two rivers was intentionally diverted for cotton cultivation, causing a decrease in water flow into the sea.  A rise in salinity caused many freshwater fish species to die out.  By the 1980’s the fishing industry in Aralsk, Kazakhstan was destroyed and a mass migration of people moved away from the area.  

Nature took its revenge, with the dried-out Aral seabed causing extreme weather and bringing increasingly bad health to the remaining population.  Marked as one of the world’s worst ecological disasters, the sea today is only a tenth of what it was.  Broken into two bodies – the North and South Aral Seas – the Uzbekistan South is completely desiccated, with only a small strip of water remaining.  However, Kazakhstan’s North Aral Sea has had a happier outcome. 

An $86 million dollar project, almost entirely financed by the World Bank, has helped restore the area.  Repairs to existing dikes around the basin and an eight-mile dam have helped to increase the water levels by over 11ft.  Fish stocks have slightly returned, injecting new life into the local communities and commerce back to Aralsk.  

Visit Aralsk and you may be surprised at this desolate, extremely remote place, with very little tourism infrastructure.  Definitely an extreme travel destination!

The town itself is very poor, almost forgotten but remains the only realistic base for exploring Kazakhstan’s North Aral Sea area.  Low, single-storey residential housing is spread out along a grid of dusty streets.  You’ll randomly find camels, cows and donkeys strolling in the roads, along with lots of young children.  A town bazaar and a few bars are dotted around but there is little to keep you amused.

Do check out the Soviet-era propaganda remnant, celebrating the glory days of Aralsk.  A mosaic inside the train station building depicts how the local fishing industry answered Lenin’s cry for help and supplied trainloads of extra catch to the hungry population in the Soviet Union after the revolution.

An old museum covers the town’s better days, with photos and charts showing the full extent of the shrinkage of the Aral Sea.  Unfortunately all labels are in Russian, thus it’s difficult to follow some of the exhibits.

The rest of the town is made up of a few Russian monuments, the wide-open plaza of Central Square and the rusting cranes of the former freight train station and an abundance of abandoned industrial buildings.  

Aralsk’s salt flats and its former harbour are usually the main reason for tourists to visit.  Remnants of rusting ships litter the edges, some having almost rusted completely away with only the engine block still showing out of the remaining shallow waters.  A few stranded fishing boats have been turned into a memorial.

Previously tourists would head out of Aralsk to the iconic ship cemetery at Zhalanash, but the last few rusting stranded fishing trawlers have been dismantled, and only the scorching desert and camels fill the void.

Aralsk can be reached by train but is very remote at over 1000 km from Nur-Sultan and 1400 km from Almaty.  Alternatively fly into Kyzylorda and travel on by bus.  

This “dark tourism” destination has only a handful of small hotels, with our recommendation to stay at Gostinitsa “Keruyen Sarayy” .

11. Explore The Desert, Canyons And Ancient Necropolises In Mangistau

Stretching 400km east from Aktau to the Uzbekistan border, the stony deserts of the Mangistau region are a magical labyrinth of dramatic canyons, eroded and multicoloured rocky outcrops, underground mosques and ancient necropolises.  

Kazakhstan historical places such as Mangistau are only today being explored by archaeologists, hindered by the inhospitable wilderness.  Once a minor part of the Silk Road, the region is littered with centuries-old sacred sites.  Discover plateaus, lowlands, mountains and deserts, coloured in shades of green, yellow and red.

Join an organised multi-day tour or rent a 4WD with a knowledgeable driver, and head off across the desertscapes – home to only a few camels or sheep – to discover this western part of Kazakhstan, on the shore of the Caspian sea.  

A billion years ago the region was at the bottom of the Tethys Ocean and the land is still littered with ancient shells.  Over 11 thousand historical monuments have been recorded on this desolate hinterland, stunningly surrounded by white limestone escarpments and isolated mountains that rise up from the plains.   

Shakpak Ata is the most architecturally impressive of the underground mosques, dated between the 10th and 13th centuries.  The plan of the mosque, strikingly, takes the form of a cross.  A central square is covered by a domed ceiling with a hole in the top for light and ventilation.  Check out the etchings of horses, goats and handprints in the walls of the mosque and learn the legends of the Sufi followers that hid in the cave to practice healing magic.

Nearby is one of the noted historical places of Kazakhstan, the Beket Ata underground mosque, honouring one of the greatest religious teachers, scientists and philosophers in the history of Central Asia. 

Other sites we recommend visiting include The Seisem Ata necropolis – a cluster of ancient mausoleums made from pink limestone – Mangyshlak Peninsula, and the awesome Ustyurt Plateau – a clay and stony desert with rocky sand cliffs that rise more than 300 metres across the plateau.

Fly into Aktau Airport, with flights from Moscow, Almaty, Nur-Sultan and Atyrau. 

We recommend staying at Caspian Riviera Grand Palace Hotel .

Map Of The Best Places To Visit In Kazakhstan

To help you plan your trip to Kazakhstan, find all the top 11 Kazakhstan best places to visit on the map below.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the top 11 tourist attractions in Kazakhstan and it’s answered your questions about what are the most popular places tourists visit in Kazakhstan. Looking for more inspiration and help with planning your trip to Kazakhstan? Find all our guides here .

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is an Australian who loves Central Asia. She loves sharing her love of this region here so you can have great travel experiences in this part of the world.

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Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

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KAZAKHSTAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Kazakhstan is the world's ninth biggest country by size, and it is more than twice the size of the other Central Asian states combined. It will be many travellers' first port of call on their Central Asian adventure, and there is much for the intrepid traveller to enjoy. Kazakhstan is the richest country in Central Asia, due to its large oil and natural gas reserves. The country inherited the culture of the ancient Silk Road, Nomadic lifestyle and the Soviet Union which had a great influence on its formation. This mixture makes Kazakhstan so different from any other country in the region and in the world. Its largest metropolis, Almaty, is a long-standing trading hub whose landmarks include Ascension Cathedral, a tsarist-era Russian Orthodox church, and the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, displaying thousands of Kazakh artefacts.

Capital : Nursultan

Currency : tenge (KZT)

Area : 2,724,902 km²

Population : 18,28 million (2018)

Language : Kazakh (official, state language) 64.4%, Russian (official) 95% (2001 estimate)

Religion :Muslim 67%, Russian Orthodox 24%, Protestant 2%, other 7%

Electricity : 220V, 50Hz, European plug

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POSTS ON KAZAKHSTAN

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

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BEST TIME TO VISIT KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan has four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall.

• Winter (December-February) is the coldest season, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in the northern regions. The northern and central regions of the country will experience heavy snowfall.
• Spring (March-May) is a transitional season with increasing temperatures and less snowfall. The weather becomes milder and plants begin to bloom.
• Summer (June-August) is the warmest season, with temperatures ranging from 20-30C (68-86F) in the northern regions and 30-40C (86-104F) in the southern regions. This is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming.
• Fall (September-November) is a transitional season with decreasing temperatures and the leaves on trees changing colors. This is a great time for cultural activities and for seeing the beautiful fall foliage.

Overall, the climate in Kazakhstan is continental, with long, cold winters and hot summers.

The best time to visit Kazakhstan depends on what you're interested in seeing and doing. If you're interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, the best time to visit is during the summer months from June to August. The weather is warm and there is plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for exploring the mountains and other natural attractions. If you're more interested in cultural activities, the best time to visit is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

BEST TIME FOR:

Although there’s some debate as to whether the Caspian Sea should be regarded as a sea or simply the world’s biggest lake, Kazakhstan does have a few beaches such as Aktau Beach and Borovoe Beach. You could also visit one of the beautiful lakes such as Jasybay Lake and Balkhash Beach. Or why not the indoors Sky Beach Club on the top floor of the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center!

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KAZAKHSTAN TRAVEL COSTS

The cost of traveling to Kazakhstan can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, your chosen mode of transportation, and your accommodation and dining preferences.

• For a budget trip, you can expect to spend around $30-50 per day on accommodation, $10-15 per day on food and transportation, and $50-100 for activities. This would include staying in budget accommodation options such as hostels or guesthouses, eating at local cafes and street food vendors, and taking public transportation.
• For a mid-range trip, you can expect to spend around $50-100 per day on accommodation, $15-30 per day on food and transportation, and $100-200 for activities. This would include staying in mid-range hotels or vacation rentals, eating at mid-range restaurants, and taking private transportation.
• For a luxury trip, you can expect to spend around $100-300 per day on accommodation, $30-50 per day on food and transportation, and $200-500 for activities. This would include staying in luxury hotels or resorts, eating at high-end restaurants, and taking private transportation.

It's also worth noting that if you are planning to visit the country during peak season, prices for accommodation and activities may be higher. Also, prices for international flights may vary depending on the location you're flying from.

You can save money by traveling during the shoulder seasons, and by doing your research ahead of time to find the best deals on accommodation and activities.

Here are some more sample costs for a trip to Kazakhstan:

• Accommodation: A budget-friendly option would be a hostel or guesthouse, which can cost around $10-25 per night. A mid-range option would be a 3-star hotel, which can cost around $50-100 per night. A luxury option would be a 5-star hotel, which can cost around $150-300 per night.
• Food and drink: A meal at a local cafe or street food vendor can cost around $5-10. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $15-25. A high-end restaurant can cost around $30-50. A beer or a glass of wine can cost around $2-5.
• Transportation: Public transportation such as buses and trains are relatively inexpensive and can cost around $1-5 per ride. Taxis are also inexpensive, with a short ride costing around $5-10. If you plan to rent a car, you should expect to pay around $50-70 per day.
• Activities: Entrance fees to museums and historical sites can cost around $5-15. Outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing can cost around $15-50. If you plan to take a guided tour, you should expect to pay around $50-100 per day.
• Visa: you need a visa to visit Kazakhstan, the cost of visa will depend on the type of visa, the country you are from and how you apply for it, it can range from $20 to $200

It's worth noting that these are just rough estimates and prices can vary depending on the location and time of year. It's always a good idea to check prices for specific activities and accommodations in advance to get a better idea of what you can expect to pay.

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Find discount flights to, travel tips for kazakhstan.

Here are some travel tips for Kazakhstan:

• Get a visa: Visitors to Kazakhstan are required to have a visa. Make sure to research the visa requirements for your country and apply for a visa well in advance of your trip.
• Learn some basic Russian or Kazakh: While many people in the cities speak English, it's always helpful to know a few basic phrases in the local language.
• Bring warm clothes: Kazakhstan has a continental climate, with long, cold winters and hot summers. Even in the summer, it can get chilly at night, so make sure to bring warm clothes.
• Be aware of the time change: Kazakhstan is in a different time zone than many other countries, so make sure to adjust your watch and plan your schedule accordingly.
• Respect the culture: Kazakhstan has a rich and diverse culture. Be respectful of local customs and traditions and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Pack for the outdoors: If you plan to do outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing, make sure to pack accordingly. Bring appropriate footwear, clothing, and gear.
• Be aware of the Altitude: Some places in Kazakhstan are at high altitude, such as Almaty, be aware of the altitude sickness symptoms and take the necessary precautions.
• Be prepared for the cost of internet: Internet is not as widely available in Kazakhstan as it is in some other countries, and it can be expensive when you can find it. Consider bringing a pocket wifi or downloading offline maps to help navigate.
• Have your passport and documents ready: It's always a good idea to carry your passport, visa and other important documents with you at all times, as you may be asked to show them at any time.
• Enjoy your trip: Kazakhstan is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. Take the time to explore, meet new people, and try new things.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan is a large country with several regions that offer different types of attractions and experiences. Here are a few of the main regions and some of their highlights:

• Almaty : This is the largest city and the former capital of Kazakhstan. It is located in the southeast of the country and is known for its natural beauty, including the Tian Shan mountain range, which offers great opportunities for hiking, skiing and climbing. The city also offers a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern buildings, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options.
• Astana : This is the current capital of Kazakhstan and it is located in the north-central region of the country. Astana is known for its modern architecture, including the iconic "Bayterek" tower and the "Khan Shatyr" entertainment center, which is shaped like a giant tent. Visitors can also explore the National Museum of Kazakhstan, which provides an overview of the country's history and culture.
• The Caspian Sea : This region is located in the northwest of the country and is known for its beautiful beaches, as well as its oil production. Visitors can take boat trips to see the sea and its wildlife, and also visit the city of Aktau and the nearby Mangistau region, which is known for its unique rock formations and natural beauty.
• The Kazakh steppe : This region is located in the central part of the country and is known for its wide-open spaces, traditional nomadic culture, and wildlife. Visitors can take horseback rides, see traditional Kazakh yurts, and also visit the city of Kostanay, which is known for its historical sites and museums.
• The Altai Mountains : This region is located in the southeast of the country and is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, skiing, and climbing in the Altai Mountains, and also see the colorful rock formations of the Charyn Canyon and the ancient petroglyphs of Tamgaly.
• Baikonur Cosmodrome : This is the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, located in the Kyzylorda Region. Visitors can take tours of the cosmodrome, see the launch pads and spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration.

These are just a few examples of the many regions and attractions that Kazakhstan has to offer. Each region has its own unique culture and history, and visitors can explore a variety of different landscapes and activities.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan is a country with a diverse range of things to see and do. Here are some of the best things to experience when visiting the country:

Explore Almaty : This is the largest city and the former capital of Kazakhstan, and it offers a mix of natural beauty, Soviet-era architecture, and modern amenities. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the Medeo Gorge for a panoramic view of the city and the Tian Shan mountain range, and also explore the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which tells the story of the country's history and culture.

Visit Astana : This is the current capital of Kazakhstan and it is known for its striking modern architecture. Visitors can take a stroll along the Left Bank of the Ishim River and see the iconic "Bayterek" tower and the "Khan Shatyr" entertainment center, and also explore the National Museum of Kazakhstan, which provides an overview of the country's history and culture.

Enjoy the natural beauty : Kazakhstan is home to a wide range of natural landscapes, from the Tian Shan mountain range to the Kazakh steppe. Visitors can go hiking, skiing, and climbing in the mountains, and also take horseback rides to see the steppe and its wildlife.

Visit the Caspian Sea : The Caspian Sea region is located in the northwest of the country and offers beautiful beaches, as well as opportunities to see the sea and its wildlife. Visitors can take boat trips, visit the city of Aktau, and also explore the nearby Mangistau region, which is known for its unique rock formations and natural beauty.

Experience the nomadic culture : Kazakhstan has a rich nomadic culture, which visitors can experience by visiting a traditional Kazakh yurt and taking part in activities such as horseback riding or archery. Visitors can also visit the cities of Kostanay, Turkestan and Turkestan to see the historical sites and museums that tell the story of this culture.

Discover the Altai Mountains : The Altai Mountains region is located in the southeast of the country and is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, skiing, and climbing in the Altai Mountains, and also see the colorful rock formations of the Charyn Canyon and the ancient petroglyphs of Tamgaly.

Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome : This is the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, located in the Kyzylorda Region. Visitors can take tours of the cosmodrome, see the launch pads and spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration.

Try Local Food : Kazakhstan has a unique and delicious cuisine that is influenced by the nomadic past and neighboring countries. Some must-try dishes include beshbarmak, which is a traditional noodle dish, and kazy, which is horse meat sausage.

These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Kazakhstan. Visitors can also enjoy shopping for souvenirs and experiencing the local culture.

Explore Almaty : This is the largest city and the former capital of Kazakhstan, and it offers a mix of natural beauty, Soviet-era architecture, and modern amenities. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the Medeo Gorge for a panoramic view of the city and the Tian Shan mountain range, and also explore the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which tells the story of the country's history and culture.

Visit Astana : This is the current capital of Kazakhstan and it is known for its striking modern architecture. Visitors can take a stroll along the Left Bank of the Ishim River and see the iconic "Bayterek" tower and the "Khan Shatyr" entertainment center, and also explore the National Museum of Kazakhstan, which provides an overview of the country's history and culture.

Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome : This is the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, located in the Kyzylorda Region. Visitors can take tours of the cosmodrome, see the launch pads and spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration.

WHAT TO EAT IN KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan has a unique and delicious cuisine that is influenced by its nomadic past, neighboring countries, and the local ingredients available. Here are some traditional dishes you should try when visiting the country:

• Beshbarmak : This is a traditional Kazakh dish made of boiled noodles, meat (usually mutton or horse meat) and onions. It is typically served with a flavorful broth and is often considered the national dish of Kazakhstan.
• Kazy : This is a traditional sausage made from horse meat and it's a popular dish across the country. Kazy is served cold and sliced thin, and it's usually accompanied by a side dish such as bread, onions, and sometimes a sour cream.
• Kürtöskalács : This is a sweet pastry that is similar to a chimney cake, it's made by wrapping a dough around a cylinder-shaped baking spit, and then rolling it in sugar or chocolate.
• Kazy lagman : This is a traditional dish that is similar to the Chinese dish of lamian, it's made from hand-pulled noodles, meat and vegetables.
• Plov : This is a traditional Central Asian dish that is made with rice, meat and vegetables. It's similar to the dishes of pilaf or pilau, but it's a bit more hearty.
• Lagman : This is a hearty soup made with meat (usually beef, lamb or horse meat) and vegetables. It's a dish that is very popular in Central Asia, and it's made with a thick, hand-pulled noodle.
• Shashlik : This is a popular dish across the region, it's made with skewered and grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, it's often served with a side of bread and a salad.
• Kazakh tea : Kazakhs are known for their love of tea, and it's a staple in the country. The traditional way of drinking tea is with milk and salt, and it's usually served in a bowl.
• Kazakh dairy products : Kazakhs are known for their dairy products, such as kurt, which is a hard cheese, and ayran, which is a yogurt drink.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes that Kazakhstan has to offer. Visitors should also be sure to try some of the local fruits and vegetables, which are often used in traditional dishes.

LGBTQ IN KAZAKHSTAN

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WHERE TO STAY IN KAZAKHSTAN

For a first-time visit to Kazakhstan, it's recommended to base yourself in Almaty, the largest city and cultural capital, offering a mix of modernity, history, and natural beauty. Here's why:

Where to stay in Almaty:

Almaty is known for its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse culinary offerings, making it an ideal starting point for visiting Kazakhstan as you can explore attractions like Kok-Tobe Hill, Medeu Skating Rink, and Almaty Central Park.

Budget : Renion Residence : Renion Residence offers budget-friendly accommodations with comfortable rooms and basic amenities. It's conveniently located in the city center, close to attractions like Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral.

Mid-range : Rahat Palace Hotel : Rahat Palace Hotel offers mid-range accommodations with elegant rooms and modern amenities. Situated in a prime location, guests can enjoy easy access to Almaty's business and entertainment districts.

Luxury : The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty : The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty provides luxurious accommodations in a sophisticated setting. It boasts opulent rooms and suites, exquisite dining options, and exclusive facilities like a spa, fitness center, and indoor swimming pool.

Tip : Consider visiting Almaty during the summer months (June to August) for milder weather and outdoor activities in the nearby mountains, and book accommodations in advance for the best rates and availability.

Additionally, for those interested in exploring the natural wonders of Kazakhstan, consider staying in the city of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana):

Where to stay in Nur-Sultan:

Nur-Sultan is the capital city of Kazakhstan and known for its futuristic architecture, cultural institutions, and proximity to natural attractions like Borovoe National Park. Also explore attractions like Bayterek Tower, Nur-Astana Mosque, and Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center.

Budget : Belon-Lux Hotel offers affordable accommodations with basic amenities and a central location near Astana Arena.

Mid-range : Kazzhol Hotel provides comfortable rooms and modern facilities with a convenient location in the city center.

Luxury : The St. Regis Astana offers luxurious accommodations with upscale amenities, including a spa and multiple dining options.

Tip : Consider visiting Nur-Sultan during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for milder weather and fewer crowds and take advantage of hotel deals and packages offered during major events and festivals.

For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like   Booking.com  for competitive rates or   Holiday Swap  for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.

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• Top 12 Kazakhstan Tourist Places To Explore The Best Of Central Asia In 2024!

07 Feb 2023

From the Altai Mountains in the East to the Caspian Sea in the west and Russia in the north to China in the south, Kazakhstan in Central Asia is also termed as the world’s largest landlocked country . An array of majestic canyons, seamless deserts, arid plains, colossal glaciers, and ancient structures account for popular Kazakhstan tourist places making it a year-round destination. For the kind of subdued vacation paradise that it is, Kazakhstan must be on your bucket list soon.

Being the ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is wide to an extent that it encompasses 5 climate zones and has 2 time zones. Having said that, it is the geographical diversity of the country that accounts for ultimate travel experiences. As you plan on making an extensive itinerary, you must jot down all the popular places to visit in Kazakhstan that are significant historically and offer a multitude of activities. Some of the major division in Kazakhstan are Almaty, Astana, Central Kazakhstan, Eastern Kazakhstan, Northern Kazakhstan, Southern Kazakhstan, and Western Kazakhstan . Head to these popular Kazakhstan points of interest and experience Central Asia like never before!

12 Best Kazakhstan Tourist Places

Here is a list of some of the top Kazakhstan tourist places that you might not want to miss out. There is some or the other famous places in Kazakhstan  for everyone and anyone. Take a look and note them down:

• Astana – The Changing Face Of Central Asia
• Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Biggest Cultural Hub
• Aktau – Pretty Town By The Caspian
• Taraz – Welcome To The Ancient City In South Kazakhstan
• Lake Balkhash – The 15th Largest Lake In The World
• Baikonur – City Of Spaceport, Rockets, And Spaceships
• Semey – An Ancient & Historical City
• Turgen Gorge – Amazing Place For Trekkers
• Lake Kaindy – A Natural Dam
• Tamgaly-Tas – A Sacred Sanctuary
• Nomad’s Land – Abandoned Film Set
• Shymkent – Getaway To The Heartland Of Kazakhstan

1. Astana – The Changing Face Of Central Asia

The wonderful capital city of Kazakhstan stands as the living example of the modernized nation and presents popular Kazakhstan tourist attractions. With plenty of corporate business centers and multi-storey buildings around, the architecture of this city will mesmerize you for sure, making it a brilliant location for Kazakhstan sightseeing . Catch the magnificent panoramic view of the Astana city from the top of the 105-meter tall Bayterek Tower or visit Duman Recreational Complex which is the ultimate pit-stop for all the art lovers, there’s a lot to do in Astana.

Museum of Miniatures and Seaquarium is the ideal place of attraction for all nature enthusiasts where over 2000 species of sea animals from different parts of the world can be spotted. Don’t forget to cover Ak Orda Presidential Palace and Astana-Arena Stadium on your day trip.

Popular tourist attractions in Astana: Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, National Museum of Kazakhstan, Nur-Astana Mosque, City Park, Independence Square and Kazak Eli Monument, Assumption Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Hazrat Sultan Mosque

Must Read: Trans Siberian Railway: World’s Longest Rail Network That Crosses 8 Time Zones Across 9300 Kms!

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2. Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Biggest Cultural Hub

Set in the foothills of Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, Almaty is known for its gorgeous setting and picture-postcard outdoor. One of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan, the snow-capped mountains guard the city and make for the best backdrop ever! Moving on to the city attractions, the Central State Museum here holds special importance because of the rich cultural heritage it houses. Until 1997, the city was capital of Kazakhstan but still remains a hot favorite with top Kazakhstan tourist places.

You can spend a day sipping on nature’s grandeur or go around shopping at Zelyony Bazaar or Dostyk Plaza if at all you are keen on exploring the local specialties of Almaty. The Green Market is the popular place to procure fresh fruit, meats, clothing, and household goods. Moving on, there is a lot of art galleries around for those who are really into history and art.

Popular tourist attractions in Almaty: Beatles Statue of Almaty, Charyn Canyon, The Last Wild Apple Forests, Big Almaty Lake, Kok-Tobe Hill, Kolsai Lakes, Almaty Central Park, Lake Issyk, Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, Panfilov Park, and The Arasan Baths

Suggested Read: 8 Kazakhstan Travel Tips That You Should Know Before Planning Your Trip!

3. Aktau – Pretty Town By The Caspian

The almost 40-year-old city overlooking the great Caspian Sea is a fascinating beauty and among the most serene visiting places in Kazakhstan . It is here in Aktau that one can spot some of the rare Kazakhstan tourist attractions and more of ancient architectural ensembles. Cultural centers, concert hall, cinemas, and libraries from ancient times are spread all over the city and must be explored for a local feel of the place.

You can also stroll Aktau city streets for hours admiring the architectural ensembles, green alleys lined with poplars and acacias, emerald-green lawns, and parks. Got more time to spare? Fill it with some fun-filled moments at the Skating Rink and Puppet Theatre .

Popular tourist attractions in Aktau: World War II Memorial, Botanical Garden, Regional Museum, Costa Cafe, seafront, Taras Shevchenko Statue, multi-colored mountains in Altyn-Emel National Park

4. Taraz – Welcome To The Ancient City In South Kazakhstan

Image Source If you are into ancient sites, mysterious places, and admire ruins, head to Taraz, which happens to among the famous Kazakhstan tourist spots . The place holds plenty of secrets from the past century and is indeed one of the popular Kazakhstan tourist attractions worth your time.

Visit Babaji-Khatun Mausoleum for its distinct sixteen-ribbed conical dome or plan an excursion to Talas River in the south near the border with Kyrgyzstan. Taraz is a historical city and one of the popular places to visit in Kazakhstan for every tourist.

Popular tourist attractions in Taraz: Akyrtas, Stonehenge, Mausoleum is Sha-Mansur, Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, Aisha Bibi village, Taraz Regional Museum, Shakhristan Market

Suggested Read: Delhi to London By Road: These 3 Indian Super Moms Drove Across 17 Countries in Just 95 Days

5. Lake Balkhash – The 15th Largest Lake In The World

Located 600 miles to the east of Aral Sea, the lake is a major source of hydroelectric projects in the country and a notable Kazakhstan places to visit. The lake is high and rocky towards the northern banks and one can spot plenty of ancient rock-cut traces there. Lake Balkhash once was a prominent place of breeding for marine life that included as many as 20 species of fish.

Over the period, some of the species died owing to the depreciating quality of lake water over the period. Sazan, sturgeon, eastern bream, pike, and Aral barbel are of the fish species reintroduced into the lake.

Qaratal, Aqsū, Ayagoz, and Lepsi rivers feed the eastern part of the lake. The water of the western part of the lake has been comparatively better than that of the eastern part which is salty. Visit this place to find the ancient rock miniatures in the low lying areas.

Popular things to do near Lake Balkhash: Camping and winter fishing

Suggested Read: 13 Best Things To Do In Almaty, Kazakhstan That No One Told You About!

6. Baikonur – City Of Spaceport, Rockets, And Spaceships

Administered by Russian Federation, Baikonur is the world’s oldest and largest space launch facility. Baikonur Cosmodrome was one a secret missile testing site that happened to be a strategically important place for Russians.

The desolate desert steppe of Kazakhstan was once the launchpad for Vostok 1 spacecraft in which Yuri Gagarin first set for the moon. If you a history and space technology buff this place has plenty of attractions that would excite you.

Popular tourist attractions in Baikonur: Cosmonaut Grove, Baikonur Cosmodrome, Yuri Gagarin statue, Tribute to Yangel, and Nedelin catastrophe

7. Semey – An Ancient & Historical City

Image Source Semipalatinsk , now known as Semey, is another one of the renowned  historical places in Kazakhstan eastern region that presents popular tourist attractions. The city is also epitomized by the fascinating architecture and the monuments that it has preserved from ages ago. In fact, there’s a lot of places with architectural and historical monuments around and must be visited during a trip to Semey.

The best of Russian art can be seen at the Museum of History and Local Study and Nevzorov’s Art Museum . Places like these make for popular Kazakhstan point of interest for history enthusiasts.

Popular tourist attractions in Semipalatinsk: Dostoevsky Museum, Nevzorov’s Art Museum, Tarnybai Kaukenov mosque, Orthodox Resurrection church, and ‘Stronger than Death Monument’ – in memory of victims of Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground.

Suggested Read: Astana Nightlife: 7 Places You Must Not Miss On Your Trip To The Capital Of Kazakhstan

8. Turgen Gorge – Amazing Place For Trekkers

Image Credit: Tom_aaa by pixabay

A part of the famous Ile Alatau National Park, Turgen Gorge is a real beauty for trekkers. It has dense forests, lakes, alpine meadows and seven waterfalls. You can explore the beauty of this place by opting for a hike or ride on a mountain bike or horseback. This paradise is not far from Almaty and can be accessed through buses or taxis.

Popular tourist attractions in Turgen: Turgen Waterfalls, Church of Archangel Mikhail and Kairakskiy Waterfall.

Suggested Read: What Makes Summer In Kazakhstan A Great Time To Take A Trip To The Exotic Land

9. Lake Kaindy – A Natural Dam

Image Source

Situated at an altitude of 2000 m, Lake Kaindy is a 400 m long lake. Due to an earthquake in 1911, an enormous landslide led to the formation of this lake. The natural calamity caused the occurrence of a natural dam in the gorge amidst spruce trees. The forest submerged as water started to flood in the basin. The temperature of the lake goes up to 6 degrees celsius maximum in summer. This lake is one of the best tourist places in Kazakhstan and should be included in every explorer’s bucket list.

Popular tourist attractions in Turgen: Charyn National Park, Altyn Arashan, Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Suggested Read: 8 Chic Restaurants In Almaty To Savor Lavish Meals When Holidaying In Kazakhstan!

10. Tamgaly-Tas – A Sacred Sanctuary

Religious rituals in Kazakhstan were held in an open-air sanctuary, Tamgaly-Tas. It literally means ‘written rocks’ as the rocks here are inscribed with beautiful images of Tibetan scriptures and Buddha. You will be amazed to find around 5,000 petroglyphs from the Bronze Age. If you are a history buff and looking for ancient tourist places of Kazakhstan, then you must include Tamgaly-Tas in your check-list.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kazakhstan: A Location Wise Break-up Of Must-dos In The Country

11. Nomad’s Land – Abandoned Film Set

Nomad’ Land is situated in the middle of the Kazakh steppe and beside the Ili River. It is a famous film set which was left abandoned after the shooting of the French/Kazakh movie, ‘Nomad’. You can visit this place to click some historical pictures and selfies at the place.

12. Shymkent – Getaway To The Heartland Of Kazakhstan

If you are looking for a secluded place in Kazakhstan which is not crowded with tourists, then you must spend some time in Shymkent. You will find some of the cheapest places to stay which are away from the hustle and bustle on the streets.

Popular tourist attractions around Shymkent: Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, Arystan Bab Mausoleum, The Lost City of Sauran, and Turkestan.

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Further Read: Dare To Embark On These 20 Electrifying International Road Trips From India

From the angling and crisscrossing skyscrapers to age-old monuments, and from gothic buildings exuding colors to the dreamy setting of town by the Caspian, every popular tourist attraction in Kazakhstan is so photogenic. Don’t miss to treasure the beauty of Kazakhstan tourist places nestled in the heart of Asia! Plan a trip to Kazakhstan for a soothing vacation to this amazing land.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kazakhstan Tourist Places

What are some interesting places to visit in Almaty?

Big Almaty Lake, Kok-Tobe Hill, Kolsai Lakes, Almaty Central Park, Lake Issyk, and Central State Museum of Kazakhstan are some of the interesting places to visit in Almaty.

What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?

April-October is the best time to visit Kazakhstan.

What is famous in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is one of the top 10 largest countries in the entire world. It is known for its architectural marvels, the Caspian Sea, and the wild horses.

Is Kazakhstan worth visiting?

With plenty of experiences to offer and impeccable attractions to witness, Kazakhstan is surely worth visiting, especially for those who are seeking for roads less traveled.

Is Kazakhstan a safe country?

Yes. Kazakhstan has been placed in Level 1 by the US Department of State which indicated that it is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Kazakhstan expensive?

The tickets and products are set at reasonable rates. It is neither expensive nor a cheap place to visit.

What can I buy in Kazakhstan?

Some unique things that you can buy from Kazakhstan are chocolates, honey, products Empire, caviar, and many more things.

Do I need a visa for Kazakhstan?

Apart from the US Citizens, every traveler requires a visa to travel to this destination.

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Caravanistan

The Silk Road Travel Guide

40 Great Things To Do in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the biggest, and the most diverse country in Central Asia. It’s a country that doesn’t lend itself to pigeonholing like its neighbours. That makes it difficult to make sense of if you just started thinking about a trip.

Kazakhstan has an amazing breadth of experiences, but it is often not the traditional tourist stuff of “visit museum, hike up a mountain”. It’s more likely to be “check out unexplained desert balls, take a bath in boiled deer antlers”.

We whittled it down to 40 experiences, in no particular order, to stretch your imagination and help you on your way.

Table of Contents

Nature experiences

• Take a 4WD or campervan across the country for an amazing landscape safari
• See millions of birds during their migration on Lake Balkhash , or go birdwatching in the Altai mountains
• See kulan and ibex in Altyn Emel National Park , or visit one of 20-odd other national parks in Kazakhstan
• Dance in the tulip fields of Aksu-Zhabagly  until you spot a bear
• See flamingos fly in the lakes of Korgalzhyn, snap seals on the Caspian shore or witness the embattled saiga in the desert
• Seek out the world’s original wild apple trees
• Hit rock bottom in the lowest point of the former Soviet Union – the Karagiye Depression – and hunt for fossils

Folk culture and village life

• Get invited for a dastarkhan and sample homemade kurd , baursak , kazy and beshbarmak
• Go eagle hunting in winter
• Milk a mare, then shave a camel
• Go on a pilgrimage to Beket-Ata , the Yasawi mausoleum or another one of Kazakhstan’s many unusual spiritual sites
• Get really clean in a black banya in Altai’s Poperechnoe
• Drink kymys (fermented mare’s milk), then wash it down with shubat (fermented camel milk)
• Celebrate Nauryz with a game of kokpar

Outdoor adventures

• Kayak Ili river and see a fake Silk Road movie set, or raft another river in Kazakhstan
• Go ice fishing on tranquil Lake Markakol , or on the Ishim river of urban Astana
• Ride a horse across the steppe or through the mountains
• Hike in the mountains around Almaty , or elsewhere
• Climb Khan Tengri or Mount Belukha
• Go skiing in the Tien Shan or Altai mountains
• Cycle Kazakhstan’s best bits
• Camp in the desert and count the stars, or stay up late in the village and hear the wolves howl

Dark and unique tourism

• See the Aral Sea surviving against all odds, or drive over its death bed at Aralsk
• Get shocked by the nuclear destruction at the Semipalatinsk Test Site
• Hunt for Cold War artefacts in Priozersk , and discover  ghost towns and abandoned military installations  across the country
• Watch a space launch in Baikonur
• Stand in awe of the enormous steelworks of Temirtau and the monstrous mining hole of Ekibastuz

Historic sights

• Talk to the mysterious balbal guarding the steppes of Ulytau
• See Scythian burial mounds in Esik
• Learn about the KarLag, the Kazakh gulag, in the museum of Dolinka
• Marvel at the 1000s of petroglyphs of Tamgaly
• Visit the atmospheric ruins of Sauran

• Climb Baiterek and look out over booming Astana
• Party till dawn with hipsters and rich kids, mafiosi and new arrivals in Almaty’s diverse nightlife
• Picknick on Big Almaty Lake  and take in a falconry show on the way back, then go ice-skating on the world’s highest skating rink Medeu
• Get pampered at Almaty’s  Arasan baths
• Learn Kazakhstan’s history at Almaty’s History Museum , then admire the nation’s art in the Kasteyev museum
• Check out historic Semey , with its surprising array of interesting museums. And if you’re in the neighbourhood, why not historic Uralsk as well?

Things to do in other Stans

• Things to do in Kazakhstan
• Things to do in Uzbekistan
• Things to do in Kyrgyzstan
• Things to do in Tajikistan
• Things to do in Turkmenistan

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20 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan (With Images)

In this travel guide, we will mention the 20 best places to visit in Kazakhstan that every tourist traveling in Kazakhstan should definitely explore.

Kazakhstan is a country that is located in Central Asia and comes on the list of the top 10 largest countries in the world . This country is in discussion among good countries for its natural and human heritage reserves.

Whether it is trade or tourism, the history of this country has always been commendable. The mention of this country is also found in ancient times when there were civilizations.

Today, where tourism is growing very fast in the countries of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is also paying a lot of attention to its tourism.

Not only this, Kazakhstan is spending crores on tourism every year to promote tourism in its country. Therefore, anyone who is a travel lover must visit there once and explore the natural and human heritage of Kazakhstan.

We have assumed that you have decided to go to Kazakhstan, now it comes to which places in Kazakhstan you should visit. This can be a big challenge in front of you which has the potential to cancel your travel plan.

If you are curious to know about those places, you should stay connected with us as we are going to discuss the 20 best places to visit in Kazakhstan in this article.

We love this Big Almaty Lake tour .

Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

Table of Contents

Whenever anyone talks about Kazakhstan tourist places, they definitely include Almaty in their list (most probably at the first position). Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan from 1929 to 1997.

The city is located in the mountainous area of southern Kazakhstan near the border with Kyrgyzstan in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau at an elevation of 700–900 m (2,300–3,000 feet), where the Large and Small Almatinka rivers run into the plain.

Geographically wealthy place, and it is one of the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan.

The natural heritage of Almaty is the main tourist attraction. The city continues to flaunt its vibrant charm and attract a zillion tourists even today.

Apart from natural heritage, human heritage also attracts people across the globe to explore.

There are a lot of beautiful places there that any tourist should visit. Some places try to showcase the culture of the regional people, some try to show the ancient history and some try to give the best adventure experience.

This Almaty city tour is our favorite one.

Must Visit Sites –

• Kazakhstan Museum of Arts
• Climb Kok-Tobe Hill
• First President’s Park
• Central Mosque
• Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
• Shymbulak Ski Resort

How to reach Almaty?

After arriving at Almaty International Airport, you can rent a taxi and explore the different places in Almaty.

2. Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Astana is the next place of interest in Kazakhstan. It has been renamed to Nur-Sultan on March 23, 2019, is the capital of Kazakhstan. The word Astana means “capital city” in Kazakh.

The city lies on the banks of the Ishim River in the north-central part of Kazakhstan, within the Akmola Region, though administered as a city with special status separately from the rest of the region.

After the government’s announcement that Astana is now the capital of Kazakhstan, it has constantly grown and developed economically into one of the most modern cities in Central Asia.

Astana has beautiful as well as futuristic buildings, and monuments, including many skyscrapers.

The ingenious architectural projects which use advanced technologies and design, super modern hotels, business centers, and multi-story new buildings reflect the city’s bold ambitions and gushing energy.

This half-day Astana tour is worth experiencing.

Though there are a lot of places there that everyone should visit, the most amazing and adventurous places are –

• The Baiterek Tower
• Hazret Sultan Mosque
• Park of Lovers
• Nurzhol Boulevard
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
• Ak-Orda (presidential residency)

How to reach Astana?

After arriving at Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, you can visit Astana by taxi.

Have you ever been to a place where there are no streets, no roads, or no districts that have names? If you didn’t, get ready to visit Aktau , one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.

The address of this place generally consisted of three numerical digits in which the first number represents the district number, the second and third represent the building number, and the apartment number respectively.

The reason behind it is that it was originally planned as a camp for the workers of the oil industry.

If we talk about Aktau from the tourism perspective, there are many things that attract people across the world.

Whether the long sidewalks and beaches of the Caspian Sea or the historical Museums, everything makes Aktau a tourism-rich place.

Aktau has both rocky hills and sandy beaches along the seashore.

There are also several modern resorts on the coast to the south of the city as well as it has a variety of local hotels and western chains of Renaissance and Holiday Inn.

Suggested : Best Fishing Sites in Kazakhstan .

Must Visit Sites

• Aktau Beach
• Bayterek Cinema
• Tetysblu Theme Park
• MiG Monument at the Victory Mall
• Regional Studies and History Museum
• Yntymak Square

How tourists can reach Aktau?

Aktau also has an international airport as well as a seaport. After arriving here, you can rent a taxi and visit Aktau.

If you love history and like to explore historical and mysterious places and ancient sites you should mark Taraz as your next travel destination.

Taraz is located on the Talas (Taraz) River in the south of the country near the border with Kyrgyzstan

It is one of the oldest cities in Kazakhstan and only the oldest city in southern Kazakhstan. It has celebrated its official 2,000th anniversary in 2001.

The monuments, ruins, and mysterious and adventurous places of Taraz reflect the city’s heritage. In the field of sports, Taraz is very active today.

Even it hosts the football team FC Taraz which plays in the Kazakhstan Premier League. So, you can also enjoy sports activities in Taraz.

Apart from it, you can taste the most popular dishes of Kazakhstan in the restaurants. In a nutshell, Taraz is one of the tourist attractions in Kazakhstan.

Although there are many places you can explore in Taraz, there are some places that you must visit.

• Zhengis Park
• The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
• Aisha Bibi Mausoleum
• Karahan Mausoleum
• Khram Pokrova Bozhiei Materi
• Ancient Taraz Archaeological Park and Museum
• Alley Of Love

How tourists can reach Taraz?

The closest airport to Taraz is Taraz Airport. It is located at a distance of 7.3 KM from the main Taraz city.

5. Lake Balkhash

If you like to enjoy water activities like rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, etc, you should definitely visit Lake Balkhash.

The remarkable thing about this lake is that it is one of the largest lakes in Asia and the 15th largest lake in the world.

It is located in the east of Central Asia in south-eastern Kazakhstan and sits in an endorheic basin. The other interesting thing is that the lake’s western part is fresh water while the lake’s eastern part is saline.

The nature and wildlife of the lake attract not only domestic tourists but also international tourists. There are many resorts and sports hubs on the lake which makes the lake more beautiful.

Many tourists visit the lake in summer to enjoy refreshing dips in the lake’s blue waters. In 2021, Lake Balkhash was selected as one of the top 10 places to visit in Kazakhstan.

If you want to explore the lakes, make sure to go through the most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan .

Nearby Attractions

• Space Station Orbita
• Locomotive № 48-80
• Agashayak Settlement
• Monument to Agybai Batyr
• 28 Kordon Balkhash Reserve
• Monument to 50 Years of Trust Foundation Pribalkhashstroy

How to reach Lake Balkhash?

There are various ways to reach Lake Balkhash. The most suitable way is by public transport. You can reach there by train. There are a lot of daily trains that stopover midway between Almaty and Nur-Sultan.

6. Baikonur

Does science excite you? Did you take more interest in science during your studies? If you did, this travel destination is waiting for you.

Baikonur is a city that has been witness to lots of space science experiments over the years.

The interesting thing about it is that it is a very crucial part of Kazakhstan but is technically rented and administered by the Russian Federation as an enclave.

Since it is administered by the Russian Federation, visiting here is a little bit intricate in comparison to other places in Kazakhstan.

Foreign visitors need pre-approval from the Russian authorities to visit the town of Baikonur, as well as they need to obtain written approval which is completely separate from having a regular Russian Visa.

The place is very adventurous and interesting. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.

City Attractions –

• Museum of Baikonur Cosmodrome History
• Baikonur rocket launch tour
• Saint George The Victorious Orthodox Church
• Monument of all the models of the rocket Soyuz

How to reach Baikonur?

The nearest train station Turetam is located only 2km away from Baikonur. You can reach there by night train from Almaty to Shymkent. These trains stop at this station.

Like the above tourist attractions, Semey is also a travel-worthy place in Kazakhstan. It is located in eastern Kazakstan along the Irtysh River and near the border with Russia.

Semey has also witnessed scientific tests like nuclear tests, space programs, etc during World Wars. Today, Semey reflects its history through ruins, monuments, and museums.

One of the remarkable things about Semey is that it is widely famous for its intellectual medical community with leading Semey State Medical University.

You can visit there and have the experience of a world-famous medical university .

The Semey Bridge has also been a center of tourist attraction that spontaneously attracts people across the world.

• Museum F.M. Dostoyevskogo
• The Monument to Kabanbai Batyr
• Anatomical Museum
• Art Museum Nevzorovyh
• National Museum of Abai Semey
• Voskresenskiy Cathedral
• Victory Park

How to reach Semey?

Semey is situated at the Turkestan–Siberia Railway that connects central Asia with Siberia. You can reach there by train from Almaty.

8. Turgen Gorge

It is not possible to forget Turgen Gorge when it comes to the best tourist attractions in Kazakhstan. This travel destination not only gives people an opportunity to connect with nature but also explore themselves.

The wonderful hills, beautiful valleys and waterfalls, alpine meadows, green forests, and glistening glaciers have the potential to mesmerize anyone.

There are many sports activities you can explore in Turgen Gorge. Hiking and mountaineering are the most popular activities in that region.

You can also enjoy rafting, mountain biking, horse riding, and ski touring. People not only from Kazakhstan but also from abroad come here and enjoy themselves with their loved ones.

Nearby Attractions –

• Turgen Waterfalls
• Turgenskoye Gorge
• Kairakskiy Waterfall
• Church of Archangel Mikhail

How to visit Turgen Gorge?

Turgen Gorge has located 90 km from Almaty. You can rent a taxi to get there. Apart from this, you can also go there by public transport.

9. Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is another beautiful creation of Nature in Kazakhstan. It is located 129 kilometers east-southeast of the city of Almaty. So, reaching there is not as complicated as some other tourist attractions in Kazakhstan.

This lake is 400-meter-long and reaches depths of nearly 30 meters in the middle of the lake. If we talk about its altitude, it is approximately 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level.

The bluish-green color of the water makes the entire lake so pleasing that anyone falls in love with its beauty. The greenery surrounding the lake is also mesmerizing.

Tall trees, small plants, wildlife, and finally all the beauty of nature will not only fascinate you but will also give you an atmosphere of peace.

• Kolsay Lakes National Park
• Sary-Bulak pass

How to reach Lake Kaindy?

You can reach there by public transport. Taxis are the best and cheapest mode of transport to reach there.

10. Tamgaly Tas

You must have read in your school classes that in ancient times people used to write scripts and inscribe beautiful images on rocks. If it used to surprise you at that time and wanted to visit those places, there is good news for you.

You may have an experience of one of those places by visiting Tamgaly-Tas. It is 120 km North of Almaty (Kapchagai district), on the Right Bank of the Ili river.

There are lots of rock paintings of Tibetan iconography and inscriptions available there dated to the second half of the 17th century.

Many mantras, pictures, and poems have been engraved on the rocks.

If you are a history buff, you must include this tourist place in your Kazakhstan trip. Tamgaly-Tas in Kazakhstan remains an outstanding monument of art, history, and culture all rolled into one.

• Nomad Fortress

How to reach Tamgaly-Tas?

You can reach there by public transportation from Almaty.

11. Nomad’s Land

Are you a movie lover? If you are, you should definitely visit Nomad’s Land. It is sometimes referred to as a city of Nomads.

Nomad’s Land is nothing but an abandoned movie set that has turned into a tourist destination on the edge of the Ili River in the Tamgaly Gorge.

The set was built in 2005 for a film named “Nomad: The Warrior”. After that, it has also been used for several movies.

Like other travel destinations in Kazakhstan, it is not a historically or naturally rich place. It is only for those who love cinema.

There is an Ili River beside it, so if you want something adventurous on your trip, you can do many activities there. There is also an excellent photography spot where you can click the beautiful photos.

• Tamgaly Gorge
• Tamgaly Tas

How to reach Nomad’s Land?

You can visit Nomad’s land with a local tour company or by public transport like taxi or car.

Aktobe is also one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan which is located in the western part of Kazakhstan. Its hydrography, climate, vegetation, and demography are all complete in themselves.

Aktobe has preserved the history of world wars and civil wars in itself. You can explore many historical ruins, places, and monuments there which are reminders of the terrible times of history.

Apart from historical places, you can find many amusement parks with various attractions.

There is a very grand Planetarium in Aktobe named Aktobe planetarium which is the first planetarium in Kazakhstan.

It allows visitors to demonstrate various astronomical phenomena like solar and lunar eclipses, etc. Last but not the least, it is a paradise for every photographer.

• Aktobe Central Stadium
• Aktobe Regional Museum
• Planetarium
• Aktobe Airport
• Nurgasyr Regional Central Mosque
• Forx Club Aktobe

How to reach Aktobe?

There is an airport present in Aktobe. It offers flights to Almaty. Moreover, you can also visit there by train or by taxi.

13. Pavlodar

Pavlodar is the next tourist attraction that you should include in your travel list of Kazakhstan. It is located in the northeastern part of Kazakhstan at a distance of 450 km from Nur-Sultan.

The interesting thing about this part is that you will experience different cultures, customs, and traditions in one place.

The reason behind this is that Kazakhs, Russians, Ukrainians, Germans, and Tatars live here.

The modern resorts, malls, and even the overall infrastructure of Pavlodar are designed to keep tourism in mind.

So, you will have a lot of things to explore there. You may experience sports activities in Pavlodar as it is very active in sports.

• Embankment of the Irtysh
• Regional History Museum
• Zelenaya Roshha
• Pavlodar Regional Art Museum
• Cathedral of the Annunciation
• Chekhov Regional Drama Theatre

How to reach Pavlodar?

The airport facility is available at Pavlodar. You can get there by flight from Almaty or Nur-Sultan. You can also go there by train. There is a night train that runs from Nur-Sultan to Pavlodar. The last and cheapest way to get there is by public transport such as taxi, bus or car.

14. Karagandy

Karagandy is also a worth visiting place in Kazakhstan which is located in the northwest region of the country. It is the capital of the Karaganda Region and also the fourth most populous city in Kazakhstan.

There are lots of things like amusement parks, theatres, a zoo, shopping malls, etc. that you can enjoy in Karagandy. The culture and traditions are unique in themselves.

The skyscrapers, modern malls, resorts, universities, and local markets are the places that attract tourists the most.

There are some museums present in Karaganda in which many historical things are preserved. You should definitely capture these moments on your camera when you are on a Kazakhstan trip.

• Vvedenskiy Cathedral
• Karaganda State University
• Holy Cross Church
• Karagandy Zoo
• Karaganda Regional Museum of the Fine Arts

How to reach Karagandy?

You can visit there through the local tour company or by public transport.

15. Shymkent

Shymkent is also one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan which is situated near the border with Uzbekistan. It is situated 690 kilometers west of Almaty and 1,483 kilometers south of Nur-Sultan.

The greenery of this place is worth looking at. The tall trees and horticultural crops are one of the main tourist attractions in Shymkent . Many herbal plants can also be seen in this area.

Apart from the greenery, there are some such landmarks that will captivate your mind.

There are many parks you will see in this region in which some famous parks are Ken Baba Park, Central Park, Dendropark, Abay Park, and Independence Park.

If you visit there in the winter season, you can also enjoy snowfall which is very common.

• Russian Drama Theater
• Palace of Metallurgists
• Train station forecourt
• Monument of Baidibek Bi
• Arch at Independence Park
• Mega Planet Shopping mall
• Aksu Canyon on the outskirts of Shymkent

How to reach Shymkent?

Shymkent is connected with major cities of the country by road and railway network. An airport named “Shymkent International Airport” is also operated in Shymkent. So, you can reach there by public transport as well as by flight.

16. Kokshetau

The next tourist destination on our list of “best places to visit in Kazakhstan” is Kokshetau. It is another modern city in this country located in the northern part of it.

Kokshetau is situated at a distance of 300 km northwest of the national capital Nur-Sultan.

It is an important economic, educational, and cultural center that was awarded the Kazakhstan City of Culture for 2021.

The place has a good number of parks, shopping malls , museums, and theaters where you can enjoy and have an excellent experience.

Apart from this, there are numerous hills, green meadows, dense forests, and beautiful rivers present which are mesmerizing.

Several sports clubs are active in the city. You can also enjoy sports activities which are conducted by authorities from time to time.

• Kokshetau Mountain
• Kokshetau National Park
• Kokshetau City History Museum
• Museum of Literature and Art
• Church of the Resurrection
• Akmola Regional Russian Drama Theater
• Akmola Regional Universal Scientific Library
• Museum of the Hero of the Soviet Union Malik Gabdullin

How to visit Kokshetau?

Due to its location, it is a major transport hub on the highway and rail networks. You can visit there by public transport like taxis, buses, trains, and cars. Apart from this, you can also get there by flight.  There is an international airport named “Kokshetau International Airport” operated in this region that connects major cities of Kazakhstan as well as neighboring countries.

How to visit Oskemen?

There is an international airport named Oskemen Airport operated in Oskemen. You can reach there by flight, bus, car, train or taxi very easily without having any trouble.

18. Charyn Canyon

Do canyons excite you? If so, Charyn Canyon is one of the best places in Kazakhstan that you should definitely visit.

It is located on the Sharyn River at a distance of 200 kilometers in the east of Almaty.

It is approximately 154 kilometers in length and is one of the major parts of the Charyn National Park. There are various landscapes that are worth visiting.

The beautiful greenery, vegetation, plants, and wildlife of this place spontaneously attract people from all over the world. Apart from this, there are some adventure sports activities that you can enjoy there.

Rafting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are the most popular and most played sports in this region. There are many photography spots where you can capture the best moments.

This Charyn Canyon tour is undoubtedly one of the most adventurous tours in Kazakhstan.

• Panoramic point “bridge”
• Canyon Temirlik
• Panoramic point “the highest point”
• Valley of castles of the Charyn canyon

How to reach Charyn Canyon?

You can visit Charyn Canyon with the help of a local tour company. They will manage everything. If you don’t want to get there by tour company, you can also get there by rental cars, taxis, and also by hitchhiking.

19. Ile Alatau National Park

Have you ever been to a national park? If you didn’t, you should definitely visit Ile-Alatau National Park. It is located in the mountainous region in the south of Almaty. It tries to show you the natural heritage of Kazakhstan .

The tall and very big trees with so many herbal plants over there are very mesmerizing. Moreover, the melodious sound of the clean and flowing water will surely make you go crazy for the park.

If we talk about the soul of this park which is undoubtedly its wildlife, is very beautiful. A total of 300 species of birds and animals have been recorded from the Ile-Alatau National Park.

You can easily witness many animals and birds like snow leopards, Central Asian lynx, Tian Shan brown bears, golden eagles, etc in this national park.

• Almaty Nature Reserve
• Big Almaty Lake
• Water pipe from the lake
• Chemolgan River
• Gorge Turgen

How to reach Ile-Alatau National Park?

You can visit Ile-Alatau National Park by Public transport from Almaty.

20. Altyn Emel National Park

Like Ile-Alatau National Park, Altyn-Emel National Park is also one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.

It is located between the Ili River and the Ak-Tau mountain range. The interesting thing about this national park is that it not only consists of dense forests but also includes desert and rocky terrain.

It is a treasure trove for archaeologists as it contains very important historical evidence about past lives.

It comprises various landscapes, including sand deserts, mountains, and flora. So, if you are a photoholic, it will be one of the best places for you to visit in Kazakstan.

You can find there the red mountains, lunar mountains, green meadows, mounds, sand dunes, an oasis consisting of a grove of trees, etc.

The wild lives here maybe not be exciting because you will hardly be able to see any wild animals. This place is best for you if you like history.

• Aktau and Katutau mountain range
• Turanga forests
• Singing sand dune
• Terekty petroglyphs
• Chokhan Valikhanov

How to reach Altyn-Emel National Park?

By the local tour company or by rental car, you can visit Altyn-Emel National Park.

We love the Kolsai and Kaindy lakes, via the Charyn canyon tour.

FAQs on Things to see in Kazakhstan

1. what places in kazakhstan you would recommend visiting.

There are many interesting places that you should visit on your Kazakhstan trip. Some of them are- 1. Almaty 2. Astana (Nur-Sultan) 3. Aktau 4. Taraz 5. Lake Balkhash

2. Is Kazakhstan safe for tourists?

Yes, Kazakhstan is absolutely safe for tourists. Even the government of Kazakhstan spends a big budget on their tourism to make it more effective.

3. What is best in Kazakhstan?

The friendly people, their culture, customs, and traditions, and most importantly their hospitality are notable things of Kazakhstan. There are some places, like museums, modern cities, and natural as well as human heritage that are the best things in Kazakhstan.

4. Is Kazakhstan beautiful?

Yes, undoubtedly. Kazakhstan is a nature-wealthy place. You can witness many beautiful places there.

5. What is Kazakhstan famous for?

Kazakhstan is famous for many things all over the world. It is famous for its medical education, science, natural heritage, interesting history, and trade.

6. Is Kazakhstan cheap?

Not at all, it depends on which country you are a resident of. If you are from a high economic country, you will feel it is cheap for you. If you are from a low-economic country, it will feel expensive for you.

7. What can I buy in Kazakhstan?

You can buy clothes, chocolates, domestic accessories, sweets, etc like many things from Kazakhstan.

8. Does Kazakhs speak English?

Not everyone, Kazakhs usually speak Kazakh and Russian. But, there are many people who also speak English.

9. Is Almaty worth seeing?

Yes, there are many museums, resorts, shopping malls, parks, and mountains that you should definitely see.

Conclusion – Kazakhstan Tourist Attractions

Kazakhstan is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations in the world. There are many things to do in Kazakhstan.

Although there are many unique and interesting things that are good to bring back home, I would recommend you to bring these things from Kazakhstan to make your Kazakhstan trip a memorable one.

As you have known about those 20 best places to visit in Kazakhstan, now you should prepare a to-do list and write these travel destinations on it.

After that, you should start to explore them one by one. Believe me, after this journey, you will have very beautiful moments and great experiences.

One last thing, make sure to mention the travel destination from where you are going to start your travel journey.

Your Next Read –

• Best Places to enjoy Kazakhstan Nightlife
• Interesting Facts about Kazakhstan .
• Best Beaches in Kazakhstan
• Top 10 Richest People in Kazakhstan

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 3, 2023

The ninth-largest country in the world, Kazakhstan covers a vast swathe of territory in Central Asia. While many people imagine it to be solely made up of endless, featureless steppe, dramatic mountains, canyons, lakes, and valleys can be found dotted about here and there.

Despite its size, Kazakhstan is very sparsely populated, with the main cities of Almaty and Astana (its capital) being home to the majority of its population – which is the wealthiest in the region thanks to its large oil and gas reserves.

Map of the best places in Kazakhstan

Often overlooked by tourists, the country has a wealth of incredible sights for you to check out. As you’ll often be the only foreigner there, you’re sure to experience the locals’ welcoming nature and hospitality, as they are keen to share Kazakhstan’s many wonders with you. Explore this Central Asian country with our list of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.

10. Tamgaly Petroglyphs

Depicting epic hunting scenes, majestic standalone figures, and a wide variety of different animals and wildlife, the Tamgaly Petroglyphs are fascinating. There are remarkably more than 5,000 of them for you to check out.

With many of them dating all the way back to the Bronze Age, the site really is a special place to visit. Clambering around the scenic canyon’s many boulders and rock formations only to find yet another well-preserved and intricately carved petroglyph is an amazing feeling.

Long a ritual site for nomads, the canyon’s peaceful confines certainly convey the spiritual importance of the location, and coupled with the impressive petroglyphs themselves, the beautiful setting makes it well worth a day trip from Almaty.

A human-made ecological disaster of the highest order, the Aral Sea dramatically decreased in size from 1960 onwards. Disastrous Soviet-era state plans saw its waters diverted to cotton fields in the desert, where it immediately evaporated or seeped below ground.

Once the fourth-largest body of fresh water in the world, the Aral Sea now stands at just a fraction of its former size, and it is only in recent years that a slow recovery has been made.

Due to all this, the town of Aral is a fascinating place to visit. The former fishing port, which was renowned around the Soviet Union for its large catches, now lies next to endless desert, as the sea’s waters have long since retreated over the horizon.

For people interested in seeing what remains of the Aral Sea, the town of the same name makes for a great base from which to visit ‘one of the planet’s worst environmental disasters’ and learn about the successful government project that is slowly seeing its water levels increase every year.

8. Charyn Canyon

Breathtakingly beautiful, Charyn Canyon in the southeast of Kazakhstan certainly warrants a visit. When approaching from across the endless, featureless steppe, it is hard to imagine the incredible sight that awaits you. Snaking its way through the rock, the canyon stretches around 90 kilometers in length, with some parts reaching a depth of up to 300 meters.

Its ruddy walls and rock formations are reminiscent of the landscapes found in Utah and Arizona in the States. Many people who visit Charyn Canyon say it is just as spectacular as the world-famous Grand Canyon.

Walking through the Valley of Castles, the most impressive stretch of the canyon, certainly is a majestic experience as its humongous walls tower above you. Charyn Canyon is equally bewitching from above as the canyon plunges away dramatically. Hardy adventurers can go whitewater rafting or canoeing along the fast-flowing Sharyn River that runs through part it.

7. Turkestan

Lying in the south of Kazakhstan surrounded by the Kazakh Desert, Turkestan is a unique city to visit, seamlessly blending traditional nomadic culture with the sedentary city life of nearby Uzbekistan. This makes it a captivating place to explore.

The undoubted highlight is the gorgeous 14th-century mausoleum of Kozha Akhmed Yasaui, which looks like it would be more at home in one of Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road cities than in Kazakhstan.

Built by Timur to honor the great Sufi Sheikh, the mausoleum is one of the most impressive and important historical sights in the country. Besides this, the main attractions that visitors to the city enjoy are the ruins of the ancient cities of Otrar and Sauran that lie in the surrounding desert. Other than these historic sights, there is not all that much to do in Turkestan other than wander around its main bazaar and take in the lively atmosphere.

6. Baikonur Cosmodrome

One of the only places in the world that you can watch a rocket being shot into space, the Baikonur Cosmodrome is well worth visiting if you are interested in the cosmos. Even if you aren’t, seeing a spacecraft take off really is an unforgettable experience.

The largest space launch facility in the world, Baikonur is jointly run by the Kazakh and Russian governments. It was from here that Sputnik 1 and Vostok 1 – the first crewed spaceflight – were launched. As such, there is loads of history on show. Visitors can take a tour around the facility as well as the accompanying museum that has lots of captivating exhibitions, models, and memorabilia for you to enjoy.

5. Karkaraly National Park

Located in Kazakhstan’s Central Highlands, Karkaraly National Park will delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike. Covering a huge expanse of territory, the national park is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, with foxes, deer, and wolves all residing within its endless forests.

Tucked away among its many amazing landscapes are glistening lakes, gaping caves, and distinctive rock formations, with breathtaking views wherever you go. Due to its wide range of incredible natural sights, Karkaraly National Park is a delight to explore, with hiking, bouldering, and camping all popular outdoor activities.

4. Kolsai Lake

Lying around 250 kilometers away from Almaty, Kolsai Lake actually has three lakes to visit. Strung out along the Kolsay River that weaves its way among the forest-coated Tian Shan Mountains, the shimmering lakes are often referred to as the ‘Pearls of Tian Shan.’ There is an absolutely gorgeous but strenuous hike you can do that takes you all the way from the lower to the upper lake.

A very popular tourist destination amongst local Kazakhs, the region surrounding Kolsai Lake has lots of great campsites and homestays for you to stay at, and many people go horseback riding between the lakes. Boasting some of the most dramatic scenery in the country, the lakes really are worth visiting if you have the chance.

Recently renamed Nur-Sultan in early 2019, Astana – as many Kazakhs still call it – is the nation’s ever-changing capital. Each year, enormous landmark buildings spring up, with each new addition more impressive than the last. Lying amid the country’s featureless northern steppe, Astana is one of the most modern and futuristic cities in Central Asia, with lots of towering skyscrapers.

Wandering around its large boulevards is an interesting experience, as Soviet, Kazakh, and Western influences can be seen wherever you go. The main attraction is undoubtedly the stunning Bayterek Tower that lies at its heart.

In addition to this, the humongous Khan Shatyr is well worth visiting for its wealth of shops, restaurants, and unique design – as is the city’s fantastic national museum.

As Astana continues to develop and grow, lots of young people from around the country are pouring into the capital, so there is a very dynamic and youthful feel about its streets.

2. Aksu-Zhabagly

Established all the way back in 1926, Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest nature reserve in the whole of Central Asia. Encompassing everything from lofty, snow-capped mountain peaks and glaciers to gushing rivers, sweeping valleys, and, of course, endless steppe, Aksu-Zhabagly really is a treat to explore.

Full of incredible vistas, the nature reserve is home to a plethora of amazing wildlife. Its myriad of trails and paths take you past some breathtaking natural sights, with Stalactite Cave, Aksu Gorge, and the twinkling waterfalls of Kshi-Kainy counting among its most impressive sights.

The capital of the country until 1997, Almaty remains Kazakhstan’s largest city, as well as its cultural and commercial heart. As such, there is a very wealthy and sophisticated air about the place, with lots of trendy restaurants and bars for you to try out.

With some great museums and historic sights dotted about here and there, there is a lot for you to see and do, and many people use it as a base from which to explore the region.

Almaty truly is blessed when it comes to the outstanding nature that lies at its doorstep. Its scenic setting at the foot of the gorgeous Tian Shan mountain range makes it exceedingly photogenic. Home to Medeu, the highest skating rink in the world, Shymbulak, a wonderful ski resort, and the stunning Big Almaty Lake, the mountains have a wealth of amazing sights to discover. One could easily spend a week or two seeing all that Almaty and its surroundings have to offer.

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Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

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Kazakhstan Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in kazakhstan:.

After Turkestan and Nur-Sultan, Taraz is the third fastest growing country in Kazakh. It is located on the banks of the Talas river, in close vicinity to the Kyrgyzstan border. Taraz is one of the oldest cities with its history dating back to the medieval period. It is believed that Taraz actively took part in trades with Asian countries via the silk routes. During the excavations in and around the city, innumerable artifacts were found including chest ornaments, bronze statues, caves, and others. All these discoveries proved that Taraz spurred to life before the 1st century BC. Tara being an ancient city has a lot to offer. Along the silk road, you can visit the Aisha-Biwi mausoleum. The Karahan mausoleum is the house of different ceramic artifacts gathered from excavations. If you want to discover the royal culture of Taraz, the Akyrtas Palace Complex will be an ideal place to start from.

After a tiring day, having some leisure time in Zhengis Park sounds immaculate. For satisfying your hunger and delving into Taraz's unusual culture, the Asti Bar will be a nice place. For those who love shopping, the Shakhristan market should be there in your itinerary. Taraz is seated at a 628-meter height from sea level which is why it experiences a cool climate during summer and chilly weather coupled with rainfall in the winter.

The city was historically named as Akmola. From 1998 to 2019, it was called Astana. In 2019, it was named Nur-Sultan to honour the former president of Kazakhstan. The city is currently the capital of the nation. It is a well-planned city that underwent modernization on being anointed as the seat of the government. The second-largest city in the land, it is a popular choice among places to visit in Kazakhstan. What attracts tourists enmasse to the gates of Nur-Sultan, is the fact that it is one of the last places in the world where old and modern architectural styles coexist in harmony. Many have described it as a Eurasian Berlin, a medley of cultures and myriad communities that define the cityscape as vividly as a painting. The city of Nur-Sultan is renowned for its beautifully constructed government buildings such as the Governor’s house, the Parliament House, the Presidential Palace, and the Supreme Court. They are of neo-classical architecture, nestled alongside modern high-rise office complexes and skyscrapers. You will never run out of places to visit in this city. Be it the iconic Baiterek Tower, the Hazret Sultan Mosque, the Independence Square, or the Nurzhol Boulevard, discovering the entire city for yourself requires a lifetime. Booking a show at the Astana Ballet Theatre, or the State Theatre is one of the most popular tourist choices. Astana bears the title of the second coldest city in Kazakhstan. It snows feverishly in January and February. The left bank is the colder side of the city, while the right bank is much warmer, due to buildings packed close to one another. Make sure to carry warm clothes if you're visiting in the frigid months of winter. The months of April-May are perfect for tourism, as the weather is amazingly comfortable.

One of the most Historic cities of Kazakhstan, Turkistan is currently the administrative center in its region. What really attracts visitors and speaks volumes about the rich heritage of the city is its vast variety of architectural wonders. These include, primarily, the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hailed as the Spiritual Capital of the Turkic world, it is also the site of the famed tomb of Timur. Turkestan is located near the Syr Darya river, 160 kilometers North-West of Shymkent. It lies on the Trans-Aral Railway amidst Kyzylorda and Tashkent to the North and the South respectively. You can reach Turkestan on a 20-hour long train journey from Almaty. The nearest airport is two hours away from Shymkent. Walking along the streets of Turkistan will set you far back in time, leafing through the scrolls of history. It is almost as if the city is a mosaic of stone, unchanged through the advancing years. The city also boasts a bathhouse from the medieval eras, accompanied by 4 mausoleums for the khans of Kazakhstan, and Timur’s granddaughter. Apart from participating in the Holy Pilgrimage every year, there are a number of activities that you can take part in. The Shymkent Plaza, the Park Abaya, and Central Park are popular destinations for curious tourists who want to get a feel of the local cultures and communities. There are several renowned museums that will assist you to relive the days of the past. Overall, one of the most historically relevant cities in Kazakhstan. The climate is cool and semi-arid, with the summers being hot and clear, while the winters are freezing cold. The general skies are windy, with temperatures between 16 degrees to 94 degrees in Fahrenheit. The ideal tourism timings are from mid-May to late-June or late-July to late-September.

Located near the Uzbekistan border, Shymkent is a city that was historically a Trade Centre between nomads and settlers. Being highly populated, Shymkent is one of the three Kazakh cities that are equal in significance to separate regions. If you are on the lookout for places to visit in Kazakhstan, Shymkent should be one of the prerequisites in your itinerary. A stroll along the meandering pathways of Shymkent will help you to relive the days in which the city was attacked again and again by several military warlords, including even the legendary Genghis Khan. The Koshkar Ata mosque is one of the most poignant remnants of that era. Shymkent is one of the most historically significant regions in Kazakhstan. A full Cultural and historical tool off Kazakhstan would be incomplete without strolling through the roads of this enigmatic city. The Old Town of Shymkent remains as an open-air museum that showcases the city planning architecture and infrastructure of the mediaeval eras However, Shymkent has many other options apart from just historical tools you can also visit Central Park, the Ordabasy Square, or the Cathedral Garden. The well-designed avenues speak volumes about the artistic architectural styles of the era. FC Ordabasy is one of the premier football teams of the region. It is based in the local stadium at Shymkent. Rain and snow are characteristic features of the winter seasons, while the summers are hot and dry. The months between June and August are ideal for tourism.

Best of Russia

Unlike other cities of Kazakh, Aktau doesn't have a direct relationship with the pioneering history of the country. But, as the city is a part of Mangestau, one can witness the glory of the smaller trading routes around the Caspian area. Aktau is a Soviet-founded city, the word having an eternal literary meaning- WHITE MOUNTAIN. The name comes from the chalky white appearance of the Aktau ranges, peering above the Almaty region in the country. Despite being divided into16 political districts, Aktau celebrates a unified culture which is its main source of beauty. Aktau has seen its fair share of history, which is why the city has several memorials you must take a look at before your departure. The WWII memorial is said to be the seat of an eternal flame that glows constantly. Right down the lane across the MiG fighter plane memorial, you will have the seafront, filled with cliffs and roaring sea wave noises. You can also visit Mikrorayons to watch the statue of the melancholic Ukrainian poet, Shevchenko. Since Aktau is a part of the Caspian area, you can go on a yacht along the shoreline. For adventurous tourists, the 0.6 biking trail will be a wonderful choice. The main city has a puppet theater for families and children. Aktau has drastic weather, with the summer being hot and arid whereas the winters are cold but long.

Kokshetau is a multiethnic city, located in the Akmola region. The Kokshetau uplands border the northern boundary while to the south, we have Lake Kopa and Ishim Steppe. In the Kazakh language, Kokshetau means the Blueish Mountain, thanks to the clear view of the blue sky across the uplands. Due to the surrounding natural beauty, this city is one of the best Kazakhstan tourist places that should be included in your itinerary. The beauty of the city is attributable to the multiple cultures found here, starting from ethnic Kazakh to Russian and German. Here, you will find both urban and rural settlements, which further escalates the magnificence of Kokshetau. Kokshetau is the home to some really charming and external structures, the first of which is the Culture Palace Istoki. For enjoying the regional music and dance, you can visit the Sakhmet Kusainov center. The Oceanarium will take you on a journey across marine life, with several flora and fauna species available throughout the building. Shopping is one of the most famous activities that both the locals and tourists indulge in. The Central Shopping Mall is the biggest shopping market in the entire Kokshetau. Other than this, you can also enjoy the various ethnic dishes in Kokshetau, both Continental and regional. Kokshetau shares similar weather to that of the surrounding uplands. The summers are comfortable but humid due to cloudy skies. On the other hand, the winters are dry and frigid.

Best of Moscow

Initially, a fort was constructed on the lands, in 1720 after which several small settlements started to grow surrounding the fort. Soon, it was named the Oskemen city in the Kazakh language. Close to the borders of the city is the confluence of the Ulna and the Irtysh rivers. Oskemen is a small town, the outskirts of which is filled with different mining and metallurgical companies. Here, one can find the fusion of two different cultures- ethnic Russian and ethnic Kazakh which is why the city is considered to be one of the most visited Kazakhstan tourist places. Oskemen has several points of attraction that will definitely make your Kazakhstan tour memorable. Starting with Zhastar Park, you can have fun while skiing through the slopes of the Altaiskiye Alpy. Another amazing natural attraction is the Kiin Kerish Canyon. Both the Zhambyl Shabayev Park and Skeletal Recreation Park are the both visited recreational centers in Oskemen. If you want to spend a relaxing day, take a stroll along the sidewalks of the Slavskog embankment. You can even visit the churches and mausoleum present in the city. The Muhammadi city Mosque and the Eastern-Khazaghstan art museum are the two notable constructions of Oskemen. Oskemen enjoy cool and pleasant summers, with the sun here creating an amiable atmosphere. The winters, however, are frigid cold, with snowfall occurring throughout the season almost.

Semey is a border city on the Russian side. The Irtysh river flows in close vicinity to the city, thereby lending natural beauty to the town. It is believed that during the 18th century, Semey flourished through the trades between the Asian nomadic communities and the Russians through the Irtysh river. Semey is considered to be a bridge city between Siberia and central Asia, thanks to the Turkestan-Siberia railway. Despite being small in size, the city attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world, thanks to its association with the Russian and Central Asian culture. Semey's history talks a lot about Dostoevsky, a famous poet whose entire lifetime became a notable turning point in Semey culture. That's why visiting the museum built in his memory is a must. If you love art and history, the Fine Arts Museum will be the ideal place as it showcases all the important arts from the 16th century onwards.

For understanding the anti-nuclear movement of Semey, you can visit the Polygon and the surrounding areas. If you are up for a day full of adventure, a visit to Polkovnik Island is a must. The town of Semey experiences a humid climate. Summers are extremely hot, with humidity levels spiking every day. Contrary to this, winters are cold, often accompanied with snowfall.

Best of Egypt

Located on the Ilek river, Aktobe got its name from the high elevation where the first settlement was established. In Kazakh language, Aktobe means white hill, which symbolized the snow-covered lands the city experienced at the beginning of the 19th century. Aktobe's beauty comes from it's history where tales of many Asian empires have been noted. Two prominent figures from the Kazakh history- Abulkhair Khan and Eset Batyr were from this Kazakh city. Due to the steppe lands and the numerous rivers flowing around, the city is the epitome of natural magnificence. Aktobe has witnessed a fair share of battles and downfall of empires of troops. So, having a museum based on a female sniper who killed ninety-one German soldiers is expected. The Aliya Museum will give you a detailed insight into her life and how she conquered the fight against Germany single-handedly. Another major attraction that makes Aktobe one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan is the Aktobe Regional Museum. It is a scientific haven, delineating every detail about nature, starting with the meteor craters to the local hornless rhino remains. For experiencing the culture of the city, you can visit The Boulevard of Unity and Accord or the Nur Gasyr Regional mosque. Several cafes and restaurants are there to satisfy your roaring stomach during your trip.Aktobe experiences an almost average temperature, with little to almost no snowfall. However, the land certainly receives a fair share of rainfall during late summers.

In 1970, the Soviet built the Koryaksky Fort which later came to be known as the town of Pavlodar, in 1861 precisely. The presence of vast salt lakes accounted for the city's rise in popularity as numerous salt production units and agricultural companies were established. Later on, by the end of the 19th century, Pavlodar welcomed urbanization, and soon it became one of the fastest growing cities in the entire country of Kazakhstan. Located near the Irtysh river, Pavlodar is a multiethnic city, having populations of Kazakhs, Germans, Russians, Tatars and even the Moldovans. The human settlements are widespread in this area, with green trees and vegetation covers adorning the roads and sidewalks. The most notable attraction of the city is the Mashkhur Jusup mosque, having yellow or gold painted walls and blue painted ones and pillar heads. The Cathedral of the Annunciation is one of the most crowded regional structures in Pavlodar. Other areas of attractions in this city are Regional History Museum, Chekhov Regional Drama Theater, Ice arena, and Gaziz. You can take part in several sports arranged throughout the year in this city. Pavlodar is full of shopping malls and markets like the Koktem, Barys Mall, Vesna, and Shyolkovy Put. Pavlodar is known for its winter season as the temperature drops further below the freezing point. Skiing, ice races, and several other sports are practiced during the long winter months.

Best of Uzbekistan

A bustling metropolis at the heart of Kazakhstan, Almaty was the cultural and trading capital of the land till 1997. The Central State Museum is a prominent landmark in the cityscape, with several hundreds of famed artefacts from Kazakh history. The Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park is an orthodox church established by the Russians in the Tsarist Era. Walking along the picturesque roads of the city, the enigmatic traveller can come across graceful arches and spires, Neo-Russian in style. The city is a maze of architectural feats from prominent artisans like Paul Gourdet, Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov and many more. It is akin to walking through the pages of history, watching a grand civilization manifest into opulent architectural wonders at the peak of its success.

What attracts travellers and tourists is that the city retains its historically well-planned structures, with wide avenues, meticulously planned residential areas, and a profusion of scenic lakes and forested parks. The joy of walking along the winding roads, and discovering historical monuments hidden in plain view, is almost comparable to childlike wonder. Almaty is known not only for its beautiful sights but also for a variety of adventures that you can embark upon. Sitting on the shores and skipping stones on the Big Almaty Lake might serve as blissful relaxation, while the particularly adventurous souls can pay a visit to the Medeu Ski Resort and Skating Rink. The Kok-Tobe Hill and the White Mountains of Altyn-Emel are star attractions in Almaty. 

Almaty bears slight snowfall in the months of October to April. However, the snow is thin, and melts easily, causing almost no problems for the city-dwellers. The best time for tourism is June to September when the temperature remains a standard 20-30 degrees Celsius.

Being the fourth populous city in Kazakh, Karagandy is one of the main tourist attractions. In 2014, this historical city completed eighty years. Its history is mainly related to WWII, and that's what makes the city so precious and incredibly beautiful. Despite the city still having several ruins from the world war, its beauty and magnificence are unparalleled. The lanes are guarded by greyish buildings and in most places, the sidewalks have formed several cracks indicating the torment this city went through. Despite all these, the city has its own charm, all thanks to the deep-seated historical roots. As Karagandy has a never-ending connection with the Soviets, you will find building walls painted with murals, depicting their cultures. The Gagarin monument is another attraction in the city that draws flocks of tourists every day. It was built as a memoir to cherish a space mission. If you want to delve deeper into the city's history, you must visit the Regional Museum. Evidence and facts from the nomadic time to the Soviet repression are present in the museum. Karagandy's nightlife is heightened by Elvis- the best place to rock and roll with music and drinks. Taking a stroll around the lake in Central Park is the best way to relax your mind. Karagandy has a soothing weather pattern, with a windy and comfortable summer season and snow-covered winters.

Best of Azerbaijan

Baikonur might have a long history associated with the Soviets. But the roots of the city are deeply embedded in the mining industry as the original place was used for digging up innumerable mines. Located on the northern riverbank of Syr Darya, Baikonur is now the home to Cosmodrome- a Russian leased spaceport. The city is mainly known for the space centers which are managed by the Russians. On the other side, human settlements have been established, and yet, almost thirty percent of the soil is barren. Coming to Baikonur and not visiting the space cosmodrome is definitely not acceptable. After getting approval, you can take a guide to discover the hidden mysteries including the initial launch pads, the Soviet missiles, the control towers, and so on.

You can even take a stroll along Cosmonaut Grove. It's a single avenue, bordered by trees that were planted by the Cosmonauts prior to their departure from Baikonur Cosmodrome. Baikonur experiences a cold desert climate even though the mercury levels rise above normal during the months of May to July. The winters are harsh and cold to a great extent.

Other Attractions

Ile alatau national park.

Altyn Emel National Park

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Kazakhstan having pristine natural elegance and beauty, no other place will be as perfect as Altyn Emel National Park. Even though the location is quite remote, one can find diverse landforms, starting from rocky floors to humongous sand dunes, and several bordering mountains. This park is the habitat for over 230 avian species and hence, birdwatching is a popular activity. No matter what time of the day it is, lone horses roam around the park's land, including the przewalski horses. The presence of stone steels and petroglyphs proves the existence of Saka and Scythian tribes. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Kolsai Lakes National Park

Located along the northern edge of the famous Tuan Shan Ridge, the Kolsai Lakes National Park is one of the most placid and auspicious attractions in Kazakhstan. From here, one will have a crystal view of both the Kaindy and the Kolsai Lakes. If you are planning to go on an adventurous trip, you can either camp or stay in the guest houses. Here, the main vegetation covers are that of the Alpine and spruce types, along with crystalline frozen lakes in the middle portion. Twelve different rate flora species are present in the national park, mainly in the protected region. Apart from this, several other animals are also found like the Turkestan Lynx, Tian Shen bear, Rainbow trout fish, and others. Location: Grigorievka, Kazakhstan Entry fee: 750 tenge per person and a surplus of 1000 tenge for personal cars

Lake Balkhash

Being the 15th largest lakes in the world, Lake Balkhash is one of the great spots for adventure and relaxation. The lake receives water from seven prime rivers of Russia and Kazakhstan, including the river Ili. Fresh water is available on the western part while the eastern part is saline. Due to this unique feature, Lake Balkhash is one of the famous Kazakhstan tourist places. It’s popular for photography and birdwatching, all thanks to the never ending vastness of the lake. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge is definitely one of the most exquisite places to visit in Kazakhstan. The Turgen vegetation is most spruce type, with the waterfall washing away the soil from in between. Right after the entrance gates, you can visit the trout farm followed by the nomadic Asy highlands. Deeper into the woods of the Turgan Gorge are several fauna species including marmots, deer, ibex, and golden eagles. Location: From Turgen village to the foot of Asy Pass Entry fee: 200 tenge per person

Lake Kaindy

Also known to be the sunken forest, Lake Kaindy is one of the major attractions in the Almaty district of Kazakhstan. The lake is quite deep, the depth almost reaching thirty meters. Filled with fresh mountain river water, the lake is the home to submerged Schrenk's spruce trees. During the summer and autumn seasons, the water is so transparent that you can view the submerged roots of the plants. However, during the winter season, the lake freezes in certain areas which is why it’s a great spot for ice diving. Trout fishing is also a popular activity in this region. Location: north of Kolsai Lakes National Park, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Tamgaly Tas

Most of the Kazakhstan tourist places are full of wonders and mysteries. But, somehow, Tamgaly Tas has outsmarted every one of them, making itself known as the most enigmatic spots in the country. It’s an open air temple, whose popularity is the result of rock carvings and paintings. Five immaculate images of deities as per the Buddhism doctrines have been carved out of the rocks, making it quite charming. Other than these, you will also find several carvings belonging to the different Kazakh clans. All these petroglyphs depict the richness of the Kazakh history and establish the relationship between this country and the Central Asian culture. Location: Ili river banks, 120 kilometres north of the Almaty district, Kazakhstan

Nomads Land

If you are visiting the Tamgaly Gorge, stopping at the Nomad's Land will be worth your time. Also known as the City of Nomads, this is one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan. The Nomad's Land is nothing but an old, abandoned, and almost deserted movie set for those plots revolving around the nomadic lifestyle. The buildings and other structures replicate the real-time palaces and forts in the most inexplicable way. Apart from this, the small streets, houses, and courtyards are designed in a wonderful way. You can roam around the set, taking pictures, and observing this old movie set which is hardly being used nowadays. Location: Tamgaly Gorge, Kazakhstan

Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve

Covering most of the north eastern region of the Tian Shan mountain ranges, the Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest natural reserve in the entire Central Asia. In close vicinity to this area is the famous Aksu river flowing while the Zhabagly range is located towards the northern side. A lot of regional avian species can be found here, which is why birdwatching and photography are the two most crucial activities here. Apart from this, one can also find several insects in the reserve. The ecosystem of this Aksu natural reserve is very diverse, which is why it is one of the most visited tourist spots in Kazakhstan. Location: Tulkus, Kazakhstan

National Park Burnaby

Being one of the most popular Kazakhstan tourist places, Burabay National Park is a place to remember. The total area of this park is around 835 square meters which consist of small lakes, steppe vegetation, lofty mountain ranges, and dense forest covers. Horse riding along the steppe land is one of the most famous activities that you will certainly enjoy. Over 757 species of plants are found here, which accounts for the diversity in the fauna. You can even take photographs around the area and enjoy the tranquil weather while taking a stroll around the Park. Location: Akmola region, Kazakhstan

Lake Alakol

Lake Alakol is a saline water body, whose main water supply is from the inland river drainage system. The Alataw Pass is the extension of this lake, which is why you will have clear views of the Alatau ranges. It’s a protected land since several wetland bird species can be found here during the breeding season. Relict Gill is the most famous avian species you can find here, making Lake Alakol one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan  for photography and sightseeing. Flamingo is another bird species which can be seen too often around the lake. Location: In the Almaty and the Saghyz province of Eastern Kazakhstan

Mount Sherkala & The Valley Of Balls

Located close to the town of Shetpe, the two major tourist attractions and natural wonders of Kazakhstan - Mount Sherkala and the Valley of Balls. Lying in the middle of a flat desert, this mountain sits as a giant blockage. However, visiting this place is considered one of the best things to do in Kazakhstan due to its enormous size and the variety of flora and fauna it holds. The Valley Of Balls on the other side gets its name by the large collection of stones shaped like balls in it. Location: Shetpe, Kazakhstan

Preached at a height of 1100 metres above the sea level, Kok Tobe is one of the many famous mountains and hills in the Almaty Region. While people may consider this place as just a mountain, Kok Tobe has become a hotspot among fun lovers and adventure seekers. Reaching here is a joyous activity in itself, as one needs to take a cable car to the top. On the way, one can enjoy some of the most serene views of the town of Almaty. The hill also has a playground, a rollercoaster, and various eateries where you can relish upon numerous local delicacies prepared by some excellent chefs. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Charyn Canyon

Also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan’, the Charyn Canyon is a geological wonder, formed over 12 million years ago. It is an impressive formation that stretches over 154 km and includes several other exciting sections for you to explore. Some of the must-visit sections include the Valley of Castles, Charyn Eco Park, Charyn River, Temirlik Canyon, Yellow Canyon, Red Canyon, and Bestamak Canyon. Apart from being an ideal spot for all adventurous travelers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, it is also a common research site for scientists. For those interested in exploring this natural marvel, various Kazakhstan packages offer one-time visits to Charyn Canyon, making it easier to experience the beauty and diversity of this unique landscape.

Top Experiences To Do in Charyn Canyon

Karkaraly National Park

The Karkaraly National Park is said to be one of the most intriguing places to visit in Kazakhstan. Here, you can enjoy the flora and fauna exhibit shows in the nature museum built within the park boundaries. Near the boundary of the park is the Lake Basin which is accessible through a pine tree covered alpine trail. A hike to the Zhiren Sakal peak within the national park is yet another exciting activity that you can get engaged into during your visit. Several animals and birds have their habitats in this region including bats, Siberian roe deer, elks, Palla cats, Argali, and others. Location: Karkalay, Karaganda district, Kazakhstan

Lake Issyk, nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Kazakhstan, is a mesmerizing natural wonder that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. Fed by glacial streams and surrounded by lush greenery, this alpine lake boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Its tranquil ambiance and pristine environment make it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Green Bazaar

The Green Bazaar in Almaty, Kazakhstan, stands as a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and community, enchanting visitors with its kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and flavors. Nestled in the heart of the city, this bustling marketplace offers a sensory feast for the senses, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Kazakh traditions and hospitality.

As you step into the Green Bazaar, you are greeted by a symphony of sights and sounds that ignite the imagination and awaken the spirit of exploration. Rows of stalls brim with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and exotic delicacies, showcasing the bounty of Kazakhstan's fertile lands and diverse culinary heritage. From succulent fruits and vegetables to fragrant herbs and spices, every corner offers a treasure trove of gastronomic delights waiting to be discovered.

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen in Almaty, Kazakhstan, honors the heroic deeds of the WWII Panfilov Division. It features a memorial complex, statues, and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral.

Kok Tobe in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a popular recreational area offering panoramic views of the city, a cable car ride, amusement park, and the iconic "Kazakh Eli" monument.

Kolsai Lake

Nestled in the scenic Tien Shan mountain range of Kazakhstan, Kolsai Lakes are a breathtaking trio of alpine lakes. The first lake, Kolsai-1, welcomes travelers with its serene turquoise waters, reflecting the surrounding forests and peaks. As you ascend, Kolsai-2 reveals itself, its beauty amplified by its higher altitude and crystal-clear waters. For the adventurous souls, a challenging hike further leads to Kolsai-3, the most remote and pristine of the three, offering a tranquil retreat amidst untouched nature.

People Also Ask About Kazakhstan

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Another tourist has been caught carving their name on Pompeii remains

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A tourist has been busted carving his name on a wall in Italy ’s ancient city of Pompeii.

The man was stopped while engraving the letters ‘ALI’ in the House of the Ceii, an ancient villa that probably belonged to the magistrate Lucius Ceius Secundus.

The preserved city in southeast of Naples , at the base of Mount Vesuvius, is one of the most significant proofs of Roman civilisation.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Italy, attracting more than 2.5 million visitors every year.

As such, this latest act of vandalism on light plaster has caused a lot of outrage.

The man has so far been identified as a tourist from Kazakhstan, but he is yet to be named.

He was stopped on Saturday by security and reception staff while scribbling his name.

The Italian authorities have said he will be made to pay for restoration work to be carried out on the wall to remove the graffiti.

The exact cost of the damage is yet to be determined while an investigation into what happened is ongoing.

What happened to the tourist who carved his name Into Rome’s Colosseum?

A tourist went viral in June 2023 after being caught on camera carving names into the wall of the Colosseum.

The clip sparked outrage on social media, drawing criticism from Italy’s culture and tourism ministries.

Authorities set about hunting the perpetrator, and quickly identified him as Ivan Dimitrov , a 27-year-old fitness instructor living in Bristol.

The accused wrote a letter of apology to Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualteri, after allegedly carving his and his girlfriend’s names into the almost 2,000-year-old landmark with a key.

Mr Dimitrov said he was unaware of how old the iconic Unesco World Heritage site was.

It was last reported in July 2023 that Mr Dimitrov faced legal proceedings.

The park director, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, described this as an ‘uncivilised’ act, adding: ‘Thanks to the new law supported by Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, the perpetrator of the crime will have to pay for the restoration of the wall.

‘Well done to the ministry collaborators and the Ales company who promptly intervened. Excellent collaboration with the police, who we thank for their promptness.’

Meanwhile, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: ‘In Italy, our citizen was detained for illegally writing an inscription on a historical building.

‘After completing all the necessary formalities with law enforcement agencies, he was released.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

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Idiot tourist carved his name into an ancient Pompeii house

L ocated in Italy's Pompeii Archaeological Park, the House of Ceii is an ancient Roman domus that was beautifully preserved when it was buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The House of Ceii is well-known for its stunning frescoes of animals and hunters, among other scenes. Now, it's also the site of an etching in the wall of the letters "ALI," the name of a terrible tourist who carved it into one of the plaster walls.

"Unfortunately, even today, we find ourselves commenting on an uncivilized and idiotic disgrace caused to our artistic and cultural heritage," stated Italy's culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano.

Fortunately, park security alerted nearby security who arrested the man who was visiting from Kazakhstan.

"This is a very serious act that will have to be prosecuted severely," Sangiuliano said.

"Thanks to the new law that I strongly supported, the perpetrator will be forced to repay the costs of fully restoring the damage caused," Sangiuliano said.

Italy's parliament recently increased the maximum fine for vandalizing cultural heritage from €15,000 to €40,000. As Artnet reports, this measure was partially a response to recent climate protests where artworks and monuments are vandalized.

Previously:

•  Tourist returns artifacts she swiped at Pompeii in hopes of lifting 'curse'

•  An amazingly well-preserved four-wheeled processional chariot unearthed in Pompeii

•  The food stalls of ancient Pompeii

•  Sequencing the genome of a Pompeii resident and solving a 2,000 year old mystery

•  At least ten unexploded bombs are hidden in the ruins of Pompeii

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