Baikonur - Discovering Kazakhstan

Travelling to Baikonur

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Baikonur, a pretty good destination in Kazakhstan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Baikonur and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Baikonur, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kazakhstan, here's everything to know about Baikonur for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Baikonur

Baikonur is a city located in Kazakhstan and is best known for its space facilities. It is home to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which is a spaceport that was originally built by the Soviet Union and is now run by Russia. The Baikonur Cosmodrome has been used for numerous manned and unmanned missions, including the first human spaceflight by Yuri Gagarin in 1961. The city itself has a population of around 36,000 people and is located in the Kyzylorda Region of Kazakhstan. Visitors can take guided tours of the Baikonur Cosmodrome and nearby attractions, such as the Central Museum of Cosmonautics.

What to visit in Baikonur

Baikonur is known for being the world's oldest and largest space launch facility. Here are some tourist attractions in Baikonur: 1. Baikonur Cosmodrome: As the main highlight of Baikonur, tourists can arrange to visit the space launch facility and see where Yuri Gagarin launched into space in 1961. Visitors can take a bus tour of the complex, watch a rocket launch and visit the museum.
2. Museum of the History of Baikonur Cosmodrome: This museum is one of the must-visit places in Baikonur that houses the history of the Russian and Soviet space programs since 1957. The museum has an extensive collection of real-life spacecraft and other exhibits highlighting the development of space exploration.
3. Monument to the Conquerors of Space: Known to be the most popular monument of Baikonur, the monument has been erected in the design of an intercontinental ballistic missile launch. It is dedicated to the space exploration accomplishments of the USSR.
4. Bayterek Tower: Although it is located in the nearby city of Nur-Sultan, Bayterek Tower is one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic buildings. This futuristic tower is meant to resemble a Kazakh national legend in which a bird settles on the tree of life at the intersection of the forces of good and evil.
5. Kyzylorda: Located around 90 km away from Baikonur, this city is known as the gateway to the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Kyzylorda is a beautiful city surrounded by deserts and an oasis where tourists can experience the Kazakh culture and enjoy the traditional cuisine.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kazakhstan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Baikonur.

When to go on holiday to Baikonur

Baikonur, Kazakhstan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Baikonur is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The temperatures during these months are generally in the range of 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it a comfortable time to explore the city and its surroundings. However, if you want to witness a rocket launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which is the main attraction of this city, then you should plan your trip accordingly based on the launch schedule provided by the Russian Space Agency.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Baikonur

Baikonur is a city in Kazakhstan that is primarily known for the Baikonur Cosmodrome, from where Russia launches its space missions. Here are the different ways to get to Baikonur: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Baikonur is Kyzylorda International Airport, which is about 270 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Baikonur. Alternatively, you can fly into Astana or Almaty and then take a domestic flight to Kyzylorda.
2. By train: You can take a train to Baikonur from Astana or Almaty. The train ride takes approximately 18-20 hours. From the train station in Baikonur, you can take a taxi or shuttle to your destination.
3. By car: You can rent a car and drive to Baikonur from nearby cities. However, driving in Kazakhstan can be challenging, so it is recommended to hire a driver or take a taxi.
It is important to note that Baikonur is a restricted area, and visitors need to obtain special permits to enter. Therefore, it is best to plan your trip well in advance and arrange for necessary permissions and permits.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Baikonur, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Baikonur

Baikonur is located in Kazakhstan, and the cuisine of this region is influenced by Central Asian, Russian, and Mongolian flavors. Here are some typical foods of Baikonur with a short description: 1. Beshbarmak - This is a national dish of Kazakhstan, and its name literally means "five fingers." It is usually made with boiled beef or lamb, and served on a bed of flat noodles.
2. Shashlik - This is a popular dish in Baikonur, which consists of meat skewered and grilled over an open flame. It can be made with beef, lamb, or chicken, and is often served with vegetables and flatbread.
3. Lagman - This is a noodle soup that is similar to Chinese or Japanese ramen. The soup is made with sliced meat, vegetables, and spices, and served with noodles.
4. Manty - These are steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions. They are typically served with a dollop of sour cream on top.
5. Kazy - This is a type of sausage made from horse meat and is a traditional food in Kazakhstan. It is usually boiled before being served, and is often accompanied by potatoes and vegetables.
6. Baursak - This is a type of bread made from dough that is fried in oil until golden brown. It is often served as a starter or with tea.
7. Pilaf - This is a rice dish that is popular throughout Central Asia. The rice is usually cooked with meat, carrots, onions, and spices, and can be served as a main course or side dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kazakhstan here.

Is Baikonur an expensive destination for tourists?

Baikonur is primarily a space launch site operated by the Russian Federation. Access to the site is strictly controlled by the Russian government and not available to the general public for most of the year. However, during the infrequent windows when visitors are permitted, guided tours are available at a premium price. The cost of a guided tour varies widely depending on the length of the tour, the number of visitors in the group, and the time of year. Generally speaking, Baikonur tours can be quite expensive due to the site's exclusive nature and the costs associated with getting there. It is recommended to consult with a specialized travel agency or tour operator that specializes in space tourism to determine detailed information on discounts and available packages.

Where to find accomodation in Baikonur

Baikonur is a remote town located in the Kyzylorda Region of Kazakhstan. There are limited options for accommodations, and most of them are located within the town itself. Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Baikonur include the city center, near the train station, and the area surrounding the Baikonur Cosmodrome. It is important to note that some of the accommodations are reserved for those visiting the space complex, so it's best to book in advance and check the requirements for your desired location.
You can check hotel prices at Baikonur here:
Booking.com

Is Baikonur a safe destination for tourists?

Baikonur, Kazakhstan is primarily a spaceport and not a typical tourist destination. As such, access to the town is heavily restricted due to security concerns associated with the cosmodrome. However, visitors can obtain limited access to the town and the cosmodrome by joining an official tour group organized by Roscosmos, the Russian space agency. These tours typically include a visit to the city and cosmodrome museums, as well as observation areas surrounding the launch pads.
While safety is a top priority during the tours, it's important to follow all instructions and regulations provided by the tour operators. Visitors should also be prepared for the harsh climate and remote location of Baikonur. As with any foreign destination, tourists are advised to check current travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure their personal safety and security.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kazakhstan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Baikonur.

What type of travelers will enjoy Baikonur the most?

Baikonur is a unique destination that is suitable for a wide range of travelers including space enthusiasts, history buffs, and those interested in cultural experiences. However, it may not be ideal for families with young children as the visit involves space tours and scientific expeditions.
Couples and young people looking for an adventure will find Baikonur fascinating. The city is home to the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, which hosts launches of manned and unmanned spacecraft. Visitors can witness the launching of rockets, observe space suits and capsules up close, and even meet astronauts.
History buffs will appreciate exploring the Baikonur Cosmodrome Museum, which houses exhibits showcasing the history of the cosmodrome. This includes information about the Soviet Union's space programs and the lives of cosmonauts.
Overall, Baikonur is an excellent destination for individuals looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Although it may not be ideal for families with young children, it offers a captivating and educational experience for those with an interest in space exploration and history.

How to get around Baikonur

The most common form of transportation in Baikonur is by car, whether it be a taxi or rental car. There are also buses available for transportation within the city. However, if you are visiting the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the transportation provided by the management will be the only means of transportation allowed within the secured area.

What to see around Baikonur

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Baikonur: 1. Korolev Memorial House - This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Sergei Pavlovich Korolev, a prominent Soviet rocket scientist who played an integral role in the Soviet space program. The museum houses many exhibits showcasing his contributions to space exploration.
2. Tyuratam Missile Range Museum - This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Baikonur's missile testing past with several authentic military vehicles and rocket parts displays. 3. Baikonur Cosmodrome Tour - A visit to the Baikonur Cosmodrome is an exciting opportunity to witness some of the most iconic historical launches while learning about the science and technology behind the missions that NASA and other governmental space agencies entrust in this station.
4. Kyzylkum Desert - If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, a visit to the Kyzylkum Desert is the perfect trip to take. You can indulge in camel riding or a jeep tour as you immerse yourself in the region's breathtaking scenery.
5. City Museum - When you want to stay locally, you can visit the city museum to learn about the local history of Baikonur and the surrounding region. 6. Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan - It's a bit further from Baikonur, but it's worth visiting the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan. The mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its architectural significance as a rare example of Timurid architectural style.
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