Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan: general info for travelers

Kazakhstan is a large and diverse country located in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, and several Central Asian countries to the south and west. It is the ninth-largest country in the world by land area and has a population of approximately 19 million people. The landscape is varied, encompassing deserts, steppe grasslands, mountains, and lakes. Some of the country's top attractions include the futuristic capital city of Nur-Sultan, the ancient city of Almaty, spectacular natural wonders such as the Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes, and the unique culture of the nomadic Kazakh people. The economy is driven primarily by the country's vast natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Kazakhstan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Kazakhstan: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Kazakhstan with descriptions: 1. Almaty: Known as the "Southern Capital," Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and its cultural and economic hub. It offers a combination of historic and modern sights, including the Central State Museum, Zenkov Cathedral, Kok-Tobe Hill, and the Medeu ice-skating rink.
2. Astana: Located in the north of Kazakhstan, Astana is the capital city and known for its futuristic architecture. Some of its top attractions include the Bayterek Tower, the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex, and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center.
3. Lake Balkhash: This large, crescent-shaped lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is divided into two parts, one with salty water and the other with fresh water, making it a unique natural attraction.
4. Charyn Canyon: This natural wonder is nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan." It features stunning rock formations, steep cliffs, and eroded ravines that stretch for more than 80 kilometers.
5. Big Almaty Lake: This mountain lake just outside of Almaty is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and swimming in summer. The turquoise-colored water and surrounding snowcapped peaks make for a picturesque landscape.
6. Shymbulak Ski Resort: Located in the mountains just above Almaty, this ski resort offers spectacular views and a range of winter sports activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
7. Aksu-Zhabagly National Park: This national park is home to a range of flora and fauna and has a variety of hiking trails for nature lovers. It is particularly known for its wildflowers and rare animal species such as the snow leopard and Golden Eagle.
These are just some of the top places to visit in Kazakhstan. Each site offers a unique experience and showcases the country's rich cultural, natural, and architectural heritage.
There is more to see and do in Kazakhstan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Kazakhstan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Kazakhstan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Kazakhstan experiences a variety of climatic conditions due to its vast size and location, but it is typically characterized by cold winters and warm summers. In the winter season (December - February), temperatures can fall as low as -30°C (-22°F) in some parts of the country. The central and southern regions are milder, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -15°C (5°F). It is a good time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit, although road travel can be difficult due to snow.
Spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). It is a great time to explore the cities and cultural sites, as well as to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping in nature reserves.
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the summer season (June – August), when temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) in most regions. The weather is generally dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic beauty of the country. However, keep in mind that it can get very hot in some areas, so be prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen.

Kazakhstan: activities and what to do

There are plenty of activities and sports to do on holiday in Kazakhstan. Here are some of them: 1. Skiing: Kazakhstan has several ski resorts with beautiful mountain regions, such as Chimbulak and Shymbulak Ski Resort, where tourists can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
2. Hiking and trekking: Kazakhstan has some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes that are perfect for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The Altai Mountains, Tian Shan, and the Charyn Canyon are just a few of the many breathtaking natural sights to explore.
3. Horseback riding: The horseback riding culture is strong in Kazakhstan, and many areas in the Kazakh steppes offer riding tours. Tourists can explore the vast countryside and experience Kazakh nomadic culture.
4. Rock climbing: Kazakhstan has some exceptional rock formations and mountains that are perfect for rock climbing and bouldering.
5. Fishing: Kazakhstan is also home to many rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, where fishing enthusiasts can catch trout, pike, and other game fish.
6. Rafting: The Ili River, Sharyn River, and Chilik River offer rafting opportunities for those seeking an adventurous water activity.
7. Traditional sports: Visitors can also experience traditional Kazakh games, such as kokpar, which is a game of horseback wrestling, and kyz kuu, which is a horseback pursuit game played between men and women.
Overall, Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of cultural and outdoor experiences that should definitely be on any adventure traveler's bucket list.

Kazakhstan: few words on history and culture

Kazakhstan is a country with a rich history and diverse culture. The region that is now Kazakhstan has been inhabited since ancient times and was home to several nomadic tribes, including the Saka, Scythians, and Huns. In the Middle Ages, Kazakhstan was part of the Silk Road trade route, which brought cultural exchange and economic prosperity to the region. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Kazakh Khanate emerged as a powerful political and military force.
Today, Kazakhstan is a modern country with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture. The Kazakh people have a strong appreciation for music, dance, and traditional crafts, such as embroidery and ceramics. The country is also home to several important cultural landmarks, such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Astana Opera House. Overall, Kazakhstan's history and culture make it a fascinating destination for travelers who want to experience something new and different.

Kazakhstan: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transportation to reach and visit Kazakhstan depend on where you are coming from and what your travel preferences are. If you are coming from outside central Asia, your best option is to fly directly into one of the country's major cities such as Almaty or Astana. The country has several international airports that serve major airlines. Once in Kazakhstan, you can also travel by trains and buses. The train system is efficient, comfortable, and affordable, with sleeper cabins available on longer journeys. Buses are available for shorter distances, with routes connecting most cities and towns throughout the country.
For local travel within cities, taxis, buses, and minibusses (marshrutkas) are available. Taxis are abundant in larger cities and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Buses and marshrutkas are the most affordable options for getting around within a city. Some cities also have trams or trolleybuses, which are a convenient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. To hire a car to visit Kazakhstan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Kazakhstan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Kazakhstan with a full stomach:D
Kazakhstan is a country that is rich in traditional dishes and flavors, and here are some of the main foods you can try when visiting: 1. Beshbarmak - This dish, which translates to 'five fingers' in English, is Kazakhstan's national dish. It consists of boiled meat, typically lamb or beef, served with flat noodles and onions. The dish is often served in large amounts and shared among friends or family.
2. Kazy - Kazy is a type of sausage made from horse meat, which is considered a delicacy in Kazakhstan. The sausage is usually smoked and has a slightly spicy and salty taste.
3. Manty - Manty is a type of steamed dumpling that is filled with meat, typically lamb or beef, and onions. The dumplings are usually served with a side of sour cream or yogurt.
4. Plov - Plov, also known as pilaf, is a rice dish that is typically made with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and sometimes other vegetables. The dish is usually seasoned with spices such as cumin, turmeric, and garlic.
5. Shashlik - Shashlik is a type of skewered meat, typically lamb or beef, that is marinated in spices and grilled. The dish is often served with grilled vegetables and bread.
6. Baursaki - Baursaki is a type of fried dough that is typically served as a snack or with tea. The dough is usually flavored with sugar or honey and has a crispy texture.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can enjoy in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Kazakhstan is a quite affordable country for tourists compared to many other destinations worldwide. However, the cost of your trip will depend on factors such as your travel style, the places you visit, and the activities you choose to do. Generally speaking, the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in Kazakhstan is cheaper than in Western Europe or North America. It's possible to find budget accommodation options, local restaurants with affordable meals, and public transportation that won't break the bank. However, some tourist attractions, activities, and tours may be more costly. Overall, Kazakhstan can be considered a budget-friendly destination, but your expenses will depend on your travel plans and personal preferences.

Kazakhstan: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in Kazakhstan: 1. Online booking platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Agoda offer a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and hostels. You can compare rates, read reviews, and make reservations online.
2. Local travel agencies: You can contact local travel agencies or tour operators in Kazakhstan for assistance in finding and booking accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
3. Directly contacting the accommodation: You can directly contact the accommodation you wish to book and ask for availability and rate information. Many hotels and guesthouses have their own websites with contact information.
4. Travel guides: Travel guides like Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, and Fodor's provide information on accommodation options in Kazakhstan, including recommendations and price ranges.
Keep in mind that when searching for accommodation in Kazakhstan, it's important to check the location and the facilities that are offered, especially if you have specific needs or preferences.
You can check hotel prices in Kazakhstan here:
Booking.com

Kazakhstan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Kazakhstan Tourism Industry Association, in 2019 Kazakhstan received approximately 8.2 million foreign tourists. Generally, the number of tourists varies depending on the season and events happening in the country. The high season for tourism in Kazakhstan is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is warmer and more pleasant. This period can see a higher number of tourists and busier attractions. Additionally, major events such as EXPO also draw a large number of visitors, which can make certain areas crowded. However, overall, Kazakhstan is not typically considered a crowded tourist destination.
Kazakhstan is generally a safe country for tourists, though it's always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling in crowded areas or at night. There are some areas that the government advises travelers to avoid due to security concerns, particularly in the southwest near the border with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. It's a good idea to check with your embassy or the Kazakhstani government websites for the most up-to-date information and travel advisories.
That being said, most of the major cities and tourist attractions in Kazakhstan are considered safe for tourists. Just like with traveling to any country, it's always a good idea to take precautions and use common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Kazakhstan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Kazakhstan: events for tourists

There are several interesting events in Kazakhstan that would appeal to tourists, depending on their interests. Here are some popular ones: 1) Nauryz - This is the Kazakh New Year, celebrated on March 22nd, with traditional festivities that include sports competitions, dances, and horse racing.
2) Astana Day - This is the anniversary of the capital city, Astana, celebrated on July 6th, with a grand parade, concerts, and fireworks.
3) EXPO - This is an international exposition held in Astana, which showcases new innovative technologies from various countries.
4) Almaty Marathon - This is a popular annual event that attracts thousands of participants from around the world.
5) Almaty International Jazz Festival - This event brings together jazz musicians from around the world for live performances.
These are just some of the many events that Kazakhstan offers. It is a country rich in cultural traditions, and there is always something happening for tourists to enjoy!

Kazakhstan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Kazakhstan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! A two week travel itinerary in Kazakhstan could look something like this: Day 1-2: Almaty Spend your first two days exploring the city of Almaty. Visit the Central State Museum, Green Bazaar, and Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city.
Day 3-4: Charyn Canyon Travel to the awe-inspiring Charyn Canyon. Spend two days exploring the ravines and canyons, hiking through the unique landscapes, and taking in the stunning views.
Day 5-6: Altyn-Emel National Park Travel to Altyn-Emel National Park for two days of exploring the unique terrain. Visit the Singing Dunes and the Aktau Mountains, and keep an eye out for wild horses and other wildlife along the way.
Day 7-8: Shymkent Travel to Shymkent, a bustling city known for its underground mosques and historic architecture. Visit the Shymkent Zoo and the Auezov Theater to learn more about the culture and history of the region.
Day 9-10: Turkestan Head to Turkestan, a historically important city in Kazakhstan. Visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the Turkestan architectural museum to learn more about the region's history.
Day 11-12: Lake Kaindy Visit Lake Kaindy for two days of hiking, exploring and relaxing by the water's edge. The lake's unique color and beauty make it a must-see for any tourist in Kazakhstan.
Day 13-14: Astana Finish off your trip with a visit to Kazakhstan's capital city, Astana. Visit the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and spend some time exploring the city's many parks and public spaces.
I hope this helps with your trip planning! Feel free to ask any other questions.

Kazakhstan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Kazakhstan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aksai is a town located in western Kazakhstan, near the border with Russia. It is situated in the Aktobe region and has a population of approximately 37,000 people. The town is known for its oil and g... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aksay
- Aksu is a town located in southern Kazakhstan, in the region of Almaty. The town is situated on the banks of the Aksu River, which is a tributary of the Ili River. Aksu has a population of about 22,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aksu
- Aktau is a city located in the west of Kazakhstan, near the coast of the Caspian Sea. It is the capital of Mangystau Region and has a population of around 200,000 people. Aktau was founded in the 1960... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aktau
- Aktobe is a city located in the western part of Kazakhstan, near the Russian border. It is the administrative center of Aktobe Region and has a population of around 400,000 people, making it the fifth... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aktobe
- Almaty is the former capital city of Kazakhstan and is located in the southeastern part of the country at the base of the Tien Shan Mountains. It is the largest city in Kazakhstan and is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Almaty
- Aral is a small town located in the Kyzylorda Region of Kazakhstan. It is situated approximately 350 kilometers west of the regional capital, Kyzylorda, and is located near the Aral Sea. The main indu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aral
- Astana is the capital city of Kazakhstan, located in the northern part of the country. It was established as the capital in 1997, and since then has seen a massive amount of development and modernizat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Astana
- Atyrau is a city in the western part of Kazakhstan, situated at the confluence of the Ural River and the Caspian Sea. It is the capital of the Atyrau Region and is an important center of the country's... CONTINUE here for a trip to Atyrau
- 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 no... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baikonur
- Balkhash is a city located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, on the northern shore of Lake Balkhash. It is the administrative center of the Balkhash district and has a population of around 80,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balkhash
- Ekibastuz is a city in northeastern Kazakhstan, located in Pavlodar Region. It is situated along the Irtysh River and is known for its coal mining industry. The city is home to the largest coal-fired ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ekibastuz
- Embi is a small town located in the West Kazakhstan Region of Kazakhstan. It is situated near the border with Russia and is approximately 360 kilometers away from the regional capital city, Oral. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Embi
- Esil is a small city located in the northern part of Kazakhstan, in the Akmola region. It has a population of around 31,000 people and its economy is based on agriculture and industry. The city is sit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Esil
- Jezkazgan is a city in central Kazakhstan, located approximately 300 kilometers south-west of the capital city, Nur-Sultan. The city has a population of around 120,000 people and is an important cente... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jezkazgan
- Kandyagash is a small city located in northern Kazakhstan, specifically in the Kostanay Region. It has a population of around 25,000 people and is known for its agricultural and industrial activities.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kandyagash
- Karaganda is a city located in the central part of Kazakhstan. It is the fourth-largest city in the country and serves as an important industrial and cultural center. Karaganda was developed as a mini... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karaganda
- Khromtau is a city located in the Akmola region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of around 18,000 people (as of 2019) and covers an area of 466 square kilometers. The city is situated on the norther... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khromtau
- Kokshetau is a city located in northern Kazakhstan, and it is the administrative center of the Akmola region. The city has a population of about 150,000 people and is situated at an altitude of 224 me... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kokshetau
- Kostanay is a city located in the northern part of Kazakhstan, near the Russian border. It is the administrative center of the Kostanay Region and has a population of around 250,000 people. The city i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kostanay
- Kulsary is a town located in western Kazakhstan, near the border with Russia. It is situated within the Atyrau Region and has a population of approximately 21,000 people. The town is known for its oil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kulsary
- Kyzylorda is a city located in the southern region of Kazakhstan, on the Syr Darya River. It is the administrative center of the Kyzylorda Region and is known for its rich history and cultural heritag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyzylorda
- Lenger is a city located in the southern part of Kazakhstan, in the region of Kyzylorda. It is situated on the Syr Darya River and has a population of approximately 70,000 people. Lenger has a desert ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lenger
- Makinsk is a small town located in the northern region of Kazakhstan, approximately 200 kilometers from the capital city of Nur-Sultan. It is situated on the banks of the Ishim River and has a populat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Makinsk
- Merke is a city located in the south of Kazakhstan, in the Zhambyl region. It has a population of roughly 50,000 people and is situated in a valley between the Karatau and Talas Alatau mountains. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Merke
- Oral, also known as Uralsk, is a city in northwestern Kazakhstan, situated on the banks of the Ural River. It is the capital of the West Kazakhstan Region and has a population of approximately 300,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oral
- Pavlodar is a city in northern Kazakhstan, located on the banks of the Irtysh River. It is the capital of Pavlodar Region and is known for its industrial and cultural significance. The city has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pavlodar
- Petropavlovsk, also known as Petropavl, is a city located in the northern part of Kazakhstan, near the border with Russia. It is the capital of the North Kazakhstan Region and has a population of appr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Petropavlovsk
- Ridder is a small city located in the East Kazakhstan Region of Kazakhstan. It is situated at the foot of the Altai Mountains and surrounded by picturesque nature. The population of Ridder is around 4... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ridder
- Saran is a small town located in the Karaganda Region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of around 38,000 people and is known for its mining industry. The town has a rich history and was founded in th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saran
- Satpayev is a city located in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of approximately 44,000 people and is named after the famous Kazakhstani scientist, Kanysh Satpayev. The city is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Satpayev
- Semey is a city located in eastern Kazakhstan, near the border with Russia. The city has a population of around 300,000 people and is the capital of the Semey Region. It is situated at the foothills o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Semey
- Shalkar is a small town located in the Atyrau Region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of around 9,000 people and is situated along the Ural River. Shalkar is known for its picturesque landscapes, wi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shalkar
- Shemonaikha is a city located in the northern part of Kazakhstan, near the border with Russia. It has a population of around 29,000 people and is known for its manufacturing industry, particularly in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shemonaikha
- Shymkent is the third-largest city in Kazakhstan and the capital of the South Kazakhstan Region. It is located in the southern part of the country and has a population of over one million people. Shym... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shymkent
- Stepnogorsk is a city located in the Akmola Region of Kazakhstan. It was founded in 1959 as a closed city for the production of nuclear weapons and was previously known as Akmolinsk-60. Today, the cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stepnogorsk
- Talgar is a city located in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan. The city is situated in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Talgar
- Taraz is a city located in southern Kazakhstan, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a rich history that dates back over 2000 years. Taraz is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taraz
- Temirtau is a city located in central Kazakhstan, with a population of approximately 180,000 people. It was founded in the 1960s as a center for iron and steel production, and is still a major industr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Temirtau
- Terekty is a village located in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan. It is situated to the southeast of the city of Almaty and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and vast forests. Terekty is a popular d... CONTINUE here for a trip to Terekty
- Turkestan is a city located in south Kazakhstan, near the border with Uzbekistan. It has a rich history, dating back to the 4th century BC when it served as an important center along the Silk Road. It... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turkestan
- Uralsk, also known as Oral, is a city in northwestern Kazakhstan. It is situated on the banks of the Ural River, which forms the border between Europe and Asia. The city has a population of over 300,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uralsk
- Ushtobe is a town located in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and is situated 155 kilometers east of Almaty. The town is known for its beautiful scen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ushtobe
- Ust-Kamenogorsk, also known as Oskemen, is a city located in eastern Kazakhstan. It serves as the administrative center of the East Kazakhstan Region and is situated at the confluence of the Irtysh an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ust-Kamenogorsk
- Zhezkazgan is a city located in the Karaganda Region of Kazakhstan. It has a population of approximately 90,000 people and is known for its mining industry, specifically copper and zinc. The city is s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zhezkazgan


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