Kazakhstan Destination Guide

Discover the unexpected beauty of Kazakhstan, a land where ancient nomadic traditions meet modern marvels, in this destination guide. From sweeping steppes to soaring mountains and futuristic cities, Kazakhstan offers a truly unique travel experience.

Kazakhstan at a Glance:

• Official Name: Republic of Kazakhstan
• Capital: Astana
• Largest City: Almaty
• Official Languages: Kazakh and Russian
• Currency: Tenge (KZT)
• Visa-Free Entry: Available for citizens of 75 countries for up to 30 days, and 9 countries for up to 90 days (as of May 2022). To check specific requirements for your country, and how to get a visa, click here.
• Getting There: Served by 20 major airports, including 11 international. I flew into Almaty.
• Getting Around: Well-developed transport includes railways, public transport (buses, trams, Almaty metro), taxis, and car rentals. I primarily got around by train, and taxis.
• Best Time to Visit: Depends on your interests, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, and winters very cold.

Must-See & Do in Kazakhstan

Explore Vibrant Cities:

• Astana: Witness its modern architecture, and futuristic skyline.
• Almaty: Immerse yourself in its cultural scene, green spaces, and access to mountain adventures (like Big Almaty Lake).
• Shymkent: Discover its rich history and blend of tradition and modernity.

Experience Stunning Nature:

•  Kazakh Steppe: Journey across the world’s largest dry steppe region.
• Charyn Canyon: Marvel at its striking red sandstone formations.
• Mountains & Lakes: Discover towering ranges and turquoise lakes offering hiking and scenic beauty.
• National Parks: Explore diverse flora and fauna in protected areas.

Delve into Culture & History:

• Explore ancient sites, including underground mosques and mausoleums.
• Witness the historical impact of the Soviet Era in architectural landmarks, and historical sites such as KarLag.
• Experience the unique traditions and customs of Kazakh nomadic culture.
• Savor Kazakh Flavors: Indulge in the national cuisine, featuring various meat dishes and traditional drinks like kymyz.

Essential Information for Your Trip:

• Currency: The tenge (KZT) is the official currency, and payments are generally made in tenge. Exchange major currencies at banks and official exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities.
• Language: Kazakh is the state language, and Russian is widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas of major cities.
• Visa: Check the latest visa regulations based on your nationality. Many countries benefit from visa-free entry for tourism purposes. If a visa is required, you can apply through embassies/consulates or the e-visa portal.
• Weather: Be prepared for a continental climate with significant temperature variations between seasons, and by region. The average temperature in winter is -4ºC (25°F) to -19ºC (-2°F), and the average in summer is +19ºC (66°F) to +26ºC (+79°F). For more information on weather in Kazakhstan, and how to prepare for your trip, click here.
• Read: If you’re a reader, The Day Lasts More Than a Hundred Years, is a classic historical fiction set in Kazakhstan.

Ready to uncover the wonders of Kazakhstan? Start your adventure today!