Spring
A time of renewal with blooming flowers and mild temperatures.
Travel guide
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and experiences beyond its capital, Nur-Sultan. From the vast steppes to the majestic mountains, explore diverse regions and immerse yourself in the local traditions.
Dmitry A. Mottl (original) This derivative work (cropped): SHB2000 · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsApril to June, September to October
- AirportsAlmaty International Airport, Nursultan Nazarbay
- TransitBuses, trains, and domestic flights available
- Power220V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is customary in restaurants
- LanguageKazakh and Russian
01
When to go
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Jan
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Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
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Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Hot weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring nature.
Autumn
A season of colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Almaty
The largest city, known for its vibrant culture and proximity to the mountains.
Busy city life with great access to nature.
Cultural
Shymkent
A southern city with rich history and a gateway to Turkestan.
Less touristy, offering authentic experiences.
Historical
Karaganda
A historical industrial city with a unique Soviet-era architecture.
Explore the mining history and local museums.
Scenic
Pavlodar
Located on the banks of the Irtysh River, known for its parks and cultural sites.
A quieter alternative to larger cities.
Emerging
Aktobe
A city in western Kazakhstan with a growing cultural scene.
Experience the blend of modern and traditional.
Industrial
Atyrau
Located at the mouth of the Ural River, known for its oil industry.
Unique mix of cultures at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Cultural
Semey
A city with a rich literary heritage and beautiful parks.
Visit the museum dedicated to Abai Kunanbayev.
Cultural
Uralsk
A city with a blend of Russian and Kazakh cultures.
Explore the historic architecture and local markets.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Beshbarmak
A traditional dish made with boiled meat and pasta, often found at local eateries.
→ Best enjoyed at family-run restaurants.
Kazy
Horse meat sausage, a delicacy in Kazakhstan, available in markets and specialized shops.
→ Try it during festivals for the best experience.
Plov
A rice dish with meat and vegetables, commonly served in cafes.
→ Look for it in communal dining settings.
Lagman
Noodle soup with meat and vegetables, popular in many restaurants.
→ Perfect for cold days.
Samsa
Savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, found in bakeries.
→ Great for a quick bite on the go.
Kurt
Dried cheese balls, a traditional snack available at local markets.
→ A unique taste of Kazakh nomadic culture.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Charyn Canyon
A stunning natural wonder with breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkestan, showcasing stunning architecture.
Almaty Park
A large park in Almaty perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Bayterek Tower
An iconic symbol of Nur-Sultan offering panoramic city views.
The Great Steppe
Experience the vastness of Kazakhstan's steppe, ideal for exploration.
Kolsai Lakes
A series of beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by mountains.
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve
The oldest nature reserve in Kazakhstan, home to diverse flora and fauna.
The Mausoleum of Aisha Bibi
A beautiful historical site with intricate architecture.
The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
A modern architectural marvel in Nur-Sultan.
Tamgaly Tas
An archaeological site with ancient petroglyphs.
Kyzylorda
A city known for its historical significance and cultural heritage.
Astana Opera
A stunning opera house in Nur-Sultan, showcasing performing arts.
Zenkov Cathedral
An impressive wooden cathedral located in Almaty.
The Singing Dunes
Unique sand dunes that produce sound when the wind blows.
The Steppe Nomads Museum
A museum dedicated to the nomadic culture of Kazakhstan.
The National Museum of Kazakhstan
A comprehensive museum showcasing the history and culture of the country.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Kazakhstan's main airports are Almaty International Airport and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport.
ALAAlmaty International Airport
NQZNursultan Nazarbayev International Airport
Train Travel
The railway network connects major cities, providing a scenic way to travel across the country.
Bus Services
Buses are available for intercity travel, offering a budget-friendly option.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a great way to explore the vast landscapes at your own pace.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Kazakhstan uses type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
It's advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas, as not all places accept cards.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants.
Language
Kazakh and Russian are the official languages; English is spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing, ensuring connectivity.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least 7 days is recommended to explore the diverse regions.