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Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan offers vast steppes, modern cities, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Almaty’s vibrant culture, the futuristic architecture of Nur-Sultan, and the natural beauty of the Altai Mountains. Its diverse landscapes and dynamic cities make Kazakhstan an intriguing destination.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 09. September
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Hiking, Mountains, Nature, Sightseeing, Skiing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, 0-50€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Asia
Currency
Tenge
Languages
Kazakh, Russian
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer the most comfortable weather and are ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
- Spring (April to June): Features mild temperatures and blooming scenery, making it ideal for sightseeing in cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan, as well as exploring natural attractions like the Charyn Canyon and the Altai Mountains.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides cool, pleasant weather and beautiful fall colors, perfect for outdoor activities and experiencing the cultural festivals in major cities.
Summer (July to August) can be very hot, especially in southern and central regions, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). However, it is a good time for visiting mountainous areas and enjoying outdoor adventures.
Winter (November to March) can be cold and snowy, particularly in northern regions and the mountains, which is great for winter sports but less comfortable for general sightseeing and travel.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Spring to Fall)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local eateries, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (nature exploration, historical sites).
Transportation: $5-15/day (public transport, local taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-180/day)
Accommodation: $40-90/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-40/day (guided tours, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $90+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget accommodations).
Food: $10-20/day (local meals).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, indoor attractions).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range accommodations).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants).
Activities: $10-25/day (museums, local tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury resorts, hotels).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Almaty
- Known for its picturesque setting with surrounding mountains, vibrant cultural scene, and attractions such as the Medeu skating rink, the Central State Museum, and Panfilov Park.
2. Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana)
- The capital city, renowned for its modern architecture and landmarks like the Bayterek Tower, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center.
3. Shymkent
- A major city in southern Kazakhstan, known for its historical sites, such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, and its lively bazaars.
4. Aktobe
- Known for its role as an important regional trade center, with attractions like the Aktobe Regional Museum and the city’s lively markets.
5. Pavlodar
- Known for its historical buildings, such as the Pavlodar Regional Museum, and its role as a cultural and industrial hub in northern Kazakhstan.
Almaty
Islands
Kazakhstan is a landlocked country and does not have any notable islands. The country’s geography is characterized by vast steppes, deserts, and mountain ranges rather than islands. If you are interested in island destinations, you would need to look to neighboring countries or other regions with access to significant bodies of water.
Kaindy Lake
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Charyn Canyon
- Witness the dramatic rock formations and colorful landscapes of this expansive canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon.
2. Lake Balkhash
- Explore this unique lake with its mixed freshwater and saline sections, offering scenic views and outdoor activities.
3. Medeu and Shymbulak
- Enjoy winter sports or hiking in the high-altitude Medeu Valley, known for its ice rink and nearby ski resort.
4. Altyn-Emel National Park
- Discover diverse landscapes, including the singing dunes, ancient rock formations, and various wildlife within this vast park.
5. Kolsai Lakes
- Explore a series of picturesque glacial lakes set in the Tien Shan mountains, ideal for hiking and nature photography.
Cultural Attractions
1. Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
- Admire this grand mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant pilgrimage destination.
2. Petroglyphs of Tamgaly
- Explore ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs depicting prehistoric scenes and rituals.
3. Kazakh Museum of Applied Arts
- View traditional Kazakh crafts, including textiles, metalwork, and ceramics, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
4. Astana’s Architectural Landmarks
- Discover futuristic architectural marvels, including unique towers and cultural centers.
5. Historical Sites in Turkestan
- Visit important historical and cultural sites that reflect Kazakhstan’s rich history and heritage.
6. Ancient Burial Mounds
- Explore the large burial mounds, known as kurgans, which provide insights into ancient nomadic cultures.
7. Baikonur Cosmodrome
- World's first and largest space launch facility. It was built by the Soviet Union in the 1950s and has been the site of historic space missions, including the launch of Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Kazakhstan is vast, so flying is the fastest way to travel between major cities like Almaty, Astana, and Aktau. Several airlines offer domestic routes, including Air Astana and SCAT Airlines.
2. Trains
- Kazakhstan's train network is extensive and affordable, ideal for long-distance travel across the country. Sleeper trains are common for overnight journeys, but they are slower compared to flights. The Tulpar-Talgo trains are faster and more comfortable for trips between cities like Almaty and Astana.
3. Buses
- Buses are widely used for regional travel, connecting cities and towns. They are an economical option, though journeys can be long and not as comfortable as trains.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing
- Taxis are available in most cities, and Yandex Go is a popular ride-hailing app. Be sure to agree on a price or use the app’s fare estimator to avoid overcharging.
5. Car Rental
- Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore remote areas like the Charyn Canyon or the Altai Mountains. However, be prepared for long distances and varying road conditions outside major cities.
6. Marshrutka (Minibuses)
- These minibuses are a common mode of transport for shorter regional trips. They’re inexpensive but can be crowded and challenging to navigate without knowing Russian or Kazakh.
For the best experience, use a combination of flights for long distances and taxis or trains for local travel.
What to eat
1. Beshbarmak
- A traditional dish made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over wide noodles, typically enjoyed at gatherings.
2. Kazy
- A horse meat sausage seasoned with spices, often served as a cold cut.
3. Plov
- A rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, flavored with spices, showcasing local flavors.
4. Samsa
- Savory pastries filled with meat and spices, baked until golden, commonly enjoyed as snacks.
5. Kurt
- Dried cheese balls, often enjoyed as a snack, known for their tangy flavor.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) - Nur-Sultan (Astana)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €250 to €500.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, need a visa to enter Kazakhstan.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the nationality.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Kazakhstani visa at a Kazakhstani embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
Common visa types include:
- Tourist Visa: Typically valid for 30 days and usually issued for a single or double entry.
- Business Visa: Valid for longer stays, depending on the invitation.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from 5 to 10 business days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 30 to 90 days, depending on the agreement; visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 220V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Kcell and Tele2. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Kazakhstan, people drive on the right side of the road.