Frequently asked questions about Kazakhstan
What are the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan?
Depends on a traveller’s preferences, but we believe that these ones are must visit: Usturt Plateau (Mangystau peninsula), Khan Tengri peak (7010m), Kazak Altai, Singing Dunes, Sairam-Ugam, Bektau Ata (Balkhash Lake), Burabai, Charyn Canyons, Kolsay Lakes, Almaty city, Ile-Alatau National Park, Turkestan
You can refer to our 12 TOP places in Kazakhstan post.
Is Kazakhstan worth visiting?
We love our country and are very proud of it. But we also know it well and are sure that Kazakhstan is definitely worth a visit (like 100% of our clients)!
Here are 5 main reasons to visit:
- Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia (and the ninth largest in the world). It is exactly the place where you find real East-related impressions and colours: noisy bazaars, authentic cuisine and famous hospitality.
- It is not difficult to get to Kazakhstan: there are many regular flights of different airlines to the largest cities of Almaty and Astana. For many nationalities (a list of more than 50 countries) there is a visa-free regime for a period of 15 to 30, or even 90 days.
- Kazakhstan has stunningly beautiful natural landscapes: the Caspian Sea with seals and flamingos in the west, endless steppes (like in Mongolia) and deserts with camels in the central part, the highest mountains and glaciers in the east.
- Kazakhstan is located in the centre of Eurasia, here in the faces of people and cities you will find a unique mixture of European and Asian cultures, a rich history frozen in stone. Original nomads, medieval southern fortresses, underground mosques of Mangystau, ancient burial mounds and the gold of the Scythians, the new shining capital of Astana is made of glass and concrete.
- Kazakhstan is still a destination, which many travellers haven’t put on their bucket list, so you will definitely enjoy the absence of crowds of tourists. As well as genuine hospitality of the locals.
How many days are enough for Kazakhstan?
Depends on how much time you have. If you are just passing through, then plan at least 3 days for Almaty (to see the city itself, Charyn canyon and mountains). If you have a whole vacation ahead of you, then 2 weeks will be enough to check the main attractions in Western and Central Kazakhstan, and in Almaty region. If you're an active travelle, then we would recommend to add few more days (3 to 5) for trekking/hiking in Altai, for example (or around Almaty).
For those who are interested in the Almaty region: check our 7-day sample itinerary / advice how to spend a week in Almaty
If you’re a self-traveller, you may also refer to our free guide-book in the right menu at our website.
Is Kazakhstan safe for tourists?
Kazakhstan is generally a safe country: it is ranked 66 out of 163 countries in safety and peacefulness (Global Peace Index 2022). So, most visits are trouble-free.
Local people are known for their kindness and hospitality towards tourists. However, unpleasant situations, mugging and theft may occur in cities and rural areas. What to do to make your travel by Kazakhstan safe and pleasant? Here are few travel tips to make your journey to Kazakhstan safe and pleasant:
- Plan your trip in advance, taking into account the season. The best time to visit most of the beautiful places is summer. However, steppes and deserts are best viewed in late spring or early autumn, when it is not so hot. Book hotels in advance, book local guides or a travel company for transfers - renting a car in cities other than Almaty and Astana can be problematic. Upon arrival, purchase a local SIM card for communication.
- Learn at least a few phrases in Russian or Kazakh to communicate with the locals. In Kazakhstan, very few people speak English, and, unfortunately, there are almost no signs in the Latin alphabet on the streets of the cities (Kazakh and Russian are in Cyrillic, although the Kazakh language is now transferring into Latin). You can also use an online translator on your phone - people in most cases will take their time and try to understand and help you.
- Use public transport. This is much cheaper than taking a taxi (taxi services are generally very cheap, but seeing you as a tourist, a taxi driver can raise the standard price by 2 times). Traveling by bus, trolleybus and metro is convenient and safe - there is a single Ashyk application in Kazakhstan, which can be installed upon arrival. It is also very convenient and cheap to call a taxi through the Yandex Go application - in this case, you will protect yourself from unscrupulous drivers.
- Always keep documents and money with you. This is absolutely needed for the regions bordering other countries (for example, Altai borders on Russia, and the Almaty region borders on Kyrgyzstan and China). Not everywhere in Kazakhstan you will be able to use card, so it is necessary to have some cash in the local currency Tenge.
- Food and water. In most cases, in local cafes and restaurants, even in villages, the food is safe. Keep in mind that it is customary in Kazakhstan to eat a lot of meat; so finding vegetarian options can be tricky. Kazakhs eat horse meat, it is included in some national dishes.
Tap water in cities is safe and can be used for washing your face, cleansing teeth, etc. It can also be used for drinking, but it is better to buy bottled water.
Be sure to wash your hands, as well as fruits and vegetables bought in bazaars and stores.
Where can I hike in Kazakhstan?
The best places for trekking in Kazakhstan are Altai and the mountains around Almaty (Trans-Ili Alatau).
You may refer to these recourses:
- treks in Almaty region guided by Trekking Club team
- guide-book with descriptions of the most popular hiking routes around Almaty.
How long can I stay in Kazakhstan?
Since January 1, 2022, the visa-free regime for entry into Kazakhstan has been restored after quarantines for foreign citizens of 57 countries*
Visa-free regime is different (from 14 till 90 days), please check current info at https://www.gov.kz/
It is important to note that within the framework of the visa-free regime, foreigners are prohibited from engaging in labour or other paid activities on the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Any installation and repair work is also prohibited. For such purposes, a visa is required.
Visas of the Republic of Kazakhstan will be issued in accordance with the current Rules for issuing visas of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
* 57 visa free countries: Australia, USA, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, United Arab Emirates, Vatican, Vietnam, Germany, Greece, Denmark, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, Ireland, Iceland, Spain, Indonesia, Italy, Canada , Qatar, Cyprus, Columbia, Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Thailand, Turkey, UK, Philippines, Finland, France, Croatia, Czech Republic, Chile, Switzerland, Sweden and Estonia.
Which month is best for trekking in Kazakhstan?
With regards to mountain trekking: best period is between mid May and early October. Some outreach or highland areas can only be safely reached in warmest time (like July-August). Trekking and climbing in mountains is impossible in March-early May and late October – early December due to high avalanche danger (fresh/high level of snow on slopes).
Trekking in deserts and steppes is good in Spring (late March – mid May) and during a Fall (mid September – late October).
What is Kazakhstan famous for?
Kazakhstan is a part of Central Asia. In general, it is famous for its:
- Location and size. Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia (and the ninth largest in the world).
- Untouched and unexplored nature. Kazakhstan has stunningly beautiful natural landscapes: the Caspian Sea with seals and flamingos in the west, endless steppes (like in Mongolia) and deserts with camels in the central part, the highest mountains and glaciers in the east. The northernmost 7000m peak is located here.
- Nomadic and oriental culture. In Kazakhstan you will find everything that people go to Mongolia for: nomads, endless steppes, countless herds of horses, white yurts, oriental hospitality. At the same time, there is much more here - developed infrastructure, the Caspian Sea, high mountains and glaciers, beautiful forests, canyons and lakes.
- Kazakhstan is still an unexplored destination, which many travellers haven’t put on their bucket list. Enjoy the absence of crowds of tourists! You will definitely double Instagram followers with fresh pictures from the heart of Eurasia.
Which city is most beautiful in Kazakhstan?
In fact, there are not many cities in Kazakhstan because Kazakhstan is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world (the index population per area is somewhere after Iceland). About 18 million people live on almost 3 million square kilometres of the area. The largest cities are Almaty and Astana.
Astana is a new capital, built in the steppe of glass and concrete. A sort of Dubai, Kazak style J
Almaty is the largest city with a rich history and traditions. This is a cultural centre, and, according to almost all travellers, the most beautiful in Kazakhstan.
What kind of food do people eat in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstani cuisine is diverse: it includes traditional dishes of Kazakhs, Russians, Ukrainians, Germans, Uzbeks, Uighurs and other nations inhabiting the country. In the big cities of Kazakhstan there are restaurants for every taste: Chinese, southeastern (Thai, Vietnamese), Japanese, Middle Eastern, Indian. Almost all the world's fast food brands are represented in the food courts of large shopping centres.
But truly Kazakh cuisine is distinguished by an abundance of meat. In recent years worthy restaurants have appeared in the cities of the country offering traditional Kazakh food: beshparmak (dough with pieces of meat), manty, kuardak and others. Many Kazakh dishes, in addition to beef and lamb, include horse meat, which is in great demand. Kazakh pastries are also great - baursaks (donuts) and cakes. From drinks it is worth trying kumys (mare's milk) and shubat (camel's milk). Be sure to take kurt with you on long trip - hard salty cheese in balls, and do not forget a chocolate from the Almaty factory Rakhat (the pride of the country, they produce excellent chocolate and sweets!).
Kazakhs are Muslims, so pork is not included in traditional dishes, although you can easily find pork products in Russian and German villages.
More information about Kazakh dishes and traditions can be found here.
What are most interesting facts about Kazakhstan?
- Large and long – is about Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia and the ninth largest in the world. And the largest landlocked country in the world. By the way, it is also one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world (the index population per area is somewhere after Iceland). About 18 million people live on almost 3 million square kilometres of the area. Kazakhstan has the longest land border in the world (over 7500km between Kazakhstan and Russia).
- Kazakhs are nomads. Still part of the population adheres to the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
- The horse is the most revered animal among the Kazakhs. This is due to the nomadic way of life: belongings are transported on a horse, they ride and fight on a horse, a horse gives milk, a horse meat is used for food.
- More than 120 nationalities live in Kazakhstan, it is ethnically extremely diverse. More than 120 nationalities live in Kazakhstan, it is ethnically extremely diverse. Each of the nations has brought something of its own to the culture, and we enjoy this friendly diversity.
What to know before going to Kazakhstan?
Travel tips to make your journey to Kazakhstan safe and pleasant:
- Plan your trip in advance, taking into account the season. The best time to visit most of the beautiful places is summer. However, steppes and deserts are best viewed in late spring or early autumn, when it is not so hot. Book hotels in advance, book local guides or a travel company for transfers - renting a car in cities other than Almaty and Astana can be problematic. Upon arrival, purchase a local SIM card for communication.
- Learn at least a few phrases in Russian or Kazakh to communicate with the locals. In Kazakhstan, very few people speak English, and, unfortunately, there are almost no signs in the Latin alphabet on the streets of the cities (Kazakh and Russian are in Cyrillic, although the Kazakh language is now transferring into Latin). You can also use an online translator on your phone - people in most cases will take their time and try to understand and help you.
- Use public transport. This is much cheaper than taking a taxi (taxi services are generally very cheap, but seeing you as a tourist, a taxi driver can raise the standard price by 2 times). Traveling by bus, trolleybus and metro is convenient and safe - there is a single Ashyk application in Kazakhstan, which can be installed upon arrival. It is also very convenient and cheap to call a taxi through the Yandex Go application - in this case, you will protect yourself from unscrupulous drivers.
- Always keep documents and money with you. This is absolutely needed for the regions bordering other countries (for example, Altai borders on Russia, and the Almaty region borders on Kyrgyzstan and China). Not everywhere in Kazakhstan you will be able to use card, so it is necessary to have some cash in the local currency Tenge.
- Food and water. In most cases, in local cafes and restaurants, even in villages, the food is safe. Keep in mind that it is customary in Kazakhstan to eat a lot of meat; so finding vegetarian options can be tricky. Kazakhs eat horse meat, it is included in some national dishes.
Tap water in cities is safe and can be used for washing your face, cleansing teeth, etc. It can also be used for drinking, but it is better to buy bottled water.
Be sure to wash your hands, as well as fruits and vegetables bought in bazaars and stores.
Is Kazakhstan a beautiful place?
Yes, for sure. Kazakhstan is a beautiful place and definitely worth visiting.
Kazakhstan has stunningly beautiful natural landscapes: the Caspian Sea with seals and flamingos in the west, endless steppes (like in Mongolia) and deserts with camels in the central part, the highest mountains and glaciers in the east.
Kazakhstan is located in the centre of Eurasia, here in the faces of people and cities you will find a unique mixture of European and Asian cultures, a rich history frozen in stone. Original nomads, medieval southern fortresses, underground mosques of Mangystau, ancient burial mounds and the gold of the Scythians, the new shining capital of Astana is made of glass and concrete.
Why travelling to Kazakhstan / Why should I travel to Kazakhstan?
Here are 5 main reasons to visit Kazakhstan:
- Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia (and the ninth largest in the world). It is exactly the place where you find real East-related impressions and colours: noisy bazaars, authentic cuisine and famous hospitality.
- It is not difficult to get to Kazakhstan: there are many regular flights of different airlines to the largest cities of Almaty and Astana. For many nationalities (a list of more than 50 countries) there is a visa-free regime for a period of 15 to 30, or even 90 days.
- Kazakhstan has stunningly beautiful natural landscapes: the Caspian Sea with seals and flamingos in the west, endless steppes (like in Mongolia) and deserts with camels in the central part, the highest mountains and glaciers in the east.
- Kazakhstan is located in the centre of Eurasia, here in the faces of people and cities you will find a unique mixture of European and Asian cultures, a rich history frozen in stone. Original nomads, medieval southern fortresses, underground mosques of Mangystau, ancient burial mounds and the gold of the Scythians, the new shining capital of Astana is made of glass and concrete.
- Kazakhstan is still a destination, which many travellers haven’t put on their bucket list, so you will definitely enjoy the absence of crowds of tourists. As well as genuine hospitality of the locals.
What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?
In general, from mid March till mid October, when the most attractive places are available. Western Kazakhstan, steppes and deserts are good in Spring and Fall, when it is not as hot. Mountain areas are perfect in Summer.
If you’re heading mountains, then the best period is between mid May and early October. Some outreach or highland areas can only be safely reached in warmest time (like July-August). Hiking and touring in mountains is impossible in March-early May and late October – early December due to high avalanche danger. Roads can be blocked.
Meanwhile, winter also provides great opportunities for skiing, ski touring, snowshoing and other winter activities in Almaty and Altai regions. In Central Kazakhstan winter is severe (can be up to -40C degrees).
