voyage en kazakhstan

Other destinations

• 42.3333 70.6667 1 Aksu-Zhabagly — a nature reserve
• 45.63 63.314 3 Baikonur — site of the spaceport
• 49.416667 75.416667 4 Karkaraly National Park

Ethnic Kazakhs, a mix of Turkic and Mongol nomadic tribes who migrated into the region in the 13th century, were united as a single nation in the mid-16th century. The area was conquered by the Russian Empire in the 18th century, and Kazakhstan became a Soviet Republic in 1936. The traditionally-nomadic Kazakhs were forced to sedentarize as part of Stalin's collectivization policies. While it became independent following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the country is still home to a large ethnic Russian minority, and the Russian language continues to be widely spoken.

During the launching of the 1950s and 1960s agricultural "Virgin Lands" program, Soviet citizens were encouraged to help cultivate Kazakhstan's northern pastures. This influx of immigrants (mostly Russians, but also some other deported nationalities, including the Volga Germans) skewed the ethnic mixture and enabled non-Kazakhs to outnumber natives. Independence has caused many of these newcomers and their descendants to emigrate.

Modern Kazakhstan is a neo-patrimonial state characterized by considerable nepotism and dominance over political and economic affairs by President Nursultan Nazarbayev, who stepped down in March 2019 after a 29-year-tenure. However, it is not a severely authoritarian government compared to bordering Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and China and opposition is not usually sacked or imprisoned. Since independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Kazakh government has allowed foreign investment to flow into the capital to develop. The development of significant oil and gas reserves, particularly in the north and west, has brought a large amount of wealth to the country, though the money falls into the hands of just a few people. Nevertheless, Kazakhstan is now labelled a middle-income country, and is already classified with a high human development index. Corruption in Kazakhstan is ubiquitous compared to China, but it is not as widespread as other countries in the region.

While Islam is the majority religion, Kazakhstan is nevertheless a secular state with a significant Christian minority, and the variety of Islam practised here tends to be more liberal than that in the Middle East.

Current issues include: developing a cohesive national identity; expanding the development of the country's vast energy resources and exporting them to world markets (an oil pipeline to China has been built; the gas pipeline is under construction); achieving a sustainable economic growth outside the oil, gas, and mining sectors, and strengthening relations with surrounding states and other foreign powers. Kazakhstan is also a key part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, with plans for a high-speed rail through Kazakhstan linking China to Europe.

Visitor information

• Visit Kazakhstan [dead link] website

Historically, entering Kazakhstan used to be a hassle. The Kazakh government is keen on opening up Kazakhstan to the rest of the world and today, most people can enter the country without a visa.

Entry requirements

Citizens of the following countries (ordinary passport holders) may enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to a certain number of days:

• 14 days: China (mainland), Hong Kong , India and Iran
• 30 days: Australia , Austria , Argentina , Bahrain , Belgium , Bulgaria , Brazil , Vatican City , United Kingdom , Hungary , Vietnam , Germany , Greece , Denmark , Israel , Indonesia , Ireland , Iceland , Spain , Italy , Canada , Qatar , Cyprus , Colombia , South Korea , Kuwait , Latvia , Lithuania , Liechtenstein , Luxembourg , Malaysia , Malta , Mexico , Monaco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Norway , United Arab Emirates , Oman , Poland , Portugal , Romania , Saudi Arabia , Serbia , Singapore , Slovakia , Slovenia , United States , Thailand , Turkey , Uzbekistan , Philippines , Finland , France , Croatia , Czech Republic , Chile , Switzerland , Sweden , Ecuador , Estonia and Japan
• 90 days: Azerbaijan , Armenia , Belarus , Georgia , Kyrgyzstan , Moldova , Mongolia , Russia , Tajikistan and Ukraine

Check the Kazakh government website for the latest list. All other nationalities are required to obtain a visa in advance, which will require you to present a letter of invitation from a resident of Kazakhstan. If you are joining a package tour, the tour company can usually procure the letter of invitation for an additional fee; check with the company to be sure.

If you know in advance that your stay will be longer, e.g. for work, then you need a visa, which will need to be supported by an official Letter of Invitation from the employer or agency in Kazakhstan. For more information see Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan . For tourist visits where you're enjoying the country so much that you want to stay on, the simplest way is to take a trip to neighbouring Kyrgyzstan, which also has no visa requirement for many countries, and come straight back to gain another 30-day stay. There's no limit how often you do this.

Registration (card): this practice has been discontinued since 2020 - you now only get an entry and an exit stamp.

Kazakhstan's flag carrier is Air Astana which flies into Almaty and Astana from Abu Dhabi , Moscow , Delhi , Beijing , Istanbul , Bangkok , Baku , Kuala Lumpur , Frankfurt , and Seoul .

Air Astana keeps a monopoly on some international routes by limiting which airlines can fly to Kazakhstan.

Lufthansa also has daily flights to Almaty, from where you can go anywhere via local carrier SCAT, which flies to most cities in Kazakhstan. There is also a non-stop connection twice a week from Prague, operated by Czech airlines. Turkish Airlines is a good passenger carrier, with flights to Istanbul (ask a travel agent about the student fares, which can be a great deal).

There are twice a week flights from Seoul to Almaty; one is with Asiana Airlines, and the other is Astana. Airbaltic also flies to Almaty; if you reserve tickets in advance, you can go there for €130 (from Riga ).

Etihad flies weekly from Abu Dhabi to Astana. Flight time is around 4½ hours.

Taxi fares from the airport to the city range are 2,000-3,000 tenge.

A Russian transit visa is needed if changing planes in Russia when travelling to or from Kazakhstan.

Trains in Kazakhstan are slow but comfortable and clean. Popular routes include Almaty to/from Moscow (77 hours), Novosibirsk (35 hours) and Ürümqi , China (34 hours). Count on a 3–4 hr stay at the Russian border or 6–8 hr at the Chinese border. Trains in Kazakhstan can also be booked on-line. For trains use Railways.KZ and book Talgo trains are much more modern and the smell of the bathroom makes the slight increase in price entirely worth it.

You can enter Kazakhstan by car through many of the border checkpoints on main roads into the country. However, be prepared to wait up to 24 hours in the queues, with rather poor facilities.

It is fairly easy to travel from Ürümqi to Almaty via sleeper bus, especially if you aren't in a hurry and don't mind living on a bus for 24 to 36 hours. The border crossing itself is a bit of a hike, and you may be made to carry all of your belongings with you for quite a way in some seriously warm weather. The bus trip and "baggage fees" are around US$45. You can pick up your Kazakhstan visa at the consulate in Ürümqi as well, but be prepared to chill for at least a week waiting, and be sure to get a copy of your passport before handing it over.

From Kyrgyzstan

It is a straight forward 3½-4½ hr (mini) bus ride from Bishkek to Almaty for about 1,200-1,800 tenge, depending on the option you choose (e.g. 500 som directly from the Bishkek Western Bus Station). For more information, see Almaty .

Freighters travel regularly between Baku and Aktau , and it is possible to hitch a ride. It is common for ships to be held up, even for weeks, before entering port, so you had better stock up on food and water before boarding. See freighter travel to better understand how this works.

You can travel within the country using taxis, buses, trains and planes, it depends on your budget and demands.

In Semipalatinsk (Semey) a marshrutka costs 35 tenge, and a large bus costs 35-40 tenge. In Astana it ranges between 60-65 tenge.

Public buses

Public transportation in big cities is rather popular. You can use buses, trolleys, trams and minibuses. One big minus of all of them is that they never come on schedule and very crowded on peak time. Moreover, there is absolutely no plan with bus stops and schedule whatsoever. If you don't speak Russian, taking the bus will be quite tricky but not impossible.

Marshrutkas

Similar to regular buses and another cheap way to get around is by taking a marshrutka. These are the dilapidated transport vans that cruise around or between towns. They usually have a sign (in Russian) listing the destination, and the driver will usually call out where they are going. However, you will not find them operating inside of Almaty city.

Stay healthy

In general, the level of health care and hygiene is not up to Western standards. When travelling to smaller places, it is a good idea to bring your own medical supplies. There may also be a shortage of medicines.

In an emergency, call an ambulance at the general hospital on duty on 103. However, you should consider using local hospitals.

When travelling to forested and mountainous areas, especially in the early summer months, tick-borne encephalitis should be taken into account. Tuberculosis and HIV are also present in the country. There have been a few cases of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in South Kazakhstan and cases of Lyme disease in rural areas.

In order to avoid stomach infections and food poisoning, particular attention should be paid to hygiene when preparing food and drinks, especially during the summer months. The municipal water is more or less drinkable, with no real nasties, but try to boil it if possible. Bottled water is cheap and easily available. When at restaurants, ask specifically for Asu, Borjomi, Sary-Agash or Tassay mineral waters. Many other widely-known water brands can be found in restaurants and supermarkets. If you have to use tap water, it is advisable to boil the water before using it.

Travellers should have comprehensive travel insurance, including cover for aircraft evacuation in the event of serious illness or accident. Many hospitals either do not accept international travel insurance at all or only accept it from certain insurance companies. Payment by international credit card is not possible in all hospitals, so payment must be made in local cash (tenge). Before you travel, check with your insurance company which clinic in Kazakhstan you should contact in case of an emergency.

Kazakh people have more pride than most Westerners would expect. Therefore, insulting or negative comments about Kazakhstan or local Kazakh people will often result in arguments and possible threats of physical violence. It is not recommended to get into an argument with locals, as Kazakhstan is a nation where physical power is part of the local culture, and can occasionally lead to a fatal last argument.

Do not associate the country with Borat. Kazakhs believe the movie misrepresents and defames the country, and are quite tired of hearing of Borat jokes and comments. That aside, the catchphrase "Very nice" was used in a tourism promotion campaign.

Phone numbers

Kazakhstan has used +7 6xx or +7 7xx as its dialling code (as with Russia), but on January 1, 2023, the country started to progressively switch to using +997. However, the +7 code will still be used (through permissive dialling) until the end of 2024.

The land border can be crossed to Russia , China , Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan . Check the requirements for crossing the border to Turkmenistan . There is a ferry to Azerbaijan .

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6 ways you can go beyond Asia’s hotspots in 2023 

Kazakhstan at a glance

Capital city.

Tenge (KZT)

Kazakh, Russian

(GMT+06:00) Astana, Dhaka

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Kazakhstan

Best time to visit kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan has a continental climate, which lends itself to extreme temperatures. In summer (June to August) it can climb above 96 degrees F and in winter (December to February) you can expect temperatures to be as low as -10 degrees F. Snow stays on the ground for almost half the year. The best time to travel is during spring (May to June) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild. While it can rain at any time of year, the amount varies across the country. In the desert you’ll get very little, while in the mountains it’s best not to leave home without a rain jacket.

Top 5 Tastes of Kazakhstan

1. beshbarmak.

This is Kazakhstan’s national dish and a meat lover’s delight. Chunks of boiled mutton served on flat squares of pasta.

Get ready for sausage, Kazakh-style. Made with horsemeat, the sausage is cooked for two hours before being served with generous servings of onion.

Wash down your main course with a glass of fermented mare’s milk. It’s mildly alcoholic and has a fizzy sensation. Shubat is another version made with camel’s milk.

4. Baursaki

Try these fried, doughy balls of goodness alongside soup.

Make new friends wherever you go by sitting down and sharing a cup of shay. This black or green tea is a Kazakh staple.

Further reading

Kazakhstan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Kazakhstan?

Many nationalities, including Australia, Germany, USA, Canada, United Kingdom and New Zealand do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Please check with your local consulate for the most up to date requirements.

Is tipping customary in Kazakhstan?

A service charge of 10% is usually included at most restaurants so tipping isn’t necessary.

What is the internet access like in Kazakhstan?

There is internet access available in the main cities, including at many hotels and cafes.

Can I use my cell phone while in Kazakhstan?

Reception is good in the main towns but sketchy elsewhere. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Kazakhstan?

Toilet facilities may be very basic. Expect drop toilets outside of hotels and bring your own toilet paper as there may not be any.

Can I drink the water in Kazakhstan?

Drinking tap water in Kazakhstan isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Kazakhstan?

Credit cards are accepted in major shops and hotels in Almaty and Astana, but everywhere else you will need to rely on cash.

What is ATM access like in Kazakhstan?

ATMs are widespread in larger towns and cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Caravanistan

The Silk Road Travel Guide

Kazakhstan traditionally sits in last place on Silk Road travelers’ must-visit list. That’s not because of a lack of attractions. But it does get trumped by its neighbours on several counts.

While Kazakhstan has beautiful steppe and mountain scenery, there are no yurts like in Kyrgyzstan or Mongolia. Kazakhstan has interesting medieval Islamic architecture, but Uzbekistan has more.

Add to that the sheer size of Kazakhstan, few tourism companies and restrictive government policies (it’s getting better): more limiting factors in attracting tourists.

So why still visit Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan appeals to different people in different ways. Chinese travelers enjoy the fresh air (outside of the cities) and the lack of people, while Arabian visitors love how it is so green, and kind of Muslim, but not too much. Snow-white, ice-cold winters attract visitors from tropical countries.

For Westerners, the main selling point are Kazakhstan’s unique landscapes, dripping with freedom. On top of that, singular experiences include the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the Semipalatinsk Atomic Test Site , the landscapes of Mangystau, the balbal of the steppe, glitzy Astana and chaste Altai .

If history and politics are your main interests, Kazakhstan is fascinating as the country with the largest Soviet legacy, due to forced population transfers, massive industrialization and subsequent ghost towns, space launches and atomic bomb tests, gulags and banished Russian intellectuals like Dostoyevski, Solzhenitsyn, Eisenstein and Trotsky.

Table of Contents

Where to go?

We understand that many people want easy, bite-sized advice from a travel guide. Gimme 5 highlights and a 2-week itinerary and let me get on with my life. We get that. But Kazakhstan defies any attempt at pigeonholing; on top of that, most visits are part of an overland itinerary, so it all depends on where you’re coming from and heading towards.

Have a look at our list of 40 great things to do in Kazakhstan to get your creative trip-planning juices flowing.

For the majority of visitors, Almaty region and the southern area around Shymkent are the only things they will see of Kazakhstan. There is nothing wrong with that. Kazakhstan is a very big country: in area, these 2 regions put together are bigger than the whole of Italy or Japan.

Together, they provide a great sample of what Kazakhstan is all about, both culturally, historically and in terms of natural beauty. Since they border Uzbekistan , Kyrgyzstan and China, visiting the south and the Almaty region makes a lot of sense in many a overland itinerary.

If you only get to see 1 place: Almaty region has the most attractions and the best infrastructure. 5 national parks offer deserts, steppe, wildlife and high mountains, as well as history stretching back thousands of years, all surrounding Central Asia’s most buzzing city, Almaty .

Off the beaten track

Only those who like to go further off the beaten track (preferably with their own transport or a budget for tours) will want to venture into the other regions of Kazakhstan. If you have a specific interest like history, archaeology, botany or birding, you will also find much to enjoy here.

In the North , Kazakhstan’s brash new capital Astana stands in stark contrast to the modest Altai mountains . Semey surprises with its museums and history, and serves as the gateway to the Semipalatinsk Test Site . Other northern cities like Oskemen , Petropavl , Pavlodar , Ridder and Ekibastuz are trying to acquire a life of their own after being willed into existence by the Soviet state to build up its industrial base.

In the West , the oil towns of Atyrau and Aqtau border the Caspian Sea, but tourists come instead for its hinterland of stark desert landscapes like the Ustyurt plateau, which hides underground mosques like the sanctuary of Beket-Ata . Separated by an enormous expanse of steppeland dubbed by one traveler as “the most boring place on Earth”, in the northwest, visitors to historic Uralsk and boomtown Aqtobe are few and far between.

In the Center , the steppe gets even bigger and more desolate. Remote steppe oddities of niche interest are Kazakhstan’s spiritual heartland at Ulytau, Aralsk and the zombie Aral Sea and space port Baikonur. Main cities are progressive Karaganda and keeper of Kazakh traditions Kyzylorda .

Trains, planes & buses

Kazakhstan is developing its rail network , and several high-speed trains now connect the major cities. Other trains are still slow, their speed reflected by their low prices.

Flights are more expensive, although low-cost airlines now exist in Kazakhstan: FlyArystan, SCAT and Qazaq Air.

For travelers who have the time, the train is a comfortable and budget-friendly alternative to the airplane. For those who don’t, the airplane is the quickest way to get around Kazakhstan with airfields in all corners of the country.

Buses and shared taxis are usually the only way to get to smaller destinations. Less comfortable and more dangerous, we do not recommend taking them for long distances. Like train stations, city bus stations are a good place to store your luggage for the day if you are planning a stop-over.

Within cities, ride-hailing and taxi apps are available.

Self-driving & cycling

Driving Kazakhstan is perhaps the best way to experience this huge country, since many of its attractions are difficult to reach on public transport. It’s the perfect way to experience the freedom of Kazakhstan’s great outdoors. Car rentals have become more affordable in recent years, in case you did not bring your own wheels.

Cycling Kazakhstan – there are some nice routes available, especially in the eastern corners, in combination with Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia. Cycling in the rest of the country is a real challenge.

Winter travel

Although Kazakhstan is less mountainous than some of its neighbours, winters do disturb the transport system. Snow storms can block roads and airports, or delay trains. Between May and October all parts of the country are usually easily accessible.

Cross-border transport

Getting to Mongolia on public transport is a long and arduous journey overland, either via Russia or via China.

For transport links to Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and China, see the border crossings section and the city guides.

• Self-drive in Kazakhstan
• Trains in Kazakhstan
• Cycling in Kazakhstan
• Caspian Sea ferry

Practical details

Kazakhstan’s landscapes are beautiful year-round. In winter, the steppe is covered in a light dusting of snow. Spring brings a brief flush of tulips and green grass, summer a scorching sun and the sound of crickets. In autumn, the golden foliage of mountain trees serves as a final reminder of the fading heat.

If you have the choice, the brief spring and autumn seasons are best in terms of temperature. Kazakhstan’s thermometers do get extreme, and some places cannot be visited in the dead of winter or at the height of summer.

For more details, see  when to visit Kazakhstan , and our events calendar for Kazakhstan .

Have a look first to see if you need a visa for Kazakhstan . Kazakhstan is pretty safe, all things considered, with traffic as the main danger. We discuss possible concerns in detail on the safety in Central Asia page .

Health-wise , there are a few things you could worry about: diarrhea, smog, tick-borne encephalitis and rabies.

Generally speaking, food in the region is unhealthy and of little variety, based primarily on meat, fat, pasta and dairy products. Few tourists become fans of the tastes of Central Asia. Almaty and Astana are the exceptions, with a range of international cuisines offering escape from the tired local menu. We discuss your options as a picky eater .

Exchanging money, getting out money from an ATM or paying by card is easy in Kazakhstan. Paying by cash, however, has become a challenge. Kazakhstan these days runs completely on Kaspi, a “super-app” that has replaced most cash transactions. It’s not completely painless to get access as a foreigner, but if you are staying a bit longer, we do recommend making the effort .

Buying a sim card and getting mobile internet is also not an issue at the moment, although you will need a VPN to access all of the internet. More details in our articles on money and banking and communications .

For orientation , Maps.me and 2GIS are often better than Google maps. If you are a reader, have a look at our favourite books on Kazakhstan .

Budget and accommodation

The Kazakh tenge experienced a sharp devaluation in 2015 due to low oil prices and sanctions on Russia. Together with the rise in tourist services like hostels and tours and the subsequent drop in prices, it made Kazakhstan a very affordable place to travel.

Count on 3$ for a basic meal, 3-10$ for a hostel bed and a double room in a decent hotel starting at 20$. For a train ticket in an open carriage, it’s around 15$ per 1000 km. We go in depth on the budget question at the Kazakhstan travel budget page .

Hostels have popped up in every part of Kazakhstan in recent years, and now every mid-sized city has at least 1 good hotel. Almaty and Astana have a lot of options for luxury and business travelers, and there’s also plenty of apartment rentals.

We dive deeper into yurtstays, homestays, winter issues, camping, couchsurfing, … in the accommodation chapter .

Tours and tour operators

We work with a select few tour operators in Kazakhstan, people who can deliver tours to the standards of the discerning Caravanistan audience.

Asya and Alexey are well-traveled mountaineers with their own mountain base who handle our Tien Shan hiking requests. They also run jeep tours in the Almaty region.

Indira comes from the world of logistics: she is our “wrangler of the impossible.” She loves food experiences and original tour requests.

Marat does motorbike tours in Kazakhstan and beyond. Valeriya , finally, is another foodie who is trying to bring the service standards she knows from her tours to France to the villagers of her beloved Altai region.

Have a look at our Kazakhstan tour template suggestions , or simply send us your own ideas for a customised tour .

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• Turkmenistan
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• Things to do
• Accommodation
• Budget estimates , communication & banking
• Visas & border crossings
• When to visit & events calendar
• Self-driving
• Caspian Sea Ferry
• Northern Kazakhstan
• Central Kazakhstan
• Southern Kazakhstan
• Western Kazakhstan
• Almaty region

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Guide de voyage Kazakhstan

• Tous les pays
• Afrique du Sud
• Algérie
• Antarctique
• Arabie saoudite
• Arménie
• Azerbaïdjan
• Bosnie-Herzégovine
• Brésil
• Corée du Sud
• Dubaï & les Emirats
• Géorgie
• Grande Bretagne
• Ile Maurice
• Iles Féroé
• Iles Vierges britanniques
• Indonésie
• Israël
• Jamaïque
• Kirghizistan
• La Réunion
• Macédoine
• Monténégro
• Nigéria
• Norvège
• Nouvelle-Calédonie
• Nouvelle-Zélande
• Ouzbékistan
• Philippines
• Polynésie
• République dominicaine
• République tchèque
• Saint Barthélemy
• Saint Martin
• Sainte Lucie
• Sao Tomé et Principe
• Sénégal
• Slovénie
• Taïwan
• Thaïlande
• Turks et Caïcos
• Vénézuela
• Voyage Kazakhstan
• Je voyage en solo
• Les grands voyages
• Partir à deux

Le Kazakhstan en bref

Temps de vol, décalage horaire, quand partir au kazakhstan.

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Mieux comprendre le kazakhstan, idées voyages au kazakhstan.

Voyages itinérants Kazakhstan - Ouzbékistan - Turkménistan

Asie centrale - train spécial au pays de tamerlan.

Kazakhstan, Kirghizstan, Ouzbékistan, voyager de gare en gare sur la Route de la Soie

16 jours, de 10800 à 15000 €

Magazine Voyage au Kazakhstan

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Suivant les suggestions de votre conseiller mais aussi vos idées, nous construisons un voyage ultra-personnalisé : étapes, hébergements, activités, rencontres...

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The 26 most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan in 2024

Kazakhstan tourism: Is Kazakhstan worth visiting? What is there to see and what are the things to do in Kazakhstan? Here are the 26 best places to visit in Kazakhstan: from the most beautiful landscapes and natural wonders to the best cities and most remarkable historical sites.

Although Kazakhstan is one of the 10 largest countries in the world, it’s still a destination that many travelers haven’t put on their bucket list.

After spending nearly 6 months on and off in the country , I can tell you that Kazakhstan is definitely worth visiting! 

There are many hidden treasures in the country that will leave you in awe, whether it’s because of their beauty or their weirdness. And the best thing of all, tourism in Kazakhstan isn’t so big yet so you won’t have to share these beautiful places with many other travelers!

If you’re an intrepid traveler and like to explore cool, beautiful and unusual sites that people haven’t heard about before, then you should add this huge Central Asian country to your bucket list!

So what are the places to visit in Kazakhstan? Where should you go and what are the things to do in Kazakhstan?

With the help of 4 of my favorite friend-bloggers – who’ve also spent quite some time in the country – I made a list with all the points of interest and the must-see places in Kazakhstan.

Here are the best cities to go to, the most beautiful landscapes to see, the best national parks to hike in, and the most remarkable cultural and historical sites worth visiting.

Tip: See my Kazakhstan Travel Page for a complete overview of all my travel guides about Kazakhstan!

Join the 10-day Best of Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan Adventure and visit Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Karakol, Son Kul lake, and many more! 

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Kazakhstan

• 18 useful things you should know to visit Kazakhstan
• Itinerary Planning for Kazakhstan
• Tours & Experiences:  City Tours, Adventure Tours
• Getting there:  Search for flights to Almaty or Nur Sultan
• Where to stay :  Find a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or homestay in Kazakhstan
• Travel Insurance:   Choose the best travel insurance for Kazakhzstan
• Getting around :  Rent a car in Kazakhstan  or  travel by train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

11 beautiful places near Almaty (Southeast Kazakhstan)

The Almaty region is the most visited region of the country.

Almaty is very often the first city where travelers arrive and the majority of them don’t go beyond this part of the country – which is, to be honest, a shame as there are some incredible places in other parts of the country. You’ll find out when you continue reading this article.

The natural diversity of the Almaty region is amazing – from arid deserts and scenic canyons to lush valleys, snowcapped mountains, beautiful glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

Here’s an overview of the most beautiful and coolest places to visit near Almaty and in the Southeast of Kazakhstan. You’ll need about 10 to 15 days if you want to visit them all. 

For every place, I added info on how to get there by public transport but the easiest way is by driving there yourself. If you wanted to rent a car, check your options with Rental Cars.

The Complete Travel Guide to Kazakhstan: 18 things to know before you go

Almaty is the former capital of Kazakhstan and the largest city of the country. It’s the gateway of many travelers who start their journey in the country or travel to the neighboring country Kyrgyzstan.

Almaty is a surprisingly modern city. It’s the scientific, cultural, historical, industrial and financial center of the country and by the looks of the number of banks, shopping malls and modern designs of the buildings, you can tell that there’s money invested in this city!

I often visited Almaty whenever I had to renew my visa for Kyrgyzstan , and I always enjoyed spending a couple of days here.

Fun fact: The name Almaty means comes from the Kazakh name ‘Alma-Ata’, which means ‘father of apples’. It is believed that the Almaty region is the birthplace of the first apple on earth.

A l m a t y C i t y G u i d e : T h e 1 9 b e s t t h i n g s t o d o i n A l m a t y

According to a legend, the Garden of Eden was located somewhere in the city and the place where Adam picked the forbidden fruit.

Whether or not this Kazakhstan city was the Garden of Eden, Almaty surely has a spectacular beauty, being surrounded by the beautifully snow-capped Tian Shan mountains where you can find the last wild apple forests in the world .

5 Best Hikes near Almaty, Kazakhstan

How to get to Almaty:

Almaty is the Rome of Kazakhstan as all the roads in the country lead to this city. You can get there by train , minibus or by plane .

You can also travel from Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Almaty by minibus .

Read all the practical information about traveling to and around Almaty in  The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan

Where to stay in Almaty:

There are many lodging options in Almaty that can be used as a great base to visit nearby places, varying from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Almaty:

• Evergreen Hostel
• AQ Capsule Hostel

Recommended mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Almaty:

• Garden Park Inn
• Guest House on Sadovaya

Recommend high-end hotels in Almaty:

• Kazzhol Park Hotel
• The Ritz – Carlton Almaty

Things to do in and around Almaty:

• Visit the Ascension/ Zenkov Cathedral
• Go people-watching at the Green Bazaar
• Enjoy a stroll through Panfilov Park
• Take a cable car to Kok Tobe
• Go on one of the many  beautiful day trips and hikes around Almaty
• Top Tip:  Go on a   guided city walking tour to visit all the places of interest  in Almaty!

2. Ile-Alatau National Park

The Ile-Alatau National Park is a beautiful national park located in the Trans-Ile Alatau mountains south of Almaty. The park was created in 1966 and is home to approximately 300 species of wildlife, including the snow leopard.

There are lots of hiking trails in the National Park that will bring you through woodlands and alpine meadows towards beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes.

The park is the perfect place to do some beautiful one-day hikes and treks if you want to get out of the city for a while.

Hiking in Almaty: The 5 Best Hikes

The world’s largest outdoor ice-skating rank Medeu and Central Asia’s top skiing resort Chymbulak are located on the edge of the Ile-Alatau National Park in the Malaya Almatinka Valley.

Both are open from November to March and are very popular places for local winter sports lovers.

A Beginner’s Guide to Sk iing in Kazakhstan

How to get to the Ile-Alatau National Park from Almaty:

If you want to go skiing or ice-skating in Medeo and Shymbulak or you’d like to do a couple of hikes in the National Park , you have to take bus #12 from the center of Almaty to Medeu.  I usually took the bus at Dostyk Plaza . You can also go on a  guided day trip to Medeo and the National Park

A bus ticket costs 150 tenge (€0.50) and it only takes 20 minutes to reach Medeo and the start of the hiking trails.

If you’re planning a multiple-day hike, you’re allowed to camp in the National Park. Bring warm clothes, proper trekking, and camping gear and don’t leave any traces (take your trash with you!!)

3. Big Almaty Lake

Another beautiful spot in the Ile-Alatau National Park is Big Almaty Lake.

Big Almaty Lake is easily the most famous and recognizable lake in Kazakhstan. Situated extremely close to Almaty, it can strangely feel like worlds away from city life when you arrive in the mountains to the lake.

Known for its ever-changing blue and teal hues, the lake is located very close to the border of Kyrgyzstan- a border that you used to be able to cross on foot but is now off-limits to trekkers. Big Almaty Lake supplies drinking water to the residents of Almaty and you are prohibited from swimming in its vivid waters.

There are several hiking opportunities in the area , including Big Almaty Peak, a pyramid-shaped mountain that protrudes from behind the lake and is visible within the city, as well.

The Big Almaty Lake is a can’t-miss for those visiting Almaty and want to see some of the city’s best nature.

How to get to Big Almaty Lake from Almaty:

Getting to the lake is fairly easy if you have money and the means to order a taxi, otherwise, you will need to book a tour to get up there .

If you are traveling with others, you can split the costs. A taxi one-way to Big Almaty Lake from Almaty is about 3000 tenge ( $9-10).

Bring your passport, some water and snacks, and proper hiking boots when going to Big Almaty Lake.

4. Issyk Lake

Photo by Megan Starr

Nestled in the mountains, the picturesque Issyk Lake is also part of the Ile-Alatau National Park and is fed by the Issyk River. The lake is often confused with Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan , which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

The lake was created by an ancient natural landslide damming the valley and then was covered up by another natural landslide destroying it in 1963.

Eventually, man stepped in and created the lake again. The mountain views, pristine nature, and Soviet relics in the area make this lake a can’t miss in Kazakhstan.

Read: Lake Issyk: A Turquoise Slice of History and Pleasure Near Almaty

How to get to Issyk Lake from Almaty:

Issyk Lake can be reached by taking a bus from Almaty to Esik and catching a taxi from there into the mountains or by private vehicle.

If you have an off-roading vehicle, you can drive around the lake to the river on the backside of it and there are some cozy picnic spots and views.

It takes about 2 hours to reach the lake. You can also book a day tour to Issyk Lake.

5. Turgen Gorge

The Turgen Gorge is also part of the Ile Alatau National Park. This beautiful gorge is a real paradise for hikers and is home to dense forests, alpine meadows, lakes, hot springs, and seven waterfalls.

You can go on some stunning hikes or visit the gorge on a mountain bike or on horseback. Here’s a great hiking guide to the Turgen Gorge .

How to get to Turgen Gorge from Almaty:

The Turgen Gorge is located 80km east of Almaty. You can get there by taking a bus from Almaty to Esik and catching a taxi to the village of Turgen.

The entrance to the Gorge is near the village. Here’s a great detailed guide on how to get there .

You can also go on a guided day tour to Turgen Gorge .

6. Kolsai Lakes

The Kolsai Lakes are a system of three lakes, nestled among the hills of the Northern Tien Shan Mountains, approximately 300km east of Almaty.

They are also called “The Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan” and after visiting the lakes, I totally get why! They are definitely some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan!

The 3 lakes are so clear that, when the sun is out, the surrounding forests, hills, and snowy mountain peaks are mirrored in the water.

The two lower lakes, Kolsai 1 and Kolsai 2 are surrounded by spruce trees, alpine meadows, and mountain pastures. Kolsai 1 is at an altitude of 1000m while the second lake lies at an altitude of 2500m.

Grassy slopes replace the spruce forests on the hills surrounding the third lake, which is at an altitude of 2700m. The three lakes are connected by a hiking trail.

The Complete Travel Guide to the Kolsai Lakes

How to get to the Kolsai Lakes:

It’s a 6-hour drive from Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes National Park.

For a detailed description and map on how to get there by public transportation or with your own vehicle, read the Complete Travel Guide to the Kolsai Lakes .

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to the Kolsai Lakes, combined with a visit to Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon (see below).

Where to stay near the Kolsai Lakes:

You can camp in the Kolsai Lakes National Park or stay at Saty Guesthouse in the nearby village of Saty. 

7. Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is at an altitude of 2000m and geologically very young. This 400m long lake was formed in 1911 after an earthquake triggered an enormous limestone landslide, which formed a natural dam in the gorge that was covered by spruce trees. Water started flooding the basin and submerging the forest.

The dried-out trunks of the trees rise above the surface of the water, looking like the masts of sunken ships.

The lake is almost 30 m deep and if you look underwater, which is very easy because the water is very clear, you can still see the needles on the submerged trunks. Due to the cold temperatures, the trees were naturally frozen and well preserved in the water.

You could go diving in this lake to see its unique beauty, but brace yourself for the cold! The temperature of the lake is a maximum of 6ºC in summer!

How to get to Lake Kaindy:

Lake Kaindy is only 36 kilometers away from the Kolsai Lakes National Park so you can visit both if you have your own transport.

For a detailed map and description of how to get there by public transport or with your own vehicle, read my Travel Guide to Lake Kaindy .

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to Lake Kaindy, combined with a visit to the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon (see below).

Where to stay near Lake Kaindy:

There’s a designated camping spot near Lake Kaindy. If you don’t have a tent, you can stay at Saty Guesthouse in the nearby village of Saty. 

8. Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is part of the Charyn National Park and stretches 154km along the Charyn River, one of the deepest rivers of the Northern Tien Shan mountains.

For more than 12 million years, wind, water and sand sculpted Charyn’s red sandstone to form the wonderful shapes and shades that vary from deep orange to light brown.

Some of the cliffs resemble fantastical figures, the reason why some parts of the canyon are also called the Valley of Castles, the Devil’s Gorge and the Ghosts Gorge.

The Charyn Canyon consists of 5 different canyons: the Valley of Castles, the Temirlik Canyon, the Yellow Canyon, the Red Canyon and the Bestamak Canyon.

The Valley of Castles is the most famous part of the Charyn Canyon that you can visit in one day but if you can spare an extra couple of days, you can hike around or explore them all with a 4×4 vehicle.

Blown Away by the beauty of Charyn Canyon – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

How to get to Charyn Canyon:

It’s a 4-hour trip from Almaty to Charyn Canyon.

For a detailed description and map on how to get there by public transportation or with your own vehicle, read my Travel Guide to Charyn Canyon.

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to Charyn Canyon, combined with a visit to the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy .

Where to stay in Charyn Canyon:

You’re allowed to camp in the canyon but be careful not to pitch your tent on a cliff!

9. Altyn-Emel National Park

The Altyn-Emel National Park is a huge place with unusual landscapes like the white, red and orange Aktau hills and archaeological attractions such as the Terekty Petroglyphs and the 31 Scythian tombs.

The most famous part of the National Park are the Singing Dunes , huge sand dunes that make the low vibrating sound of an engine when the wind moves the sand.

You can visit the Altyn-Emel National Park in one day but you can also take 2 days to explore the area.

How to get to Altyn-Emel National Park:

The Altyn-Emel National Park is a 4-hour drive from Almaty. If you don’t have your own transport, you could try to hitchhike there or pay for a taxi (which can be quite pricey).

Another option is to go on a guided tour to Altyn-Emel National Park or on a tour combined with a visit to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy.

Where to stay in Altyn-Emel National Park:

There are 5 guesthouses in the park, ranging from 2500 tenge ($7) to 5000 tenge ($14) per person. You’re also allowed to pitch your tent for free at a designated camping spot in the park.

10. The sacred sanctuary of Tamgaly-Tas

Tamgaly-Tas was an open-air sanctuary where religious rituals were held. People used to come here to recharge themselves with energy and health and it was also a sacred place where Buddhists came to pray and meditate.

Tamgaly-Tas means ‘written rocks’ and is named after the series of rocks and boulders that are carved and painted with incredibly beautiful images of Buddha, bodhisattvas and Tibetan scriptures.

The Buddhas of Tamgaly-Tas can’t be mistaken with the petroglyphs of Tamgaly, a historical site with ancient carvings from the Bronze Age. The Tamgaly Petroglyphs can be found 150km west of Almaty while Tamgaly-Tas is located 170km to the northwest of Almaty.

How to get to Tamgaly-tas:

It’s a 4-hour drive to get from Almaty to Tamgaly-Tas. However, you can’t get there by public transport.

You can only reach the place with your own (off-road vehicle), by renting a car and/or driver, or by booking a day-tour from Almaty . You can also combine your visit to Tamgaly- Tas with Nomad’s Land (see below).

11. Nomad’s Land

Nomad’s Land is an area in the middle of the Kazakh steppe that sits along the Ili River.

From photos and at first glance, people may not realize what the place is as it looks like a historical find in the middle of the barren landscape, but it is actually a film set that was left abandoned from the Kazakh/French movie “Nomad”.

The epic movie is from 2005 and its plot is centered around 18th-century Kazakhstan. The movie was apparently a little lackluster, but the area that it was set in is anything but!

The film set never gained much recognition and still is relatively unknown, but Instagram photo opportunities have brought it a bit of attention in recent years.

It isn’t easy to reach, on the other hand. You will need private transportation (or an organized tour) and an off-roading vehicle to get out to it.

Once you arrive, there is a small tent selling plov and other local delights and someone who charges for entrance to the film set. The fee is minuscule and worth paying.

You are able to peruse the set and take photos, but the real gem is the scenery. The Ili River is quiet, clean, and clear and completely breathtaking.

I loved the drive out there and the scenery once there far more than the film set, but both are worth a visit. Pack a nice picnic, put on some sunscreen, and take a trip to Nomad’s Land!

How to get to Nomad’s Land

It’s a 4-hour drive to get from Almaty to Nomad’s Land but you can’t get there by public transport.

You can only reach the place with your own (off-road vehicle), by renting a car and/or driver, or by booking a day tour to Nomad’s Land and Tamgaly- Tas (see above).

Need help planning your itinerary to Kazakhstan? Check out my tour & itinerary planning services!

6 cool and remarkable places to visit around Shymkent (South Kazakhstan)

The southern part of Kazakhstan is very different from the other regions in the country. It’s the most Kazakh part of Kazakhstan so this is the region where you can experience the Kazakh culture at its best.

One of the largest trade routes of the Great Silk Road used to pass through this area so it’s also a region of Kazakhstan where you can visit the marvelous constructions that were built during the years of the silk trade.

There’s also a big influence from the Uzbek culture as South Kazakhstan shares a border with Uzbekistan. Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan is only 120 km away from Shymkent so many travelers briefly stop in Shymkent before continuing their overland travels to Uzbekistan.

I’d say it’s worth it to take at least 4 days to explore Shymkent and the beautiful mausoleums and unique sites in the Turkestan Region.

1. Shymkent

Shymkent was the city where I took a little break from the road after a 2-week road trip through the Kazakh steppes. Shymkent is the gateway to the heartland of Kazakhstan’s spirituality: Turkestan.

Although Turkestan’s Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is the main draw for most people, Shymkent offers a surprisingly pleasant stopover for people willing to linger.

To see, walk through the main bazaar. Once word gets out that foreigners are afoot, jolly ladies will pull you into their stall to ask you a million and one questions.

Beware, these ladies can be cheeky (in a good way): one woman inquired as to the availability of my grandfather!

I recommend you take some time to just wander around the bazaar and other areas of Shymkent or book a city tour to see the highlights of Shymkent.

How to get to Shymkent:

You can reach Shymkent by plane from Almaty or Astana and by (overnight) bus or train from any city in Kazakhstan.

The bus is the cheapest way of getting around but I’d say that the train is the most comfortable way to travel in Kazakhstan. You can check the train schedules and book train tickets here .

Where to stay in Shymkent:

There are many lodging options in Shymkent that can be used as a great base to visit nearby places, varying from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Shymkent:

• City Hostel Shymkent
• Art House Sweet Home

Recommended mid-range hotels in Shymkent:

• Aidana Plaza Hotel
• FM Hotel Shymkent

Recommended high-end hotels in Shymkent:

• Megapolis Hotel
• Rixos Khadisha Hotel

2. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve

The Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve is the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia. It is named after the river that runs through it—the Aksu—and the Zhabagly mountain range.

The park offers gorgeous golden fields, steep gorges, crystalline blue waters, and some interesting rock formations.

“Aksu” means “white water” in Kazakh, so named for the blue glacial water fueling the river. The river is icy cold most of the year, but brave souls can find places to swim if they so choose.

The park is quite large, and it’s possible to visit for several days. If you want to attempt this, though, it’s best to do so with a guide; there are no well-marked trails.

How to get to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve from Shymkent:

You can get from Shymkent to the park by taking a mashrutka (minibus). They leave once a day in the morning (around 9 am) from the Aina Bazaar in Shymkent to the village of Zhabagly.

It’s a 2-hour ride and you’ll arrive near the entrance of the park. However, you can’t enter the park on your own.

You have to book a ranger at Zhabagly, which costs around $20 per day, including transportation.

3. The Aisha Bibi Mausoleum

The Aisha Bibi is a beautiful 11th or 12th-century mausoleum in the village of Aisha Bibi. It is the only monument in Central Asia that is fully covered with carved terracotta tilework and is admired for its unique construction and decorative art.

Aisha Bibi is the subject of a popular legend in Kazakhstan. An ancient ruler constructed the monument for a young woman named Aisha with whom he fell in love. She was killed by a snake while attempting to go against her parents’ wishes to be with him. It’s basically a ‘Romeo & Juliette’ story.

This mausoleum became the local monument for faith and eternal love and is seen as a sacred talisman. Many young couples come here on their wedding day to attract good luck and eternal love in their lives. If you visit the mausoleum, you’ll see many wedding couples being photographed here.

How to get to Aisha Bibi from Shymkent or Taraz:

Aisha Bibi is located at 8km from Taraz, on the main road to Shymkent. You can take the minibus from Taraz to Shymkent and tell the driver that you want to stop in Aisha Bibi or you could take a taxi.

If you’re coming from Shymkent, take the minibus to Taraz and get off in Aisha Bibi.

4. Arystan Bab Mausoleum

Legends tell that the mystic Arystan Bab was the mentor of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and by tradition, a pilgrimage to Yasawi’s mausoleum in Turkestan should be preceded by a visit to the mausoleum of Arystan Bab.

It’s an impressive building, originating from the 14th-century. It’s framed by two domed minarets and the carpet-draped tomb of Arystan Bab is in a small room to the left of the entrance. The room is constantly filled with praying believers and pilgrims.

The mausoleum is surrounded by hundreds of tombs of devout Muslims who wished to be close to Arystan Bab. It’s important that when you visit the site, you stay quiet and respectful and you should dress modestly (no shorts or tops).

How to get to Arystan Bab:

The Mausoleum is close to the village of Kogam but you can only get there by car.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you could take a taxi from Shymkent or Turkestan or try to hitchhike.

Where to stay in Arystan Bab:

There’s a hotel across the road from the mausoleum. The Arystan Bab Hotel offers very cheap accommodation if you don’t mind sleeping on the floor in one of the yurts. There are also basic bedrooms.

5. Turkestan

Turkestan was one of the most important commercial centers of the Silk Road. The city was founded over 15 centuries ago and is now the historical center of Kazakhstan’s culture.

Turkestan is now known for the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a Turkic Sufi saint who was the first man to introduce the Islam religion in Central Asia.

His mausoleum attracts yearly thousands of pilgrims. It was designed by Amir Timur, who also has other spectacular architectural creations in Uzbekistan .

Turkestan, the spiritual and historical center of Kazakhstan

How to get to Turkestan from Shymkent:

Turkestan is about two hours away by mashrutka (minibus) from Shymkent. Here’s a detailed description on how to get from Shymkent to Turkestan by public transport .

Where to stay in Turkestan:

It’s hard to find any hostels or guesthouses online so I’d recommend you visit Turkestan as a day trip fro

• Best budget option: Turkistan Gallery Hostel
• Top mid-range choice: Karavansaray Turkistan Hotel
• Recommend high-end hotel: Hampton by Hilton Turkistan

6. The Lost City of Sauran

My good friend and world traveler João Leitão from Nomad Revelations  recommended me to visit Sauran, also known as Sawran or Sawran, an ancient city about 45 km north from Turkistan city along the road to Kyzylorda.

The original walls surrounding the old town are still in excellent conditions, almost intact, and in some places, it is even possible to climb to the top and enjoy the view.

The first historical reference of Sauran dates from the tenth century, but the ruins we see today were established between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries.

It gained fame to be one of the most magnificent castles of Kazakhstan, having escaped the Mongol destruction and having even served as capital to the Horde of the White Mongol.

Later, Sauran became a fortress of Timur. It was from Sauram that the building materials of the famous Yasavi Mausoleum came. It was abandoned gradually, and consequently entirely desertified by the year 1515.

How to get to Sauran:

You can get to Sauran from Turkestan by taxi. It’s about 3000 tenge to get there and back.

If you leave from Kyzylorda, you can take a minibus and ask the driver to drop you off at the site. You can also return to Kyzylorda by bus or hitch a ride towards Turkestan.

Another option is to take a multi-day guided tour and visit Sauran together with Turkestan and other great Silk Road places in Kazakhstan.

9 Other remarkable, weird and unusual places to visit in Kazakhstan

Like I’ve mentioned in the introduction, Kazakhstan is a huge place with many scenic places and it would take weeks, if not months, to visit all the points of interest that are scattered around the country.

The two regions that are mentioned above – South Kazakhstan and Southeast Kazakhstan – are the most popular regions for travelers as the top places in these areas aren’t too far away from each other so you can visit them in a couple of weeks.

However, if you have more time or if you’re on a road trip with your own vehicle, it’s also worth visiting the more off-the-beaten-path regions like North, East and West Kazakhstan.

Here’s an overview of some other remarkable and unusual places that you can find in these regions of Kazakhstan.

1. Nur-Sultan (previously known as Astana)

Nur-Sultan, previously known as Astana, is the futuristic capital city of Kazakhstan.

The city was granted capital city status in 1997 as it was moved north from Almaty. As of March 2019, the name of the capital changed from Astana to Nur-Sultan in honor of the ex-president.

Located in the middle of the vast and barren Kazakh steppe, the city is now home to over one million residents and is the second coldest capital city in the world!

The planned city was designed and built by several world-class architects and can be a little confusing to tourists who are not enamored by modern architecture, however.

On the other hand, new businesses, museums, and entertainment centers are opening constantly and the development in Nur-Sultan is remarkable.

The city even held the EXPO in 2017 and has garnered a lot of attention since.

When in Nur-Sultan, don’t miss visiting the Baiterek , the city’s symbol, where you can ride to the top and get a glimpse over the city. Also be sure to take a trip to Khan Shatyr , a transparent tented entertainment center and mall that opened in 2016.

There are a lot of things to do in Nur-Sultan and the city is ever-changing- so definitely add it to your Kazakhstan itinerary!

I would also highly recommend going on a guided city tour in Nur-Sultan !

How to get to Nur-Sultan:

As Nur-Sultan is Kazakhstan’s capital, you can get there by every means of transportation. The easiest and fastest ways to get there are by airplane or by train .

Where to stay in Nur-Sultan:

There are many accommodation options in Nur-Sultan, from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Nur-Sultan:

• Hostel Forum
• The Place Astana Hostel

Recommended mid-range hotels in Nur-Sultan:

• Ramada by Wyndham Nur-Sultan

Recommended high-end hotels in Nur-Sultan:

• The Veil Hotel
• Rixos President Hotel

2. Karaganda

Karaganda is a city in central Kazakhstan that has around 450,000 people residing in it.

The city may not be on the radar of most travelers, but that doesn’t mean that it should be ignored if you are really interested in learning more about Kazakhstan’s history and its role in several 20th-century events.

Karaganda is industrial and known for its regional coal mining. In order to maintain this prosperous coal mining industry, Soviet gulags were established in Karaganda.

One of the most renowned gulags was in Karaganda and it shaped the city’s history and today’s modern society.

The city is brimming with ethnic Germans as a result. While many left as Germany allowed them to repatriate decades later, the city is still known for its German history and the gulags the Germans were placed in under Stalin.

This history aside, the city is presently a fascinating place and there is an abundance of Soviet architecture to keep travelers occupied and enthralled for days.

Read more : Karaganda, a fascinating city in Kazakhstan

How to get to Karaganda:

You can reach Karaganda by marshrutka, car, plane , or train .

You can also go on a 2-day guided tour from Nur-Sultan.

Where to stay in Karaganda:

Recommended hotels in Karaganda:

• Ro sa Roze Luxe House
• AS Inn Hotel

3. Kostanay

Kostanay is a city located in the far north of Kazakhstan and is as remote as it is cold (during the winter, of course).

I went there in 2013 on a very long overnight train from Astana and had a blast despite not really knowing too much about the city of just over 200,000 people.

Located close to the Russian border, Kostanay’s population does appear to be more ethnic Russians than Kazakhs. The city is sleepy and there is not much going on there despite the fairly sizeable population.

During the winter months, the city builds an entire entertainment area out of ice, including a large slide that kids and adults both enjoy playing on.

There are several newer buildings in the city and there is also a mosque and synagogue located across the street from each other which stand peacefully.

One of the most famous sites in the city is this one in the photo of a girl on her laptop on a bench.

It is common to see locals (or tourists like myself) taking selfies and pictures with it.

Kostanay is truly off-the-path Kazakhstan. You will be hard-pressed to find someone who has been there, let alone heard of it.

How to get there:

You can reach Kostanay by marshrutka, car, plane , or train .

Where to stay in Kostanay:

There are some nice hostels and hotels in Kostanay.  Check them out here.

There are also some very unusual towns and places of interest in West & Central Kazakhstan :

4. The abandoned seaport of Aralsk

During our road trip through the endless featureless deserts of Kazakhstan, we came across Aralsk, a small and dusty town in the middle of nowhere.

Looking at its dry surroundings, it was hard to imagine that this sleepy town used to be a booming fisherman town. As far and wide we could look, we didn’t see anything that resembled a sea or even a small lake.

However, 60 years ago, Aralsk was located on the coast of 4th largest lake in the world – the Aral Sea.

Some ambitious Soviet planners wanted to turn Central Asia into the world’s largest producer of cotton. They diverted the two rivers that were feeding the Aral Sea in such a way that the water would irrigate the desert where cotton could be grown for future exports.

As a result, the Aral Sea started drying up and now there’s barely 10% left of it.

What happened to the Aral Sea -The Ship Graveyard in Kazakhstan in photos

What was once a flourishing seaport was now a sad and abandoned place, a reminder of a plan that had gone wrong.

You can still visit this abandoned seaport, although it isn’t a place that will make you feel happy.

We also tried to visit the ship graveyard near Zhalanash, a small town 65km away from Aralsk but in the last two years, most of the ships have been almost completely dismantled for scrap metal.

The only place where you can still find a proper ship graveyard is in Moynaq, Uzbekistan .

How to get to the ship graveyard in Aralsk:

You can reach Aralsk by car or train . You can only get to the ship graveyard in Zhalanash if you travel with your own vehicle.

Where to stay:

There are about 4 hotels in Aralsk but you can’t book them online. I paid $13 for a private room.

5. Baikonur

Located in the steppe of Kazakhstan, right in the middle of nowhere, Baikonur is a very Soviet town, pretty ugly in my opinion, with one peculiarity: it is where the Russian Cosmodrome was built.

For those who don’t know, the Cosmodrome in Baikonur is like the Russian NASA. Here is where the famous dog Laika came from and also, where the first man to space was sent from.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Kazakhstan became an independent republic, as a part of a monetary agreement, Baikonur became under Russian administration.

That is why, today, in Baikonur, they use the Russian ruble, most cars have Russian license plates and most people living there are ethnically Russian.

However, visiting the Cosmodrome requires a special permit which is very expensive to obtain and, unfortunately, you can’t visit Baikonur town without this permit.

To be honest, there is not much to see in Baikonur Town, besides a couple of astronaut statues and a real, old rocket! But, if you like real off-beat stuff, the experience is really worth it!

How to get to Baikonur:

You can reach Baikonur by car or by train but you can only visit the town and the Cosmodrome on a guided tour with prices starting at $700 .

Located in the most Western part of Kazakhstan and, practically, only visited by those travelers overlanding to or from Russia , Atyrau is a very strange town.

Atyrau was my first stop coming from Uzbekistan, after a 4-month trip through Central Asia, so when I saw all those modern buildings and fancy hotels, it was sort of a cultural shock to me…

The reason is that Atyrau is an oil-rich town, very wealthy, and home to some of the largest oil reserves in Kazakhstan, hence in the world.

From modern cafés to expensive Irish pubs filled with expats, this was not the idea I had of an off-the-beaten-track city in Kazakhstan. But this was not all.

Atyrau is one of the main towns that the Ural River goes through, the third-longest river in Europe, after the Danube and the Volga.

However, the cool thing about the Ural River is that it is the official border between Europe and Asia, so in Atyrau, you can cross from Asia to Europe in a matter of seconds, over the many bridges that you will find across the city.

How to get to Atyrau:

You can reach Atyrau by plane, by car or by train .

Where to stay in Atyrau:

Check out the different hostels and hotels in Atyrau  here .

Aktau was the first city in Kazakhstan I stayed in after crossing the Caspian Sea from Azerbaijan by cargo ship .

I had a very similar experience as Joan had in Atyrau – it was a very strange city!

Aktau, located in the South West of Kazakhstan, was built in the 1960’s in the desert of Mangyshlak, a very harsh, dry and dusty place for an urban settlement.

It was built from scratch and somehow they managed to make it into a very modern city.

It’s impressive when you realize that it took many years to grow some vegetation in the city when it used to be a desolated and waterless desert. The only way that the people were able to plant a tree or plants was by drilling the earth and watering them every day for many years before the plants even took root and grew.

Aktau is also the only city in the world that lives entirely on seawater, which gets desalinated with the help of a nuclear reactor…

There are a few things to see here as Aktau has several cultural centers, a concert hall, and some interesting architectural ensembles. There are also some sandy beaches where you can relax, although they aren’t the cleanest.

How to get to Aktau:

You can reach Aktau by plane , by train , and by car. Most travelers end up here before or after crossing the Caspian Sea by boat .

Where to stay in Aktau:

Aktau has a small variety of hostels and hotels. Check them out here.

8. Mount Sherkala & The Valley of Balls

There are 2 very special natural wonders close to the town of Shetpe in West Kazakhstan.

The first one is Sherkala , also called Lion Rock, a 200-meter high mountain in the middle of a flat desert. Another thing that makes this mountain so special is that looks different when you look at it from different points of view. On one side it resembles a yurt, from the other side a lion’s head.

There are many legends told about this mountain and old local people won’t recommend you to climb this mountain or go inside its caves as they believe that spirits dwell there.

Another natural phenomenon close to the town of Shetpe is the Valley of Balls . This Valley earned its name thanks to the numerous ball-like rocks that are spread across the valley. The balls range in size from tiny marbles to huge boulders the size of a car.

I tried to visit these two natural wonders but somehow I couldn’t find them. Instead, I came across another special cliff formation.

I have no idea what it’s called or if it even has a name, but these white cliffs that suddenly rose from the flat surrounding steppes were quite something to see!

How to get to Mount Sherkala and the Valley of Balls:

You can only reach these places by car. Mount Sherkala is about 22km North West of Shetpe while the Valley of Balls should also be near. I recently found a road description on Tripadvisor .

According to Lonely Planet, you can also reach Mount Sherkala by taking a taxi from Shetpe.

8. The Underground Mosque of Beket-Ata

Beket-Ata was an important Sufi who chose to live in seclusion in the desert of West Kazakhstan.

He built 4 underground mosques and a madrassa in the Mangistau region and the underground mosque Beket-Ata became his last refuge and burial place.

The Beket-Ata underground mosque is a spiritual, historical and architectural monument. Beket-Ata used to be a healer and his burial place became an important pilgrimage site for Kazakh Muslims. It is said that after visiting his grave and mosques, you’ll be cured of all your illnesses.

I didn’t visit the mosque as it was out of my way. It’s also not so easy to reach and you literally travel to the middle of nowhere. However, it does sound like a very unique place and you’ll also get to meet the Kazakh people and get a look into their daily lives on the steppes.

Caravanistan has a detailed description of how to get to the underground mosque by car.

I wish you an amazing time in Kazakhstan! I’m always happy to hear about your experiences and if you came across a special or beautiful place that you think should be added to this list, please let me know in the comments below or contact me !

Related Posts:

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

How to visit Turkistan Kazakhstan’s spiritual and historical center

The Complete Hiking Guide to Sayram Ugam National Park, one of the most beautiful Kazakhstan National Parks

19 Best Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan  – The Complete Guide to visit Almaty City

The Best Guide to Travel in Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know to visit Kazakhstan in 2024

How to visit the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy, The most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan

More kazakhstan travel resources:.

• The Travel Guide to Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know before you go
• The 26 most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Kazakhstan
• Is it safe to travel to Kazakhstan: 15 useful safety tips
• Almaty City Guide: The 19 best things to do in Almaty
• The 5 best and most beautiful hikes in the mountains near Almaty
• Charyn Canyon Travel Guide
• Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy Travel Guide
• Sayram Ugam National Park Travel Guide
• Turkestan Travel Guide: discover the spiritual center of Kazakhstan
• Visiting the ship graveyard of the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan
• Trekking in Kazakhstan: 5-day hiking itinerary in the Northern Tian Shan Mountains
• A beginner’s guide to skiing in Shymbulak, Almaty

31 thoughts on “The 26 most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan in 2024”

Thank you for writing such a thorough article! This was very helpful! You have a new follower here! (:

Thank you Charity 🙂

Hi, thank you so much! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the article and photos!!

Great article – Thanks for the tips Cynthia!

Thank you Zandy!

Very much helpful as I’ve started exploring places to visit in Kazakhstan. However I was hoping to get some info about the North easter side of the country. Have you been to karkaraly national park?

Hi Sourav, no, I haven’t been to the Karkaraly National Park yet so unfortunately I can’t provide any info on that.

FOund this to be such an informative guide as I’m planning my solo trip on the silk road journey. Thank you for keeping it updated it’s so useful.

Hi Ghaz, thanks so much! 🙂

Visit us! in Korgalzhin this summer promises to be overloaded with birds

Once we’re allowed to travel again, we’ll return to Central Asia and Kazakhstan 🙂

It is so interesting for Kazakh people also. I am traveling in our country but you go everywhere. Congrats. Thank you for sharing to the world Kazakhstan. I am living in Almaty. If you will come again please call me +77760000585 Rauan

Thank you Rauan, it’s my pleasure 🙂

Thank you for sharing.

Thank you for reading Jewel! 🙂

Beautiful pictures. Looks like heaven on earth…..

Thank you Jili! The landscapes of Kyrgyzstan are definitely heavenly!! We’re looking forward to returning there next week!

Great writing…Love from Brussels!

Thank you!! 🙂

Very nice list. And overall a nice journey. But I miss the Altai Region in the North-East of Kazakhstan. We have currently been around Ridder and did some hikes…. So beautiful and less touristic. And you do not need a border permit for West Altai.

Wish you a lot of fun on your journey. Maybe we’ll met in Kyrgyzstan, since I’ll be there from the 7th of September

Greetings David

Hi David, thanks for your recommendation! I haven’t been to the Altai Region myself but heard that it is indeed very beautiful! And yes, maybe we’ll meet in Kyrgyzstan! Wishing you a beautiful trip!!

Simply GREAT ! I’m planning to reach my daughter who lives in Sydney AU, traveling overland as you are doing. I found you searching for a boat trip to cross Caspian Sea. I can’t wait to start my journey from Turin-Italy. maybe we will meet somewhere in Eastern Asia as I travel faster than you do because of my job. I will follow you from now on you Journal Of Nomads. Have a great journey, take care and enjoy it.

Thank you Andreas!! When are you starting your journey and how are you going to travel overland? By car? Already wishing you a great journey and who knows, our paths might cross!!

What a awesome post and article you shared.. This place looks really incredible and you shared awesome list to go in Kazakhstan. So stunning pictures. Thank you so much for sharing this post..

Hi, thank you so much! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the article and photos!!

If i have to select which one is best among 25 places, i would go for all of them. Seriously each place is having own beauty and i just lived the destination through your blog. If i get opportunity to travel overseas i am definitely going to visit Kazakhstan.

Hi! Thank you so much for your nice comment! I’m so glad to hear you’re feeling inspired to visit Kazakhstan!

These photos are just stunning! I’m not really familiar with the place, but looking at these photos makes me think about the middle east. I went to Egypt at couple of years ago, and the weather was unbearably hot. How’s the weather there? Having stayed in the UK all my life, has really given me so little perspective even if I do work at the escorts gallery at the Museum of London culture and art can only go so far, hopefully I’d be able to experience adventures like this soon.

Hi Rebecca, thank you!! Kazakhstan is very hot during the summer, especially in the steppes (+ 40 degrees Celcius) but it snows and gets really cold in winter. it’s a destination worth visiting, and I’m sure you’d be mesmerized by the culture you find in Central Asia 🙂 I hope you can visit this beautiful part of the world as well!

So amazing! Love the story and the pictures are incredible.

Thank you Lucyann! Are you planning on visiting Kazakhstan soon?

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Dernière mise à jour le : 4 juin 2024 - Information toujours valide le : 4 juillet 2024

Dernière Minute

Sécurité, entrée / séjour, santé, infos utiles, voyages d’affaires.

Date de publication : 4 juin 2024

Urgence Attentat – Vigilance renforcée pour les ressortissants français à l’étranger

Publié le 26/03/2024

Compte tenu du relèvement, sur l’ensemble du territoire national, de la posture du plan Vigipirate au niveau Urgence attentat, une vigilance renforcée est recommandée à l’ensemble de nos ressortissants résidant ou de passage à l’étranger.

Risques encourus et recommandations associées

Risque sismique.

Rasée à deux reprises au cours du siècle dernier, la ville d’Almaty est sujette à de forts risques sismiques. Les secousses de faible et moyenne intensité sont fréquentes dans toute la région allant de l’ouest de la Chine à l’Ouzbékistan, en passant par le Kirghizstan et le Tadjikistan.

Pour plus d’information sur la conduite à tenir en cas de séisme, consulter la rubrique «  Risques naturels  » de ce site. Il est recommandé de s’inscrire sur le service «  Ariane  » afin d’être tenu informé de la situation en cas de crise.

Délinquance

La délinquance dans le centre des grandes villes (Astana, Almaty, Chymkent) est rare. De nombreuses caméras de surveillance sont implantées dans les rues et la police locale est très présente (patrouilles pédestres et motorisées). Une vigilance accrue est néanmoins requise dans les lieux de distraction nocturne en raison de la présence d’individus alcoolisés.

Risques liés aux transports

Les accidents de la route sont fréquents. Il convient par conséquent d’être extrêmement prudent au volant et vigilant à l’égard du comportement des autres conducteurs. Les piétons doivent également faire preuve de prudence, y compris lorsqu’ils traversent les passages cloutés.

L’accès à des régions reculées ou mal desservies doit être planifié avec soin : la circulation automobile hors des grands axes routiers peut être difficile en raison de la détérioration des chaussées et des risques climatiques. En cas d’accidents corporels et de blessures, le temps d’attente de l’assistance médicale peut être long.

Menace terroriste

La menace terroriste, bien que faible envers nos ressortissants, ne peut être écartée. Il est recommandé de suivre l’actualité au moment de son voyage et de faire preuve de vigilance pendant son séjour dans le pays.

Risques liés au contexte politique

Les manifestations organisées par les mouvements d’opposition sont régulièrement réprimées. Des tensions entre communautés, rares et localisées, conduisent parfois à des violences. Il convient de respecter les consignes de sécurité des autorités et de se tenir à l’écart des rassemblements.

Risques spécifiques pour les femmes

Séjourner au Kazakhstan ne présente pas de risque particulier pour les femmes. Il convient néanmoins de respecter les recommandations générales en matière de sécurité figurant dans la présente fiche.

Zones de vigilance

Zones formellement déconseillées.

A la suite de multiples expériences nucléaires soviétiques menées dans la région, la zone au sud de Kourtchatov et de Semipalatinsk présente un taux de radioactivité particulièrement élevé. Il est formellement déconseillé de s’y rendre.

Zones de vigilance renforcée

Le reste du pays est placé en zone de vigilance renforcée.

Les zones suivantes font l’objet de restrictions à la circulation des ressortissants étrangers :

• Province de Jambyl : la partie de la ligne de démarcation entre les provinces de Jambyl et Almaty située entre la ville de Gvardeiski et la bifurcation ferroviaire de Kouljabassy, à une dizaine de kilomètres à l’ouest d’Otar ;
• Province du Kazakhstan occidental : les districts de Bokeiordinski et de Jangalinski, soit tout le quart sud-ouest de la province ;
• Province de Qaraghandy : les bourgs de Prioziorsk et Goulchad, situés sur la rive septentrionale du lac Balkhach ;
• Province de Qyzylorda : la ville de Baïqonyr, les districts de Karmakchinski et Kazalinsk, donc en pratique le cours inférieur du Syr-Daria jusqu’à la partie orientale de la mer d’Aral ;
• Les territoires se situant dans un périmètre de 25 km le long des frontières extérieures du Kazakhstan (et plus particulièrement de la frontière chinoise).

L’accès à l’ensemble de ces zones est soumis à autorisation (« propousk »), à solliciter préalablement auprès de la police de l’immigration. L’obtention de cette autorisation se fait sous un délai d’une dizaine de jours.

L’entrée sans autorisation dans une zone soumise à restriction expose les contrevenants au paiement d’une amende et à des difficultés d’ordre administratif avec les autorités locales.

La plupart des sites touristiques de la région d’Almaty sont situés au sein de cette zone frontalière de restriction, et notamment :

• Le grand lac d’Almaty ;
• Les lacs de Kolsaï ;
• Le Canyon de Charyn ;
• Le lac Alakol ;
• La patinoire de Medeou ;
• La station de ski de Chymboulak.

Les autorités kazakhstanaises ont annoncé que ces sites, ainsi que leurs routes d’accès situées dans des zones frontalières, resteraient ouverts aux touristes étrangers sans autorisation. Toutefois, il a été signalé que dans certains cas, des policiers locaux tentent de verbaliser les voyageurs. Dans le cas où cette situation se produirait, il convient de refuser de payer l’amende et de rappeler que ces sites sont ouverts à tous.

Les voyageurs souhaitant emprunter un itinéraire indirect pour se rendre sur ces lieux restent dans l’obligation, dès lors qu’ils se trouvent en zone frontalière, de solliciter une autorisation auprès de la police de l’immigration.

Recommandations générales

De manière générale, il est recommandé de :

• Ne pas transporter tous ses papiers et son argent dans un seul sac et sortir avec le strict minimum ;
• Conserver en lieu sûr (dans le coffre de sa chambre d’hôtel par exemple) tout bien de valeur ;
• Toujours avoir sur soi les originaux de ses documents d’identité et de voyage, les contrôles de police étant fréquents ;
• Ne jamais ouvrir sa porte à un inconnu, quel qu’il soit (homme, femme, enfant) ;
• Ne pas se promener seul le soir dans des zones inconnues, désertes ou excentrées ;
• Ne pas avoir recours aux services des « taxis sauvages » (risque d’agression ou d’escroquerie), de jour comme de nuit, et privilégier l’usage de taxis officiels ou circuler en voiture privée, portes verrouillées.

Mesures liées au Covid-19

Toutes les mesures de restrictions sanitaires pour l’entrée sur le territoire ont été levées.

Formalités d’entrée et de séjour

Les demandes de visa de long séjour doivent être déposées auprès de l’Ambassade de la République du Kazakhstan en France.

La possession d’un visa pour un pays de la CEI ne vaut pas autorisation de transit à travers le territoire des autres États membres. Un visa en règle pour chaque destination est nécessaire.

Il appartient à la personne invitante ou à l’hôtel de notifier dans un délai de trois jours ouvrables l’arrivée d’un étranger à la police de l’immigration. Chaque changement d’adresse doit faire l’objet d’une notification.

Court séjour

Le Kazakhstan a rétabli le régime d’exemption de visa de court séjour pour les ressortissants de 54 pays, dont la France , depuis le 1er janvier 2022 . Le tourisme est autorisé depuis le 16 février 2022.

Les ressortissants étrangers de ces 54 pays peuvent séjourner au Kazakhstan sans visa jusqu’à 30 jours calendaires à chaque visite. Le nombre de visites est illimité. Toutefois, la durée totale de ces visites ne doit pas dépasser 90 jours calendaires sur une période de 180 jours.

L’entrée et la sortie du territoire comptent comme jours de séjour, quelle que soit l’heure d’arrivée ou de départ. Il est possible de solliciter une prolongation de séjour, au moins une semaine avant l’expiration du délai de trente jours, auprès de la police de l’immigration. Les dépassements de séjour sont sévèrement punis au Kazakhstan. Les contrevenants s’exposent à de lourdes amendes, voire à des peines d’emprisonnement.

Dans le cadre du régime sans visa, les citoyens étrangers peuvent visiter le Kazakhstan à des fins touristiques, privées et professionnelles en court séjour. Dans le même temps, les voyages d’affaires peuvent inclure des réunions et des négociations, la signature de contrats, ainsi que la participation à des conférences et des forums.

Dans le cadre des voyages sans visa, il est interdit aux étrangers d’exercer un travail ou d’autres activités rémunérées sur le territoire du Kazakhstan.

Il est conseillé aux étudiants, volontaires internationaux et Français devant séjourner au Kazakhstan plusieurs mois consécutifs de respecter les conditions d’enregistrement auprès de la police de l’immigration. Le non-respect de ces dispositions peut aboutir à une interpellation et un placement en détention suivi d’une comparution au tribunal. L’expulsion, une amende et une interdiction de territoire font partie des sanctions prévues par la législation locale.

Long séjour

Le visa long séjour peut être délivré pour une durée comprise entre 91 jours et 3 ans. Les justificatifs à produire (invitation, contrat de travail, adresse du lieu de résidence) varient selon les catégories de visas. Il convient de se renseigner auprès de la représentation diplomatique kazakhstanaise la plus proche de son lieu de résidence.

Ce visa long séjour est à « entrées multiples ». Les détenteurs de ce visa doivent prêter attention aux échéances de sortie du territoire, qui varient selon les catégories.

Les extensions de visas et les changements de catégories de visas pourront être demandés depuis le Kazakhstan.

Cas particulier des mineurs

Au Kazakhstan, les enfants peuvent voyager seuls ou accompagnés d’un adulte responsable. L’accompagnateur d’un mineur, s’il n’est pas l’un de ses parents ou un tuteur légal de l’enfant, doit être muni d’une autorisation notariée de la part des deux parents avec l’indication du nom de la personne, des dates de voyage, de l’itinéraire et du but du voyage. Dans les cas où le mineur prévoit de voyager à l’étranger pendant plus de trois mois, l’autorisation doit être certifiée par les autorités de tutelle ou de curatelle. Si l’enfant part avec un seul parent, il est nécessaire d’avoir le consentement de l’autre parent.

Les enfants de six à seize ans peuvent voyager seuls sur les vols intérieurs et internationaux. Les enfants voyageant seuls doivent être munis de leurs passeports et d’une autorisation parentale ou du tuteur, pour pouvoir être acceptés à bord.

Il est interdit aux enfants de moins de quinze ans de voyager seuls en train. L’accompagnateur de l’enfant, s’il n’est pas l’un de ses parents ou le tuteur légal de l’enfant, doit être muni d’une autorisation certifiée par un notaire.

Réglementation douanière

Exportation d’animaux et autres produits dérivés.

Une loi sur les espèces protégées au Kazakhstan interdit la vente et l’exportation d’animaux et de produits dérivés par toute personne non mandatée par l’État ou dans le cadre de recherches scientifiques. Il est ainsi interdit d’exporter du caviar d’esturgeon originaire du Kazakhstan. Les contrevenants s’exposent à de lourdes amendes voire à une peine d’emprisonnement.

Un séjour à l’étranger implique pour tout voyageur de prendre certaines précautions de santé. La rubrique ci-dessous mentionne les indications essentielles. Toutefois, ces indications ne dispensent pas le voyageur d’une consultation avant le départ chez son médecin traitant et/ou dans un centre hospitalier spécialisé dans la médecine des voyages (et ceci suffisamment longtemps avant le départ, pour permettre le rappel des vaccins).

Avant le départ

Frais d’hospitalisation et dépenses de santé.

Afin de faire face aux frais d’hospitalisation et aux dépenses de santé parfois élevés à l’étranger, il est vivement recommandé de disposer d’un contrat d’assistance ou d’une assurance permettant de couvrir tous les frais médicaux et de rapatriement sanitaire, au risque de ne pas avoir accès aux soins, y compris en cas d’urgence vitale. Ces frais ne pourront en aucun cas être pris en charge par l’ambassade de France à Astana ou le consulat général de France à Almaty.

Recommandations pour sa santé

Consulter si besoin un médecin traitant ou un centre de vaccinations internationales pour faire une évaluation de son état de santé et bénéficier de recommandations sanitaires. Consulter éventuellement un dentiste avant le départ.

Constituer sa pharmacie personnelle en conséquence et emporter uniquement les médicaments nécessaires. Ne jamais consommer des médicaments achetés dans la rue (risque de contrefaçons).

Pour plus d’informations, consulter la fiche Infos Pratiques .

Vaccinations

Aucune vaccination n’est obligatoire mais certaines vaccinations sont recommandées ; s’assurer d’être à jour dans vos vaccinations habituelles mais aussi dans toutes celles liées aux zones géographiques visitées.

Il est recommandé d’être à jour des vaccinations diphtérie-tétanos-poliomyélite (DTP) et rougeole-oreillons-rubéole (ROR) ; la vaccination antituberculeuse est également souhaitable.

En fonction des conditions locales de voyage, la vaccination contre la fièvre typhoïde et les hépatites virales A et B peut être recommandée.

La vaccination contre la rage peut également être proposée dans certains cas en fonction des conditions et lieux de séjour. Il convient de demander conseil à son médecin ou à un centre de vaccinations internationales.

Risques sanitaires

Risques liés aux morsures de tiques, encéphalite à tiques.

L’encéphalite à tiques est une maladie virale transmise notamment par morsure de tiques. Les symptômes associent de la fièvre à des troubles digestifs et des signes méningés (maux de tête, raideur de nuque). Des troubles neurologiques divers peuvent être associés. La vaccination peut être conseillée par son médecin.

Plus d’informations sur le site de Santé publique France.

Maladie de Lyme

La maladie de Lyme est transmise par morsure de tique infectée. L’infection, souvent sans symptôme, peut provoquer une maladie invalidante.

Plus d’informations sur le site du ministère des Solidarités et de la Santé

Prévention contre les morsures de tiques

Dans la région d’Almaty, les tiques sont particulièrement nombreuses d’avril à juin inclus. En cas de morsure, il convient de se rendre dans un centre d’urgence médicale dans les 3 jours qui suivent afin d’y recevoir un traitement préventif contre l’encéphalite à tiques (injection d’immunoglobuline). Les soins médicaux sont gratuits. L’injection doit être suivie d’une visite chez le neurologue, dans la polyclinique du quartier de résidence.

La prévention contre les autres infections transmises par les tiques inclut la couverture vestimentaire et l’application de répulsifs cutanés sur les parties découvertes. Il est de plus impératif, après toute promenade en milieu rural et particulièrement en forêt dans les régions infestées, de rechercher la présence éventuelle de tiques sur le corps afin de les ôter rapidement.

Plus d’informations

Autres risques sanitaires

Fièvre typhoïde.

La fièvre typhoïde est une maladie bactérienne liée aux salmonelles. Les symptômes associent notamment une forte fièvre à des troubles digestifs et imposent une consultation médicale urgente. Il est recommandé de prendre les précautions d’usage en matière d’hygiène alimentaire (cf ci-après).

Des cas d’anthrax sont parfois signalés. En prévention, il est recommandé d’éviter le contact direct avec des animaux infectés, leurs carcasses et les produits dérivés (viande notamment).

Infection par le virus VIH – IST

Concernant les infections sexuellement transmissibles, il est recommandé de prendre toutes les précautions d’usage en la matière et d’éviter les comportements à risque.

Quelques règles simples

De manière générale.

• Se tenir à distance des animaux, de leurs déjections, ainsi que de leur cadavre. Ne pas approcher les animaux errants et les chiens (risque de morsure et de rage) ; ne pas caresser les animaux rencontrés ;
• Veiller à sa sécurité routière (port de la ceinture de sécurité, port du casque en deux roues, siège auto pour les enfants).

Mesures d’hygiène alimentaire

• Se laver les mains régulièrement au savon ou avec des solutions de lavage hydro-alcooliques, particulièrement avant et après les repas et le passage aux toilettes ;
• Veiller à la qualité des aliments consommés et surtout à leur bonne cuisson ;
• Peler les fruits et légumes ou les laver soigneusement (à l’eau saine) ;
• Éviter les crudités, coquillages, plats réchauffés et buffets froids ;
• Ne boire que des boissons encapsulées ou de l’eau rendue potable (filtration, ébullition ou à défaut produit désinfectant) ;
• Éviter les glaçons, glaces, ainsi que la consommation de jus de fruits frais ;
• Ne consommer le lait que pasteurisé ou bouilli.
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Transport routier

Infrastructures routières.

Les routes ne sont pas toujours entretenues, parfois mal balisées et peu éclairées. La signalisation manque souvent de clarté. Le Kazakhstan a réalisé d’importants travaux de modernisation des axes entre les principales villes. Le contraste entre ces toutes nouvelles routes et les axes secondaires, souvent très détériorés, est notable.

Il est recommandé aux voyageurs d’être prudents sur les routes, les accidents étant fréquents et les habitudes de conduite pouvant être imprévisibles. Les rudes conditions climatiques et la présence sur les routes d’animaux (notamment en province) peuvent constituer un danger supplémentaire. Il est recommandé de privilégier les déplacements au moyen de véhicules en bon état et bien équipés en réserves de carburant. En cas de déplacement en dehors des villes, il est conseillé de prévoir un bidon de carburant (surtout l’hiver où les températures peuvent avoisiner les -40°C) car les villes peuvent être très éloignées les unes des autres et les stations-services sont rares dans les régions rurales.

Code de la route

Les permis français et international sont reconnus pour conduire au Kazakhstan.

La vitesse autorisée est, en général, de 120 km/h sur les autoroutes et de 70 km/h sur les routes de campagne.

Il est recommandé d’assurer le véhicule auprès d’un assureur local.

Contrôles

De nombreux radars surveillant la vitesse et l’arrêt aux feux tricolores sont implantés un peu partout en ville, tant à Astana qu’à Almaty.

La « tolérance zéro » est appliquée au Kazakhstan pour conduite sous emprise d’alcool : toute trace de présence d’alcool dans le sang peut conduire à la confiscation du véhicule.

Transports en commun

Il est déconseillé d’utiliser les moyens de transport collectifs, ceux-ci étant souvent vétustes et peu sûrs. Il est recommandé de privilégier l’usage de taxis officiels, les « taxis sauvages » présentant un risque d’agression et d’escroquerie.

Réseau ferroviaire

Le réseau ferroviaire est en bon état mais lent et peu sûr (risques de vols et d’agression notamment). En cas de déplacement en train, il convient de privilégier un compartiment fermant à clé.

Transport aérien

Aucune compagnie aérienne kazakhstanaise ne figure sur la liste des compagnies interdites par l’Union européenne. Toutefois, s’agissant des vols internes, il reste recommandé de privilégier le recours aux compagnies nationales disposant d’une flotte récente.

Législation locale

Substances illicites.

La consommation et la détention de drogue sont strictement interdites sur le territoire kazakhstanais. Tout transport de drogue, à des fins personnelles ou dans un objectif de contrebande, est sévèrement puni par la justice (condamnation allant de lourdes amendes à des peines de prison).

Exportation de caviar

La vente et l’exportation d’animaux et de produits dérivés par toute personne non mandatée par l’État sont strictement encadrées au Kazakhstan. Il convient de s’adresser à l’administration kazakhstanaise des douanes ( comité des recettes publiques auprès du ministère des Finances ) pour obtenir des informations (en anglais) quant à l’exportation de caviar.

Photographies

Il peut être interdit de photographier certains lieux (bases militaires, postes frontières). Avant toute prise de vue aux abords des bâtiments officiels, il convient de s’assurer qu’il n’y a pas de restriction particulière en s’adressant aux policiers et gardes présents.

Tout usage de drone nécessite de solliciter une autorisation préalable du Comité de l’Aviation (site en anglais) du ministère de l’Industrie et du Développement des Infrastructures à Astana en indiquant les caractéristiques techniques du drone et l’utilisation envisagée (lieu et durée du vol notamment). Les contrevenants s’exposent à la confiscation de l’appareil voire à des sanctions pénales.

Us et coutumes

Langues parlées.

Le russe a le statut de langue officielle au même titre que le kazakh et est largement répandu dans le pays. Il fait office de langue principale de communication dans les grandes villes du nord du pays, ainsi qu’à Astana et Almaty. La langue kazakhe devient de plus en plus fréquemment employée dans les grandes villes.

L’anglais est également relativement bien compris et parlé, tant à Astana qu’à Almaty.

La République du Kazakhstan est un Etat laïc et la société fait preuve de tolérance religieuse. Les autorités kazakhstanaises sont vigilantes à ce sujet et n’admettent aucun extrémisme, quel qu’il soit. Il est fortement déconseillé d’exercer une quelconque activité de prosélytisme au Kazakhstan.

Mœurs

L’homosexualité n’est pas interdite mais elle est peu tolérée.

De manière générale, il convient en toute circonstance d’adopter une attitude respectueuse des usages locaux et de garder à l’esprit que les différences culturelles peuvent susciter une interprétation erronée de certains comportements.

Visas d’affaires

Le Kazakhstan a rétabli le régime d’exemption de visa de court séjour pour les ressortissants de 54 pays, dont la France , depuis le 1er janvier 2022 .

Pour les ressortissants français désirant prolonger leur séjour sur le territoire kazakhstanais dans le cadre de déplacements professionnels (participation aux négociations, conclusions des contrats, etc.), leurs partenaires kazakhstanais doivent faire une demande d’obtention de visa d’affaires auprès de la Direction de la police de l’immigration du lieu de séjour. Un visa d’affaires à entrée unique sera octroyé pour trente jours et l’enregistrement effectué de manière simultanée.

En cas de changement d’adresse du lieu de séjour, les voyageurs doivent se présenter aux organes relevant du ministère de l’Intérieur dans la circonscription du nouveau lieu de séjour dans les cinq jours.

En cas de changement de domicile temporaire sur le territoire kazakhstanais, la partie invitante doit informer par écrit les autorités du ministère de l’Intérieur dans un délai de trois jours.

Pour les ressortissants français séjournant sur le territoire kazakhstanais et souhaitant investir dans des projets communs (joint-venture), le partenaire kazakhstanais doit dresser un projet de business plan et le déposer au Comité d’investissement auprès du ministère des investissements et du développement de la République du Kazakhstan. A la demande du dit Comité validant le statut d’investisseur, le ministère des Affaires étrangères de la République du Kazakhstan, conformément à la législation en vigueur, délivrera un visa d’investisseur à entrée unique et d’une durée de 90 jours ; en cas de nécessité, un visa d’investisseur à entrées multiples et d’une validité de trois ans pourra être délivré.

Ces visas ne permettent pas d’exercer une activité salariée au Kazakhstan ou d’effectuer une mission religieuse.

Pour plus d’informations, consulter la rubrique entrée/séjour de la présente fiche ou prendre l’attache de la représentation diplomatique kazakhstanaise la plus proche de son lieu de résidence.

Données économiques

Consulter la fiche repères économiques du Kazakhstan .

Contacts utiles

Service économique.

Les Services économiques auprès des ambassades sont des services extérieurs de la Direction générale du Trésor. Ils ont pour missions l’analyse et la veille économique et financière, sur une base macroéconomique, l’animation des relations économiques, financières et commerciales bilatérales avec les pays de leur compétence et le soutien public au développement international des entreprises.

Service économique de Astana Près l’Ambassade de France au Kazakhstan Adresse : 62, rue Kosmonavtov Tél. : +7 7172 97 44 89 Télécopie : +7 7172 97 44 83 Site Internet

Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France-Kazakhstan

La Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Kazakhstan (CCIFK) est une communauté d’intérêts composés des différents types de représentation économique française au Kazakhstan, créée pour être une plate-forme de discussions, d’échange d’informations. Elle permet de développer et de maintenir un lien avec la communauté d’affaires de la France, des cercles francophones et francophiles d’une part et avec celle du Kazakhstan d’autre part.

Site internet

Les conseillers du commerce extérieur de la France (CCEF) forment un réseau actif de plus de 4 000 membres dans 146 pays, au service de la présence française dans le monde. Ils mettent leur expérience à disposition pour conseiller les pouvoirs publics, parrainer les entreprises, former les jeunes aux métiers de l’international et promouvoir l’attractivité de la France pour les investissements internationaux.

Présidente de section  : Ahlem FRIGA-NOY (société Total E&P Kazakhstan)

Site internet : Comité national des conseillers du commerce extérieur de la France

Atout France

L’Agence française de développement (AFD) est l’agence qui met en œuvre la politique du développement définie par le gouvernement français. L’agence régionale de Tachkent est chargée des activités de l’AFD au Kazakhstan.

Tél. : +998 71 233 66 69

Courriel : tashkentoffice chez afd.fr

Le Kazakhstan est membre de la Banque asiatique de développement (BAD).

Site Internet

La page du Kazakhstan est consultable en ligne .

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BERD (Banque européenne pour la reconstruction et le développement)

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Asia Guides

The best backpacking kazakhstan itinerary for first-timers.

A trip to Kazakhstan isn’t easy to plan with so many unknown places to see. Here you will find the ideal backpacking Kazakhstan itinerary of the main highlights, costs, and essential tips.

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Things to do in Kazakhstan and places to visit

Kazakhstan is a bizarre and fascinating country with plenty of opportunities to marvel at the architecture, go hiking in the world’s most stunning landscapes, and relax by pristine lakes. This backpacking Kazakhstan itinerary will see you visit the incredible cities of Shymkent, Almaty and Astana, whilst also making plenty of trips out to nature paradises.

Things to do in Shymkent

If like us, you are entering Kazakhstan from Uzbekistan, then you are likely to end up in Shymkent. There isn’t much to see in Shymkent itself, but many people come here to take a day trip to nearby Turkistan . Turkistan is famous for its mausoleums and underground mosque. Whilst we did have plans to visit, we got a little lazy and decided to skip it due to the similar architecture in Samarkand and Bukhara. However, if you are not planning on visiting Uzbekistan, then it’s highly recommended that you check it out.

Where to stay in Shymkent

Feeling luxurious: Rixos Khadisha Shymkent – Elegantly decorated suites! Boasts an indoor swimming pool and fitness centre. Perfect for those who need a break from camping in Central Asia and are looking to pamper themselves.

Budget private room: Express City Ho stel – Great Value for money! Breakfast is included and there are tea and coffee-making facilities in the rooms.

Dorm life: House Hostel – A nice hostel that is located just outside of the centre but is well-connected by many buses. The owner is helpful, and the rooms are well-kept.

For more prices and deals on properties in Shymkent, CLICK HERE.

Shymkent to Almaty

From Shymkent head to Kazakhstan’s former capital; Almaty. Almaty is a modern city and even has a metro station to get around. Like most cities in Central Asia, there isn’t much to see in the city itself but there are some nice parks and gardens to stroll around. The real beauty of Kazakhstan lies just outside of the city. Almaty is the perfect base to make day trips from.

Almaty places to visit and tours from Almaty

Big almaty lake.

Big Almaty Lake should be on anyone’s radar when in Kazakhstan. It’s easy and cheap to get to and you can reach the nature and lake in no time. To read how to get there in more detail check out our Big Almaty Lake post.

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is probably Kazakhstan’s greatest attraction and is located just a 3 to 4 hours drive away from Almaty. The canyon spans over 90 km and is over 30 million years old. The best way to get there is by an organized tour on the weekend. The cheapest price we found was with Kaz Tours at 4,500 Tenge ($11.58) for a day trip. If you choose to go in the week you will need to either spend a lot of time on public transport or lots of money on a private taxi.

To get there using public transport you will need to take a bus from Sayhat Bus Station in Almaty heading for Kegen (you will need to ask the driver to stop before then at the turning for the canyon). From there you will need to find a shared mini-bus or hitch a ride. In total, you will probably end up spending the same as going on an organized day tour from Almaty at the weekend.

Kolsai & Kaindy Lake

Another trip you can make from Almaty is to the stunning Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. You can get here by going on an organized tour for 2 days, or by making your way there through a combination of public transport and hitchhiking.

For more information on Almaty check out this Almaty guide.

Where to stay in Almaty

Feeling luxurious: Renion Park Hotel – Modern style rooms that are well equipped with everything you need; sofa, TV, slippers, hairdryer and more! The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool for you to relax at the end of the day.

Budget private room: Interhouse Almaty – Has cosy home-style rooms with breakfast served each day. Perfect for those who want time to themselves and are on a budget.

Dorm life: Almaty Central Hostel – Perfect for meeting other travellers! Highly rated and has a well-equipped kitchen for those who like to cook.

For more prices and deals on properties in Almaty, CLICK HERE.

Things to do in Astana

Last on this Kazakhstan backpacking itinerary is Astana. Take an overnight train from Almaty to Kazakhstan’s newly formed capital, which is just 20 years old. There isn’t much to do activity-wise in Astana, but it’s a cool city to roam around. It’s like stepping into a futuristic city! We like to think of Astana as a city of many shapes due to all of the cool buildings that are dotted around. Astana is also filled with nice cafés and bars; perfect for relaxing and catching up on the blog.

Looking for more things to do in Kazakhstan? Check out these 13 best things to do. 

Where to stay in Astana

Feeling luxurious: Hotel Duman – Spacious rooms with excellent facilities. The hotel has a large indoor swimming pool, bowling alley and restaurants! Great for those who don’t want to stray too far from the hotel!

Budget private room: Hotel Inju on Braeva 9 – Cozy double rooms! Great for couples that need some relaxing time away from the hostel life. The hotel is next to a bus stop, making it easy to get around.

Dorm life: Elite Hostel – Clean and modern 4-bed dorms. It’s a nice place to stay for such a cheap price. It also has a kitchen and is surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Cost of this backpacking Kazakhstan itinerary

Currency: The local currency is Tenge. The exchange rate is 388 Tenge to $1. ATMs are widely available in all the major cities, so there is no need to bring tons of cash with you.

Daily budget: We originally budgeted $30 per day for the two of us. However, accommodation in Kazakhstan turned out cheaper than we had anticipated, and in the end, we averaged $22 per day for the two of us. NOTE: This budget does not include a trip to Charyn Canyon or a trip to Kolsai Lakes.

Accommodation: Accommodation is very cheap in Kazakhstan. We stayed in dorms during our trip. A bed in a dorm averaged $3.50 per night.

Food & drink: Food and drink are relatively cheap. It cost us around 2,000 Tenge ($5.15) per day to buy ingredients from the supermarket, which would last for 3 meals each. Meals consisted mainly of rice, pasta, sauce, veg and potatoes. A large bottle of water costs around 120 Tenge ($0.31).

Transport: Buses are relatively cheap. A bus ride in Almaty is 150 Tenge ($0.39), or 80 Tenge ($0.21) if you use the Unified transport card. You can buy these cards from one of the small kiosks for 500 Tenge ($1.29), and then top up the card at the many top-up stations around the city. Buses in Astana cost 90 Tenge ($0.23) per ride.

For transport across the country, we recommend using the trains. Prices vary depending on the train and which type of seat you choose. Whatever you do, make sure to book in advance as seats and beds fill up quickly.

Activities: For an easy time in Kazakhstan, the only way to see the beauty of this country is to take organized tours. Tours to places outside of Almaty are cheap if you choose to go at the weekend, but during the week, they are very expensive.

Backpacking Kazakhstan travel tips

Book trains in advance – Trains fill up quickly, so we fully recommend booking online beforehand as far as a couple of weeks before you want to travel.

2GIS app -Download the 2GIS app; it’s a lifesaver. Trust me! It shows you the map of the city and you can input your location and where you want to go. The app will then show you how to get there and which bus you need to catch.

Tours at the weekend – Try to take tours at the weekend as they are 10 times cheaper than going in the week. Do your research on the tour companies as some are a lot cheaper than others.

Unified transport card – Buy the bus card in Almaty. The card will save you quite a bit of cash. You can buy the bus cards at the small kiosks for 500 Tenge ($1.29).

Don’t drink tap water – The tap water in Kazakhstan is not edible like it is in Kyrgyzstan. Avoid it by buying bottled water, or investing in a sterile pen.

Know some interesting facts before you go – Before you head on your adventure through Kazakhstan, geek out and read up on some interesting facts about Kazakhstan before you go.

Essential resources for travelling in Kazakhstan

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

We hope this backpacking Kazakhstan itinerary has helped kick-start your trip. This itinerary takes in the best that Kazakhstan has to offer in all of the major cities. So, book that flight and let your Kazakhstan adventure begin.

Have you visited Kyrgyzstan yet? If not, it’s right next to Kazakhstan and it’s the perfect place to delve deeper into the Central Asian culture. Check out our backpacking Kyrgyzstan guide here.

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12 thoughts on “ The Best Backpacking Kazakhstan Itinerary for First-Timers ”

Great post! Just arrived in Astana and were surprised to be charged 180 tenge each for the No# 21 bus from the train station to our hostel, as every blog post/guidebook we’d read had said 90 tenge… did a bit more online research and the price went up in July 2018 to 180 tenge, or still 90 tenge with a travel card until the end of this year. Am pleased we didn’t get annoyed with the bus driver… hahaha 🤣

Thanks guys 🙂 ooh those cards are so annoying. We struggled to find where to buy them for ages, particularly in Almaty. We heard that you can also take them back and they buy them back off you. But we didn’t have time to see, but maybe it is something you can look into. Hope you are still having a fab time in Central Asia.

We bought the Onai cards in Almaty for 500 tenge each, fully refundable, except we couldn’t find anywhere near Almaty 1 railway station to get the refund… they’re our Almaty souvenirs 🙂 We’ve got 1 week left in Kazakhstan, heading to Aral today then finally crossing into Uzbekistan next week… will be studying your Uzbek posts! Loving your trip around Eastern Europe – great blog posts and photos.

Thanks guys 🙂 You will love the architecture in Uzbekistan. Hopefully it will be cooler for you guys. It was unbearable with the heat when we were there. Have a fab time!!!!

Wow, looks like there are so many beautiful landscapes to explore in Kazakhstan, as well as the cities. Will have to go one day!

Central Asia is all about the nature and mountains. Hope you get to visit there soon!

Kazakhstan was never on my bucket list, but after this post I should consider it! The country has such a beautiful nature and landscape – especially the Big Almaty Lake looks so beautiful 🙂

The Big Almaty lake is stunning. It is probably our highlight of Kazakhstan. We recommend checking out Kyrgyzstan too; so many beautiful landscapes and nature there too.

Wow, very intriguing.. I’ve actually never heard of any of these cities! Kazakhstan wasn’t really on my radar but you have me convinced to check it out!

It’s an interesting place. We thought Kazakhstan was alright but if we could recommend anywhere in that region it would be Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan 🙂

Astana looks pretty cool. This is a place that I’ve never thought of traveling to, but you make it look fun and beautiful. I will need to research the area more and add it to my bucket list. Great thorough information. Thank you.

Glad you found it useful 🙂 Astana looks so futuristic. It is a new capital city 🙂

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Backpacking Kazakhstan (An Ultimate Budget Travel Guide)

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The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking Kazakhstan can be hugely rewarding for the intrepid traveller and doesn’t have to cost the earth either. Below I will tell you all the tips I have accumulated on my many trips backpacking this vastly underrated destination.

Kazakhstan is part of Central Asia (sometimes referred to as “the Stans”) and is a vast and beautiful land of mountains, alpine lakes, deserts and steppe.

With cheap transport, food and accommodation, Kazakhstan is one of the best destinations in the world for backpacking. Kazakhstan is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From mountainous Almaty to the deserts and steppe of the interior, this is a true destination for adventure travellers!

Want to know about safety in Kazakhstan? Check out my article is Kazakhstan safe ?

Update February 2022: Kazakhstan is now open for tourism again and the country has reinstated visa-free travel for many passports. See the visa section below for more information.

Time to read: 7 minutes

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Planning your Backpacking Kazakhstan Trip

Step 1 – decide on a rough route.

The first thing you need to work out is what you want to see. Kazakhstan is a vast country (the world’s ninth-largest in fact) and there is so much that seeing it all would take a lifetime. Starting in the capital Nur-Sultan and heading south to Almaty and the border with Uzbekistan is a popular route.

Some popular destinations in Kazakhstan:

• Nur-Sultan – the nation’s modern capital is home to an impressive array of architecture.
• Almaty – former capital and laid-back city in the shadow of the Tian shan Mountains
• Medeu – the highest ice skating rink in the world
• Shymbulak – Central Asia’s premiere ski resort.
• Big Almaty Lake – picture-perfect lake on the Kazakh/Kyrgyz border.
• Baikonour Cosmodrome – the site of Russsia’s space program. If you are lucky, witness a launch!
• Karaganda Gulag – discover the dark past of the Soviet Union at this former gulag.
• Aktau – Kazkahstan’s Caspian Sea resort and gateway to the Caucasus.
• Shymkent – the “wild west” of Kazakhstan and gateway to nearby Uzbekistan.
• Aralsk – former Aral Sea fishing port turned dusty, desert outpost.
• Kolsai Lake – stunning scenic spot.
• Charyn Canyon – a stunning 90km canyon close to the Chinese border.

Kazakhstan is very easy to get around as it has a great rail infrastructure. The fares are very reasonable and the trains are modern, comfortable and clean. Long-distance and sleeper buses are another popular choice for budget travellers.

One of my best tips for travelling Kazakhstan on a budget is to make use of the sleeper trains and buses as you can cover large distances and wake up refreshed at your destination. What’s more, you will save on a night’s accommodation!

Step 2 – Apply for your Kazakhstan Visa (if you need one)

From February 2022 Kazakhstan has resumed its visa-free entry policy which was suspended during the covid outbreak. Passport holders from Australia, Canada, the EU, New Zealand, The UK and the USA can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days.

From 1st January 2019 Kazakhstan introduced the e-visa for 117 countries. This was suspended during the covid pandemic, but as of February 2022, visa-free travel is again possible. You can apply online here .

The Current (2022) Price for Kazakhstan e-visa is $80

Step 3 – Book Your Flight

Once you have received your e-visa, you can now book your flight to Kazakhstan if you will be flying.

The single biggest cost associated with a trip to Kazakhstan is likely to be your flight. Use sites such as Skyscanner to check for deals and be sure to check Trip.com which have some of the best prices for both international and domestic routes for Kazakhstan.

If you will be arriving in Kazakhstan overland or across the Caspian Sea , then be sure to check out my guide on travelling from Europe to China along the old Silk Road, without flying!

There are trains and buses travelling to Kazakhstan from neighbouring countries such as China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Uzbekistan.

See my guides on travel to and from Kazakhstan overland:

China: Urumqi to Almaty

Kyrgyzstan: Bishkek to Almaty

Uzbekistan: Tashkent to Almaty

Step 4 – Book Your Train Tickets

Most people backpacking around Kazakhstan will opt to take advantage of the country’s excellent rail network.

With both fast and slower overnight trains, moving around the country is very easy.

You can book train tickets online up to 30 days in advance via the Kazakhstan Railways website .

Example Fares and Journey Times (April 2021)

• Almaty to Nur-Sultan 13h37m, 14,500KZT ($34)
• Almaty to Shymkent 11h03m, 9,500 KZT ($22)
• Nur-Sultan to Karaganda 3h47m, 2,000 KZT ($4.70)

Step 5 – Book Your Accommodation

All of the major cities have a selection of hostels, but once you get off the beaten path hotels can often cost the same price as a bed in a dorm.

Visit our partners at Hostelworld to book your bed!

If you will be travelling well off the beaten path, then you might not find any hostels. However, there are sure to be guesthouses and hotels, which can usually be had for less than a private room in a hostel! See Booking.com and Trip.com to find guesthouses in Kazakhstan.

Step 6 – Take out Adequate Travel Insurance

Any backpacking trip requires insurance to cover against the unexpected, and backpacking Kazakhstan is no different. Now that you have booked your flights and accommodation it would be sensible to protect these expenses should you have to cancel your trip.

As Kazakhstan is a vast country with rugged landscapes and a healthcare system that is perhaps not what you are used to back home, travel insurance is a must. I made the mistake of travelling without insurance to Thailand and got sick. I was left with huge hospital bills of around $600. It’s fair to say I won’t be making that mistake again when the cost of a single-trip policy is usually under $50.

Our partners at World Nomads specialise in insurance for backpackers and have some of the best rates around. You can tailor the policy to suit your specific needs to include more adventurous activities or extra cover for expensive items like cameras and drones. Get a free no-obligation quote from the World Nomads website .

Step 7 – What to Pack

By now you should have your visa, booked your flights and accommodation and know how you are getting around. So, what to pack when backpacking Kazakhstan?

There are a few things to consider when packing for a trip to Kazakhstan such as the climate and time of year. Nur-sultan is the second coldest capital on earth and winter temperatures can drop to below -20c.

If you will be spending time in the mountains around Almaty in the winter then you will also need to pack accordingly.

Summers in the interior or places like Aralsk, which is mostly desert and steppe can be extreme. Ensure you have light, cotton clothes and plenty of sunscreen.

Bring any medication you need from home as it might be more difficult to obtain in Kazakhstan.

Looking for a backpack? Check out my guide to the best budget hiking backpacks on the market!

Food in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s cuisine is very meat-heavy, and outside of Nur-Sultan and Almaty, it is unlikely you will find appropriate dishes on menus. However markets are plentiful and you won’t have a problem picking up fresh fruit, vegetables, pulses and nuts to make your own meals at hostels.

Shashlik (grilled skewers usually of lamb or horsemeat) is ubiquitous and a staple of Central Asian cuisine.

Be aware that most menus in restaurants will be in Russian.

Backpacking Kazakhstan – Money

Kazakhstan uses the tenge (KZT ₸).

$1 US = ₸432

Notes come in 7 denominations; ₸200, ₸500, ₸1,000, ₸2,000, ₸5,000, ₸10,000 and ₸20,000.

ATMs are widespread in larger towns and cities, but not all will accept foreign cards. Outside of these places, it’s best to carry cash in tenge.

Credit and debit cards associated with foreign banks may be taken in department stores and large, high-end restaurants. In smaller restaurants and away from the big cities it’s unlikely they will accept plastic.

Books about Kazakhstan

Below you will find a selection of travel books that will help you get the most out of your trip to Kazakhstan.

Why not check out my list of the 19 best travel memoirs , which includes books on Kazakhstan and Central Asia?

Top Places for Backpacking Kazakhstan

Pleasant Aktau is a port and small resort town on the coast of the Caspian Sea.

A useful base if you are travelling across the Caspian to/from Baku in Azerbaijan.

Kazakhstan’s charming former capital and winter playground.

This cosmopolitan city at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains is a must-visit when backpacking Kazakhstan!

Almaty also makes a great base for exploring nearby attractions such as the Kolsoi Lakes and Charyn Canyon, which can both be done as day trips from the city.

Once a thriving fishing port on the Aral Sea, little remains of this town’s former glory.

That being said, Aralsk is an interesting destination to check out as you can still see some boats stranded miles from the shore.

Baikonur Cosmodrome

The cosmodrome at Baikonur is still leased to the Russian’s and is the home of their space programme.

If you time your backpacking Kazakhstan trip right, you can even witness a launch!

Charming Karaganda is a small city 270km south of the capital, Nur-Sultan.

As well as being a small, pleasant place with interesting architecture and murals, it is also a good base for discovering the Karaganda Gulag.

Formerly known as Astana, Nur-Sultan is Kazakhstan’s shiny, new capital.

Aside from some interesting architecture around the centre, Nur-Sultan isn’t a particularly interesting city, however, many people will arrive here on a trip backpacking in Kazakhstan.

A charming small city in the very south of the country and known as “the Texas of Kazakhstan”.

Shymkent is a good base for trips to nearby Uzbekistan (you can take a taxi to Tashkent from here).

Ancient Turkistan is the best example of Silk Road architecture in Kazakhstan.

Witness the dazzling mosques and madrassas in this historic city.

So, now you should be all set for that once in a lifetime trip backpacking Kazakhstan! It really is a fantastic place for backpackers given how easy it is to travel and the relatively low costs.

Looking for more backpacking adventures? Read my other backpacking guides:

• 1. Backpacking China
• 2. Backpacking Hong Kong
• 3. Backpacking the Balkans

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

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