Introducing Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia and the world's largest landlocked country, ranking ninth in terms of land area. It borders the Caspian Sea to the west, Russia to the north, the People's Republic of China to the southeast, and Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan to the south.
In northern Kazakhstan, there are forest and lake resource tourist resorts represented by the world-famous Kurgalgino and Naurzum Nature Reserves and Lake Balkhash; in addition, there are the Altai Mountains, the Irtysh River, Lake Alakol, Lake Zaysan, etc.
Kazakhstan is located in the high-latitude area west of the Pamir Plateau, and has world-famous natural landscapes such as the Altai Mountains, the Eryarka Steppe, the Charyn Canyon, the Karajye Depression, and Lake Balkhash.
Climate and best time to travel
Kazakhstan has a continental climate with warm and pleasant weather, where you can escape the heat in the summer and go skiing in the winter.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Charyn Canyon
The canyon was formed in the early Tertiary period 30 million years ago due to the action of crustal movement. Locals compare it with the Grand Canyon in Colorado, USA.
Karajye Depression
The depression is the second lowest point in the world, 132 meters below sea level. The world's largest inland lake, the Caspian Sea, is located here.
Recommended play time: 2-3 days
Most Popular FAQs for Kazakhstan
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world, historically home to nomadic tribes and part of the Silk Road. It was incorporated into the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991. The country is significant for its cultural diversity, natural resources, nomadic heritage, and strategic location between Europe and Asia.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Kazakhstan is in Central Asia, bordered by Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Key entry points are Almaty International Airport and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport. Within cities, taxis, buses, and metros are available; walking is feasible in city centers like Almaty and Astana.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions are open from 9:00–18:00.
- Best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Museums and historical sites typically charge between $2–$10 USD.
- National parks and natural reserves may have small entry fees per person or vehicle.
- Tickets are usually purchased onsite; some major attractions offer online booking.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for guided tours, national park visits, or UNESCO sites, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead. General city attractions usually do not require pre-booking.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
10–14 days to explore major cities, natural parks, mountains, and cultural sites. Longer trips allow for off-the-beaten-path regions in eastern or western Kazakhstan.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Almaty – Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, Kok-Tobe Hill
- Astana (Nur-Sultan) – Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
- Charyn Canyon and Big Almaty Lake
- Turkestan – Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
- Tian Shan Mountains and national parks
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Russian, Kazakh, and English at major cities, national parks, and historical sites. Audio guides are limited but sometimes offered in museums.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Kok-Tobe Hill in Almaty for panoramic city views
- Charyn Canyon for dramatic landscapes
- Bayterek Tower and Astana skyline
- Big Almaty Lake surrounded by mountains
- Turkestan Mausoleum complex
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Days 1–3: Almaty city and nearby mountains
- Days 4–5: Charyn Canyon and Big Almaty Lake
- Days 6–7: Travel to Astana/Nur-Sultan for modern architecture
- Days 8–9: Turkestan and southern cultural sites
- Days 10–12: Optional steppe regions, nomadic yurt experiences, or eastern Kazakhstan
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Some city landmarks like Bayterek Tower and Kok-Tobe have night lighting. Festivals, cultural events, and special tours may be available seasonally.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Major cities can be moderately busy; tourist sites in natural parks are less crowded on weekdays and outside summer holidays.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Cities offer full facilities: cafes, restaurants, toilets, shopping centers
- National parks and mountain areas have limited facilities; bring essentials
- Some tourist sites provide rest areas and souvenir shops
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Urban attractions are generally accessible
- Mountain trails and canyons require moderate fitness
- Wheelchair access is limited at natural or historic sites
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash (Kazakhstani tenge) is widely used; cards and mobile payments are accepted in cities but less so in remote areas.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Urban restaurants in Almaty and Astana serving Kazakh, Russian, and international cuisine
- Cafes near tourist landmarks and malls
- Local eateries near natural parks and tourist sites
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but available in major cities. Halal food is widely available due to the Muslim population.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and hostels in Almaty and Astana
- Eco-lodges near mountains and national parks
- Guesthouses and yurts for cultural experiences in rural areas
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Altyn-Emel National Park near Almaty
- Kazakh Steppe regions for cultural tours
- Lake Balkhash and surrounding nature reserves
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops in cities and tourist areas
- Traditional crafts, Kazakh carpets, felt products, and local jewelry
- Local food products like dried fruits and horse milk (kumis)
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Domestic flights to eastern or western Kazakhstan
- Train and long-distance bus networks between major cities
- Rental cars for exploring remote natural regions
