Visit Kazakhstan: Tours, Guides, Drivers

The largest country in Central Asia known to be the trailblazer of Black Gold and the largest exporter of oil is steadily becoming the fulcrum for tourism. One of the most scintillating countries with sky scrapping buildings along with exorbitant mountain ranges excites the inner traveler of everyone. If you wonder how to get to Kazakhstan, you've come to the right page!

Tips for traveling to Kazakhstan

Best Time to visit Kazakhstan

April until October are the best months to visit Kazakhstan because the weather is mild and dry. Between May and September, the temperature in most areas is pretty good to handle. Spring is a very pleasant time for a visit when everything including the desert is blooming. The southern parts can be very hot in summer meaning over 40 degrees in the cities. If you want to do some trekking in the south and east of Kazakhstan, then the right time would be July and August because otherwise there might still be too much snow around. The winter can be bitter cold especially in the steppes around Astana. But if you want to do some skiing, then visit Kazakhstan between December and March.

Visa to Kazakhstan

The good news is Kazakhstan allows a citizen of around 60 countries to travel without a visa. People from European countries, the USA, Canada, Latin American countries, Australia, Japan, South Korea among others can travel visa-free. The validity of the visa is 30 days and in total one can stay for 90 days out of 180 days.

Immigration Registration

Up until recently, an immigration form was handed out on arrival, and registration with the immigration office was required. Luckily, in 2020 this rule was abolished.

Money

The currency of Kazakhstan is Kazakh Tenge (KZT). Approx. 1 USD = 412 KZT. You might perceive at first that Kazakhstan is expensive among other Asian countries but it is relatively budget-friendly and inexpensive.

The country has relatively well managed and plentiful ATM card amenities throughout in big cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan. However, carry cash in abundance in case of emergency. One can easily exchange Euros or USD in banks and airport offices but hark back to some currency of the neighbouring countries that can’t be exchanged.

Transport

Cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan have a relatively upstanding connection to all the significant international airports. Many budget-friendly flights operate from Europe. Keep looking for deals and discounts on flights as you might get fortunate. Citizens from neighbouring countries like Kyrgyzstan, China, Russia, and Uzbekistan can also travel by bus and train. Almaty and Nur-Sultan have an efficient public transport system. You can even opt for cabs if you are on an auxiliary budget.

Accommodation

Being a contemporary country as it is, you can find manifold hotels. Nur-Sultan, Almaty, Turkestan are brimming with luxurious hotels with international standards. In smaller cities, you can find an ample amount of 2-4 star stay options. If you’re on a budget, don’t be disheartened, numerous hostels and homestays (in the countryside) provide budget-friendly options.

Departure

The departure procedure is not aggregated and rather just like any other. However, we tend to do an abundance of retail therapy so keep in mind to get hold of the bills of every handicraft or souvenir that you acquire as customs might ask you to present the printed document of the particular item. Save yourself from getting into any vexation for a misunderstanding.

Kazakhstan is a relatively liberal country compared to other Central Asian countries so there are no notable rules for foreigners. Carry comfortable clothes and shoes and you’re set to explore the most distinctive country in the world! 

Kazakhstan being the largest country in Central Asia and sparsely populated is booming with visitors from all over the world. 

If you’re not convinced yet, we’re going to state some reasons why you should visit Kazakhstan.

Why you should visit Kazakhstan?

Venture for Nature

If you are a nature enthusiast, Kazakhstan has the trek for you. Kazakhstan is one such treasure trove that was undiscovered for many ages and unknown to the world. There’s not even a single element that you can't find here. Take the example of Almaty, which is unique and features everything from mountain tops to sand dunes. It hosts an abundance of lakes, forests all topped with crystal clear sky which adds to its beauty. You will be amazed by the sheer wilderness of Mother Nature who created such diversity in one place. Travelers are bound to be awe-struck when they witness so much untouched nature.

Folklore and Culture of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a land of long history and strong traditions. The most cultural legacy is based on their nomadic heritage which dates back hundreds of years ago. Although urban Kazakhs have adapted to contemporary lifestyles, the old traditions and eating habits are still very much in use. Especially in the villages in the countryside.

People of Kazakhstan

Any given country is best proclaimed by the people. The people of this country are warm, friendly, welcoming, and humble. It will carve an everlasting impression in your mind. They are full of traditional values along with urbanized thinking, which is something rarely found.

Food and Drinks of Kazakhstan

Kazakh food mostly consists of meat in any form. Be it grilled, boiled, roasted, or stewed. If you’re a true meat lover, you have hit the jackpot. But there are also vegetarian options available. Especially in the big cities. One of their specialtiy is the beshbarmak which is eaten on special occasions in every household and consists of multiple pasta layers, lots of veggies, horse meat or sheep meat and a bit of broth. Horse meat is a thing in Kazakhstan and it is the base of a lot of their dishes. Served in a humongous flat dish plate, it is best eaten when shared by hand.

For all the international food lovers, Almaty is a huge arena of restaurants and cafes selling various cuisines. You can get Thai, Mexican, Japanese, Indian, and Italian food, and even vegan food.

Inexplicable Cities

This country is brimmed with remote villages filled with culture and traditions to hi-tech cities with high rise buildings and astonishing architecture like Nur-Sultan. Also, if you are mesmerized with Pinterest worthy pictures of Alaska and Switzerland, you can spot the exact scintillating views in Almaty or Katon-Karagay. And various other destinations bring super cool photo opportunities like Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lakes, Mangistau, or Turkistan. Your itinerary and take a backpacking trip to all these places and unravel the buried treasure.

Safety

Kazakhstan is considered a safe country. You can wander even late at night and still feel safe. No cases of looting, harassment are reported by the tourists. Like in every big city of the world, general safety precautions are required.

Entertainment & Shopping

From large shopping arcades to numerous entertainment options, you can find almost anything in this country. For local shopping experience, explore their traditional Kazakh made carpets or qoshmas, bright-coloured rugs adorned in every Kazakh household.

On those long nights, when you want to nip some quality time, entertainment options are abundant. Go for a modern theatre experience, opera or ballet and if you are accompanying your kids, squander out with them to puppet performances, magic shows, and comedy gigs.

These are only a few of the zillion things you can do in Kazakhstan. In the end, what all matters is the experiences we gather in our lifetime. So don’t ponder much and book your tickets now!

Kazakhstan is like no other country. It is full of heterogeneity that will not disappoint you. It is an amalgamation of sky scrapping buildings, snow-capped mountains, and remote, authentic villages.

If you are someone who adores off the beaten travels then Kazakhstan is the place for you. To get an even better impression of this fascinating country, we will introduce you to the nature of Kazakhstan and the things to do in Kazakhstan.

Things to do in Kazakhstan

Now that you are wonderstruck by the tantalizing beauty of the nature of Kazakhstan, here are some of the many interesting sights to visit in Kazakhstan:

Shymbulak & Medeo High Mountain Skating Rink (Almaty)

Close to Almaty, you will find the world’s largest high mountain skating rink in the world, Medeo. It's situated at 1700 meters and in the Ile-Alatau National Park. You can visit the rink and get to know ice skating better. It's also fun in the summer. There are always events and concerts held. 

Keep going up to the Shymbulak Ski resort at 3000 m.a.s.l., Kazakhstan's most modern ski resort. A cable car takes you up the mountain where you can sit in a restaurant and enjoy the spectacular view or go on a hike or a more adventurous trip like quad biking.

Kolsai Lakes (Almaty region)

Crystal clear water surrounded with lush green forests, alpine trees, and the lucid sky adds up infinite beauty. It resembles the lakes of Alaska. Unleash your inner adventurer and take the hiking trip to the other two lakes which are further up the mountain. Even if hiking is not your cup of tea, consider horseback rides options. You can also spend the night in a wooden cabin.

Big Almaty Lake (Almaty region)

This magnificent turquoise lake (2511 m.a.s.l.) will take your breath away. It is only a short trip from Almaty center (1 hour if the roads are open). You might want to hike up to the observatory deck and maybe join the falconry show (usually at 5 pm) on the way back to the city. In the winter months, the road to the lake may be closed.

Charyn Canyon (Almaty region)

Popularly known as Grand Canyon’s “little brother”, is the second-largest canyon in the world. Move from lush greenery to orange rock formations as it justifies the diversity in its true form. There is also an option for sleeping in the gorge close to the river. Good options to see the mesmerizing colours of the rock formations in the morning.

Altyn Emel National Park (Almaty region)

Altyn Emel National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the vast and captivating landscapes of Kazakhstan. This natural paradise offers an extraordinary journey into the heart of untouched wilderness, where awe-inspiring beauty and remarkable biodiversity await. Prepare to be amazed by the Singing Dune, a colossal sand dune stretching over three kilometers. As the wind whispers through the grains of sand, a mystical melody emanates, creating an ethereal symphony that captivates visitors. Ascend to the summit for panoramic vistas that will take your breath away.

Bayterek Tower (Nur-Sultan)

The moment you enter Nur-Sultan, you’ll envision an astounding building that almost resembles a tree holding an egg. This herculean building is 97 meters high and represents Nur-Sultan (formerly known as Astana) when it became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997. Scorch into some sky-high views.

Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center (Nur-Sultan)

The Miltonian structure of this building attracts everyone’s attention whoever visits Nur-Sultan. The 500 feet high tent lies in the centre of the city, is well desired by all. There are shops, restaurants, an in-house amusement park, a mini boating river for the children, a mini-golf arcade and even an indoor pool with a beach! Keep eyeing as they host bountiful events there.

Burabay National Park (Nur-Sultan)

Burabay, the pearl town of this region stretches up to Burabay Lake. Go for intense treks amidst the woody trees and enamel stricken sky.

Turkestan (South)

Go for historic buildings and magnificent mosques. Ramble into the popular bazaars, soak yourself in the scents, sound, and taste of the local Kazakh culture. Enjoy the market atmosphere and shop your heart out.

Mangystau (West)

Hire a professional guide here to uncover the wonders of the Mangystau region. Famous for its colourful water, imbue yourself in nature to witness real-life paradise.

Altai (East)

Located East of Kazakhstan near the Altai Mountains, the 'golden mountains', looks like another planet. Capture the imperishable beauty of the gigantic waterfalls, flora, and fauna. This is a very remote and untouched region where you will find nature at its best.