Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport serves as Kazakhstan’s main gateway to Central Asia. Located about 16 kilometers northeast of the capital, Almaty, this airport handles both domestic and international flights connecting travelers from around the world. With modern terminals, efficient customs processes and a range of shops or dining options, it provides a practical starting point for exploring Almaty’s mountains and culture. The facility features clear signage in multiple languages to help visitors navigate easily while waiting at gates or collecting baggage.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) £1 ≈ KZT 607.52 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming increasingly common in Kazakhstan, especially in major cities like Almaty and Astana. Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are gaining popularity.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping in Kazakhstan is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 10% is common if no service charge is included. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary, typically rounding up the fare. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted in Kazakhstan, and drinking alcohol in public spaces such as parks and streets is prohibited. It is allowed in licensed venues like restaurants and cafes. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in most indoor public spaces, including restaurants and public transport. Designated smoking areas are available in certain locations. |
| Kazakhstan Independence Day (16 December) |
Celebrations across the country with events and performances |
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| Nauryz (21–23 March) |
Traditional spring holiday with cultural events, food, and festivals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (General), 103 (Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Yandex.Taxi, Uber |
| Other: | Kazakhstan is a vast country with diverse landscapes ranging from steppes to mountains. It offers a mix of cultural experiences but may present challenges in rural regions. |
Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport is positioned approximately 17 km west of Nur-Sultan city center. The airport boasts two modern terminals: Terminal 1 for international traffic and Terminal 2 for domestic flights, both linked by a walkway. Opened in 2017, Terminal 1 expanded the airport's capacity and modernized passenger services.
Passengers appreciate the airport's spacious, clean terminals offering complimentary Wi-Fi, numerous shops, cafes and comfortable waiting areas. The airport is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring good signage and facilities for disabled travelers. However, some travelers note that during peak periods, immigration lines can be long.
The airport features premium lounges like the Sapar Lounge, which provide a quiet and comfortable space with food, beverages, Wi-Fi and workstations – a welcome retreat for business and leisure travelers alike. Security is thorough and staff are generally helpful, though knowledge of Russian or Kazakh can enhance communication outside English-speaking areas.
While there aren’t many activities directly inside the airport, its location and services make it the ideal starting point for exploring the city, known for its unique architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Located in the international terminal, this lounge offers a quiet atmosphere with snacks, drinks, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, flight information displays, and business facilities. Access is available to business-class passengers, priority pass holders, and pay-in visitors.
The domestic terminal lounge provides a similar offering of comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and workspace. Open to domestic business-class travellers and guests with lounge memberships or paid access.
Nur-Sultan offers a wide range of accommodations near the airport and around the city, from international hotels like Hilton and Radisson Blue to comfortable boutique options. Many hotels provide shuttle services to the airport for convenience.
To Nur-Sultan City Center:
The airport lies about 15-20 minutes by car from the city centre via the A1 highway. Options include official taxis, ride-sharing apps like Yandex Taxi, and airport shuttle buses. Taxi fares are generally reasonable, but it’s advisable to confirm prices beforehand or use app-based rides for transparency. Public transport is limited for airport access, so private transport is recommended for comfort.
To Karaganda:
Approximately 200 kilometres southwest, accessible via domestic flights or a 3-hour drive by hire car or private taxi. Booking flights in advance is advised as daily services can be limited.
To Pavlodar:
About 550 kilometres northeast by air, with regular domestic flights from NQZ. Ground transport options like trains or buses exist but are time-consuming compared to direct flights.
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