Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Kazakhstan Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Kazakhstan – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| 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. |
|---|---|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Nauryz (21–23 March) |
Traditional spring holiday with cultural events, food, and festivals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (General), 103 (Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| 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. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
Climate and season vary by region: Almaty and the Tian Shan best for hiking June to September and skiing December to March, steppe and cities best May to September, Caspian coast hot and dry in summer
Nauryz (spring equinox festival) is celebrated 21 to 23 March, with public holidays and festivities
High mountain passes and alpine trekking routes are generally only accessible from late June to September
Don't miss
- 🏙️ Marvel at the futuristic architecture of Astana’s skyline
- 🏜️ Explore the surreal Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan’s own Grand Canyon
- 🐎 Ride horseback across the vast steppes like a nomad
- 🚡 Take a cable car up Kok Tobe Hill in Almaty
- 🌲 Hike to turquoise Kaindy Lake with its sunken forest
- 🕌 Visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Kazakhstan?
What makes Kazakhstan truly special is its remarkable diversity of experiences within a single country. You can explore futuristic architecture in the capital Astana (now Nur-Sultan), wander through ancient Silk Road sites, trek in pristine mountain wilderness or connect with nomadic traditions on the steppe - often without another tourist in sight. The country's unique position at the crossroads of civilizations has created a fascinating cultural mosaic where Islamic, Russian and nomadic influences blend together. Beyond the spectacular landscapes and cultural sites, Kazakhstan offers authentic experiences that are increasingly rare in our globalized world. The genuine hospitality of Kazakhs, who maintain their tradition of welcoming guests with open arms, creates meaningful connections. Whether you're sharing a meal with locals, attending a traditional festival or simply exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, Kazakhstan rewards adventurous travelers with experiences that feel genuinely fresh and undiscovered.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Almaty
This Central Asian hub sits beneath the snow-capped Pikes Peak, offering dramatic mountain vistas and Soviet-era architecture. While bustling with tourists near Medeu, venture toward the quiet Almaty Zoo or local bazaars for an authentic escape from the crowds. -
2
Astana
This rapidly modern capital of Kazakhstan, on the Ishim River, features the soaring Bayterek Tower and glass‑curved Khan Shatyr. Its futuristic skyline contrasts with lively bazaars; a stroll through Green Park or a kazy stall offers authentic local flavor.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Nauryz Festival (March)
-
Astana Day (July)
-
Spirit of Tengri Festival
-
Apple Festival (September)
-
Almaty Marathon
-
Khan Tengri Mountain Festival
-
National Unity Day (May)
-
Independence Day (December)
-
Astana International Contest of Kazakh Song
-
Four E Festival
Knowledge before you go
- Many nationalities get 30-day visa-free entry.
- Download Yandex Go app for affordable taxis and food delivery across cities.
- Register with hosts within 3 days of arrival at local police or hotels.
- Visit Almaty's Green Bazaar early morning for authentic Central Asian spices and horsemeat.
How to travel to Kazakhstan
Most international visitors arrive in Kazakhstan through either Astana International Airport (Nur-Sultan) or Almaty International Airport, both of which have connections to major cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa and Air Astana offer regular flights to Kazakhstan from their respective hubs. Since 2017, citizens of many countries can visit Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days, making entry much simpler than in the past. Land borders with Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are also open to foreign travelers, though crossing procedures can be time-consuming.
Access summary
- Almaty region: Fly into Almaty International Airport (ALA) from major hubs.
- Astana/central steppe: Fly to Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) internationally.
- Air Astana hub at ALA/NQZ; flag carrier, not in global alliance.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Kazakhstan
Accommodation in Kazakhstan ranges from international luxury hotels in major cities to basic guesthouses in smaller towns. Astana and Almaty offer the widest selection, including global chains and boutique hotels. In remote areas and near natural attractions, options become more limited and basic. During summer months and festivals, booking in advance is recommended. For a unique experience, consider homestays in rural areas or traditional yurt camps, which offer insights into nomadic culture.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Kazakhstan
Getting around Kazakhstan can be challenging due to its vast size, but several options exist. In major cities like Astana and Almaty, taxis and ride-sharing apps are affordable and convenient. For intercity travel, domestic flights save time over the long distances, while trains offer a more comfortable alternative to buses for ground transportation. The railway network is relatively well-developed, connecting major cities with regular service. Rental cars are available in larger cities but driving standards differ from Western countries and road conditions can be poor outside urban areas. For remote natural attractions, joining organized tours with experienced drivers is often the safest and most practical option.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Kazakhstan are around 66% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to KZT) is 5% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Kazakhstan is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in cities regarding petty theft. The biggest concerns are road safety, as driving standards differ from Western norms and potential language barriers that may complicate emergency situations.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities in major cities like Astana and Almaty are adequate for routine care, but may not meet Western standards for complex issues. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended. Bring necessary medications as specific brands may not be available.
Accessibility
Accessibility infrastructure in Kazakhstan is limited. Modern facilities in major cities may have basic accommodations for mobility-impaired travelers, but historical sites, natural attractions and public transportation present significant challenges. Advance planning and possibly hiring assistance is recommended.
Tap water
Tap water quality varies throughout Kazakhstan and is generally not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and affordable. When traveling to remote areas, carry sufficient water supplies or purification methods as access to clean drinking water may be limited.
Packing recommendations for Kazakhstan
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🪰
Insect repellent
summer
🧥
Warm winter coat
if visiting November–April
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for religious sites
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
👛
Cash in multiple currencies
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type C/F
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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