Kazakhstan Travel Guide

Language & Culture

Kazakhstan’s official languages are Kazakh and Russian. Kazakh is the state language, while Russian is widely spoken, especially in urban areas. The culture is deeply influenced by a nomadic heritage, and the country has a rich history of traditional music, dance, and art, alongside its Soviet past.

Kazakh hospitality is renowned, and guests are treated with great respect. Music is an essential part of Kazakh culture, with traditional instruments such as the dombyra (a two-stringed instrument) and kobyz (a bowed string instrument) featured in many performances.

Top Destinations

• Almaty: The largest city in Kazakhstan, offering a mix of modern attractions and nearby natural beauty, such as the Big Almaty Lake and the Medeu skating rink.
• Astana (Nur-Sultan): The futuristic capital city, known for its contemporary architecture like the Bayterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr shopping center.
• The Charyn Canyon: Often referred to as “Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon,” this stunning natural formation is located in the southeast of the country.
• The Altai Mountains: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its pristine wilderness and unique wildlife.
• The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkistan, this is one of the most important architectural monuments of the Timurid period.

Festivals & Events

• Nauryz: The traditional Kazakh New Year, celebrated on March 21st, with parades, music, and feasts.
• Almaty Film Festival: Held annually in Almaty, it showcases regional and international films and attracts filmmakers and cinema lovers.
• Steppe Wolf Music Festival: A festival featuring local and international artists performing in the beautiful Kazakh steppe.
• Kazakh Traditional Games: An annual event where locals showcase ancient games like kokpar (a horseback game) and kures (wrestling).

Best Hotels

• InterContinental Almaty – A luxury hotel with modern amenities, located in the heart of Almaty.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty – A five-star hotel offering panoramic views of the Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountains.
• Raiymbek Park Hotel – A more affordable hotel with good service and location in Almaty.

Local Cuisine

Kazakh cuisine is hearty and traditionally meat-based, with dishes such as besbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (horse meat sausage). Other popular dishes include shashlik (skewered grilled meat), manti (steamed dumplings), and kymyz (fermented mare’s milk).

The use of dairy products, like ayran (yogurt drink) and shubat (fermented camel’s milk), is common in everyday meals.

Transportation

Kazakhstan has an extensive transportation network, including modern highways, a train system, and a metro in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Local buses and taxis are available in most cities, with ride-hailing services such as Yandex.Taxi and Uber popular in larger urban areas.

Weather & Climate

Kazakhstan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is milder.

Winters can be harsh, especially in the northern regions, with temperatures dropping below -20°C (-4°F), while summers can see temperatures above 30°C (86°F) in southern regions.

Back Up Plan and Flight Route

Most international flights to Kazakhstan arrive at Almaty International Airport (ALA) or Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (TSE). Flights are often available from major hubs such as Moscow, Istanbul, Dubai, and Frankfurt.

Airports, International and Domestic Flights

Safety & Health

Kazakhstan is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate in most regions. However, it’s always advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.

Currency & Costs

The official currency is the Kazakh Tenge (KZT). Prices in Kazakhstan are affordable compared to Western countries, though tourist hotspots can be more expensive.

Housing Rental

Rental prices in Kazakhstan are relatively low compared to Western cities. A one-bedroom apartment in Almaty or Nur-Sultan will cost between $300 to $600 per month, depending on the location.

Cost of Living

Shopping & Souvenirs

Kazakhstan is famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as embroidered tapestries, felt products, and handmade jewelry. The capital and major cities have large markets where tourists can buy souvenirs like shapan (traditional Kazakh robes), kimeshek (headscarves), and camel wool products.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Kazakhstan’s nightlife scene is vibrant, especially in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. The cities have a variety of bars, nightclubs, and music venues. Traditional music performances, along with contemporary clubs offering electronic and hip-hop music, make for an exciting night out.

Travel Tips

• Carry a power adapter as Kazakhstan uses Type C, E, and F plugs (220V).
• Learn a few basic Russian or Kazakh phrases, especially in rural areas.
• When traveling between cities, consider taking a domestic flight, as distances are vast.

Etiquette & Customs

Kazakh people are known for their hospitality. When visiting someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift. Respect for elders is very important in Kazakh culture. Additionally, dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Useful Resources

For more information on travel and tourism in Kazakhstan, check the official tourism website: www.kazakhstan.travel

Basic Language Tips

• Hello: Сәлеметсіз бе? (Salemetsiz be?)
• Thank You: Рахмет (Rahmet)
• Goodbye: Қош болыңыз (Kosh bolyngyz)
• Yes: Иә (Iä)
• No: Жоқ (Joq)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)