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Country Facts

Capital

Astana

Size

1,052,084 sq mi (2,724,900 sq km)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Population

20,182,003

Currency

Kazakhstani Tenge

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, offers a diverse range of tourism experiences, blending its vast landscapes, rich history, and modern cities. This Central Asian nation is known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast steppes, deserts, mountains, and lakes. Visitors can explore the majestic Altai Mountains, the beautiful Charyn Canyon, and the serene Lake Balkhash. Kazakhstan’s natural diversity makes it a great destination for adventure travellers who enjoy trekking, horseback riding, and eco-tourism.

The country also boasts a fascinating history, with ancient Silk Road cities like Turkistan and Taraz featuring beautiful mausoleums and ancient ruins. Astana (now Nur-Sultan), the capital, and Almaty, the former capital, showcase Kazakhstan’s modern side, with futuristic architecture, museums, and vibrant city life.

Kazakhstan’s unique culture is a blend of nomadic traditions and contemporary influences. Visitors can experience authentic Kazakh hospitality, traditional cuisine such as beshbarmak (a meat and pasta dish), and cultural events like the Naadam Festival. The country’s growing infrastructure and warm hospitality make Kazakhstan an exciting destination for travellers looking to explore a unique and relatively untapped corner of Central Asia.

Reasons to visit Kazakhstan:

    • 1. Stunning Natural Landscapes:

      • Kazakhstan is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the vast Kazakh steppes to the towering Altai Mountains, visitors can explore deserts, alpine lakes, forests, and canyons. Notable natural sites include Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon, and Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged forest.

      2. Rich History and Silk Road Heritage:

      • As part of the ancient Silk Road, Kazakhstan has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Cities like Turkistan, home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (a UNESCO World Heritage site), offer glimpses into the region’s deep past. You can explore ancient caravanserais, fortresses, and mausoleums that reflect the country’s nomadic and Islamic traditions.

      3. Modern and Futuristic Cities:

      • Kazakhstan’s cities, particularly Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and Almaty, are a fascinating mix of modernity and tradition. Nur-Sultan is known for its futuristic architecture, such as the Bayterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr shopping mall, while Almaty offers a more relaxed, cosmopolitan vibe with beautiful parks, museums, and ski resorts.

      4. Adventure and Outdoor Activities:

      • Kazakhstan is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts. From trekking in the Tien Shan Mountains to exploring the sand dunes of the Altyn Emel National Park, the country offers numerous outdoor activities. Skiing in the Shymbulak resort near Almaty and horseback riding through the steppes are also popular activities for travellers seeking adventure.

      5. Nomadic Culture and Traditions:

      • Kazakhstan’s deep-rooted nomadic heritage offers visitors the chance to experience traditional customs. You can stay in a yurt (a traditional Kazakh tent), watch eagle hunting demonstrations, or witness traditional horse games like kokpar. The Naadam Festival celebrates these customs, offering a unique cultural immersion.

      6. Unique Cuisine:

      • Kazakh cuisine reflects the country’s nomadic history, with hearty dishes such as beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (horse meat sausage). You’ll also find influences from Russian, Uzbek, and other neighbouring cultures. Visitors can enjoy the experience of dining in traditional Kazakh settings and tasting local delicacies.

      7. Ecotourism and Biodiversity:

      • Kazakhstan is home to unique ecosystems and rare species of wildlife, making it an emerging destination for ecotourism. National parks like Aksu-Zhabagly and Karkaraly are rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and trekking through pristine natural environments.

      8. Warm Hospitality:

      • Kazakh people are known for their generous hospitality and welcoming spirit. Visitors often experience this warmth in traditional guesthouses or when invited into a local’s home to share a meal. Hospitality is a significant part of the country’s culture, and travellers are frequently treated to heartfelt generosity.

      9. Unique Soviet-Era History:

      • Kazakhstan was a key part of the Soviet Union and retains important remnants of this era. The Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest space launch facility, is still in operation and offers a fascinating glimpse into the Soviet space program. Additionally, the Semipalatinsk Test Site and Soviet architecture in cities provide insights into this significant period of Kazakhstan’s history.

      10. Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination:

      • While Kazakhstan is growing in popularity, it remains relatively unexplored compared to other destinations, offering travellers an authentic and less commercialised experience. The country’s vast landscapes, historical sites, and cultural depth provide a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

 

  • Top Attractions of Kazakhstan:

 

  • Charyn Canyon: Often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” this stunning natural wonder features dramatic red rock formations and scenic hiking trails.
  • Almaty: Kazakhstan’s largest city, known for its parks, museums, and proximity to the mountains, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modernity.
  • Lake Kaindy: A beautiful alpine lake famous for its submerged forest, offering a surreal and picturesque landscape.
  • Khan Shatyr: A unique, futuristic shopping and entertainment centre in Nur-Sultan (Astana), designed by renowned architect Norman Foster.
  • Baikonur Cosmodrome: The world’s oldest and largest space launch facility, offering a glimpse into space exploration history.
  • Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkistan, this is one of the most significant monuments of Islamic architecture in Central Asia.
  • Altyn Emel National Park: Known for its Singing Dunes, which produce a humming sound, and its diverse wildlife, including wild horses and gazelles.
  • Nur-Sultan (Astana): The capital of Kazakhstan, featuring striking modern architecture such as the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
  • Shymbulak Ski Resort: A popular ski destination located in the mountains near Almaty, offering great skiing, snowboarding, and panoramic views.
  • Kolsai Lakes: A series of three alpine lakes nestled in the mountains, ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
  • Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve: The oldest nature reserve in Central Asia, home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard.
  • Tamgaly Petroglyphs: A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient rock carvings depicting scenes from the Bronze Age.
  • Big Almaty Lake: A scenic mountain lake near Almaty, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.
  • Turkistan: A historic city on the Silk Road, home to significant Islamic monuments, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
  • Semey (Semipalatinsk Test Site): Former Soviet nuclear test site with remnants of Soviet history, offering insights into Kazakhstan’s Cold War past.

 

 

Preparing For A Trip To Kazakhstan?

Visa Information / Entry requirements to Kazakhstan

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Kazakhstan’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kazakhstan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kazakh Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Kazakhstan.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Kazakhstan, your passport must be valid for at least 30 days from the date you arrive and have at least one blank page.

If you have a visa for Kazakhstan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after your visa’s expiry date.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationality

Kazakhstan does not recognise dual nationality. If you are found to have a Kazakh passport and another passport, you will be fined and your Kazakh citizenship will be withdrawn.

Visa requirements

You can visit Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 30 days for business or tourism. You can make as many visa-free visits as you like, but you must not stay more than 90 days without a visa in any 180-day period.

To stay longer, to work or study or for other reasons, you must meet the Kazakh government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Kazakh Embassy in the UK. Also see visa information from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

You can apply for a visa from the Kazakhstan government’s visa website. Check the validity dates of your visa and any restrictions before you travel.

British nationals aged 17 or over who apply for a visa or residency must submit biometrics (fingerprints) as part of the application process.

Registering with the authorities

Your hotel or the person hosting you must register your arrival with the Kazakh authorities. They must do this within 3 working days of your arrival in Kazakhstan.

Travelling overland between Kazakhstan, Russia and Belarus

Kazakhstan, Russia and Belarus are in a single customs union. If you want to travel overland in your own vehicle between these countries, make sure your customs declaration and temporary import licence are valid for your whole stay in all 3 countries. You can extend the import licence for up to one year by contacting the customs authorities in any of the countries.

See Russia travel advice and Belarus travel advice.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Kazakhstan, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kazakhstan guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kazakhstan. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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Tourism Health Information – Kazakhstan

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 103 and ask for an ambulance. The operator answering may not speak English.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in Kazakhstan including biting insects and ticks.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kazakhstan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Basic medications such as aspirin are available without a prescription. It’s best to bring enough medication with you.

If you need prescription medication while in Kazakhstan, you will need a valid prescription either from a local doctor or your UK prescription translated into Kazakh or Russian. Medications often come under different brand names, so ask for the drug’s generic name. If they are not available locally, it may be possible to get drugs to be couriered through a private clinic, for example, International SOS clinic.

Healthcare in Kazakhstan

The medical facilities in Kazakhstan are not as advanced as in the UK. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of medical treatment or evacuation by air ambulance and repatriation. Medical staff do not typically speak English.

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Kazakhstan where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Kazakhstan.

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Weather & When To Go To Kazakhstan

  • Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate with extreme seasonal variations due to its vast size and diverse terrain. This means hot summers and cold winters, with large differences in temperature across the country.

    Seasons:

    1. Spring (March to May):
      • Weather: Spring in Kazakhstan starts chilly in March but warms up quickly, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) by May. The landscapes become lush, with blooming flowers and greenery.
      • Best For: Sightseeing and outdoor activities, like hiking and visiting historical sites. It’s a comfortable time to explore cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan.
    2. Summer (June to August):
      • Weather: Summers are hot, especially in the southern and central regions, where temperatures can reach 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F). However, mountainous areas like Almaty remain cooler, making them popular for summer holidays.
      • Best For: Hiking in the mountains, visiting lakes like Big Almaty Lake or Kolsai Lakes, and exploring Charyn Canyon. Outdoor enthusiasts will find this the best season for trekking and other adventures.
    3. Autumn (September to November):
      • Weather: Autumn brings mild and pleasant weather, especially in September, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). By November, temperatures drop to around 5°C (41°F), and some areas experience their first snow.
      • Best For: Exploring cultural sites, enjoying autumn colours in national parks like Altyn Emel, and attending festivals. The mild weather makes it a perfect time for sightseeing without the summer crowds.
    4. Winter (December to February):
      • Weather: Winters are cold and harsh, especially in the northern and central parts of the country, with temperatures plunging as low as -30°C (-22°F) in Nur-Sultan and other northern regions. Snowfall is common, creating ideal conditions for winter sports.
      • Best For: Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Shymbulak Ski Resort near Almaty. The winter landscapes are also spectacular for photography.

    Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

    • Optimal Months: The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These months offer mild temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring both urban and rural areas.
    • Summer: If you’re interested in hiking or outdoor adventures, July and August are the best months to visit the mountainous regions near Almaty.
    • Winter: For skiing and winter sports, the best time is from December to February, especially around Shymbulak and other winter resorts.

    Travel Tips

    • Clothing: Pack according to the season. Light clothing is suitable for the hot summer months, while warm, layered clothing is necessary for the winter. If visiting mountainous regions, always prepare for cooler temperatures.
    • Sunscreen and Hydration: Due to Kazakhstan’s high altitude in some areas and intense summer heat, sunscreen and staying hydrated are important during the warmer months.
    • Altitude Considerations: If trekking in the high-altitude mountains, take precautions for altitude sickness and ensure you are physically prepared for the challenges.

    Conclusion

    The best time to visit Kazakhstan depends on the activities you plan to do. Spring and autumn are perfect for cultural exploration and outdoor activities in milder weather, while summer is ideal for mountain adventures. Winter offers opportunities for skiing and experiencing Kazakhstan’s snowy landscapes. The diverse climate makes Kazakhstan a year-round destination with something to offer in every season.

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