Kazakhstan Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Kazakhstan? Main activities and attractions

Almaty, the former capital, stands as the cultural heartbeat of Kazakhstan with its museums, Soviet-era monuments, and green boulevards. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Timurid architecture. In Astana, visitors marvel at iconic buildings like the Baiterek Tower and the futuristic Khan Shatyr. The city’s museums and opera houses reveal a thriving post-Soviet modern identity. For history lovers, the ancient Silk Road ruins in Otrar and Sauran unveil Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in trade across Asia.

Nature lovers can explore the Charyn Canyon, often compared to Arizona’s Grand Canyon, with trails and viewpoints perfect for adventure. The snow-capped Altai Mountains in East Kazakhstan invite hikers and skiers, while the Big Almaty Lake offers surreal alpine scenery. Traditional Kazakh cuisine, including beshbarmak and fermented mare’s milk (kumis), offers authentic flavors, especially in yurt camps on the steppes. Stargazing in the desert, eagle hunting demonstrations, and horseback trekking make for unforgettable experiences in untouched landscapes.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan goes far beyond sweeping steppes. For curious travelers, the country hides away several lesser-known treasures and mesmerizing experiences.

Venture into the Mangystau region in western Kazakhstan for a Martian-like experience. Boszhira Valley, with its chalk formations and dramatic cliffs, offers surreal desert hikes unlike anywhere else. Near the same area, visitors can discover the underground mosque of Shakpak-Ata, carved into stone and infused with mysticism.

In the center of the country lies Karkaraly National Park, a hidden gem with pine forests, granite hills, and alpine lakes. Ideal for eco-lodging, it’s a paradise for hikers, yet still spared from commercial tourism. On the Caspian coast, the port city of Aktau holds Soviet mosaics and the unexpected charm of beaches and sunsets overlooking the world’s largest lake.

In southeastern Kazakhstan, attend an eagle hunting demonstration in Nura village near Almaty, where nomadic traditions live on. For a surreal touch, visit the Saryarka wetlands, a UNESCO biosphere that attracts hundreds of migratory birds every spring.

Exploring these secluded parts of Kazakhstan allows a deeper understanding of its complex landscapes and ancient rhythms. These offbeat routes make your travel truly personal and memorable.

When to visit Kazakhstan? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Kazakhstan

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK, and US citizens don’t need a visa for stays under 30 days. A valid passport with at least six months validity is required upon entry. No invitation letter or prior registration is needed for short visits. For longer stays, consult the nearest Kazakh embassy.

🚗 Driving rules

Kazakhstan drives on the right-hand side of the road. An international driving license is required alongside your national one for car rentals. Road conditions vary; be cautious in rural areas where signage is scarce.

🔌 Electricity

Voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50 Hz. The sockets are mostly type C and F, common across Europe. Travelers from the UK or US will need an adapter.

📱 Mobile network and internet

4G coverage is good in cities like Almaty and Astana, but patchy in remote areas. Main operators include Beeline, Kcell and Tele2. Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to find at airports and stores. Data plans start around €3-5 for 5GB.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Kazakhstan is generally safe, especially in large cities. Avoid traveling near the borders with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan at night. Pickpocketing may occur in crowded bazaars. Emergency number is 112 nationally.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Drug possession is heavily penalized, even in small quantities. Drone use is restricted and may require a permit. Photography of government buildings is often prohibited.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Greetings are formal, often with a handshake. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas or when visiting mosques. Public displays of affection are best avoided. Show respect to elders and don’t interrupt conversations.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Islam is the dominant religion, followed by Orthodox Christianity. Mosques are open to respectful visitors but removing shoes and modest dress is expected. During Ramadan, show consideration for those fasting.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025