Kazakhstan Tours

English is not widely spoken outside major cities and tourist areas. In cities like Almaty and Astana (Nur-Sultan), you will find English speakers in hotels and among younger people, but learning some basic Russian or Kazakh phrases is recommended for easier communication.

For a thorough exploration of Kazakhstan's diverse landscapes and key cities, a visit of at least two weeks is recommended. This allows time to travel between major sites and enjoy various activities without rushing.

It’s advisable to carry some Kazakhstani tenge, especially for transactions in rural areas and smaller towns. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist facilities but less so in remote areas.

Kazakhstan is family-friendly, with plenty of activities for children, such as cultural festivals, museums, and outdoor adventures like horse riding and lake visits. Larger cities offer more amenities and attractions tailored to families.

The best way to get around Kazakhstan is by a combination of domestic flights for long distances and trains or rental cars for regional travel. The vast distances make air travel efficient for reaching far-flung areas quickly.

Accommodation options range from luxury hotels in major cities to traditional guesthouses (yurts) in rural areas, offering an authentic Kazakh experience. Mid-range hotels and hostels are also available throughout the country.

Kazakhstan has two time zones: West Kazakhstan is UTC +5, and East Kazakhstan is UTC +6.

Self-guided tours are possible, especially in urban areas or well-traveled parts of the country like the Almaty region. However, for remote or wilderness areas, guided tours are advisable for safety and logistical reasons.

Guided tours are highly recommended, especially for activities like mountain trekking, cultural explorations, and wildlife expeditions. They provide invaluable insights and ensure safe and smooth travel.

Kazakhstan is accessible by international flights landing in major cities like Almaty and Astana. Overland travel from neighboring countries is also possible through various border crossings.

Major towns include Almaty, Astana (Nur-Sultan), Shymkent, Karaganda, and Aktobe. Each offers unique cultural and historical insights into Kazakhstan.

The best season for wildlife watching, particularly for bird migrations and large mammals, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months.

Try local dishes like beshbarmak (a traditional meat and noodle dish), kazy (horse meat sausage), and baursaks (fried dough balls), which reflect the nomadic culinary traditions.

Respect local customs such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home and being polite and reserved in public interactions. Hospitality is a significant part of Kazakh culture, so be prepared for generous offers of food and drink.

Many nationalities can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. However, it’s important to check the latest visa regulations based on your nationality before planning your trip.

While Kazakhstan is generally safe for travelers, standard precautions should be taken, especially in crowded places. When traveling in remote areas, it’s important to be prepared for rugged conditions and have a reliable means of communication.