Why Kazakhstan Should Be on Your Travel List
Kazakhstan is one of the world's great undiscovered travel destinations. The size of Western Europe, it contains an astonishing variety of landscapes — snow-capped mountains, vast steppes, dramatic canyons, shimmering salt flats, and lush green valleys. Add to this two remarkably distinct cities, a rich nomadic culture, and a tourism infrastructure that has been steadily improving, and you have the ingredients for a genuinely extraordinary journey.
Top Destinations in Kazakhstan
1. Astana (Nur-Sultan) — The City of the Future
Kazakhstan's capital is one of the world's most architecturally ambitious cities. Built largely from scratch on the open steppe starting in 1997, Astana is a showcase of bold, futuristic architecture designed by some of the world's leading architects. Must-see landmarks include the Bayterek Tower (a golden orb atop a 97-metre structure symbolizing the mythical tree of life), the Khan Shatyr entertainment centre (a giant transparent tent covering a tropical beach resort inside), and the sweeping presidential boulevard lined with striking government buildings.
2. Almaty — The Cultural Heart
The former capital and largest city, Almaty sits at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains and combines Central Asian charm with a cosmopolitan energy. The city is famous for its vibrant food scene, museums, galleries, and nightlife. Day trips from Almaty lead to stunning natural sites including Big Almaty Lake, the Charyn Canyon (often compared to the Grand Canyon), and the Kolsai Lakes.
3. Turkestan — Ancient Silk Road City
One of Central Asia's most important historical sites, Turkestan is home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a 14th-century architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is undergoing a massive cultural restoration project and is increasingly positioned as Kazakhstan's spiritual and historical capital.
4. The Altai Mountains
In Kazakhstan's far east, the Altai Mountains offer world-class trekking, camping, and wildlife encounters. This is also the heartland of the traditional eagle hunting culture. The landscapes here — rivers, glaciers, forests, and open alpine meadows — are breathtaking and largely untouched by mass tourism.
5. Bozzhyra and the Ustyurt Plateau
For adventurous travelers, the Bozzhyra valley in the Mangystau region offers some of the most otherworldly scenery in all of Central Asia. Chalky white rock formations rise dramatically from a vast lunar plateau. The nearby Caspian coast adds another dimension to the region's dramatic landscapes.
Practical Travel Tips
| Topic | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Visa | Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Check the official list before traveling. |
| Currency | Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Cards accepted in cities; carry cash for rural areas. |
| Language | Kazakh and Russian are both widely spoken. English is growing in cities. |
| Best Season | May–September for most regions. Ski season in Almaty runs November–March. |
| Getting Around | Domestic flights connect major cities. Train travel is scenic but slow. Car hire recommended for remote areas. |
Respecting Local Culture While Traveling
- Accept hospitality generously — refusing tea or food can be seen as rude.
- Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in traditional dress or at religious sites.
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques or mausoleums.
- Learning a few basic words in Kazakh (rahmet = thank you, salam = hello) will earn you genuine warmth.
Kazakhstan Awaits
Kazakhstan rewards the curious traveler with experiences that are genuinely rare in an age of over-touristed destinations. Whether you're drawn to ancient history, extreme landscapes, urban architecture, or cultural immersion, this vast and varied country delivers. The infrastructure is in place, the welcome is warm, and the crowds haven't arrived yet — now is the perfect time to go.