Kazakhstan, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history, offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors. This guide provides essential information and tips to help you prepare for your 10-12 day tour of Kazakhstan, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Tour Overview

This 10-12 day tour of Kazakhstan covers key destinations including Almaty, Astana, Shymkent, Aktau, and Karaganda. Each location offers unique experiences, from vibrant urban life and cultural immersion to natural beauty and historical exploration.

Travel Preparation

Visas and Documentation: Ensure you have a valid passport. Most travelers require a visa to enter Kazakhstan, which can be obtained on arrival or in advance. Check the specific visa requirements for your country before travel.

Health and Safety: Kazakhstan has good healthcare facilities. No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s recommended to have routine vaccinations up to date. Travel insurance with health coverage is advisable.

Currency and Banking: The Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in remote areas.

Packing Essentials: Pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Depending on the season, bring light clothing for summer or warm layers for winter. A good quality hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a travel adapter are essential. Don’t forget your camera to capture Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. In general, casual and comfortable attire is suitable for most occasions.

Respect for Traditions: Greet people with a friendly “Salemetsiz be” (hello) and use “Rakhmet” (thank you) to show appreciation. Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and rural areas.

Language: Kazakh is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Kazakh or Russian phrases can be appreciated by locals.

Food and Drink: Kazakh cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes. Must-try foods include beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), kazy (horsemeat sausage), and laghman (noodle soup). Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Transportation

Flights: Almaty International Airport and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Astana are the main international gateways. Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations.

Road Travel: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Kazakhstan. The country has a well-maintained road network. Ensure you have a valid international driving permit.

Public Transport: Kazakhstan has a reliable public transport network, including buses and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Yandex.Taxi operate in major cities.

Tour Highlights

Almaty: Explore the Zenkov Cathedral, Central State Museum, Kok Tobe Hill, Green Bazaar, and Almaty Opera House. Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon.

Astana: Visit Bayterek Tower, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, National Museum of Kazakhstan, Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, and Hazret Sultan Mosque.

Shymkent: Discover Shymkent Plaza, Regional Museum, and Abay Park. Take a day trip to Turkistan to visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.

Aktau: Relax on the Caspian Sea beaches, visit the Aktau Lighthouse, and explore the Regional Museum.

Karaganda: Visit the KarLag Museum, Regional Museum, and Central Park. Explore the city’s Soviet-era architecture.