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WHY BOOK A TRIP TO KAZAKHSTAN?
This massive country, the world’s ninth biggest to be exact, has a wonderful mix of reasons for people to visit, with old traditions enduring alongside ultramodern development.
Cities like the capital, Astana, have been transformed into a shiny 21st century destination, with a unique architectural style all of its own.
Meanwhile, events like the biennial World Nomad Games show a strong link to the country’s past and its special cultural identity.
All of this is found in a country with amazing forests, deserts, lakes and mountains, making it a must-visit place for anyone who has a strong sense of adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What’s the best time of year to visit Kazakhstan?
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is from April to May or September to October, when the weather is mild. However, the summer is still a great time to visit, with the warmer weather bringing along lush green nature, perfect for trekking and other outdoor activities.
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What’s the climate like?
Kazakhstan’s weather is very contrasting depending on which season you visit, with long, hot summers and freezing cold winters. In some parts of the country, temperatures can drop to -45°C (-49°F) in January and February, while the summer frequently exceeds 30°C (86°F).
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What's the currency in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstani tenge
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What’s the local language in Kazakhstan?
Kazakh is one of two official languages spoken throughout the country, with Russian being the other. The latter is more commonly used in business, government, and as a lingua franca between ethnic groups.
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What time zone is Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan’s time zone is GMT+5, putting it five hours ahead of the UK, 10 hours ahead of New York and 13 hours ahead of LA.
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Top places to visit in Kazakhstan
- Almaty – the biggest city in Kazakhstan and home to a fantastic mix of amazing architecture, a modern way of life and breathtaking nature, with the Alatau mountains providing a magnificent backdrop
- Lake Balkhash – a stunning natural lake in the country’s south east that is the 15th largest in the world, with beaches to relax on and more than 100 different species of bird to look out for
- Astana – the capital city of Kazakhstan, formerly known as Nur-Sultan, is home to some fascinating works of architecture, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center and the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, among many others
- Charyn Canyon – a 150m-300m-deep canyon carved into an otherwise flat steppe that has some amazing natural views, including the wonderfully named Valley of Castles
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What are the top five local dishes to try?
- Besbarmak – this very traditional dish isn’t for everybody, but it’s a staple for the locals and contains big flat noodles, coated in a broth and either beef, lamb, camel or horse meat, usually boiled
- Syrne – slow-cooked lamb, roasted over a fire until the meat is tender, served alongside potatoes and vegetables
- Irimshik – a curd made by boiling milk for hours at a time and mixing it with a sourdough, irimshik is described as having a surprisingly sweet taste, given it’s made without sugar
- Koktal – one of few Kazakh fish dishes, smoked with slices of tomato, onions and peppers and served with lemon
- Baursak – big chunks of dough deep-fried in oil and served either as a side dish next to a main, or as a snack with a cup of traditional tea