Ready for your dream Kazakhstan vacation? From the modern skyline of Astana to the mountain lakes of Almaty, the steppe culture of Shymkent to the desert canyons of Mangystau, this guide outlines the ultimate Kazakhstan itinerary.
These easy-to-use itineraries help you find the best things to do in Kazakhstan—featuring futuristic architecture, petroglyphs, Soviet relics, nomadic traditions, and epic natural wonders.
Want to make your Kazakhstan trip even more special? Learn basic Kazakh before you go
- Almaty: The cultural heart of Kazakhstan, where snow-capped mountains meet leafy boulevards, buzzing cafés, and stunning hikes just minutes from downtown.
- Astana (Nur-Sultan): A futuristic capital rising from the steppe, with bold architecture, high-end shopping, and political power wrapped in glass and steel.
- Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s mini–Grand Canyon offers dramatic red rock formations, epic photo ops, and magical hikes in the Valley of Castles.
- Shymkent: A southern gem blending Silk Road history, friendly markets, and a growing food scene with sunny vibes year-round.
- Lake Kaindy: A hauntingly beautiful alpine lake known for its submerged forest—ideal for surreal kayaking and icy blue photo magic.
- Big Almaty Lake: Just outside the city, this turquoise alpine lake is a local favorite for quick escapes and picture-perfect mountain views.
- Medeu & Shymbulak: High-altitude adventures await with the world’s highest ice skating rink and a ski resort offering year-round alpine fun.
- Turkistan: A sacred Silk Road city home to the stunning Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a spiritual and architectural masterpiece.
- Kolsai Lakes: A breathtaking trio of mountain lakes in the Tian Shan range, ideal for hikers, horseback riders, and nature lovers.
💡 Kazakhstan Tips
- Cash and card are both useful: Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry Kazakhstani tenge (₸) for markets, taxis, and rural areas.
- Public transport is affordable: Buses, minibuses, and the metro (in Almaty) are cheap and reliable — get a prepaid card for ease.
- Taxis are informal: Use apps like Yandex Go or InDrive for safe, affordable rides — avoid hailing random cars.
- Russian is more common than English: Learn basic phrases in Russian or Kazakh, or use translation apps. Locals appreciate the effort.
- Tap water is not always safe: Drink bottled or filtered water, especially outside major cities.
- Dress in layers: The weather can vary dramatically by region and season — winters are harsh, and summers can be hot.
- Be respectful in mosques: Remove shoes, dress modestly, and avoid visiting during prayer times.
- Hospitality is deeply valued: If invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift and always show appreciation — guests are treated with honor.
- Use cash at markets and bazaars: Bargaining is common and expected — do it with a smile.
- Be mindful of distances: Kazakhstan is vast — plan travel between cities carefully, and consider domestic flights for long distances.
- Wi-Fi is widely available: In hotels, cafes, and shopping centers — SIM cards with data are also cheap and easy to get.
- Tipping is growing but still light: Leave 5–10% in restaurants or round up — not required but appreciated.
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan Menu
- Beshbarmak (Nationwide): The national dish — boiled meat (usually horse or lamb) served over large flat noodles and onion broth. Traditionally eaten by hand (beshbarmak means “five fingers”).
- Kazy (Steppe regions): A sausage made from seasoned, boiled horse meat — often sliced and served cold with onions and broth.
- Kuyrdak: A sautéed dish of liver, lungs, and other organ meats with onions and potatoes — rustic and hearty.
- Shashlik: Skewered and grilled meat (lamb, beef, or chicken), often marinated and served with raw onions and bread — popular street and festival food.
- Baursak: Deep-fried dough balls, soft and fluffy inside — served as a snack or dessert, often with tea.
- Lagman (Central Asia, esp. south Kazakhstan): Hand-pulled noodles in a rich meat and vegetable broth — spicy, savory, and satisfying.
- Plov (Pilaf): A rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and garlic — influenced by Uzbek cuisine and widely enjoyed.
- Manty: Large steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat (often lamb or beef) and onion — eaten with sour cream or vinegar.
- Samsa: Baked pastries stuffed with minced meat and onions — sold in bakeries and street stalls.
- Zhaya: Salted and dried horse meat — often sliced thin and served cold as a delicacy.
- Tandyr Nan: Round, crusty bread baked in a clay oven — served with nearly every meal.
- Chak-Chak: A sweet treat of deep-fried dough pieces bound with honey syrup — crunchy and sticky.
- Irimshik: Dried curd cheese — tart and chewy, often eaten as a snack or dessert in nomadic regions.
- Kumis (Steppe regions): Fermented mare’s milk — slightly sour, lightly alcoholic, and traditionally consumed in nomadic culture.
- Shubat (South Kazakhstan): Fermented camel’s milk — tangy and rich in probiotics, popular in arid regions.
- Kazakh Tea (Chay): Black tea served with milk, jam, or sweets — always accompanied by hospitality and conversation.
📅 Kazakhstan calendar
- Nauryz (Nowruz) Spring Festival (March 21, Nationwide): Kazakhstan’s biggest celebration with food, music, horse games, and yurt villages
- Tulip Blooming Season (April–May, Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve): Wildflowers, hikes, and eco-tourism
- Shymkent City Day (May, Shymkent): Folk music and colorful citywide festivities
- Victory Day Parades (May 9, Astana & Almaty): Military marches and fireworks honoring WWII veterans
- Silk Way Rally (Summer, Across Kazakhstan): International off-road racing event
- Voice of the Great Steppe Festival (June–July, Turkistan or Shymkent): Live music, nomadic art, and folk performances
- Silk Road Cultural Festival (July, Turkistan): Dancers, handicrafts, and reenactments of Silk Road life
- Eurasia Film Festival (July, Almaty): International cinema and Kazakh film showcases
- Astana Day (July 6, Astana): Concerts and fireworks celebrating the capital’s birthday
- Almaty Apple Fest (September, Almaty): Celebrating the birthplace of the apple with food and fun
- Charyn Canyon Eco Festival (October, Almaty region): Hiking, stargazing, and eco-camping in wild landscapes
- Winter Lights of Astana (December–January, Astana): Ice sculptures, light shows, and New Year festivities
- Winter Sports Season (December–March, Shymbulak & Medeu): Skiing, snowboarding, and mountain scenery