Kazakhstan Tours 2027 & 2028

The diversity of this world’s ninth largest country is jaw-dropping. Radiating out from Almaty, snow-capped mountains frame the Big Almaty Lake, Medeu Gorge, and Shymbulak Resort. To the east, Charyn Canyon and Altyn Emel National Parks showcase Mars-like landforms and rare ancient flora, while the Kolsai Lakes and sunken forests of Kaindy Lake will reward those who venture into the alpine areas. The westernmost Mangystau is charming with more desolate ocean ruins.

Culturally, the Ascension Cathedral in Almaty and monuments in Taraz, Shymkent, and Turkestan bring the country’s Russian and Silk Road past to life. What sharply contrasts is Astana’s futuristic skyline. Besides, the Kazakhs’ nomadic traditions are still alive, as is self-evident in a falcon hunting demonstration.

Yes. Violent crimes are quite rare, but for absolute safety, please refrain from wandering around after 22:00. Continuous vigilance is needed for pickpocketing in bazaars and overcharging taxis. Thus, always keep your bags in front of you and detour those ‘enthusiastic’ drivers. Download the Yandex Go or inDrive app for real-time costs, and tick off ‘pay in cash’ to deflect the double charge.

Generally, the best window is April to June and September to October. The average temperature hovers around 16℃ (60.8℉), with generous sunlight, lush meadows, and accessible alpine lakes and hike routes. Considering dramatically switched mountain climate, it is advised to pack in layers: a light down-jacket, a windproof shell, and moisture-wicking base layers. Meanwhile, a pair of good-grip shoes, sunglasses, and brimmed sunhats are necessary for a lot of hikes.

However, please avoid traveling from November to March, with the temperature averaging between -19℃ and 2℃ (-2.2-35.6℉), unless you aim to ski in the Shymbulak Resort. Moreover, although July and August are peak seasons, think twice before heading southward for Silk Road cities or to the Altyn Emel, where the temperature can soar to 45℃ (113℉).

They are still off-the-radar destinations, so the main consideration is landscape types. Kyrgyzstan offers intensive alpine hikes and wilder, more immersive nomadic experiences, while Kazakhstan stands out with surreal sceneries in nearly every corner, complemented by vibrant city life and Islamic beliefs. The latter is more superior in terms of convenience. Of course, if you have a two-week holiday, just cover both of them to find the answer!

The national dish is Beshbarmak, rich in flavor with thin-and-wide noodles topped with tender horse meat stewed in broth and pieced onions, carrots, and potatoes. If you don’t get used to horse meat, the mutton version is also available. It is often served with the national drink, Kumis, fermented mare’s milk. Try it moderately to avoid suffering from diarrhea.