Kazakhstan is the world's ninth-largest country. Most of it is empty — vast steppe, canyon systems, and the Altai mountains in the east. Almaty is a surprisingly sophisticated base city with excellent restaurants and a direct cable car to 3,000m. The country is opening fast: visa-free for most, modern infrastructure, and almost no other tourists.
Quick Facts
capital
Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan)
best Time
May – September
visa
Visa-free for many nationalities
currency
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
language
Kazakh, Russian
altitude
Altai peaks to 4,506m
Tours From
€990
Where to Go
Regions & Highlights
🏜
Charyn Canyon
Kazakhstan's answer to the Grand Canyon. 80km of dramatic red gorges carved by the Charyn River, just 200km from Almaty. Otherworldly at sunrise.
🏙
Almaty & Ile-Alatau
The cultural capital. Soviet architecture, excellent food, and the Ile-Alatau national park at its doorstep. Cable car to Shymbulak ski resort at 3,200m.
🏞
Kolsai Lakes
Three tiered glacial lakes in the Tian Shan foothills, surrounded by spruce forest. Overnight trekking between the lakes with mountain camping.
🌾
Kazakh Steppe
The world's largest dry steppe. Endless grassland, nomadic history, and the Baiterek monument in Astana — the country's forward-looking capital.
What to Do
Experiences
- Charyn Canyon sunrise hike
- Almaty food & culture tour
- Kolsai Lakes multi-day trek
- Kazakh eagle hunter experience
- Steppe horseback riding
- Shymbulak high-altitude skiing
Before You Go
Practical Information
Getting There
Almaty has direct flights from London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Dubai, and all major regional capitals. Astana (Nur-Sultan) also has good international connections. No transit visa required for most nationalities.
Visa
Citizens of 90+ countries can visit visa-free for up to 30 days. This includes all EU countries, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan. Check current policy at mfa.kz.
Health
No mandatory vaccinations. Water quality varies — bottled water recommended. Summer in Almaty is warm (30°C), but mountain areas can get cold quickly. Bring layers for canyon and steppe trips.
Money
Cards widely accepted in Almaty. ATMs abundant. USD and EUR can be exchanged in banks and exchange offices. Outside Almaty, carry local Tenge.
Expeditions
Kazakhstan Tours
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Kazakhstan expedition
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