Kazakhstan Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Kazakhstan: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

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Top 10 Most Searched Questions About Kazakhstan

The capital of Kazakhstan is Astana, a modern city known for its futuristic architecture like the Bayterek Tower.

Many nationalities, including US, EU, and Canadian citizens, can visit visa-free for up to 30 days. Check with the Kazakhstan Government for specifics.

Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Tenge; banknotes are 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 Tenge.

Yes, Kazakhstan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Exercise caution in crowded areas like Almaty markets and remote regions.

Official languages are Kazakh and Russian. English is limited but growing in tourist areas like Astana and Almaty.

Kazakhstan is known for its vast steppes, the Silk Road city of Almaty, Baikonur Cosmodrome, and natural wonders like Charyn Canyon.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are best, with mild weather ideal for exploring Almaty or the steppes.

Kazakhstan is relatively affordable. Budget travelers can manage with hostels and local eateries, though Astana can be pricier for upscale experiences.

Tap water is not always safe to drink, especially in rural areas. Stick to bottled water, widely available in cities like Almaty.

Top spots include Astana (Bayterek Tower), Almaty (Kok-Tobe Hill), Charyn Canyon, Turkistan (Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi), and Lake Kaindy.

Kazakhstan, in Central Asia, is the ninth-largest country by land area. The capital, Astana, showcases futuristic architecture. Highlights include the vast steppes, Almaty’s Silk Road heritage, Baikonur Cosmodrome, and natural wonders like Charyn Canyon, offering a blend of culture and adventure.

Visa & Passport for Kazakhstan: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay with at least two blank pages.
  • Visa Requirements: US, EU, and Canadian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 30 days. Others should check with the Kazakhstan Government.
  • Health Entry Rules: No specific vaccinations are required, but hepatitis A and typhoid shots are recommended. Check travel health advice on the Kazakhstan Ministry of Healthcare.

Driving in Kazakhstan: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your valid license. EU and US licenses may be accepted for short stays.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.0%.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads like the Almaty-Astana highway are paved but can be uneven. Rural roads may be unpaved—use a 4x4 for areas like Charyn Canyon.
  • Parking: Parking is straightforward in Astana and Almaty, but avoid leaving valuables in your car. Use paid lots in city centers.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited in remote areas—plan ahead.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Kazakhstan Travel.

Kazakhstan Currency: Using the Tenge for Your Trip

  • Kazakhstani Tenge: Kazakhstan uses the Tenge (KZT). Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Tenge; banknotes are 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 Tenge.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices in Almaty or Astana—avoid street vendors due to scams. US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas.
  • Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in cities like Astana and Almaty, but cash is king in rural areas and markets like the Green Bazaar.
  • ATMs: ATMs are widely available in cities but scarce in rural areas. Use ATMs at banks like Kazkommertsbank for better rates and reliability.

Kazakhstan Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public intoxication can result in fines—drink responsibly.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local traditions, especially in rural areas. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography of government buildings, military sites, or border areas is prohibited—exercise caution near Baikonur Cosmodrome.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Homosexuality is legal but not widely accepted—be discreet.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring 2 liters of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000 USD equivalent upon entry or exit.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact local police or tourist offices in Astana or Almaty.

Travel Safety in Kazakhstan: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan is generally safe, but petty theft can occur in markets like Almaty’s Green Bazaar—keep valuables secure.
  • Road Safety: Roads can be challenging, especially in winter—watch for ice. Rural driving requires caution due to livestock crossings and poor signage.
  • Health Risks: Hepatitis A and typhoid are risks—get vaccinated. Tap water may not be safe in rural areas—use bottled water.
  • Natural Hazards: Winters (November-March) are harsh, with temperatures dropping below -20°C in Astana—dress warmly. Earthquakes are possible in Almaty—be prepared.
  • Medical Facilities: Healthcare in Astana and Almaty is decent, with clinics like the Presidential Hospital. Rural areas have limited facilities—travel insurance is recommended.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. Pharmacies in cities stock basic medications—bring supplies for rural travel.
  • Public Transport Safety: Buses and taxis in Almaty are generally safe but can be crowded—use apps like Yandex Go for reliable taxis.

Flights to Kazakhstan: Travel Options

Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) in Astana and Almaty International Airport (ALA) are the main gateways, with flights from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Many routes connect via Istanbul or Moscow.