20 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a country that truly surprised me. Before I came here, I hadn’t appreciated quite how huge, diverse, and beautiful it is.
From dramatic canyons that rival the Grand Canyon to ultramodern cities and traditional yurt stays, Kazakhstan offers an incredible range of experiences.
Here’s my pick of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, rich history, or nomadic cultures, this Central Asian gem is a unique and fascinating place to explore.
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1. Almaty
Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest city, framed by the towering Tien Shan mountains. It’s my favourite city in Kazakhstan, and one of my favourite places in all of Central Asia.
When I first arrived, I was really struck by how clean, green, and attractive Almaty is. It’s a prosperous modern metropolis that flows seamlessly into nature.

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Kok Tobe hill was one of the highlights for me. Ride the cable car up to the top where you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city spread out below.
Grab a snack at one of the cafes at the top, then wander around the small amusement park to stretch your legs.
Another great spot is the Medeu Ice Skating Rink. It’s the highest outdoor rink in the world. Even if you don’t skate, the fresh mountain air and incredible scenery make it worth the trip.
You can also hike or take the cable car from Medeu up to Shymbulak, one of Central Asia’s premier ski resorts.

I visited in late summer so there was no snow, but most of the restaurants and bars were still open. It’s a really pleasant and scenic place to spend an afternoon.
Once you’re back down in Almaty, if you want to learn more about Kazakh heritage, visit the Central State Museum.
I spent a rainy afternoon exploring its exhibits on nomadic culture, as well as the country’s more recent history.
And the Arasan Baths are the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. This grand Soviet-era bathhouse is one of the best in Central Asia, with a mix of Russian, Turkish, and Finnish steam rooms.
I spent an afternoon here rotating between the different saunas, cooling off in the plunge pools, and just soaking up the old-school atmosphere.
It’s a proper local experience, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even get a traditional venik massage – a vigorous beating with birch branches that’s meant to improve circulation.
Make time to enjoy Almaty’s diverse food scene. It’s a great place to try a few local Kazakh dishes like besbarmaq or pilaf, as well as high-quality international options.
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit Almaty, with milder temperatures ideal for museum-hopping and exploring the city on foot.
Almaty blends culture and adventure in one place. It’s the perfect base to explore more of Kazakhstan.
2. Astana (Nur-Sultan)
Astana, previously called Nur-Sultan, is Kazakhstan’s futuristic capital. Its unique skyline looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie set.
Bayterek Tower is a symbol of the city. Its golden sphere offers panoramic views over Astana and the Ishim River. Standing at the top, you get an amazing perspective of a city that’s constantly reinventing itself.

Khan Shatyr is another favourite of mine. This massive tent-like structure has shops, restaurants, and even an indoor beach. It’s a fun spot to explore when you want a break from the elements outside.
The Hazrat Sultan Mosque is one of the city’s most elegant landmarks. Its white marble exterior and peaceful interior made me feel surprisingly calm in the midst of all the modern architecture.
Astana winters are long and extremely cold. Spring and autumn bring milder weather, which helps if you plan on walking around to take in the sights.
3. Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon is sometimes called Kazakhstan’s version of the Grand Canyon. I remember standing on the rim and feeling tiny next to the towering red and orange cliffs.
The Valley of Castles is the most famous part. These rock formations look like they’ve been carefully sculpted over thousands of years.

The hiking trails here can be rocky, so wear decent shoes. Bring water and a sun hat – shade is limited.
The canyon is a photographer’s dream. Every bend in the trail offers a new angle.
4. Lake Kaindy
Lake Kaindy is one of the strangest and most striking lakes I’ve ever seen. Its turquoise water hides a sunken forest, where tree trunks poke eerily above the surface.
I took a kayak out one morning and felt like I was gliding over a submerged world.
Water levels change throughout the year. If possible, try to visit in late spring or early summer, when the trunks are revealed at just the right height.

The lake is remote, which adds to the sense of adventure. You’ll want to organise transport and maybe stay in a nearby village.
That little bit of effort is so worth it once you lay eyes on this enchanting spot.
5. Altyn-Emel National Park
Altyn-Emel National Park covers a huge area of desert, mountains, and unique landmarks. I explored it on a guided tour and feel like I only scratched the surface.
The Singing Dunes were the highlight for me. On a windy afternoon, the sand produced a low hum that seemed almost otherworldly.
The Aktau Mountains are equally impressive, with layers of colour creating a natural artwork.

History buffs will love the Besshatyr Burial Mounds. Standing there, you can imagine nomadic tribes gathered in this very spot centuries ago.
Spring or autumn is the time to come here, since the park can be sweltering in midsummer.
If you’re short on time, a tour is a practical way to make sure you see these varied landscapes without worrying about getting lost.
Altyn-Emel is an extraordinary place. It still sparks my curiosity whenever I think about it.
6. Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake sits high in the Tien Shan mountains, its vivid turquoise water surrounded by dramatic peaks.
It’s fairly close to (and accessible from) Almaty, but feels like a totally different world.
Several hiking trails wind around the lake, offering spectacular views and plenty of places to pause for photos.

Even on a sunny summer day, the air can feel crisp, so remember to bring layers.
You can simply wander by the shoreline or take a longer trek to soak up more of that fresh mountain air.
7. Turkestan
Turkestan is one of the oldest cities in Kazakhstan, known for its spiritual importance and unique historical sites.
The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is the star attraction here. Standing in front of its blue dome and intricate tilework, it’s hard not to be in awe.

Inside, the atmosphere is peaceful, with visiting pilgrims and the odd curious traveller.
Beyond the mausoleum, you’ll find traditional bazaars and centuries-old buildings that add to the city’s character.
I suggest visiting in spring or autumn, when the weather is more comfortable for exploring on foot.
8. Shymkent
Shymkent has a laid-back vibe that contrasts with Kazakhstan’s bigger cities. I have a friend who lives near Central Park and spent my mornings strolling along its leafy paths, watching local families out for a walk.
The bazaars here are lively and full of energy. You can pick up fresh fruit, sample street snacks, or just wander through rows of colourful stalls.
When you need a break, stop at one of the little tea shops tucked away in the side streets, where you can practice speaking some Kazakh phrases with the friendly locals.

If you want some outdoor adventure, Sayram-Ugam National Park is only a short drive away.
9. Kolsai Lakes
The Kolsai Lakes are a trio of alpine gems hidden in lush forests and rolling hills.
Getting to the first lake is fairly straightforward, and many people come just for a day trip from Almaty.

Hiking to the second and third lakes requires more stamina and an overnight stop. But they are particularly serene and worth visiting if you have the time.
If you have camping gear, I recommend pitching beside the second lake.
10. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve
Aksu-Zhabagly is Kazakhstan’s oldest nature reserve, and you can sense its wild, unspoiled feel the moment you arrive.
Take a guided trek through Aksu Canyon, where you’ll be amazed by the sheer drops and jagged cliffs towering above.
This place is home to elusive wildlife, including ibex and eagles. There are stories of the rare snow leopard roaming these slopes, though I’ve never been lucky enough to spot one.
It’s a special corner of Kazakhstan, where you can see nature at its most untamed.
11.Tamgaly Petroglyphs
Tamgaly Petroglyphs is a UNESCO World Heritage site tucked away in a quiet valley containing thousands of ancient carvings.
Many carvings show scenes of hunting, while others feature intricate symbols that may have held spiritual importance for early nomadic cultures.

You can wander at your own pace or hire a local guide for deeper insight.
I visited in autumn, when the mild weather made it easy to explore the rocky terrain without overheating.
Tamgaly feels like a window into an ancient world, reminding you of the rich history within these landscapes.
12. Bayanaul National Park
Bayanaul National Park sits in northern Kazakhstan, known for its forested hills, granite outcrops, and peaceful lakes.
One of the highlights is Jasybay Lake, where you can swim in clear waters or lounge on the shore under the shade of pines. The scenery feels far removed from the busy pace of modern life.
Mount Akbet rewards those who climb its slopes with sweeping views of rocky peaks and rolling forests. You’ll find plenty of spots for photos and moments of quiet reflection.
13. Baikonur Cosmodrome
Baikonur Cosmodrome rises from the Kazakh desert as the world’s first and largest space launch facility.
If you manage to witness a live launch, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Even if there’s no launch on your visit, the on-site museum showcases the evolution of space travel through models and exhibits.
You can stand next to replicas of historic rockets and imagine the daring missions they carried out.
A special permit is required, and most travellers book through tour operators who arrange the paperwork and guide you through this restricted site.
14. Karkaraly National Park
Karkaraly National Park lies in central Kazakhstan, with dense pine forests that give way to rugged granite ridges.
Shaitankol Lake, also called Devil’s Lake, sits hidden among steep cliffs and tall trees. Locals share stories of its mysterious past, and wandering around its banks feels like entering a pocket of untouched wilderness.
Trekking routes crisscross the park, leading to panoramic viewpoints and secret valleys where you might catch sight of wildlife.
You can venture out alone or hire a knowledgeable guide who can show you hidden waterfalls and rare plants.
Late summer brings warm days and cool nights.
15. Mangystau Region
The Mangystau Region in southwestern Kazakhstan contains some of the most unusual landscapes in the country.
Boszhira Canyon grabs your attention with stark white cliffs that glow in the late afternoon sun. Nearby, the Valley of Balls poses a geological puzzle, as perfectly round stones lie scattered across the desert floor.
Sherkala Mountain, with its fortress-like silhouette, adds a touch of legend to this otherworldly terrain.
16. Aktau
Aktau is a coastal city on the Caspian Sea that combines beach days with desert adventures.
You can swim in the Caspian or simply watch local families unwind by the waves. Later, a visit to the Underground Mosque of Beket-Ata offers a peaceful escape in the middle of the desert.
The nearby Mangystau mountains also beckon with geological wonders shaped by wind and time. Bring sunscreen and a hat in summer, as the heat can be intense, though the sea breeze does help.
17. Karaganda
Karaganda sits in central Kazakhstan, known for its mining history and Soviet-era heritage.
Learn about its sombre past with a visit to the KarLag Museum. This former labour camp now tells the stories of those who endured its harsh conditions.
Walking through the museum is sobering. Personal accounts and authentic artefacts reveal the reality of life under Soviet repression, reminding you how recent this chapter of history is.
After seeing the museum, Central Park is a welcome spot for quiet reflection.
The EcoMuseum offered another glimpse into Karaganda’s background, with displays that track its mining operations and the environmental impact on the region.
18. Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk)
Oskemen, also called Ust-Kamenogorsk, lies in eastern Kazakhstan near the Altai mountains.
You’ll notice the blend of Russian and Kazakh influences in everything from the architecture to the local dishes.
If you love the outdoors, head to the Altai Alps for trekking or skiing, depending on the season.

Zaysan Lake is another draw, where you can spend an afternoon fishing with the friendly locals.
Within the city, the Ethno Park celebrates the region’s cultural mix, letting you learn about traditional crafts and customs.
19. Lake Balkhash
Lake Balkhash spans eastern Kazakhstan and mesmerises visitors with its half-fresh, half-salty waters.
On the western side, the water tastes fresh, and people fish comfortably in the shallows.
Move east, and you’ll find salty water that gives the lake a distinctive shimmer.
The shoreline is surprisingly peaceful, with few crowds and plenty of space to set up a picnic or dip your toes in the water.
Accommodation options are limited though, so booking ahead is essential if you want a lakeside stay.
20. Zharkent Mosque
Zharkent Mosque sits close to the Chinese border and stands out for its unusual design.
Built in the late 19th century, the mosque shows off Chinese-influenced architecture combined with Islamic traditions.
Inside, the colourful details and carved pillars reflect a cultural exchange that once thrived along this corridor of the Silk Road.

FAQs
When is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), as these seasons offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing, avoiding the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
Do I need a visa to visit Kazakhstan?
Many nationalities can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for short stays, but it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements for your country, as policies can change. For longer stays, consult the Kazakh embassy or consulate.
What’s the best way to travel around Kazakhstan?
The best way to travel around Kazakhstan depends on distance. For long distances, domestic flights are popular, while trains and buses are great for regional travel. Renting a car is ideal for exploring remote areas.
Is Kazakhstan safe for solo travellers?
Kazakhstan is generally safe for solo travellers, though it’s best to stay cautious in remote areas. Planning transport in advance for less populated regions adds an extra layer of security and convenience.
What currency is used in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s wise to carry cash when travelling to rural areas, as card services may be limited.
Final Thoughts
Kazakhstan offers a truly unique blend of landscapes and experiences. From the dramatic depths of Charyn Canyon and the serene beauty of Lake Kaindy to Almaty’s cosmopolitan streets, it’s a spectacular and exciting place to explore.
Whether you’re drawn to its wild national parks, historic cities, or vast deserts, Kazakhstan is a destination that rewards curiosity and adventure.
Check out some of my other posts on Kazakhstan and let me help you plan an unforgettable trip!
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