7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a country that surprises you in the best way. I’d barely arrived when I realised just how vast, varied, and underexplored it is.

From the jagged peaks of the Tien Shan to the rolling emptiness of the steppe, Kazakhstan is all about big landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and a level of adventure that feels rare these days.

If you’re drawn to places that are a bit off the radar, but still easy enough to travel around, Kazakhstan deserves a spot on your travel list. Here’s why.

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1. Vast and Varied Natural Landscapes

Kazakhstan is a nature lover’s dream.

You’ve got dramatic canyons, alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and desert all in one place.

Hike through the Tien Shan or Altai Mountains, camp by the crystal-clear Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes, or explore the eerie, wind-sculpted formations of Charyn Canyon.

If you want to get even further off the beaten track, there are many remote and untouched regions. Like Altyn-Emel National Park, with its mysterious singing dunes.

Or, venture into the epic vastness of the Kazakh steppe.

And unlike more famous destinations, you won’t be jostling for space with tour groups. Half the time, it felt like I had these wild places completely to myself.

2. Rich and Diverse Cultures

Kazakhstan’s cultural identity has been shaped by centuries of migration, empire, and nomadic life.

You’ll notice a blend of Russian, Turkic, Persian, and Central Asian influences. But the nomadic traditions are what stand out most to me.

One of the best ways to experience this is by spending time with local families in the countryside.

Stay in a yurt on the Kegen Plateau and learn how they make traditional felt by hand – a slow, intricate process that’s been passed down for generations.

You might see kokpar matches (a kind of tug-of-war on horseback with a goat carcass). Try falconry, or eat with locals who still live semi-nomadic lives in summer pastures.

It’s not preserved for tourists – this is still very much part of Kazakh identity today.

3. Modern Cities with a Twist

Kazakhstan’s cities might not be the first thing that draws you in, but they’re more interesting than you might expect.

Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) is a purpose-built capital with futuristic architecture and massive open spaces.

It’s surreal in parts, with buildings that look like they belong in a sci-fi film. The Bayterek Tower is probably the most iconic.

The city doesn’t have the buzz of Almaty, but it’s worth a visit to see how modern Kazakhstan sees itself.

Almaty, though, is where the soul is. It’s a laid-back, mountain-backed city with leafy streets, cafes, craft beer, and a thriving arts scene.

You can be hiking in the hills within 30 minutes of the city centre, and eating fresh lagman noodles an hour later.

Elsewhere, cities like Shymkent and Aqtobe offer a more local experience, with fewer international visitors but plenty of regional character and history.

4. Tasty and Unique Cuisine

Kazakh food is hearty, rich, and often meat-heavy, but it’s surprisingly varied too.

Try beshbarmak, a national dish made with boiled meat (usually horse or beef) and wide noodles.

Shashlik (grilled skewers), plov (spiced rice with meat and vegetables), and manti (steamed dumplings) are easy to find and cheap.

For something more adventurous, there’s kumis – fermented mare’s milk. It’s an acquired taste (to say the least), but it’s a big part of Kazakh nomadic culture.

Locals will often offer it to you with pride, and it’s polite to at least try a sip.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, look out for baursaki (deep-fried dough balls, often served with jam or honey) and chak-chak (crunchy bites drenched in syrup).

5. Outdoor Adventures

Kazakhstan is made for slow travel and outdoor exploration.

You can trek through alpine valleys, ride horses across the steppe, ski at Shymbulak in winter, or paraglide over green meadows in summer.

Some of the best hiking is around the Kolsay Lakes. The trails are stunning, and you barely see anyone outside of peak weekends.

Camping is easy, and wild camping is generally allowed. If you prefer more comfort, many rural areas have basic but cosy guesthouses or yurt stays.

Kazakhstan is also great for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Especially in remote national parks like Aksu-Zhabagly or Korgalzhyn, where you can see wild tulips in spring or flamingos on salt lakes.

6. Historical and Archaeological Sites

Kazakhstan has a deep and complex history, shaped by ancient civilisations, Silk Road traders, and nomadic empires.

If you’re into archaeology or lesser-known UNESCO sites, there’s a lot to explore.

In Turkistan, the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is one of the most important religious sites in Central Asia.

Built in the 14th century, it’s a striking example of Timurid architecture and still draws pilgrims from across the region.

You can also visit Otrar, once a thriving Silk Road city that was destroyed by the Mongols. Today, it’s mostly ruins, but you can walk among them and imagine what life here once looked like.

Tamgaly-Tas is another fascinating spot. The cliffs are covered in petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings), including depictions of Buddha and scenes from daily life.

It’s quiet, atmospheric, and totally uncommercialised.

7. Festivals and Events

If you’re lucky enough to time your visit with a local festival, you’ll get a completely different perspective on Kazakh culture.

The biggest celebration is Nauryz, the spring equinox festival held every March. It marks the start of the new year and is celebrated with open-air concerts, traditional games, dance, and food.

Families gather for feasts in the parks, people dress in traditional clothes, and yurts are set up in city squares.

In summer, the Almaty Silk Road Festival is another highlight. It features music, theatre, and crafts from across Central Asia, often with performances in both Kazakh and Russian.

If you’re travelling independently, it’s worth checking festival calendars and planning around them.

Additional Information on Visiting Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan Travel Tips:

• Kazakhstan is a safe destination to visit, but it’s wise to exercise the usual precautions, especially in crowded areas.
• The official language is Kazakh, but Russian is also widely spoken. English is spoken by some young people and professionals, especially in urban areas.
• Kazakhstan’s vastness can make internal travel a bit challenging, so plan your transportation in advance.

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan:

• Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Summer (July to August) is perfect for exploring the beautiful mountains and enjoying various festivals.
• Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and experiencing the unique winter landscapes of Kazakhstan. Be warned though, it can get extremely cold!

Top Destinations to Visit:

• Almaty: The cultural heart of Kazakhstan with its modern amenities and stunning mountain backdrop.
• Astana (Nur-Sultan): The futuristic capital city with unique architecture and cultural attractions.
• Charyn Canyon: Hike through the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia” and marvel at its unique rock formations.
• Altyn Emel National Park: A vast and otherworldly landscape of bizarre rock formations and singing dunes.
• Altai Mountains: Embark on an adventure in this remote region known for its pristine nature and nomadic culture.
• Turkestan: A historic Silk Road city with beautiful medieval mausoleums and a bustling bazaar.

Final Thoughts

Kazakhstan is a destination that beckons the curious and rewards the adventurous.

It’s a country of space, silence, and surprises. You can hike all day without seeing another soul, share meals with strangers who treat you like family, and learn about a culture that’s still deeply connected to its nomadic roots.

If you want to explore somewhere totally different from the typical, well-trodden tourist routes, then Kazakhstan is the place for you.

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