Kazakhstan

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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Kazakhstan [Updated-2026]

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November 6, 2025

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The Land of the Great Steppe: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Kazakhstan

Imagine a country so vast it could contain all of Western Europe, yet so undiscovered that you can have its most stunning landscapes entirely to yourself. A place where futuristic skylines pierce the sky above ancient Silk Road cities, and where the call to prayer echoes across endless, golden plains. This is Kazakhstan—the world’s largest landlocked country and Central Asia’s best-kept secret.

For too long, Kazakhstan existed in the periphery of global travel, known only through caricature. But today, it emerges as one of the most fascinating and rewarding destinations for the intrepid explorer. It’s a nation of staggering contrasts, where nomadic traditions coexist with a bold, modern vision, and where the hospitality of the people is as boundless as the steppe itself.

If you are a traveler who craves genuine adventure, raw nature, and a culture that will challenge your perceptions, this comprehensive guide to the best places to visit and things to do in Kazakhstan is your starting point.

Why Visit Kazakhstan? The Case for a Pioneering Journey

Kazakhstan is not a typical holiday; it’s an expedition into the heart of Eurasia. Here’s why it should be on your bucket list:

A Landscape of Epic Proportions: From the otherworldly canyonlands of Charyn to the celestial peaks of the Tian Shan mountains and the serene waters of Lake Kaindy, Kazakhstan’s natural diversity is breathtaking.
The Spirit of Nomadism: This is the land where horseback culture began. You can still feel this ancient spirit in the traditions, the food, and the profound connection to the land.
A Fusion of Cultures: As a historical crossroads, Kazakhstan is a vibrant mosaic of Kazakh, Russian, Uzbek, and other cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and daily life.
Ease of Travel: Thanks to a progressive visa-free regime for many nationalities and a growing tourism infrastructure, exploring this vast country is more accessible than ever.

Part 1: The Crown Jewels – Unmissable Places to Visit

1. Nur-Sultan (Astana): The City of the Future

In 2019, the capital was renamed Nur-Sultan, but its futuristic soul remains unchanged. This planned city is a spectacular and sometimes surreal display of 21st-century ambition, rising from the flat northern steppe.

Key Attractions in Nur-Sultan:

Bayterek Tower: The city’s symbol, representing a poplar tree holding a golden egg. Take the elevator to the viewing deck for a panoramic view of the city’s eclectic skyline and place your hand in the golden imprint of Kazakhstan’s first president.
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: The world’s largest tent-like structure, designed by Norman Foster. Inside, you’ll find a shopping mall, a waterpark, and a beach resort—a tropical paradise in the middle of the harsh steppe.
Hazret Sultan Mosque & Nur-Astana Mosque: Two magnificent mosques that showcase Islamic architecture on a grand scale, representing the country’s deep spiritual heritage.
The National Museum of Kazakhstan: A colossal museum that offers a deep and engaging dive into the nation’s history, from ancient artifacts to its modern independence.

2. Almaty: The Garden City with a Mountain Backdrop

The former capital, Almaty, is often considered the nation’s cultural and cosmopolitan soul. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, it’s a green, lively city with a more relaxed and historic feel.

Why Almaty is a must-visit:

Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral: A beautiful green space centered around a stunning, brightly colored Russian Orthodox cathedral built entirely of wood without a single nail.
Kok Tobe Hill: Accessible by a scenic cable car, this hill offers the best view of Almaty. Visit the TV tower, meet the famous bronze Beatles statue, and enjoy the family-friendly attractions.
Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazar): A sensory overload in the best way possible. Immerse yourself in the sounds, smells, and colors of a traditional Central Asian market, from mounds of spices to delicious dried fruits and horse meat.

3. Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

Often called the “Little Brother of the Grand Canyon,” this comparison doesn’t quite do Charyn Canyon justice. Located about 200 km east of Almaty, this geological marvel is a 80-kilometer-long maze of red-rock formations carved by the Charyn River over 12 million years.

The Valley of Castles: The most accessible and impressive section, where you can hike among towering, wind-sculpted pillars that resemble ancient fortresses and mythical creatures, especially at sunrise or sunset.

4. Altyn Emel National Park: A Desert of Singing Dunes

This massive national park is a protected area of desert, mountain, and steppe landscapes, home to several unique natural phenomena.

Highlights of Altyn Emel:

The Singing Dune (Barkhan Sands): A massive, crescent-shaped dune that stretches for over 3 km and reaches a height of 150 meters. When the sand is dry and the wind is right, it produces a low, haunting hum—a true natural wonder.
The Aktau & Katutau Mountains: These are not mountains in the traditional sense, but rather stunningly colorful, striped hills of sedimentary rock and ancient volcanic formations, resembling a painter’s palette.

5. The Kolsai Lakes & Lake Kaindy: The Pearls of the Tian Shan

Nestled in the Tian Shan mountains south of Almaty, this trio of lakes is arguably the most beautiful natural attraction in Kazakhstan.

Kolsai Lakes 1, 2, & 3: A chain of three stunning alpine lakes, each more remote and pristine than the last. The hike between them offers some of the country’s best trekking, through pine forests and meadows.
Lake Kaindy: A short drive from the Kolsai Lakes, this lake is famous for the ghostly, sunken forest of Schrenk’s spruce trees that rise from its turquoise waters. Formed by a massive earthquake in 1911, it’s a surreal and breathtaking sight, especially for divers and snorkelers.

6. Turkistan: The Spiritual Capital of the Steppe

In the southern region, the ancient city of Turkistan holds immense religious and historical significance.

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this incomplete but magnificent 14th-century mausoleum is a masterpiece of Timurid architecture. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kazakhstan and the broader region.

Part 2: An Action-Packed Itinerary – Top Things To Do

1. Go Eagle Hunting with a Berkutchi

Live out a historical fantasy by meeting a traditional Berkutchi (eagle hunter). This ancient Kazakh tradition, where hunters use trained golden eagles to hunt foxes and hares, is a dying art. You can witness breathtaking demonstrations, often arranged through tour operators, where the power and bond between hunter and eagle are on full display.

2. Stay in a Yurt on the Steppe

To truly understand the soul of Kazakhstan, you must spend a night in a traditional yurt. Whether on the shores of Lake Kaindy, in the Altyn Emel park, or on a homestay in a rural village, this is a chance to experience legendary Kazakh hospitality, share a meal with a family, and sleep under a blanket of stars as nomads have for centuries.

3. Horse Trekking in the Tian Shan Mountains

The horse is central to Kazakh identity. There is no better way to connect with the landscape than on horseback. Go on a multi-day horse trek from the Kolsai Lakes or in the valleys around Almaty. It’s an immersive way to access remote areas and feel the freedom of the steppe.

4. Hike to the Big Almaty Lake

Just a short drive from the city center, the Big Almaty Lake is a stunning, alpine reservoir nestled at an altitude of 2,511 meters. Its brilliant turquoise color, which changes with the seasons, is mesmerizing. The surrounding Ile-Alatau National Park offers fantastic hiking trails for all levels.

5. Indulge in the Kazakh Cuisine

Kazakh food is hearty, meat-centric, and designed to sustain a nomadic lifestyle.

Beshbarmak: The national dish, meaning “five fingers,” is a feast of boiled horse or lamb meat served over wide noodles and onions, traditionally eaten with one’s hands.
Plov: A Central Asian staple of rice, carrots, and meat, cooked in a large kazan (cauldron).
Kumys: Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional and acquired-taste beverage believed to have health benefits.
Baursaks: Delicious, fluffy, fried dough balls, often served as a welcome snack with tea.

6. Ski at Shymbulak Resort

Just 25 minutes from Almaty, Shymbulak is Central Asia’s premier ski resort. With modern facilities and reliable snow from November to May, it offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding with incredible views of the surrounding peaks. It’s also a popular hiking destination in the summer.

7. Soak in the Charyn Canyon at Sunrise or Sunset

The colors of Charyn Canyon are at their most dramatic during the golden hours. Plan your visit to be there for sunrise or sunset. The way the low light paints the red and orange rock formations is a photographer’s dream and a truly magical experience.

Part 3: Essential Travel Tips for Kazakhstan

A little preparation will make your Kazakh adventure smooth and rewarding.

Visa & Documentation:

Kazakhstan offers a visa-free regime for citizens of the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries for stays of up to 30 days. Always double-check the latest requirements for your nationality before traveling.
Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.

Getting Around:

Domestic Flights: Essential for covering the vast distances between Nur-Sultan and Almaty. Airlines like Air Astana and SCAT offer reliable service.
Trains: A classic and comfortable way to travel. The overnight train between Nur-Sultan and Almaty is a highly recommended experience. New high-speed trains (Talgo) have cut travel times significantly.
Renting a Car: The best way for ultimate freedom, especially for reaching national parks. A 4×4 is recommended for more remote areas. Be prepared for long, straight, and sometimes monotonous drives across the steppe.
Buses & Marshrutkas: Shared minivans (marshrutkas) and intercity buses are cheap and connect most towns, but can be crowded and less comfortable for long journeys.

Money & Costs:

Currency: The Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). US Dollars and Euros are easy to exchange in cities, but you will need Tenge for almost all transactions.
Costs: Kazakhstan is very affordable for Western travelers. Accommodation, food, and transport offer excellent value for money.
Cards & Cash: Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but you will need cash for rural areas, markets, and smaller establishments.

Language & Culture:

Languages: Kazakh and Russian are both official languages. Russian is the lingua franca and is spoken by almost everyone. English is not widely spoken outside of the tourism industry in Nur-Sultan and Almaty.
A Few Phrases:
- Hello: Sälem (Kazakh) / Zdravstvuyte (Russian)
- Thank you: Rakhmet (Kazakh) / Spasibo (Russian)
Culture: Kazakh culture is deeply rooted in hospitality. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home. A respectful and patient demeanor will be greatly appreciated.

What to Pack:

Layers: The climate is extreme, with hot summers and bitterly cold winters. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, regardless of the season.
Sturdy Footwear: Essential for hiking in the canyons and mountains.
Sun Protection: The sun can be intense on the steppe and in the mountains.
A Universal Power Adapter: Type C and F plugs are standard.
A Sense of Adventure and Flexibility: Schedules can be fluid, and the unexpected is part of the journey.

Conclusion: Your Kazakh Odyssey Awaits

Kazakhstan is a country that defies easy description. It’s the thrill of watching a golden eagle soar, the silence of a million stars over a yurt camp, the awe of standing on the edge of a timeless canyon, and the warmth of a shared bowl of beshbarmak with new friends.

This is a destination for the traveler who has seen the classics and is now searching for a frontier—a place where the journey itself is the destination, and the stories you bring back will be unlike any others.

By visiting Kazakhstan, you are not just a tourist; you are an explorer on the path of nomads, traders, and adventurers. You are witnessing a nation confidently stepping onto the world stage while holding firmly to its ancient soul.

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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Kazakhstan [Updated-2026]

The Land of the Great Steppe: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Kazakhstan

Why Visit Kazakhstan? The Case for a Pioneering Journey

Part 1: The Crown Jewels – Unmissable Places to Visit

1. Nur-Sultan (Astana): The City of the Future

2. Almaty: The Garden City with a Mountain Backdrop

3. Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

4. Altyn Emel National Park: A Desert of Singing Dunes

5. The Kolsai Lakes & Lake Kaindy: The Pearls of the Tian Shan

6. Turkistan: The Spiritual Capital of the Steppe

Part 2: An Action-Packed Itinerary – Top Things To Do

1. Go Eagle Hunting with a Berkutchi

2. Stay in a Yurt on the Steppe

3. Horse Trekking in the Tian Shan Mountains

4. Hike to the Big Almaty Lake

5. Indulge in the Kazakh Cuisine

6. Ski at Shymbulak Resort

7. Soak in the Charyn Canyon at Sunrise or Sunset

Part 3: Essential Travel Tips for Kazakhstan

Conclusion: Your Kazakh Odyssey Awaits

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