Kazakhstan is a country of endless horizons, rich traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Covering more land than all of Western Europe, it is a place where ancient nomadic heritage meets modern cities. The vast steppes, dramatic canyons, and towering mountains shape both the land and the culture of its people.

In the south, Almaty sits against the backdrop of the Tian Shan mountains, offering tree-lined streets, busy markets, and easy escapes into nature. Just outside the city, Medeu, the world’s highest ice-skating rink, and Shymbulak, a top ski resort, draw visitors year-round. The capital, Nur-Sultan, stands in contrast—a futuristic city rising from the steppe, filled with bold architecture and modern landmarks.

Nature lovers will find Charyn Canyon, often called Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon, where towering rock formations change color in the shifting light. In Altyn-Emel National Park, the mysterious Singing Dunes hum as the wind moves the sand. Further east, Kaindy Lake hides a forest beneath its turquoise waters, its sunken trees standing like silent guardians beneath the surface.

Despite modern development, Kazakh nomadic traditions remain strong. Families still gather in yurts, eagle hunters showcase their skills in the mountains, and traditional food is shared as a sign of hospitality. Beshbarmak, the national dish, is a feast meant for special gatherings, while kumis, a fermented mare’s milk, is a taste of the nomadic way of life.

Kazakhstan is a land of contrasts, where history, nature, and innovation exist side by side. Whether you’re exploring its vast wilderness, experiencing local traditions, or taking in the energy of its cities, there’s something here for every traveler.

In this guide, we’ll take you through Kazakhstan’s must-visit places, local flavors, and the best way to stay connected while exploring.

Must-See Attractions in Kazakhstan

Almaty: Where Mountains Meet the City

Once the capital, Almaty remains Kazakhstan’s cultural and economic heart. With tree-lined streets, lively markets, and a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, it’s a city that blends urban energy with nature. Stroll through Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, or ride the cable car to Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views. Just outside the city, Shymbulak ski resort and Big Almaty Lake offer easy escapes into the mountains.

Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

Stretching over 150 km, Charyn Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder carved by wind and water over millions of years. The Valley of Castles, with its towering red rock formations, is the most famous part of the canyon. Hikers can follow the winding trails, while those short on time can enjoy the views from the rim. It’s an incredible sight, especially at sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow in shades of orange and gold.

The Singing Dunes: A Desert That Sings

In Altyn-Emel National Park, a strange natural phenomenon occurs—the Singing Dunes hum as the wind moves across their surface. The deep, vibrating sound can be heard from far away, earning them their name. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with sweeping views of the desert and distant mountains.

Nur-Sultan: A Futuristic Capital

Kazakhstan’s modern capital is a city of bold architecture and ambitious design. Walk through Nurzhol Boulevard, where futuristic buildings like Baiterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center create a skyline like no other. Inside the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a glass pyramid designed by Norman Foster, world leaders meet for interfaith discussions. Despite its modern look, Nur-Sultan still holds strong connections to Kazakh traditions.

Medeu: The World’s Highest Ice Rink

Just outside Almaty, Medeu is a legendary outdoor skating rink sitting at 1,691 meters above sea level. Built in Soviet times, it remains a favorite spot for winter sports lovers. Even if you’re not skating, the surrounding mountains make for a stunning setting. In summer, it’s a great starting point for hikes to Shymbulak and beyond.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Kazakhstan

Beshbarmak – The National Dish

Beshbarmak, meaning "five fingers," is the heart of Kazakh cuisine. Traditionally eaten by hand, this dish consists of boiled meat (usually lamb or horse) served over wide, flat noodles and topped with a flavorful onion broth. It’s a meal meant for sharing, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations.

Kazy – A Unique Horse Meat Sausage

Kazakhstan has a long tradition of horse breeding, and kazy is one of the most distinctive dishes. This homemade sausage is prepared with seasoned horse meat, aged and air-dried for rich flavor. It’s usually served alongside beshbarmak or as part of a traditional cold appetizer platter.

Shashlik – Skewered and Grilled Perfection

Kazakh cuisine is known for its love of grilled meat, and shashlik is a must-try. These skewers of marinated lamb, beef, or chicken are cooked over an open flame and served with fresh onions and vinegar. Street vendors and restaurants across the country serve this smoky, flavorful dish.

Baursak – Fried Dough Treats

These golden, fluffy pieces of fried dough are a staple at Kazakh celebrations. Lightly sweet and often served with honey, jam, or even butter, baursak is a favorite snack that pairs perfectly with tea.

Kurt – Savory Cheese Bites

For a truly local taste, try kurt—small, salty balls of dried fermented cheese. Made from cow, goat, or sheep’s milk, they have a strong, tangy flavor and were traditionally carried by nomads as a long-lasting, energy-packed snack.

Essential Travel Tips for Kazakhstan

Money & Payments

• The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Cash is widely used, especially outside major cities.
• Credit cards work well in Almaty, Astana, and other large cities, but in smaller towns and markets, cash is preferred.
• ATMs are easy to find in urban areas but can be scarce in remote regions, so it’s best to withdraw cash before heading out of the city.
• Currency exchange offices are available, but always check rates and possible fees before exchanging money.

Getting Around

• Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover Kazakhstan’s vast distances, with major airlines connecting key cities.
• Trains offer a budget-friendly option, with comfortable sleeper cars for long routes.
• Buses and marshrutkas (shared minibuses) connect towns and cities, but schedules may not always be reliable.
• In cities, Yandex Go and inDriver are the best taxi apps. If using a regular taxi, agree on the price before starting the ride to avoid overpaying.

Staying Safe

• Kazakhstan is a safe country for travelers, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Avoid unofficial taxis, as some drivers charge higher rates for tourists.
• Traveling to remote areas? Bring extra food, water, and fuel, as gas stations and shops can be far apart.
• Winters can be extremely cold, while summers bring high temperatures. Pack accordingly for the season.
• Tap water is generally safe in cities, but in rural areas, bottled water is the safer option.

Staying Connected in Kazakhstan

Reliable internet is a must when traveling, whether you’re navigating Almaty, exploring the vast steppes, or sharing your journey from the Charyn Canyon. Public Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafés, and shopping centers, but outside major cities, connections can be unreliable. Even in urban areas, public networks may not always be secure, putting your personal data at risk.

Buying a local SIM card is an option for travelers. The process is straightforward—you’ll need to show your passport for registration. SIM cards are sold at official provider stores, which are mostly found in larger cities. However, finding an office, waiting in line, and completing the registration process can take time, especially if you arrive late or have a busy schedule.

With Kazakhstan JetSet eSIM, you can skip these steps entirely. Order it before your trip and activate it the moment you land. No searching for a provider, no waiting in line—just instant connectivity.

Our plans have no roaming fees, so you won’t face unexpected charges. If you ever need more data, simply purchase another eSIM online in just a few clicks.

Stay connected, stay secure—explore Kazakhstan with ease!