Kazakhstan travel guide: Almaty, Astana and steppe escapes
Kazakhstan pairs contemporary city life with open steppe landscapes and mountain scenery. For a first visit, combine Almaty with nearby nature; add Astana when you have time for a separate city connection.
Visa details last checked: 28 October 2026What to know before visiting Kazakhstan
When planning a Kazakhstan tour, account for distance and transport as carefully as the sights. Almaty, Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon can fit a regional itinerary, while Astana may require a separate flight or a long overland journey. Build the route around season, road conditions and the landscapes you want to see.
Places to explore
Almaty
Kok-Tobe, Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral make a compact mix of city culture and views. Check current conditions for Medeu and Shymbulak.
Kolsai Lakes
A nature-focused stop for mountain lakes and walking scenery. Plan road time and overnight stays separately from the city portion.
Charyn Canyon
Known for canyon walks and photography in the Almaty region. Summer heat and winter road conditions can affect the day plan.
Astana
Bayterek, Nur Alem and the Ishim River showcase the capital’s contemporary architecture.
Local food to try
Beshbarmak
A traditional meat and dough dish; preparation and serving style vary by region.
Baursak
Small fried dough pieces often served with tea or alongside a meal.
Tea culture
Ask about ingredients and suitability when trying local drinks; tea is central to everyday hospitality.
A route to consider
- 01
Almaty city and food
Ease into the trip with the historic centre, parks, markets and local dishes; reserve separate time for mountain viewpoints.
- 02
Lakes and canyon
Plan Kolsai and Charyn around road conditions. A guided trip or private transfer can simplify logistics.
- 03
Optional Astana extension
Add a flight connection and intercity time before committing to a capital-city extension.
Before you go
- Kazakhstan is vast; avoid squeezing too many regions into one short trip.
- Mountain weather and road conditions can differ sharply from the city.
- Plan local payments, mobile data and transfers before arrival.
Entry and visa notes
A Turkish Consulate in Almaty travel note dated 24 November 2025 describes visa-free stays for Turkish citizens under the rule effective 25 August 2025, up to 90 total days in each 180-day period, and advises at least six months of passport validity. Recheck passport-specific and current entry conditions before travel.
Entry rules depend on nationality, passport type and purpose of travel. Recheck official guidance before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Can Turkish citizens visit Kazakhstan without a visa?+
The official consular note describes visa-free stays of up to 90 total days in each 180-day period under the rule effective 25 August 2025. Reconfirm passport and entry conditions before departure.
Where should a first Kazakhstan itinerary begin?+
Almaty is a practical starting point for city life, mountain views and nearby nature. Add Astana as a separate leg if you want to see the capital’s modern architecture.