Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, is a Treasure Casket of unspoiled landscapes, dynamic culture, and warm hospitality. From the Tian Shan Mountains covered with their beauty alone, to the steppes, Kazakhstan is the ideal place for a backpacker who wants an off-the-beaten-track adventure, That doesn’t cost much!
You can delve into this beautiful Central Asian country without taking a huge bite out of your wallet.
Read on as we lead you through how to have an epic Kazakh backpacking adventure on the tightest of budgets. Be prepared for a cultural frenzy, breathtaking natural wonder, and life memories from arguably Earth’s most affordable and exciting destination.
How to get there:
Kazakhstan’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia makes it easily accessible by public transportation from neighboring countries. Here are the most affordable and efficient ways to reach Kazakhstan by bus and train from:
- China: Cross the border at Khorgos or Alashankou
- Russia: Take the train from Moscow or bus from Astrakhan
- Uzbekistan: Ride the bus from Tashkent or Samarkand
- Kyrgyzstan: Hop on a marshrutka (minivan) from Bishkek or Almaty
- Tajikistan: Travel by bus from Dushanbe or Khorugh
China to Kazakhstan
- Khorgos Border Crossing: Take bus 201 from Ürümqi to Khorgos ( approx. 4 hours, 50 CNY)
- Alashankou Border Crossing: Ride bus 101 from Ürümqi to Alashankou (approx. 3 hours, 30 CNY)
Russia to Kazakhstan
- Train from Moscow: Take the Trans-Siberian Railway to Astana or Almaty (approx. 70 hours, from 10,000 RUB)
- Bus from Astrakhan: Catch bus 106 to Oral (Uralsk) or Atyrau (approx. 24 hours, from 2,000 RUB)
Uzbekistan to Kazakhstan
- Bus from Tashkent: Ride bus 106 to Shymkent or Taraz (approx. 10 hours, from 50,000 UZS)
- Bus from Samarkand: Take bus 105 to Taraz or Shymkent (approx. 12 hours, from 60,000 UZS)
Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan
- Marshrutka from Bishkek: Catch marshrutka 303 to Almaty or Taraz (approx. 6 hours, from 500 KGS)
- Marshrutka from Almaty: Ride marshrutka 315 to Bishkek or Karakol (approx. 4 hours, from 400 KGS)
Tajikistan to Kazakhstan
- Bus from Dushanbe: Take bus 105 to Shymkent or Taraz (approx. 24 hours, from 200 TJS)
- Bus from Khorugh: Ride bus 106 to Almaty or Taraz (approx. 30 hours, from 250 TJS)
When to go:
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Pros:
- Fewer tourists
- Baby animals being born
- Beautiful blooming flora
- Cons:
- Some attractions still closed after winter
- Unpredictable weather
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Hot temperatures, often reaching 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F)
- Pros:
- Warm weather ideal for hiking and camping
- Festivals like Nauryz and Astana International Festival
- Longer days for exploration
- Cons:
- Peak tourist season
- Scorching heat in deserts
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Comfortable temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Pros:
- Golden foliage
- Harvest festivals
- Fewer tourists
- Cons:
- Some attractions closing for winter
- Shortening days
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Extremely cold temperatures, often below -20°C (-4°F)
- Pros:
- Skiing and snowboarding opportunities
- Unique winter landscapes
- Traditional winter festivals
- Cons:
- Harsh weather conditions
- Limited access to some attractions
Best Time to Visit
- June to September: Ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities
- April to May and September to October: Suitable for city exploration and cultural experiences
Regional Variations
- Southern regions: Warmer winters and hotter summers
- Mountainous regions: Cooler temperatures and potential snow year-round
- Desert regions: Extreme temperature fluctuations
Best Itineraries:
1 Week:
- Day 1-2: Almaty (explore city, Green Market, Panfilov Park, Kok-Tobe Hill)
- Day 3-4: Turgen Gorge (hike, camp, hot springs, scenic views)
- Day 5-6: Charyn Canyon (hike, camp, scenic views, river rafting)
- Day 7: Return to Almaty (visit Museum of Musical Instruments, Botanical Garden)
2 Weeks:
- Day 1-3: Almaty (explore city, nearby mountains, Big Almaty Lake)
- Day 4-6: Shymkent (explore city, nearby mausoleums, ancient settlement)
- Day 7-9: Turkestan (explore ancient city, mausoleums, desert landscapes)
- Day 10-12: Kyzylorda (explore city, nearby desert, Syr Darya River)
- Day 13-14: Return to Almaty (visit Issyk Lake, Trans-Ili Alatau mountains)
1 Month:
- Week 1: Almaty (explore city, nearby mountains, Big Almaty Lake)
- Week 2: Shymkent, Turkestan, Kyzylorda (explore cities, ancient sites, desert landscapes)
- Week 3: Aktau (explore city, nearby beaches, Caspian Sea)
- Week 4: Astana (explore city, nearby national parks, futuristic architecture)
3 Months:
- Month 1: Southern Kazakhstan (Almaty, Shymkent, Turkestan, Kyzylorda)
- Month 2: Western Kazakhstan (Aktau, Atyrau, Oral)
- Month 3: Northern Kazakhstan (Astana, Karaganda, Pavlodar)
Transportation:
Trains
- Kazakhstan Railways: Connects major cities like Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent
- Types of trains: High-speed, express, and slow trains
- Booking tickets: Online, at train stations, or through travel agencies
- Tips: Book in advance, especially for high-speed trains
Buses
- City buses: Connects neighborhoods and suburbs in urban areas
- Long-distance buses: Connects cities and towns
- Marshrutkas: Minivans operating on fixed routes, often cheaper than buses
- Booking tickets: At bus stations or with drivers
Marshrutkas
- Fixed routes: Connects cities, towns, and villages
- Hailing: Flag down marshrutkas on the street or at designated stops
- Paying: Pay driver or conductor during the journey
- Tips: Negotiate prices, especially for longer journeys
Taxis
- Official taxis: Licensed, metered taxis in urban areas
- Unofficial taxis: Private cars operating as taxis, often cheaper
- Booking: Hail on the street, book through apps, or ask locals
- Tips: Agree on prices beforehand, especially at night
Metro
- Almaty Metro: Single line connecting city center and suburbs
- Astana Metro: Under construction, expected to open soon
- Tickets: Buy at metro stations, validate before boarding
- Tips: Peak hours are busy, plan accordingly
Ferries
- Caspian Sea ferries: Connects Aktau and Baku (Azerbaijan)
- Booking: Through travel agencies or at ports
- Tips: Check schedules and prices in advance
Tips and Reminders
- Language: Russian and Kazakh are dominant languages, learn basic phrases
- Currency: Tenge is the local currency, have some cash handy
- Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas
- Patience: Public transportation can be unpredictable, plan for delays
Top things to do:
North Kazakhstan:
- Petropavl: Explore the historic city center, visit the Petropavl Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission).
- Kokshetau: Wander around the scenic Lake Kaindy, take a hike in the nearby hills.
- Kurgaldzhy: Visit the Kurgaldzhy Nature Reserve, spot rare birds and animals.
- Sergeevka: Explore the Sergeevka Forest, take a hike and enjoy the scenic views.
- Tobol: Visit the Tobol Historical Museum (free admission), explore the nearby Tobol River.
- Kishkenekol: Explore the Kishkenekol Nature Reserve, spot rare birds and animals.
- Bулаево: Visit the Булаево Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
East Kazakhstan:
- Ust-Kamenogorsk: Visit the Ust-Kamenogorsk Regional Museum (free admission), stroll along the Irtysh River.
- Ridder: Hike to the nearby waterfalls, explore the abandoned mines.
- Bukhtarma: Take a boat ride on the Bukhtarma Reservoir, enjoy the scenic views.
- Semey: Visit the Semey Historical Museum (free admission), explore the nearby Irtysh River.
- Chagan: Explore the Chagan Valley, take a hike and enjoy the scenic views.
- Zyryanovsk: Visit the Zyryanovsk Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
- Katonia: Explore the Katonia Nature Reserve, spot rare birds and animals.
South Kazakhstan:
- Turkestan: Visit the Mausoleum of Khawaja Ahmad Yasawi (free admission), explore the ancient city.
- Shymkent: Wander around the Green Market, visit the Shymkent Historical Museum (free admission).
- Taraz: Explore the ancient settlement of Akyrtas, visit the Taraz Historical Museum (free admission).
- Otrar: Visit the Otrar Archaeological Site, explore the ancient city.
- Sauran: Explore the ancient settlement of Sauran, visit the Sauran Historical Museum (free admission).
- Kentau: Visit the Kentau Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
- Lenger: Explore the Lenger Nature Reserve, spot rare birds and animals.
West Kazakhstan:
- Oral: Explore the Oral Regional Museum (free admission), visit the nearby Akzhaiyk River.
- Aksay: Take a stroll along the Caspian Sea coast, visit the Aksay Fort.
- Fort-Shevchenko: Learn about the history of the fort, enjoy the beach.
- Aral: Visit the Aral Museum (free admission), learn about the history of the Aral Sea.
- Kulsary: Explore the Kulsary Oil Fields, take a guided tour.
- Akzhaiyk: Explore the Akzhaiyk Nature Reserve, spot rare birds and animals.
- Karatobe: Visit the Karatobe Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
Central Kazakhstan:
- Astana: Visit the Bayterek Tower (free admission), explore the futuristic city architecture.
- Karaganda: Explore the Karaganda Regional Museum (free admission), visit the nearby coal mines.
- Temirtau: Visit the Temirtau Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
- Karkaraly: Explore the Karkaraly National Park, take a hike and enjoy the scenic views.
- Kentau: Visit the Kentau Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
- Balkhash: Explore the Balkhash Lake, take a boat ride and enjoy the scenic views.
- Ekibastuz: Visit the Ekibastuz Museum of History and Local Lore (free admission), explore the nearby hills.
Almaty Region:
- Almaty: Visit the Green Market, explore the Panfilov Park, and take a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill.
- Big Almaty Lake: Hike to the lake, enjoy the scenic views.
- Charyn Canyon: Explore the canyon, take a hike and enjoy the stunning views.
- Kolsay Lakes: Hike to the lakes, enjoy the scenic views.
- Turgen Gorge: Explore the gorge.
Food:
Kazakhstani food is a real revelation: tasty, authentic, and incredibly cheap! For a couple of dollars, one can have huge portions of beshbarmak, kuyrdak, and shashlik, with the tenderest meat, freshly cooked vegetables, and fantastic spices. The simplicity and nourishing yet flavorful character of this food is reminiscent of the best features of its nomadic roots. And the best part? It makes Kazakhstan a real foodie paradise, and you can get full with one meal from the locals for about $3-5 USD from one café or market stall. Whether through street food, trying out traditional restaurants, or shopping at bustling markets, Kazakhstani food will definitely be an unforgettable experience that’ll leave both your taste buds and wallet feeling happy!
Traditional Kazakh Cuisine
- Meat-centric: Kazakh cuisine revolves around meat, particularly beef, mutton, and horse meat.
- Nomadic influences: Traditional dishes like beshbarmak (noodle soup), kuyrdak (boiled meat), and shashlik (skewers) reflect the country’s nomadic heritage.
- Dairy products: Fermented milk products like kumis (fermented mare’s milk), shubat (camel’s milk), and katyk (yogurt) are staples.
Soviet Legacy
- Russian and Ukrainian influences: Dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and vareniki are common.
- Bread and pastry: Soviet-style bread, pastries, and cakes are widely available.
Modern-Day Cuisine
- International restaurants: Almaty and Astana offer a range of international cuisine, from Italian to Chinese.
- Fast food and cafes: Western-style fast food and cafes are becoming increasingly popular.
- Street food: Try traditional street food like shawarma, kebabs, and boorsok (fried dough).
Food Etiquette
- Respect for elders: When dining with locals, show respect to elders by waiting for them to start eating.
- Use your hands: In traditional settings, use your hands to eat, as utensils may not be provided.
- Try everything: Be adventurous and try local dishes, even if they seem unfamiliar.
Regional Specialties
- Almaty: Try the famous Almaty apples and traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak.
- Astana: Sample modern Kazakh cuisine and international restaurants.
- Rural areas: Experience traditional nomadic cuisine and hospitality.
Culture:
Kazakhstan, boasts a unique cultural identity shaped by its nomadic past, Soviet influences, and modern-day traditions. From its vibrant festivals to its warm hospitality, Kazakhstan’s culture is a fascinating blend of East and West.
Nomadic Roots
Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its nomadic past. For centuries, Kazakhs were skilled horsemen and herders, living in harmony with nature. This nomadic lifestyle influenced the country’s:
- Music and Dance: Traditional instruments like the dombra and kui, and dances like the Kara Jorga, reflect the country’s nomadic spirit.
- Art and Craftsmanship: Colorful textiles, intricate leatherwork, and ornate jewelry showcase Kazakh craftsmanship.
- Cuisine: Hearty meat-based dishes, fermented milk products, and traditional bread reflect the country’s nomadic diet.
- Yurts and Architecture: Traditional yurts and modern interpretations of nomadic architecture demonstrate the country’s connection to its past.
Soviet Legacy
Kazakhstan’s culture was also shaped by its Soviet past. The country’s:
- Language: Kazakh and Russian are official languages, with many citizens speaking both fluently.
- Education: The Soviet education system emphasized science, literature, and the arts.
- Architecture: Soviet-era buildings, monuments, and public spaces still dominate urban landscapes.
- Literature and Arts: Soviet-era writers, poets, and artists left a lasting impact on Kazakhstan’s cultural scene.
Modern-Day Traditions
Kazakhstan’s modern culture is a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. The country:
- Celebrates Festivals: Nauryz (Persian New Year), Eid al-Fitr, and Independence Day are joyously celebrated.
- Honors Hospitality: Guests are treated with warm respect, offered traditional food and drink, and invited to share stories.
- Embraces Diversity: Kazakhstan proudly celebrates its multi-ethnic heritage, with over 130 ethnic groups represented.
- Modern Arts and Culture: Contemporary art, music, and literature thrive in Kazakhstan’s urban centers.
Etiquette and Customs
When interacting with Kazakhs, remember:
- Respect Elders: Show deference to older individuals, who hold a special place in Kazakh society.
- Use Right Hand: When eating, giving or receiving something, use your right hand.
- Remove Shoes: In traditional settings, remove shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces.
- Dress Modestly: Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events.
Regional Variations
Kazakhstan’s vast territory encompasses various regions, each with unique cultural characteristics:
- North: Influenced by Russian and European cultures.
- South: Reflects Uzbek and Tajik cultural heritage.
- East: Showcases traditional Kazakh nomadic culture.
- West: Blends Kazakh and European influences.
Accommodations:
Almaty
- Best Hostel: Apple Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Party Hostel: Almaty Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Chill Hostel: Salem Hostel (starting from $3/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Kazakhstan (starting from $10/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Almaty (starting from $8/night)
Astana
- Best Hostel: Astana Hostel (starting from $10/night)
- Party Hostel: Nomad Hostel (starting from $8/night)
- Chill Hostel: Sultan Hostel (starting from $9/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Astana (starting from $15/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Astana (starting from $12/night)
Karaganda
- Best Hostel: Karaganda Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Industrial Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Guest House Karaganda (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Karaganda (starting from $12/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Karaganda (starting from $10/night)
Shymkent
- Best Hostel: Shymkent Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Sayram Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Zabros Guest House (starting from $3/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Shymkent (starting from $15/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Shymkent (starting from $12/night)
Turkestan
- Best Hostel: Turkestan Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Mausoleum Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Khan Guest House (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Turkestan (starting from $18/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Turkestan (starting from $15/night)
Pavlodar
- Best Hostel: Pavlodar Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Ob River Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Irtysh Guest House (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Pavlodar (starting from $18/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Pavlodar (starting from $15/night)
Ust-Kamenogorsk
- Best Hostel: Ust-Kamenogorsk Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Lenin Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Altai Guest House (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Ust-Kamenogorsk (starting from $20/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Ust-Kamenogorsk (starting from $18/night)
Kokshetau
- Best Hostel: Kokshetau Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Kokshe Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Burabay Guest House (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Kokshetau (starting from $18/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Kokshetau (starting from $15/night)
Taraz
- Best Hostel: Taraz Hostel (starting from $5/night)
- Party Hostel: Akyrtas Hostel (starting from $6/night)
- Chill Hostel: Guest House Taraz (starting from $4/night)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Taraz (starting from $18/night)
- Guest House: Guest House Taraz (starting from $15/night)
Nightlife:
Almaty
- Best Bar: Bar 31 (cocktail bar with live music)
- Best Club: Ibiza Club (dance club with international DJs)
- Party Area: Panfilov Park (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Soho Bar (trendy bar with live music)
- Club: Arena Club (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Dostyk Avenue (bar and club street)
Astana
- Best Bar: The View Bar (rooftop bar with city views)
- Best Club: Club 808 (dance club with international DJs)
- Party Area: Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center (nightlife complex with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Sky Bar (rooftop bar with live music)
- Club: Ibiza Astana (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Left Bank (bar and club street)
Karaganda
- Best Bar: Dublin Bar (Irish pub with live music)
- Best Club: Club 7 (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Victory Park (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Beer House (craft beer bar with live music)
- Club: Arena Karaganda (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Bukhar Zhirau Avenue (bar and club street)
Shymkent
- Best Bar: Soho Bar (trendy bar with live music)
- Best Club: Club 24 (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Independence Square (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Bar 31 (cocktail bar with live music)
- Club: Ibiza Shymkent (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Tauke Khan Avenue (bar and club street)
Turkestan
- Best Bar: Khan Bar (traditional bar with live music)
- Best Club: Club Turkestan (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Mausoleum of Khawaja Ahmad Yasawi (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Bar Turkestan (cocktail bar with live music)
- Club: Arena Turkestan (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Yassaui Street (bar and club street)
Pavlodar
- Best Bar: Bar 31 (cocktail bar with live music)
- Best Club: Club 7 (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Victory Park (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Beer House (craft beer bar with live music)
- Club: Arena Pavlodar (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Irtysh River Embankment (bar and club street)
Ust-Kamenogorsk
- Best Bar: The View Bar (rooftop bar with city views)
- Best Club: Club 808 (dance club with international DJs)
- Party Area: Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center (nightlife complex with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Sky Bar (rooftop bar with live music)
- Club: Ibiza Ust-Kamenogorsk (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Left Bank (bar and club street)
Kokshetau
- Best Bar: Soho Bar (trendy bar with live music)
- Best Club: Club 24 (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Independence Square (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Bar 31 (cocktail bar with live music)
- Club: Ibiza Kokshetau (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Tauke Khan Avenue (bar and club street)
Taraz
- Best Bar: Khan Bar (traditional bar with live music)
- Best Club: Club Taraz (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Mausoleum of Karakhan (nightlife hub with bars and clubs)
- Other Recommendations:
- Bar: Bar Taraz (cocktail bar with live music)
- Club: Arena Taraz (dance club with local DJs)
- Party Area: Yassaui Street (bar and club street)
Backpacking Kazakhstan costs:
Daily Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $3-5 per night (hostel dorm)
- Food: $5-10 per day (street food, markets, and budget restaurants)
- Transportation: $2.50-5 per day (public transportation, walking, and biking)
- Miscellaneous: $5-10 per day (souvenirs, snacks, and unexpected expenses)
Total Daily Budget: $15.50-30
Weekly Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $21-35 per week (avg. $3-5 per night)
- Food: $35-70 per week (avg. $5-10 per day)
- Transportation: $17.50-35 per week (avg. $2.50-5 per day)
- Miscellaneous: $35-70 per week (avg. $5-10 per day)
Total Weekly Budget: $108.50-210
