Kazakhstan - Independent travel in Central Asia

Shymkent to the Uzbekistan border

Elvira — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:12:50 +0000

Good afternoon. We’re flying into Shymkent, and from there we’ll need to get to the border with Uzbekistan. From where do the marshrutkas go to the border (Kaplanbek), so that I can call a taxi from the airport to that spot? I remember they used to leave from Kolos, but recently it seems they were moved to another place.

Shymkent to Tashkent overland

YSOP — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:16:55 +0000

Good afternoon! We want to go to Tashkent on April 20th. It’s our first time. Can someone tell me how long it takes to get from Shymkent to the border and how much a taxi costs?

Getting from Bishkek to Almaty

Tricker — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 10:02:56 +0000

Hello everyone! I’m planning a trip and need some advice. What’s the best way to get from Bishkek to Almaty? I noticed that flights are quite pricey, so I’m looking for alternative options. Any suggestions on how to make this journey?

How to Reach Gunny Ethnic Village near Almaty?

Mirehiko — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 11:48:42 +0000

Hi everyone! We have a one-day stopover in Almaty and are planning to visit Gunny Ethnic Village early spring. It’s just the three of us—two adults and a child. What’s the best way to get there and back? Can we use Yandex Taxi for the round trip? Would it be better to book a driver for the whole trip instead? We’re trying to avoid those big commercial day tours since we need to head back early to catch our evening flight. Appreciate your advice!

How to Get from Shymkent to Akmeshit Cave and Aksu Canyon

rewen455 — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 11:32:33 +0000

Dear travelers and fellow Kazakhs!
In June, I’m planning a trip across Kazakhstan and will be spending 3-4 days in Shymkent.

I’d like to know the most budget-friendly ways to visit two local attractions:

Akmeshit Cave
Aksu Canyon

Are there tour agencies that organize trips to these places? Is public transport an option? Could I arrange a ride with local taxi drivers, including private ones ("bombilas")? How much would they charge?
Thank you in advance!

How to Buy Train Tickets Online in Kazakhstan?

Liane Cockram — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:30:48 +0000

What official website can I use to buy tickets, and will it accept international payment cards? I’ve encountered issues with local websites in other countries rejecting foreign cards.

Public Transport in Almaty

Joseph Holdsworth — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:51:34 +0000

Here’s some information about public transport in Almaty:

Buses/Trolleybuses – Costs and Payment Options

Cash to the driver (preferably upon boarding): 200 tenge.
SMS payment with a Kazakh SIM card: 100 tenge.
- Send the unique number displayed on posters inside the bus to 2505. The payment processes instantly, and you’ll receive an SMS receipt, which should ideally be shown to the driver or conductor (if there is one).
Card payment: 100 tenge .
- Cards can be purchased from conductors (though they are rare) for 500 tenge, which includes one ride (100 tenge on balance).
- I don’t know other card sales points, as I didn’t specifically look into it. Almaty locals might provide additional information.

The bus and trolleybus network is extensive. 2GIS is a great tool to figure out routes, transfers, and travel times, including walking distances. Very convenient!

Metro
The metro fare is 100 tenge.

Almaty (Alma-Ata): How to Get from the Airport (ALA) to the City or Train Station

Sharon Harris — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:14:30 +0000

I'll be transiting through Almaty with a 7-hour layover. How can I get from the airport to the city? How much time will it take? Do minibuses accept rubles?