Trip planner for Kazakhstan

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Planning a Trip to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan eagle hunting

Kazakhstan, a vast country in Central Asia, draws tourists with its blend of modern cities, historical landmarks, and diverse natural beauty. The tourism infrastructure in Kazakhstan is well-developed, ensuring that visitors will have a smooth travel experience. While the country is very welcoming to guests, there are a few laws and regulations that are important to know before your trip. We’ve put together practical information on traveling to Kazakhstan, covering entry and exit details to help you have a hassle-free journey.

Getting to Kazakhstan

The Best Way to Reach Kazakhstan

Traditionally, the quickest and most convenient way to travel to Kazakhstan is by flying into the capital, Astana, or Almaty. Many international airlines offer flights to and from these two major cities. For those coming from Russia, traveling by train is another option, with the journey taking just over a day. It’s also possible to drive into the country from neighboring states—Almaty and Shymkent are accessible by road from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China, while the northern cities, including Astana, can be reached from various regions of Russia. Additionally, in the western part of the country, Kazakhstan boasts two port cities on the Caspian Sea—Aktau and Atyrau—which can be reached by sea from Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. This option, while more adventurous, involves traveling on a cargo vessel since there are no passenger ferries.

Visa Regulations

There is a list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa to enter Kazakhstan. This list is further divided into two categories: citizens who receive automatic registration upon arrival (with a migration card stamped twice) and those who must register within five days of arrival in the country.

Foreign citizens who are not eligible for visa-free entry can obtain a visa to Kazakhstan through the Republic of Kazakhstan’s embassies and consulates abroad. The first step in this process is to obtain visa support, which takes around 2-3 weeks to process through a travel agency. Once the visa support is ready, you will need to visit the Kazakh embassy or consulate in your home country to complete the process.

Alternatively, there is also an option to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa). To apply for an electronic visa to Kazakhstan, whether for business, tourism, or medical purposes, you will need an invitation from the Kazakh side. After receiving the invitation, you must register on the visa-migration portal, complete the application form, and pay the required fee. With an e-visa, entry into Kazakhstan is only permitted through the international airports in Astana and Almaty. For more detailed information on Kazakhstan’s entry requirements, please refer to our visa section here.

Registration

Upon entering Kazakhstan, all foreign visitors must receive a migration card, where the hotels they stay at will be recorded. Every foreign national is required to register within five days of arrival (weekends are included in this count). However, citizens of many countries are exempt from this requirement for the first five days, as they receive a migration card stamped twice upon entry. Russian and Belarusian citizens can stay in Kazakhstan without registration for up to 30 days. If registration is needed, it can be completed independently at the local migration police office or through a travel agency. For more details on the registration process, please visit our visa section.

Accommodation

Kazakhstan offers a variety of accommodations to suit any preference, making it easy to find suitable lodging. In Almaty and Astana, you’ll find luxurious hotels that meet international standards. Even in smaller cities, good options ranging from 2- to 4-star hotels are readily available. If you prefer, you can also rent private apartments or serviced flats.

Cash and Credit Cards

Currency exchange is well-organized in Kazakhstan, and you can easily exchange US dollars, euros, and Russian rubles at banks, exchange points, and airports across the country. Banks operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, and they are closed on weekends. Additionally, you can use VISA and MasterCard throughout your trip in Kazakhstan. ATMs are widely available in cities and airports, with some offering 24-hour access. However, when withdrawing cash, be mindful of the local bank’s service fee, which typically ranges from 3-4%.

Food Tips

Kazakhstan’s local cuisine is affordable and hearty. Meals are often served with flatbread and tea, either green or black. Be cautious during your first few days, as the traditional dishes are rich and heavy, which might be unfamiliar to some. Kazakh cuisine, like other Central Asian cuisines, heavily features meat. Many national drinks also have unique flavors that might take some getting used to. Seasonal fresh vegetables and fruits are readily available at markets.

Tap water in Kazakhstan is generally safe to drink, though it’s common practice to boil water for making tea, a staple at every meal. However, never drink hot water directly from the tap.

Dress Code

There are no strict rules about everyday clothing, particularly in Almaty, Astana, and other major cities where people, especially the youth, dress freely. You may encounter women in traditional Islamic attire, though this is more a matter of personal choice than social obligation. When visiting religious sites, it’s advisable not to wear shorts or clothing that exposes the shoulders.

Leaving Kazakhstan

Preparing for Departure

The process at the airport is straightforward: check in for your flight, pass through customs and passport control, go through security, and board your plane. For international flights, it’s recommended that travelers arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure. Before leaving your hotel for the airport, make sure you have all the necessary documents: your passport, the migration card issued by the Office of Visas and Registration (OVIR) or the Department of Internal Affairs (OVD), and your plane ticket.

Handicrafts and Souvenirs

At the customs checkpoint, officials may ask to inspect any handicrafts or souvenirs you’ve purchased to ensure that you’re not exporting items of cultural value or antiques without the proper documentation. If you are taking such items out of the country, be sure to have the necessary paperwork with you.

Tourists in Baikonur

Discover Baikonur: Space History Exploration Tour

From$750
5 Days / 4 Nights

Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome
Explore historic launch pads
Tour the Space Museum
See iconic space artifacts
Witness rocket assembly facilities
Visit the Gagarin Start Pad

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Baikonur, the world’s first spaceport. Explore historic launch sites, see iconic space artifacts, and learn about Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in space exploration. A must for space enthusiasts and history lovers alike!