Kazakhstan

The largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is a nation of great geographical and cultural variety. From the winter sport oasis of Almaty, the country’s largest city situated at the base of the Tien Shan Mountains, to the beaches and spas of the Caspian coast, Kazakhstan provides visitors with an endless number of treks and hikes, particularly in natural areas such as the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.

With such a rich and intricate history, including influences from many different tribes and people, Kazakhstan offers a wealth of sites worth visiting, from underground mosques to a petroglyph site famous for its rock carvings of the Buddha. Nature lovers will adore the treks around Issyk Lake and Big Almaty Lake, and for those looking for a unique experience, strap on your skates at Medeo ice rink, the highest ice skating rink in the world. 

Kazakhstan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Kazakhstan Itineraries

Classic Kazakhstan

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,800
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Ancient Kazakhstan: A Journey Back in Time from Almaty to Turkestan

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,900
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Blast Off in Central Asia: 14 Days in Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,600
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Cities of Kazakhstan

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
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Cities, Lakes & Mountains of Kazakhstan

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,500
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Cultural Highlights of Kazakhstan

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,000
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Highlights of Kazakhstan: Almaty, Shymkent & Turkestan

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,500
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Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Highlights

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,000
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Pan-Stans: Country Collecting in Central Asia

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,600
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The Ultimate Kazakhstan Adventure

Duration
18 days / 17 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
See Itinerary
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Occupying the top ten floors of the Esentai Tower, the Ritz Carlton enjoys unrivalled views of Almaty and the sweeping, jagged, snow-peaked Ile-Alatau mountain range. Guests choosing to stay here have the best of both worlds with easy access to the city and all its famous historic sights as well as the ski slopes in the national park to the south. After a long day on the piste or exploring the city, guests can ascend the escalator into the luxurious surroundings and enjoy all that the hotel has to offer. With restaurants and bars decorated with the latest works from the hottest modern artists in the country, from cocktails with a view to sumptuous dishes prepared with expertise, dining and drinking at the Ritz Carlton is a feast for the senses. Rooms and suites boast stunning panoramas and are fitted with every modern convenience and comfort. Meanwhile, the acclaimed Six Senses Spa offers a retreat from the stresses of everyday life. 

Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Astana

Astana, Kazakhstan

A prominent work of contemporary architecture and a top-tier luxury hotel setting a new standard in chic, high-end living and hospitality, the Ritz-Carlton in Kazakhstan’s capital of Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana, stands as an emblem of the city’s growing prominence and sophistication. Guests at the Ritz-Carlton Astana enjoy unparalleled service and hospitality in this five star hotel elevated above the glowing urban landscape and have an array of services and facilities at their disposal. Three unique restaurants beckon with everything from decadent protein entrées to fresh, organic produce, teas, and other lighter options. There is also a cutting-edge spa and fitness center that cater to activity- and wellness-seeking guests of all kinds. For families, the Ritz-Carlton Astana offers a variety of child-oriented activities such as storytelling, cooking classes, baby cribs, and more. An array of room and suite options are available for guests, as is the exclusive Club Level Experience, reserved for those seeking true excellence in their stay. With its panoramic views, artfully decorated accommodations, and industry-leading amenities and services, the Ritz-Carlton Astana is an elite-level hospitality experience.

Preferred Hotel

St. Regis Astana

Astana, Kazakhstan

Classic sophistication and elegant, modern flair unite in a five-star luxury setting at the St. Regis in Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana. Located in the heart of the city on the banks of the Ishim River in Astana Central Park, the St. Regis Astana carries on a longstanding tradition of excellence and luxury that began more than a century ago with the original St. Regis hotel in New York City. Guests who wish to explore the capital of Kazakhstan will find easy access to all of the best attractions the city has to offer. For those who would prefer to stay in and relax, the St. Regis Astana boasts a spa and athletic club, two restaurants, and a bar offering an exclusive selection of the world’s finest champagnes, rare vintage wines, and hand-crafted cocktails. Guests may also enjoy the unique 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service – a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis tradition. The hotel offers a range of room types, from the spacious, functional deluxe room to the opulent presidential suite.

Camping

Camping

Turgen Valley, Kazakhstan

Those seeking to enjoy the beauty of Kazahkstan’s nature will find a hiker’s paradise in Turgen Gorge, a landscape rich with hot springs, waterfalls, meadows, lakes and coniferous forests. A full exploration of the area may take at least a week’s worth of hiking, biking, climbing and rafting. The best way to experience Turgen Gorge’s natural beauty is to camp within these stunning surroundings. Bed down in cozy tents on the banks of glacial lakes and wake up with the sun and the birdsong, ready for another day of discovery. Breathing in the fresh mountain air and jumping into the lake for an invigorating morning swim is surely the best way to forget the hustle and bustle of real life.

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

Throughout Kazakhstan’s remote corners, from the Aral Sea to Berikara Gorge, lies beauty and adventure, as well as a number of cozy guesthouses which happily host travelers. All rooms are compact, and simply and pleasantly furnished with comfortable beds, fresh linens. Although amenities and services are kept to a minimum, the guesthouse does provide hot water and homecooked meals, and some of the more modern rooms are fitted with TVs and other modern conveniences.  Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and sample the tasty, home-cooked meals featuring local dishes.

Hampton by Hilton Turkistan

Hampton by Hilton Turkistan

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

The Hampton by Hilton Turkistan is a chic standard hotel in the town center that offers convenient access to many historic sights and highlights. The modern interiors feature pops of bold color and touches of local Oriental flavor. Rooms feature King or Twin beds, a work area with desk, sofa, and modern tech and amenities such as complimentary WIFI. Other hotel facilities include a spacious restaurant, a fitness center, and business center.
Hyatt Regency Almaty

Hyatt Regency Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Lying between the Alatau Mountains and the surrounding plains, the Hyatt Regency Almaty is a five-star hotel boasting some excellent facilities and even better views. As soon as you step inside the impressive lobby and are greeted by the friendly staff, the reasons become clear as to why this is one of the most popular hotels in town. The 285 elegant and well thought out rooms and suites include all the modern conveniences expected with a luxury hotel, such as air conditioning, mini-bar, high-speed Wi-Fi broadband and a satellite TV. Guests also have the choice of two fine restaurants. The Grill serves up mouth-watering steaks while the other, Dzhambul Restaurant, has a wide variety of local and international flavors on its menu. There’s also a beer garden out back – a great spot for sinking a few cool ones on a warm summer’s day.

Kara Dala

Kara Dala

Shonzhy, Kazakhstan

A trip to Charyn Canyon, a 150km long vista of sheer cliffs and dramatic erosion formed 3 million years ago, is memorable and a true sight to behold. After an adventure-filled day exploring Charyn National Park, unwind and rest at the small town of Shonzhy, home to the country’s most visited and well-known hot springs. Shonzhy has 140 hot springs and is a popular getaway for locals seeking a heated oasis from the country’s cold winters. There are a number of small hotels with modern and comfortable rooms that offer outdoor and indoor springs.  The Kara Dala hotel features 6 different pools, clean rooms, hospitable staff, and tasty meals. Although all accommodation here is simple, soaking in natural hot springs is an opportunity to experience local-style recreation.

Karavansaray Kun Hotel

Karavansaray Kun Hotel

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

The first true luxury hotel in Turkestan, the Kavaransaray Kun Hotel makes a grand entrance combining with 37 specially-designed plush rooms and suites with a fully decked entertainment space. Rooms start at 40 sqm with views featuring the inner square or surrounding foliage. Some rooms and all suites come with private balconies. Facilities and amenities within the hotel include a spa with nail and hair salon, 24-hour dining, laundry services, and complimentary wifi throughout the property. The all-day restaurant, Eposia, serves both local and continental selections. The Kun Hotel is a part of the Karavansaray complex which includes the family-friendly Khaganate hotel, premium boutiques, a food court, outdoor theatre, a show arena, cinema, covered and open bazaars, and a flowing canal feature. The property is centrally-located and approximately 13.5 miles from the airport.
Marriott Astana Hotel

Marriott Astana Hotel

Astana, Kazakhstan

From the moment guests walk into the golden, adorned lobby of the Marriott Astana Hotel, they will be whisked away into a world of all things chic, sleek and sophisticated. Located just steps from the shops and restaurants of the new city center of Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana, the Marriott offers guests the best location to take in the nearby city sights, such as the Bayterek monument and the city parks. With over 270 guestrooms and suites and an on-site health club and indoor pool, guests of the Marriott can relax after a busy day of sightseeing and shopping before enjoying a gourmet meal at Aroma Restaurant. To cap off the night, visitors can indulge in a cocktail and a view at Vista Sky Lounge, overlooking the capital city. 

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Seasonality & Festivals

Browse a month-by-month breakdown of suggested itineraries, seasonal activities, climate considerations and festivals.

When to Go
When to Go
Festivals
Festivals

Weather in Kazakhstan

The best time to visit Kazakhstan is from May to September, when the wild steppe flowers are in full bloom and the weather is excellent for hiking.

  • Kazakhstan has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers.
  • Although Kazakhstan has some of the highest peaks in the region, the climate is fairly arid and dry. The hottest overall month is July, and the coldest is January.
  • April to June is a naturalist’s heaven as the steppes and hills blossom and migrating birds flock in. May through September is some of the most pleasant weather of the year, and from July on it is hiking season. November to April is cold, but skiers enjoy some of Central Asia’s best resort slopes at Shymbulak.

Multi-Country Specialists

Kazakhstan Goes Well With

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