17 Incredible things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan

15 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN'S LIVELY METROPOLIS

Curious to visit Almaty, a welcoming city that is waiting to be explored? I’ve got you covered! My guide features the best things to see and do, adventurous day trips, as well as travel tips on where to stay, transport and more.


In the year that travel seemed completely off the radar due to the Covid 19 pandemic, my adventures unexpectedly took me to one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited.

The lively metropolis of Almaty, Kazakhstan.

A city of its own accord, given its exceptional geographical location at the foothills of untouched mountain ranges, surprisingly trendy cosmopolitan atmosphere, captivating Silk Road history, intriguing Soviet-style architecture, and last but not least, extremely welcoming people.

As one of the largest metropolis in Central Asia, as well as the perfect gateway to some of Kazakhstan’s finest natural environments, you might think that Almaty has become popular among travellers, but nothing could be further from the truth.

Instead, it turns out that Almaty (and Kazakhstan in general) is still left largely undiscovered, if not underrated, which is quite a shame.

Or maybe not.

Let me quickly explain. Due to Almaty’s anonymous reputation, both the city and its natural surroundings offer an off the beaten path travel experience, which feels both unique and adventurous.

While on the other hand, I believe Almaty, with its rich history and utterly friendly people, deserves to be recognized as a spectacular travel destination.

Luckily, I spent nearly 3 months in Almaty to assemble a great dose of inspiration, with the intention to bring this incredible city and its ridiculously beautiful surroundings to light.

Here’s my definite list of things to do in Almaty.

THINGS TO DO IN ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN


1 | WANDER AROUND THE GREEN BAZAAR

One of the best introductions to a country and its culture is by roaming along the myriad of stalls from an authentic local market.

Not only is it the perfect way to get a feel for the locals and their ways, but it’s also the number-one place to sample new flavours and locally-grown produce.

Established at the heart of Almaty is the Green Bazaar, an extensive covered market that is home to loads of vendors, offering their visitors the most authentic flavours of Central Asia.

From Kazakhstan’s traditional Kymyz (fermented horse milk) to delicious dried fruits and nuts, Almaty’s famous apples to distinguishing spices and vegetables, it is all found here.

Though I mostly came to the Green Bazaar to stock up on mouth-watering dried fruits and nuts, it is also a place to find all sorts of other goods, including clothes, souvenirs, electronics and more.

If you’re after a genuine, authentic vibe, make sure you experience the hustle and bustle of Almaty’s exciting Green Bazaar.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Green Bazaar, Almaty

Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 – 19:00, Monday closed

Green Bazaar | Things to do in Almaty
Green Bazaar | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan

2 | BEHOLD INSPIRING ART AT THE KASTEEV STATE MUSEUM OF ARTS

First established in 1935, the intriguing Kasteev State Museum of Art is not only the largest art museum in Kazakhstan, but also the most interesting if you ask me.

Today, visitors to Kasteev can behold some of Kazakhstan’s finest artworks, with a total of more than 25.000 intriguing art objects dotted throughout the museum.

The distinctive collection is an excellent mix of past and present, with fascinating contemporary art objects and intriguing historical pieces alike – I even noticed several extraordinary paintings from my country of birth, the Netherlands.

But some of my favourite works in the museum include the glorified paintings that represent the Soviet Union. Though I realize that these paintings give a biased glimpse into this eventful period, they clearly are of high artistical value.

Other highlights found in the museum include paintings of Kazakhstan’s famous poet Abay Kunanbaev, modern sculptures and highly regarded works of Asian, European and Russian artists.

If you’re short on time, and only have time to visit one museum in Almaty, I’d advise taking in the exquisite artworks that are on display in the Kasteev State Museum of Arts.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kasteev Art Museum, Almaty

Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00, Monday closed

Cost | Entrance fee 500 KZT ($1,20) per person

Kasteev Art Museum | Things to do in Almaty
Kasteev Art Museum | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan
Kasteev Art Museum Almaty

3 | TAKE A WALK AROUND PANFILOV PARK

Wandering through the spruce tree-lined Panfilov Park is in many ways, one of my absolute favourite things to do in Almaty.

At the heart of downtown Almaty, a lush urban park occupies, granting its visitors the perfect place to escape the rush of the city.

Named after Almaty’s famous Panfilov heroes (who gave their lives in the defence of Moscow during World War II), the park is home to a gigantic memorial statue, showcasing 28 soldiers as well as an eternal flame.

But it’s not just the Statue of Panfilov’s 28 Guardsmen that make the Panfilov Park an excellent place to venture to for an afternoon stroll.

There are actually loads of other highlights nestled in the verdant park; the Russian Orthodox Ascension Cathedral, the Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments, and the Military History Museum to name a few.

Also, you’ll find Bowler Coffee Roasters here, a trendy cafe with the most excellent coffee and pastries on the menu. These yum treats are best enjoyed in hand, while watching local life unfold on a relaxing walk.

If there is one thing I learned during my time in Almaty, it surely is that Kazakh people appreciate spending time in one of the many urban parks – and so did I!

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Panfilov Park, Almaty

Panfilov Park | Things to do in Almaty
Panfilov Park Almaty
Panfilov Park | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan

4 | ADMIRE THE ASCENSION CATHEDRAL

Defined by its distinctive palette of bright pastel colours, the majestic Ascension Cathedral stands proud against the lush greenery of Panfilov Park.

Built entirely out of locally obtained Tien-Shan spruce trees by architect Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov in 1907, the Russian Orthodox cathedral is considered one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world.

Also, the cathedral survived 2 massive earthquakes due to the building’s distinctive engineering and design, which is even more impressive if you note that most of the buildings in Almaty were left damaged or in ruins.

In my opinion, the Ascension Cathedral is one of the most extraordinary buildings in Almaty, and for that reason, unmissable on any list of things to do in Almaty.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Ascension Cathedral, Almaty

Zenkov cathedral Almaty
Ascension Cathedral | Things to do in Almaty

5 | VISIT THE KAZAKH MUSEUM OF FOLK MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

Almaty has a myriad of interesting museums, and the Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments is definitely on that is worth a visit, especially if you’re into music.

Those familiar with Kazakstan’s deep-rooted nomadic culture, realize that living on the road constantly, largely shaped their customs, religion and beliefs – this is clearly reflected in their musical expression and the instruments that they’ve mastered.

Luckily for us, these intriguing traditional music instruments are now on display.

Occupying an authentic Russian-style wooden house in the midst of Panfilov Park, the Ykhlas Museum of Kazakh Folk Instruments houses more than 1.000 items related to Kazakhstan’s captivating musical heritage.

Most notable of these items contain distinctive instruments that were used to perform Küy, a short solo composition played on traditional Kazakh instruments; the famous Dombyra, Kobyz and Syrnai to mention a few.

Additionaly, the museum is home to a great collection of Turkish, Uzbek and Kyrgyz folk instruments, which are definitely worth to check out too.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments

Opening hours | Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 – 19:00, Monday closed

Cost | Entrance fee 350 KZT ($0,85) per person

Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan
Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments
Kazakh Museum Of Folk Musical Instruments Almaty

6 | GO HIKING IN ALMATY’S UNTOUCHED NATURE

Encircled by the untouched mountains of the Ile-Alatau National Park, Almaty is actually a true paradise for those into hiking and off the beaten path adventures.

These towering mountain ridges form an enchanting backdrop against the city’s modern skyline, and will constantly lure you towards them, day in, day out.

And though I loved the energetic contemporary ambience in Almaty, it is safe to say that the city’s real treasure lies in the sheer natural beauty surrounding it.

It’s a place of rough adventures and bare landscapes. Think snow-covered peaks, sharp mountain ridges, steep forest hills and loads of hiking trails running through them.

I’ve spent several days in the mountains of Almaty and had some of my favourite days here.

If you’re keen to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Almaty for the day, I’ve written several guides on hiking in Almaty, so be sure to have a look there too!

Related | A complete guide to Terra Forest Meadow, Almaty

Related | A guide to Kok-Zhailau, Almaty (coming soon)

Hiking in Almaty Kazakhstan
Hiking in Almaty
Hiking | Things to do in Almaty

7 | SAMPLE A WIDE VARIETY OF CUISINES

After living in Almaty for over 2 months, it is safe to say that Almaty is a delight for foodies.

Whether you’re after traditional local dishes or contemporary cuisine, Almaty has no shortage of excellent dining options, serving a wide choice of distinctive cuisines.

I sampled Laghman, a local favourite at the Green Bazaar, enjoyed Georgian’s finest khachapuri and khinkali at Patsatsina and Daredzhani, ate yum spicy Indian curries at Maharaja, and grabbed my daily dose of coffee at Bowler Coffee Roasters to name but a few.

However, one thing worth mentioning is that Kazakhstan’s culture is pretty meat-oriented due to its nomadic origins, which can make it slightly challenging to find a good vegan dish. Luckily, it slowly improves, with some restaurants already having some vegan options on their menu.

For those that like to see my favourite restaurants in Almaty, I’ve written a complete guide on where to eat in Almaty (coming soon).

Eat your heart out | Things to do in Almaty
Patsatsina | Things to do in Almaty
Daredzhani Almaty Kazakhstan

8 | VISIT THE CENTRAL STATE MUSEUM

Those attracted by history will be pleased to hear that The Central State Museum in Almaty is titled the largest museum in Central Asia, displaying an extensive collection of artefacts, including items used by the ancient nomadic people of Kazakhstan.

With more than 300.000 artefacts on display, a stroll through the Central State Museum is an excellent occasion to acquire knowledge on the country’s history, archaeology, culture and politics.

The museum is home to seven different exhibition halls, showcasing palaeontology and archaeology collections, traditional Kazakh artefacts, as well as items from the time when Kazakhstan became independent.

Some of my personal highlights include a replica of Kazakhstan’s National hero; the Golden Man, items related to Genghis Khan and the Silk Road, and traditional Kazakh folklore costumes.

The Central State Museum is a fascinating place from the inside and out, and in my verdict, worthy of an afternoon of your time, even if it’s only to see the museum’s grand exterior.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Central State Museum, Almaty

Opening hours | Wednesday to Monday 09:00 – 17:30, Tuesday closed

Cost | Entrance fee 500 KZT ($1,25) per person

Central State Museum | Things to do in Almaty
Things to do in Almaty

9 | RELAX IN THE ARASAN BATHS

Kazakh people are pretty serious when it comes to their spa day, and after looking into their wellness & spa facilities, it’s easy to see why.

Situated in the heart of Almaty, the Arasan Baths are known as one of the finest bathhouses in Central Asia, providing its visitors all the assets for a luxurious spa experience.

The Arasan Baths were built in 1980 in a modernized Soviet-style, and are home to several steam rooms, including Finnish and Russian, as well as Turkish and Moroccan style hammams.

For the traditional Russian banya experience, I would advise buying a bundle of leafy tree branches, locally known as a venik. By slapping yourself on the body with one of them, you improve blood circulation, experience deep relaxation, and several other health benefits.

I know, it sounds crazy, but it’s true!

Should you wish to opt for a more peaceful treatment, Arasan also has a number of rejuvenating massages on offer in their detox and spa facilities.

Something else that fascinated me, is that Arasan is designed in the most exquisite way. Think polished marble floors, pinewood elements, beautiful mosaic patterns, and delicate ceramic tiles.

I visited the Arasan Baths on my first day, and found it an excellent remedy to fight my jet lag!

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Arasan Baths, Almaty

Opening hours | Daily 07:00 – 22:40

Cost | 1.500 – 2.000 KZT ($3,60 – 4,80) per hour

Arasan Baths Almaty
Arasan Baths | Things to do in Almaty
Arasan Baths

10 | WINTER SPORTS ACTION AT SHYMBULAK SKI RESORT

As mentioned earlier, Almaty is one of the most diverse natural environments I’ve ever visited, and when the winter season arrives, it also doubles as a brilliant winter sports destination.

Yeaaah, you’ve read that right!

Hidden between the picturesque mountains of the Ile-Alatau National Park, at only a 30-minute drive from the Almaty city centre is Shymbulak, a high-end ski resort that provides everything you need for an exciting day of winter sports action.

With several excellent slopes (the highest is 3.200 meters above sea level), the resort is welcoming skiers and snowboarders of any level. The lower section is great for beginners and those after lessons, while the upper slopes are more suited for experienced free riders and daredevils.

All necessary equipment can be rented near the entrance, or at the first summit, and is unbelievably cheap compared to leading winter sports destinations in Europe. I rented a snowboard, boots and helmet, and paid only 7.000 KZT ($16,70) for an entire day.

When I booked my flight to Almaty in early autumn, I’d never imagined that I would strap on a pair of snowboarding boots to experience my first ever snowboarding lesson, but I’m happy I did – it was freakin awesome!

So, if you’re in Almaty during winter, I advise spending at least one day on the slopes of Shymbulak, even if you’re a beginner like me.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Shymbulak Ski Resort, Almaty

Opening hours | Weekdays 10:00 – 18:00 and weekends 10:00 – 19:00 during the season.

Cost | 34.900 KZT ($83,-) for a ski pass, equipment rental and 2-hour snowboard lesson.

When | From late November to early March

Shymbulak | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan
Shymbulak | Things to do in Almaty

11 | VISIT BIG ALMATY LAKE

If you’ve been doing your research for Almaty, then I’m pretty sure you stumbled across the Big Almaty Lake plenty of times, and that’s for a good reason.

Enchanting many with its unusual teal waters, the Big Almaty Lake is an extensive natural reservoir, nestled in the hills of the Ile-Alatau mountains only just outside of Almaty.

With its awesome backdrop and encircling mountain ridges, the area around the lake is considered one of the regions most popular hiking environments.

Do, however, note that Big Almaty Lake is near the Kyrgyzstan border, so be cautious in which direction you head on your hiking. Also, take your passport just to be safe.

But Big Almaty Lake is more than just a place to seek immeasurable natural beauty and peace.

It is in fact, Almaty’s most precious natural wonder, functioning as the region’s number-one source of mineral-rich drinking water. For that reason, it is strictly forbidden to swim in the lake.

As always, respect nature and be sure to bring your belongings and garbage on the way back.

Unfortunately, when I visited Almaty in autumn-winter, the roads to Big Almaty Lake were closed, so I couldn’t make it here on this trip. But with my intention to go back to Almaty soon, it’s only a matter of time before I see this stunning lake with my own eyes.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Big Almaty Lake

Opening hours | This depends on several factors, so it is best to check before your visit.

Cost |  Entrance fee 200 KZT ($0,50) per person

Big Almaty Lake | Things to do in Almaty

12 | EXPLORE ALTYN-EMEL NATIONAL PARK

One of my absolute favourite things to do in Almaty involves venturing to the tremendously beautiful Altyn-Emel National Park.

Situated at roughly 265 kilometres northeast of Almaty, the Altyn-Emel National Park makes for a great road trip adventure, and for that reason, it is best explored as part of a multiple-day trip.

The extensive national park is home to a broad range of distinctive landscapes, with maybe even the most appealing in all of Kazakhstan. Yes, I said it!

From otherworldly Mars-like mountain ridges to massive sand dunes to some of the countries rarest animal species, the Altyn-Emel National Park is a gateway to the diverse great outdoors of Kazakhstan.

Some of the highlights include:

The Singing Sand Dunes | The number one reason why travellers go on an adventure to the Altyn-Emel National Park, is to admire the golden sands of the towering Singing Sand dunes.  And I must admit, these 150-metre high dunes, rising suddenly out of the flat steppe territory make for a postcard-perfect scenery.

The Aktau Mountains | Perched on the edge of the park, the Aktau Mountains are the main reasons why I wished to visit Altyn-Emel in the first place. These Mars-like mountains are in my opinion, the perfect example of how magical this planet we call home truly is. The distinctive ridges boast a marvellous colour palette, with deep red and white sandstone surfaces fluctuating over and over again. It is a true spectacle to behold, and wandering among them feels as though you’ve set foot on another planet.

Wildlife | With roughly 260 different animal species, the Altyn-Emel National Park is often referred to as Kazakhstan’s very own wildlife destination. During a visit, you’ll have the chance to encounter unusual animals, including Argali, lynx and dziggetai (Mongolian wild ass) just to mention a few. Also, the area is home to a series of rare and endangered birds including the Black stork and the Imperial eagle.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Altyn-Emel National Park

Opening hours | All day, every day

Cost | Entrance fee 1.100 KZT ($2,65) per person

Recommended tour | This full-day tour of Altyn-Emel takes you to both the singing sand dunes and Aktau Mountains – plus it includes admission and pickup service. Prices and availability here.

Altyn Emel | Things to do in Almaty
Altyn Emel National Park | Things to do in Almaty

13 | BEHOLD THE IDYLLIC KAINDY LAKE

I remember exactly what I said to my hiking buddy Anuar, when we arrived at the enchanting Kaindy Lake after our exciting hike through the freshly fallen snow.

‘‘This is the most beautiful place I have ever seen’’.

Nestled in the Tien Shan mountains at roughly 30 minutes south of Saty lies one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural phenomena; the fairytale-like Kaindy Lake, also known as the sunken forest.

After a powerful earthquake in the year 1911, a lush forested valley slowly transformed itself into a lake, as a result of a major landslide.

Over the following years, the valley gradually filled up with rainwater, while the trees died in the process, by the reason of their new unfavourable circumstances.

Today, the idyllic lake is an utterly surreal sight to behold, with its towering dead spruce trunks arising from the vivid turquoise waters of the lake – it is absolutely stunning.

Despite its sheer beauty, the lake sees little visitors. The reason for this is not only its remote location, but also due to the fact that Kazakhstan is largely untouched by international tourism companies.

I was fortunate enough to witness Kaindy Lake in winter, but I can’t wait to go back there during spring or summer.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kaindy Lake, Saty

Cost | Entrance fee 785 KZT ($1,90) per person

Kolsai Lake | Things to do in Almaty
Kolsai | Things to do in Almaty
Kolsai Lake | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan

14 | EXPLORE CHARYN CANYON

While the Charyn Canyon National Park is not by any means close to Almaty, I firmly believe that it’s worth mentioning on any guide that involves the best things to do in Almaty.

Often nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan due to its twin-like similarities, the Charyn Canyon National Park is truly an impressive destination to explore.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the most striking views of the ‘Valley of Castles’, a 150-metre deep canyon that was shaped out of the rough steppe terrain, following more than a million years of erosion.

From the parking lot, you can explore the entire left flank of the canyon walls, which I obviously advise you to do – some of the best vistas are obtained exactly here! However, note that it gets extremely steeps at times, so please be cautious.

And while these views are definitely the highlight of your visit, it is also possible to roam endlessly between the deep-orange sandstone rock formations of the canyon. A dusty path takes you along several eye-catching rock formations, before ending up at a valley next to the idyllic Charyn River.

Due to its remote location at roughly 200 kilometres east of Almaty, Charyn Canyon is best explored on a multiple-day trip. By doing so, you can easily combine it with other destinations of Almaty’s famous Golden Triangle, such as Altyn-Emel National Park, Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake.

Also, don’t forget to bring lunch, snacks and sufficient amounts of drinking water, Charyn Canyon can be significantly warm during the peak summer months.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Charyn Canyon

Opening hours | All day, every day

Cost | Entrance fee 800 KZT ($1,90) per person

Charyn Canyon | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan
Charyn Canyon | Things to do in Almaty

15 | ADMIRE THE INCREDIBLE KOLSAI LAKES

Locally known as ‘the pearl of the northern Tien Shan’, the Kolsai lakes are an impressive series of three mirror-like mountain lakes.

Accompanied by robust pine trees, dense meadows and snowy mountain peaks, these crystal clear lakes often reflect the beauty that surrounds them, making it a stunning scene to take in.

For those after adventure, there is a trail that takes you all the way to the second and third lakes. Though I didn’t follow the trail myself, I’ve read that it’s pretty awesome.

What I did do, and advise you to do too, is take a walk around the first lake, which grants several excellent viewpoints, especially on the significantly higher right side of the trail.

And while the left side has a trail too, I wouldn’t advise you to walk it, this side is densely forested and therefore quite a challenge. If you do so, please be careful.

As with many tourist attractions in Kazakhstan, the Kolsai Lakes are truly a place of tranquillity, and when visiting during the week, you’ll most likely end up there being completely alone.

If you’re thinking of visiting the Kolsai Lakes as part of an organised tour, the chances are high that it will be during the weekend. At first, this option sounds great, but it often means that you have limited time and share the lake with large groups of local tourists.

 

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kolsai Lakes, Saty

Cost | Entrance fee 778 KZT ($1,85) per person

Kolsay Lakes | Things to do in Almaty
Kolsay Lakes | Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan
Kolsay Lake | Things to do in Almaty

WHERE TO STAY IN ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN

Though Kazakhstan is still largely uncharted in terms of tourism, it isn’t reflected in accommodation options by any means.

Instead, you’ll notice plenty of excellent options, whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hostels, cosy Airbnbs, comfortable hotels or a more luxurious splurge.

In terms of location, the Golden Square of Almaty is where you want to base yourself.

Not only is this neighbourhood home to some of the best things to do in Almaty, a well-working metro connection, and the city’s most trendy restaurants and cafes, but this area is also the safest and most accessible.

Here are some of my personal favourites in Almaty.

Kazakhstan Hotel | Kazakhstan’s most famous hotel, the Kazakhstan Hotel provides stylish rooms with spectacular views of both Almaty and the Ile-Alatau Mountains. With its convenient location on Dostyk Avenue, it’s easy to visit the city centre, mountains and Almaty’s popular ski-resort Shymbulak. Also, the hotel is home to several excellent in-house restaurants and a panoramic bar.

Ambassador | If you’re aiming to find an awesome budget-friendly hotel, this is the place for you. Situated in the heart of Almaty, Ambassador offers large classic-style rooms that provide great comfort, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring. Double rooms at only $37 a night make Ambassador an absolute bargain.

Mercure Almaty City Center | Inspired by local cultural and traditional art, Mercure Almaty City Center gives great attention to its design, with amazingly decorated rooms providing a luxurious experience. Guests also have access to a free rooftop spa and fitness area. Make sure you click the link below, just to see how awesome it looks.

Renion Park Hotel | Established right in the action of Almaty’s Golden Square, Renion Park Hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms at an excellent price to quality ratio. It also houses an in-house restaurant, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool and sauna, which is perfect if you’re after some extra comfort.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Almaty on booking.com.

WEATHER IN ALMATY | BEST TIME TO VISIT ALMATY

Almaty is an appealing destination at any given time of the year, and when you plan to visit, depends largely on your travel purpose.

For explorations around town, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and day trips to some of the region’s untouched gems, a trip in early May to begin November will be your best option. During this period, great weather conditions occur, while Almaty’s nature reveals itself in the finest colours possible.

Then there are the winter months of early December to February, which grant the perfect circumstances for adventuresome winter sports activities, such as skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Though Winter in Almaty is mostly fun, be prepared, they can be pretty harsh too.

I’ve visited Almaty from early September to late November and enjoyed the best of both worlds, and I can’t wait to explore the region again in the bloom of spring.

MY FAVOURITE TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND ALMATY

If you’re keen to join an organized tour to discover Almaty and its stunning surrounds, here are some of the best-rated tours of the region.

HOW TO GET TO ALMATY

FLIGHTS | HOW TO GET TO ALMATY

The Almaty International Airport, situated about 15 kilometres north of the city centre, hosts both Domestic and international flights, meaning you most likely enter Kazakhstan here.

For flights to Almaty, I would recommend Skyscanner. Not only is their website easy to use, but they also offer a large variety of airlines – plus the possibility to find good rates.

From the airport, it’s pretty straightforward to get to the city centre, with local busses running every 15 minutes between 06:00 and 21:00.

But to me, the easiest option is requesting a taxi with the Yandex app. From the airport to the city centre will cost between 1.500 and 3.000 KZT ( $3,60 – 7,20) depending on the season.

CAR | HOW TO GET TO ALMATY

With its pure untouched nature, Kazakhstan is the perfect destination for an adventurous road trip.

And with most of the greatest things to see and do scattered throughout the vast scenic landscape, renting a car is actually the best way to fully experience Kazakhstan.

Though I was fortunate enough to move around with friends who live in Kazakhstan, I would advise looking into the many car rental options available.

Exploring Kazakhstan on your own terms is in many ways a big, big win. Not only is it significantly easier to venture to the country’s hidden gems, but it’s also time-saving and more comfortable.

For car rental in Almaty, Kazakhstan, I’d highly recommend searching Rentalcars.com. They offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars at an affordable price.

More information and availability here.

TRAIN | HOW TO GET TO ALMATY

Though it’s possible to travel through Kazakhstan by train, I wouldn’t advise it, especially if you have limited time in the country.

Not only is it slow and time-consuming, but train travel also comes at roughly the same price as the way more convenient domestic flights. These flights operate between all the major cities in Kazakhstan.

However, if you insist to experience a train journey in Kazakhstan, this website is by far your best bet to arrange your railway adventure.

STAY SAFE IN KAZAKHSTAN | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Kazakhstan is safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR KAZAKHSTAN ADVENTURES WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES