Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, offers an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, from vast steppes and deserts to towering mountains and scenic lakes. Its rich cultural heritage, fascinating history, and modern cities make it an intriguing destination for travelers. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kazakhstan:
1. Almaty
Medeu Ice Skating Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort: Located in the nearby Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountains, Medeu is the world’s highest ice skating rink. In winter, the area becomes a popular destination for skiing at Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Kok Tobe Hill: Offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains, Kok Tobe is a great spot for sightseeing, with attractions like a large TV tower, a mini-zoo, and restaurants. You can reach it via a cable car from the city.
Almaty Central Park & Big Almaty Lake: Almaty is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including Big Almaty Lake, which sits at an altitude of 2,510 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The city’s central park is a peaceful place for relaxation.
Zenkov Cathedral (Ascension Cathedral): A beautifully ornate Russian Orthodox cathedral built entirely of wood, despite being located in an earthquake-prone area. It stands as a testament to the resilience of Kazakhstan’s architectural heritage.
Panfilov Park: A central park in Almaty that is home to the War Memorial and the Zenkov Cathedral. It honors the Panfilov Division, which fought in WWII.
2. Astana (Nur-Sultan)
Bayterek Tower: One of the most recognizable landmarks in the capital, this tower symbolizes the Kazakh dream and vision for the future. Visitors can ride an elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: A stunning triangular glass pyramid designed by architect Norman Foster. This cultural center is a symbol of Kazakhstan’s commitment to religious tolerance and harmony.
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: A massive, transparent tent-shaped building designed by Norman Foster, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Hazret Sultan Mosque: The largest mosque in Kazakhstan, showcasing beautiful Islamic architecture and serving as a place of worship and peace.
National Museum of Kazakhstan: One of the largest museums in Central Asia, it houses a vast collection of artifacts that reflect Kazakhstan’s history, culture, and traditions.
3. Charyn Canyon
Often called the Grand Canyon’s little brother, Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. It is located about 200 kilometers east of Almaty and is known for its striking rock formations and deep, colorful ravines. The Valley of Castles is particularly famous for its dramatic sandstone pillars, which resemble ancient castles.
4. Lake Balkhash
One of the largest lakes in Asia, Lake Balkhash is unique because it has both salty and fresh water. The lake offers great opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding desert landscape provides a stark contrast to the blue waters, creating a scenic and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Kolsai Lakes
A series of three alpine lakes nestled in the Kungey Alatau Mountains near Almaty. Known for their beautiful turquoise waters surrounded by green meadows and forested slopes, Kolsai Lakes are a popular destination for hiking, camping, and photography.
The lakes are situated at different altitudes, with the third and highest lake being a particularly challenging but rewarding hike for avid trekkers.
6. Moyinkum Desert
Located in the south of Kazakhstan, Moyinkum Desert is a vast expanse of sand dunes and steppe. It offers an authentic desert experience with camel rides, star-gazing, and the opportunity to explore the unique flora and fauna of the region.
7. Altai Mountains
This mountain range lies in the far east of Kazakhstan, bordering Russia, China, and Mongolia. The Altai Mountains offer a pristine wilderness with rich biodiversity, ancient rock art, and spectacular landscapes, including lakes, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks.
Lake Markakol and Bukhtarma Reservoir are popular spots for nature lovers and photographers.
8. Turkestan
Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum: One of the most important Islamic landmarks in Central Asia, this 14th-century mausoleum is the final resting place of the revered Sufi mystic Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kazakhstan’s most significant architectural landmarks.
Historical and Cultural Reserve: In addition to the Yasawi Mausoleum, Turkestan is home to several historical sites that reflect the region’s rich past, including ancient caravanserais, mosques, and other Islamic monuments.
9. Altyn-Emel National Park
Located in the southeast of Kazakhstan, Altyn-Emel National Park is a stunning natural reserve that includes unique landscapes such as singing sand dunes, vast steppe, and rocky formations. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boars, gazelles, and many species of birds.
The Aktau Mountains and Katutau Mountains are known for their multicolored rock formations and are popular for hiking and photography.
10. Aral Sea
Although the Aral Sea has shrunk significantly over the past few decades due to human intervention, the remains of the once enormous body of water still hold an eerie beauty. Aralsk is the town near the sea, and travelers can visit the Muynak ship cemetery, where rusting ships are stranded miles from the shore, providing a haunting reminder of the region’s environmental crisis.
11. Issyk Lake
Situated in the Tien Shan Mountains near Almaty, Issyk Lake is a pristine high-altitude lake formed by a massive landslide that blocked the flow of a river. The turquoise water, surrounded by mountains and lush forests, is a serene destination for nature lovers, picnickers, and photographers.
The lake is also known for its Issyk Gorge, which is rich in archeological finds, including ancient petroglyphs and burial mounds.
12. Zhambyl Region & Taraz
Taraz is one of Kazakhstan’s oldest cities, with a history dating back more than 2,000 years. It is home to significant historical sites such as the Aisha Bibi Mausoleum and the Babaji Khatun Mausoleum, both of which reflect the country’s rich Islamic heritage.
The Kulan Ancient Settlement nearby offers insights into the early history of the Silk Road and Central Asia.
13. Karakol (Kazakhstani part)
Located in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, near the Karakol River, this area offers stunning views of the Tien Shan Mountains, which stretch across Kazakhstan. The city of Karakol itself is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including opportunities for trekking, horse riding, and visiting natural hot springs.
14. Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
Saryarka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes vast expanses of steppe, wetlands, and lakes. The region is a paradise for birdwatchers, with migratory birds passing through annually. Notable lakes include Lake Tengiz and Lake Kopa, which are vital to the region’s ecosystem.
15. Bayanaul National Park
Located in central Kazakhstan, Bayanaul is one of the country’s oldest national parks. It is famous for its scenic landscapes, including forests, lakes, and granite rock formations. Popular activities here include hiking, camping, and boating on Lake Zhasybai.
Tips for Visiting Kazakhstan:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Winters can be extremely cold, especially in the northern regions, while summers can be quite hot, particularly in the deserts.
Travel Logistics: Kazakhstan is a vast country, so traveling between cities and regions often requires long-distance flights, trains, or car trips. It’s essential to plan ahead for travel times and transportation options.
Language: Kazakh is the official language, and Russian is widely spoken, especially in urban areas. English is not widely understood outside of major cities, so learning some basic Russian or Kazakh phrases can be helpful.
Kazakhstan is a country of contrasts and adventures, offering everything from vibrant cities to remote natural wonders. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to explore a lesser-known part of Central Asia, Kazakhstan provides unique and unforgettable experiences.
