Practical Information

• Time Zone: Kazakhstan spans multiple time zones:

  • West Kazakhstan Time (AQTT), UTC +5 hours

  • East Kazakhstan Time (ALMT), UTC +6 hours

• Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).

  • 1 USD ≈ 450 KZT

  • 1 EUR ≈ 500 KZT

• Language: Kazakh is the official language. Russian is widely spoken and used in business and government.

• Climate: Continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The south is generally warmer than the north.

• Transportation: Public transport includes buses, trams, and taxis. Domestic flights and trains are available for intercity travel.

• Safety and Health: Generally safe for tourists, with healthcare facilities available in major cities. Travel insurance is recommended.

Visa Procedures

Visa Requirements:

• Citizens of many countries can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for short stays.

• For others, a visa may be required, which can be obtained online.

E-Visa Website: Kazakhstan E-Visa Portal

E-Visa Application Process:

1. Eligibility Check: Verify if your country is eligible for an e-Visa on the official Kazakhstan e-Visa portal.

2. Application Form: Fill out the online application form with personal and travel details.

3. Payment: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.

4. Processing Time: E-Visas are typically processed within 5 business days.

5. Approval and Download: Once approved, download and print your e-Visa to present upon arrival in Kazakhstan.

Visa Validity and Duration:

• E-Visas are generally valid for 30 days from the date of entry.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Kazakhstan.

Major Highlights and Cities

1. Nur-Sultan (Astana)

   • Bayterek Tower: A symbol of the city offering panoramic views.

   • Khan Shatyr: A large tent-like structure housing a shopping and entertainment center.

   • Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: A pyramid-shaped building dedicated to fostering unity among religions and cultures.

2. Almaty

   • Medeu Skating Rink and Ski Resort: A popular spot for ice skating and skiing.

   • Kok Tobe: A hill offering stunning views of the city and the mountains.

   • Zenkov Cathedral: A wooden Orthodox church built without nails.

3. Shymkent

   • Independence Park: A beautiful park dedicated to Kazakhstan's independence.

   • Abay Park: A large park with a statue of the famous Kazakh poet Abay Kunanbayev.

4. Aktau

   • Caspian Sea: Known for its beautiful beaches and seaside resorts.

   • Underground Mosques: Historical sites such as Beket-Ata and Shakpak-Ata.

5. Karaganda

   • KarLag Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Karaganda labor camp.

   • Cathedral of Our Lady of Fatima: A prominent Catholic cathedral.

6. Turkistan

   • Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage site.

7. Kyzylorda

   • Syr Darya River: The lifeline of the region, offering scenic views and recreational activities.

Festivals and Holidays

1. New Year’s Day (January 1): Celebrated with family gatherings, fireworks, and feasts.

2. Nauryz (March 21-23): The Kazakh New Year, celebrating the spring equinox with traditional music, dance, and food.

3. Independence Day (December 16): National holiday with parades, concerts, and public events.

4. Constitution Day (August 30): Celebrates the adoption of the Kazakh Constitution.

5. Victory Day (May 9): Commemorating the end of World War II with parades and memorial events.

6. Kurban Ait (Eid al-Adha): The Feast of Sacrifice, marked by prayers, feasts, and charitable activities.

7. Almaty Apple Festival (September): Celebrating the apple harvest with music, food, and cultural events.

Shopping and Bazaars

Kazakhstan offers a variety of shopping experiences, from modern malls to traditional bazaars. Key places include:

• Green Bazaar (Almaty): A bustling market with fresh produce, spices, and local goods.

• Esentai Mall (Almaty): A modern mall with international brands and luxury shops.

• Mega Center (Nur-Sultan): A large shopping mall with a variety of shops and entertainment options.

• Barakholka Bazaar (Almaty): A sprawling market offering everything from clothes to electronics.

• Shymkent Plaza: A modern shopping mall with numerous stores and dining options.

Kazakh Cuisine

Kazakh cuisine is known for its meat dishes and traditional cooking methods. Key dishes include:

• Beshbarmak: A dish of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served with flat noodles and onion sauce.

• Kazy: Horsemeat sausage, a traditional Kazakh delicacy.

• Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, often served with fresh vegetables and bread.

• Kuurdak: A dish made from fried meat, onions, and potatoes.

• Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with meat, usually served with sour cream or yogurt.

• Baursak: Fried dough balls, often served as a snack or dessert.

• Kumis: Fermented mare's milk, a traditional Kazakh beverage.

• Lagman: Noodle soup with meat and vegetables, influenced by Uyghur cuisine.

• Plov: A rice dish with meat and vegetables, similar to pilaf.

• Shubat: Fermented camel's milk, another traditional Kazakh drink.

Useful Vocabulary

• Hello: Salem

• Thank you: Rakhmet

• Please: Otinish

• Yes: Iya

• No: Jok

• How much?: Kancha?

• Where is...?: Qayda?

• Help!: Kömektesiniz!