Best places to visit in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, the ninth largest country in the world, covers a vast area of land in Asia Middle.

While many people imagine it to consist only of endless steppes, magnificent mountains, valleys and lakes can be found scattered here and there.

Despite its size, Kazakhstan is very sparsely populated, with the major cities of Almaty and Astana (its capital) home to the majority of its population – and it is the richest in the region thanks to its large oil and gas reserves.

The country also has a wealth of amazing tourist attractions that anyone can visit.

So let's explore this Central Asian country with our list below of the best places to visit.

Distinctive tourist places in Kazakhstan

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

Located in southeastern Kazakhstan, this majestic canyon is a very popular tourist attraction.

The trench extends 90 kilometres long, and some parts reach a depth of 300 metres.

Its red walls and rock formations are reminiscent of landscapes in Utah and Arizona. US.

Walking through its famous Valley of Castles, the most impressive stretch of the canyon, is certainly a great experience.

Charyn Canyon

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

Located in southern Kazakhstan and surrounded by the Kazakh desert, Turkestan is a unique city, blending traditional nomadic culture with the settled city life of neighboring Uzbekistan.

This makes it a captivating place to explore.

The most prominent landmark of this area is the magnificent 14th century Koza Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum.

Built by Timur to honor this Sufi sheikh, the mausoleum is one of the country's most impressive and important historical monuments.

Besides, the main attractions that visitors to the city enjoy are the ruins of the ancient cities of Otrar and Soran, which are located in the adjacent desert.

Other than these historical attractions, there is not much to do in Turkestan.

The shrine of Koza Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan

Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan

Baikonur Cosmodrome is one of the few places in the world where you can watch a rocket launch into space.

Even if you are not interested in space and its sciences, seeing a spacecraft take off in front of you is an unforgettable experience.

Baikonur is the world's largest space launch facility, and is jointly operated by the Kazakh and Russian governments.

From here, Sputnik 1 and Vostok 1 – the first manned space flight – were launched.

Visitors can take a tour around the facility as well as the accompanying museum which features many engaging exhibits, models and wonderful memorabilia.

Baikonur Cosmodrome

Karkarali National Park

Located in the Central Highlands of Kazakhstan, this national park will be perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It covers a vast area of land and is home to a wide variety of animals and plants, such as foxes, deer and wolves.

It also contains sparkling lakes, intertwining caves and distinctive rock formations.

With such a wide range of stunning natural attractions, Karkarali National Park offers visitors endless pleasures.

Small lake and scenic views in Karkarali National Park

Lake Kolsai

Located about 250 kilometers from Almaty, Lake Kolsai actually has three lakes worth visiting.

Stretching along the Kolsai River that winds its way through the forested Tian Shan Mountains, the sparkling lakes are often referred to as the “Pearls of the Tian Shan.”

The lakes are a very popular tourist destination among the locals.

The area around Lake Kolsai also has many great campsites suitable for camping.

Here you will enjoy seeing some of the most dramatic scenery in the country, so the lakes are worth a visit if you get the chance.

Lake Kolsai

Astana

Recently renamed “Nur-Sultan” in early 2019, Astana – as many Kazakhs still call it – is the capital of an ever-changing nation.

Every year, huge buildings appear, adding a new impressive touch.

Set amid the country's featureless northern steppes, Astana is one of the most modern and futuristic cities in Central Asia, with plenty of towering skyscrapers.

Wandering through its large streets is an interesting experience, with Soviet, Kazakh and Western influences visible wherever you go.

Astana

Almaty

Almaty remained the country's capital until 1997, and is Kazakhstan's largest city, as well as its cultural and commercial heart.

As such, you will see and feel an atmosphere of wealth and sophistication wherever you go.

Moreover, with some great museums and historical landmarks scattered here and there, you will find plenty to see and do here.

In addition, Almaty is blessed with magnificent nature right on its doorstep.

Its picturesque location at the foot of the magnificent Tian Shan mountain range makes it very special.

Almaty also has some of the most famous and beautiful ski resorts in the world.

Almaty