{"id":15959,"date":"2024-10-08T05:33:00","date_gmt":"2024-10-08T03:33:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=15959"},"modified":"2026-01-19T14:19:18","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T12:19:18","slug":"traveling-kazakhstan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-kazakhstan\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for traveling Kazakhstan in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/kazakhstan-tourism-places-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/kazakhstan-tourism-places-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/kazakhstan-tourism-places-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Tourism in Kazakhstan\" class=\"wp-image-16004\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to <\/strong>Kazakhstan<strong> with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Kazakhstan on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-41aa4fb5f5e34b1812df7b09a125988b\"><strong><strong><strong>June 11th to 20th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/kazakhstan-expedition\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world and the most modern of all the &#8216;stans&#8217;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet very little is known about this fascinating country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Following more than a few visits there, I compiled this guide with all the relevant <strong>travel tips for Kazakhstan<\/strong>, from visas to how to get in, money, and everything needed to plan your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f0f0\">For places to visit, don&#8217;t forget to check our <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kazakhstan-itinerary\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11631\"><strong>Kazakhstan Itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-1-Kazakhstan-Travel-Guide-471x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-1-Kazakhstan-Travel-Guide-471x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-1-Kazakhstan-Travel-Guide-471x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakhstan travel guide\" class=\"wp-image-52180\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Kazakhstan travel blog you will find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#1\">Intro<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Visa<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel insurance<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#4\">Internet<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#5\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Money<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#6\">Top Experience<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#7\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Getting in<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#8\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">The country, people and their culture<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#9\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Transportation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#10\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Accommodation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#11\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Food and Drinks<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#12\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">More resources<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fe9900\">our recommended travel insurance for Kazakhstan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:20px\">With its Backpacker plan, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kazakhstan_travel_tips_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-text-align-center has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kazakhstan_travel_tips_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\">\ud83c\uddf0\ud83c\uddff Introduction: what it&#8217;s like to travel in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is, by far, one of the strangest countries I have ever been to, along with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/haiti\/\">Haiti<\/a><\/strong> and <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/eritrea\/\"><strong>Eritrea<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the one hand, it is a surprisingly developed country, home to the most Westernized city in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\">Central Asia<\/a><\/strong> &#8211; Almaty, whose inhabitants are very European-minded &#8211; as well as some striking mountains.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/aral-sea-kazakhstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/aral-sea-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/aral-sea-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Traveling in Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-11720\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, this gas-rich, barely populated country is also the 9th largest in the world and is home to some of the bizarrest places on Earth, such as an <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/semey\/\"><strong>old nuclear testing town<\/strong><\/a>, a dried-up sea, the Russian Cosmodrome, and an extremely vast steppe with the occasional hairy 2-humped camel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan has two faces, and for this reason, it can find a place in everybody\u2019s heart, both the traveler who likes to explore a cosmopolitan city and beautiful mountains, and the avid backpacker who likes to delve deep into obscure places off the beaten track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/what-to-do-in-kazakhstan-1024x666.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/what-to-do-in-kazakhstan-1024x666.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/what-to-do-in-kazakhstan-1024x666.jpg\" alt=\"Visit Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-11684\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is Kolsai Lake in Kazakhstan &#8211; Photo from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journalofnomads.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Journal of Nomads<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\"><span class=\"efont\" id=\"copy-emoji\">\ud83e\udeaa<\/span> Visa requirements for travel to Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Citizens from the following countries can get a free visa on arrival (VOA) in Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f0f0\">All&nbsp;EU and Schengen countries, Argentina, Australia, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-azerbaijan\/\">Azerbaijan<\/a><\/strong>, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Iceland, Indonesia, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/israel-palestine\/\">Israel<\/a><\/strong>, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-oman\/\">Oman<\/a><\/strong>, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/serbia-kosovo\/\">Serbia<\/a><\/strong>, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/united-arab-emirates\/\">United Arab Emirates<\/a><\/strong>, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is valid for any entry point, both international airports and land borders, and all you get is a friendly stamp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Registering in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the past, registering your stay with the local authorities was mandatory, but since 2020, it\u2019s no longer a requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\">\ud83d\ude91 Travel Insurance for Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">Kazakhstan is an adventurous destination, so we recommend going there with proper travel insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I recommend <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kazakhstan_travel_tips_en_own\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Their backpacker plan covers all types of adventure activities, including trekking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Very competitive prices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Readers of this blog can get a <strong>5% exclusive discount<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kazakhstan_travel_tips_en_own\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong><strong>BUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR 5% DISCOUNT<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\">\ud83d\udcbb Internet and connectivity when you travel in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How is the Wi-Fi in Kazakhstan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Wi-Fi mostly works fine throughout the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not the best Wi-Fi in the world but I managed to work online without major issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I get a SIM Card for Kazakhstan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, you can get a SIM Card on arrival at the airport or at any official mobile shop. Data plans are really cheap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I strongly recommend doing so because having a local number is a must to use local taxi apps such as Yandex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical card, with the added benefit that you can buy it online before or during your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it in a local store.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/kazakhstan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Airalo<\/a><\/strong>, you can get an eSIM for a wide range of destinations, including <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/kazakhstan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Kazakhstan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get a VPN for traveling in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Your connection will be much safer, plus you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">I recommend <strong>ExpressVPN<\/strong> &#8211; extremely easy to use, fast and cheap.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/go.expressvpn.com\/c\/2203603\/1481117\/16063?subId1=kazakhstan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#dd3333\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO GET ExpressVPN<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">If you want to learn more about VPNs, check: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/vpn-travel\/\"><strong>Why you need a VPN for traveling<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\">\ud83d\udcb0 Budget and money when you travel in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In Kazakhstan, they use the Kazakh Tenge, and approximately<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-vivid-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>1 USD = 500 KZT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I pay by card in Kazakhstan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, absolutely. Today, you can pay by card virtually everywhere throughout the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The only place where card payments might not be accepted is the caf\u00e9 on trains, so do bring cash for your long <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/train-in-kazakhstan\/\">train journeys across Kazakhstan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, carry some spare cash when you&#8217;re visiting smaller villages or traveling by <em>marshrutka<\/em> instead of train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I use an ATM?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, you will find many ATMs in all towns and cities, most of them accepting foreign cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can I exchange foreign currency?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can easily exchange Euros or American Dollars in many banks and offices across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that, except for Russian Rubles, Kazakhstanis aren\u2019t huge fans of their neighbors\u2019 currency. Kyrgyz Som should be fine, but I was never able to exchange the Uzbek Som I had left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does it cost to travel in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is the most expensive of all Stans, including <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-know-before-trip-to-pakistan\/\">Pakistan<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-afghanistan\/\">Afghanistan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are the prices of the most typical expenses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dorms &#8211;<\/strong> 3,000 to 6,000 KZT<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Single room in a mid range hotel in Almaty \u2013<\/strong> from 19,000 KZT<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Meals in local restaurant \u2013<\/strong> 3,000 KZT<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Meals in nicer restaurant \u2013<\/strong> Mains from 4,000KZT<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trains \u2013<\/strong> Aktau to Aralsk, 20 hours, 1,400km, 2nd class (19,000KZT)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\">\ud83d\uded6 Top 4 experiences in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel in a Soviet train across the steppe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Epic multi-day journeys through remote Kazakh lands. Read our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/train-in-kazakhstan\/\">train guide for Kazakhstan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/train-in-kazakhstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/train-in-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/train-in-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakhstan travel blog \" class=\"wp-image-11539\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kazakh steppe from the train<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Discover the gorgeous mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unbelievable scenery very close to Almaty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/backpacking-kazakhstan-1024x629.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/backpacking-kazakhstan-1024x629.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/backpacking-kazakhstan-1024x629.jpg\" alt=\"How to travel to Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-11706\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lake Kandy (The Sunken forest) &#8211; Photo from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journalofnomads.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Journal of Nomads<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit the Aral Sea<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The worst environmental disaster caused by man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit a Nuclear Test Site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Semipalatinsk is the first place on Earth where an atomic bomb was tested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/featured-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/featured-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/featured-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Best time to visit Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-51603\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Semipalatinsk testing site<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Read our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/semey\/\">Semey travel guide<\/a><\/strong> for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\">\ud83d\udeeb How to get to to Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to travel to Kazakhstan by plane<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan has several international airports, the best known being Almaty International Airport (ALA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out flights with Pegasus, Turkish Airlines or Qatar Airways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also fly into Astana (NQZ), Shymkent (CIT) and Aktau (SCO).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to travel to Kazakhstan by land border<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan shares a border with 5 countries. Pretty much all borders are open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/russia-visa\/\">Russia<\/a>: <\/strong>Most borders with Russia are open. I crossed the border near Astrakhan in 2024 by train. Easy to cross. Check our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/russia-travel\/\">Russia travel guide<\/a><\/strong> for more info.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Turkmenistan: <\/strong>Open, as long as you have a valid visa for travel in Turkmenistan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-kazakhstan-border-tejen\/\">Uzbekistan<\/a>:<\/strong> Pretty much all borders are open, some can be crossed by train. I crossed by train at Beyneu.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan\/\">Kyrgyzstan<\/a>: <\/strong>Busy crossing but no train, only car or <em>marshrutka<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>China: <\/strong>Open as long as you have a valid visa for China.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Remember that contrary to what some travelers believe, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/kazakhstan\/\">Kazakhstan<\/a><\/strong> doesn\u2019t share a border with Mongolia. It looks like they do, but zoom in and you&#8217;ll see there\u2019s a tiny <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/nenets-travel\/\">bit of Russia<\/a><\/strong> in between.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/beyneu-kazakhstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/beyneu-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/beyneu-kazakhstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Travel to Kazakhstan by train \" class=\"wp-image-11484\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is the border between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to travel to Kazakhstan by boat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Long-term overlanders like to catch the&nbsp;ferry from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-baku\/\">Baku<\/a><\/strong> to Aktau, which takes 24 hours. I&#8217;ve never taken it but my friends over at Journal of Nomads did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journalofnomads.com\/crossing-the-caspian-sea-by-boat-azerbaijan-kazakhstan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check their report here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kazakhstan-itinerary\/\"><strong>Kazakhstan 1-month itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\">\ud83d\udd4c The country, people and their culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is an ex-Soviet republic that got its independence from Russia in 1991.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is, however, the country with the largest Russian influence in Central Asia &#8211; to the extent that Russian is generally more widely spoken than Kazakh itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8216;<em>We like Russia because she takes cares of us\u2019, <\/em>a Kazakh friend of mine said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is the only Stan that borders Russia, so it&#8217;s not surprise that its presence and influence is highly visible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/tourism-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/tourism-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/tourism-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakh people\" class=\"wp-image-15998\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Friendly Kazakhs<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kazakhstan today<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstan is the most modern and developed country in Central Asia, something that can be explained by its abundance of natural resources, such as oil and gas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Government has also been investing a lot in terms of education, one of their most successful policies being&nbsp;the opportunity of awarding loads of scholarships to students to study abroad at major universities worldwide, the only condition being that they must come back and work in Kazakhstan after X number of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This has led to a highly educated work-force for Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, Almaty is a seriously modern city by European standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, I think Almaty is the most European city in all of Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-astana\/\">Astana<\/a><\/strong> is very modern too but it\u2019s one of those brand-new cities with absolutely no soul, more similar to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-dubai-budget\/\">Dubai<\/a><\/strong> and Almaty itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kazakhstan-travel-tips-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kazakhstan-travel-tips-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kazakhstan-travel-tips-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakhstan travel tips\" class=\"wp-image-52174\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Modern Astana<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kazakhstani people<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhstanis are descended from Turkic and Mongolian tribes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although very ethnically mixed, most of them have strong Mongolian features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Kazakhs used to be a nomadic nation that moved across the steppe and their biggest contribution to the Silk Road trade were animal-related products like fur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, unlike in Mongolia and neighboring Kazakhstan, nomadic life has pretty much disappeared not only due to the country\u2019s development but also because under the Soviet Union, many Kazakhs were forced to become sedentary and focus on the plantation of wheat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/DSC_2402-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/DSC_2402-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/DSC_2402-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakh woman\" class=\"wp-image-11704\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">a friendly Kazakh woman in the mountains near Shymkent<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Language in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakh, a Turkic language, is the official language in Kazakhstan, along with Russian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Russian however, is the main language used in Almaty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well-educated young people from Almaty and Astana can speak English, but other than that, do try to learn some Russian words if you decide to visit Kazakhstan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Google translate and Google Lens have made our life much easier but still, I recommend learning some Russian words, as well as the alphabet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Religion in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Officially, Kazakhstanis are Muslim, although religion doesn\u2019t play any significant role in Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is not only because they used to be part of the USSR but also because religion has never seeped into nomadic societies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still, you are likely to see a few mosques with a handful of worshipers; generally though, Kazakhs are atheist, even though <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/saudi-arabia\/\">Saudi Arabia<\/a><\/strong> is ploughing millions into trying to reverse that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/travel-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/travel-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/travel-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Trip to Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-15992\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Turkestan mosque<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\"><strong>\ud83d\udefa<\/strong> Transportation: how to get around in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling in Kazakhstan by train<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A multi-day train journeys over the Kazakh steppe is an experience by itself and so much fun!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check timings and train schedules at <a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.kz\/en\/avia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>tickets.kz<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information, I&#8217;ve put together a <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/train-in-kazakhstan\/\"><strong>train guide to Kazakhstan<\/strong><\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling by <em>marshrutka<\/em> and shared taxi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the more remote areas where trains don\u2019t go, the locals get around by either shared taxi or <em>marshrutka<\/em>, which is like a minibus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling around Kazakhstan by plane<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Domestic flights are inexpensive and a great way to cut distances short in Kazakhstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check <a href=\"https:\/\/flyarystan.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Fly Arystan<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using city taxis in Kazkahstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid any hassles, I recommend you download <a href=\"https:\/\/yandex.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Yandex<\/strong><\/a>, which is like the Russian Uber.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember that you will need a local number to use Yandex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\">\ud83c\udfe8 Accommodation: where to stay in Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>From backpacking hostels to 5-star hotels, accommodation in Kazakhstan is a no-brainer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find all sorts of accommodation to suit all budgets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/country\/kz.html?aid=1232728&amp;abel=kazakhstan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kazakhstan-itinerary\/\"><strong>Kazakhstan itinerary<\/strong><\/a>, you can find a variety of accommodation options in each city I visited.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/traveling-in-kazakhstan-683x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/traveling-in-kazakhstan-683x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/traveling-in-kazakhstan-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Woman selling fish in Kazakh train \" class=\"wp-image-15990\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Epic train journeys, always the most unexpected stuff<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11\">\ud83c\udf72 Food and alcohol when you visit Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In large towns and cities, there are all sorts of food available, but when it comes to the local cuisine, this is very similar to other countries in Central Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first time I visited Kazakhstan, it was my last stop after a trip across the region spanning several months, so I&#8217;m a bit biased when it comes to judging Kazakh food, since I was already bored of it before even stepping foot into the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to local dishes, <em>pelmeni<\/em> (dumpling soup) would be the most common option, as is <em>lagman<\/em>&nbsp;(noodle soup with horribly chewy and fatty beef).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Horse meat in Kazakhstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Although you can find horse meat in many <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-world-countries\/\"><strong>countries around the world<\/strong><\/a>, nowhere else does it like Kazakhstan, where horse meat is the base of many of their dishes, which is why you&#8217;ll see farms all around the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I actually visited a horse-farm in Zhabagly, a mountain village around Shymkent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They kept hundreds of horses and told me that, when the horse gets to a certain age, they decide whether to keep it as a work horse or send it to the butchery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/places-to-visit-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/places-to-visit-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/places-to-visit-in-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Horse farm in Kazakhstan \" class=\"wp-image-15996\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Horse farm in Kazakhstan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The most unique horse-based dish they have is <em>beshbarmak, <\/em>a national dish which consists of pasta layers, vegetables, and the star-ingredient being horse meat, all served in a huge flat dish with a bit of broth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, it is a sharing dish, so the few restaurants that serve it require a minimum order of a couple of people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kazakhs reserve beshbarmak for special occasions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/beshbarmak-kazakhstan-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/beshbarmak-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/beshbarmak-kazakhstan-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakhstan cuisine \" class=\"wp-image-16006\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Beshbarmak, the national dish<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12\">\u2757 More resources for traveling to Kazakhstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">All guides and articles for traveling in Kazakhstan destination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-astana\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel Guide to Astana<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-kazakhstan-border-tejen\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan border crossing<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/train-in-kazakhstan\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Train Guide in Kazakhstan<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kazakhstan-itinerary\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Kazakhstan Itinerary<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/semey\/\">How to visit Semipalatinsk Test Site<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel guides to other countries in Central Asia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-tajikistan\/\">Tajikistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan\/\">Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/\">Travel Guide to Uzbekistan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-know-before-trip-to-pakistan\/\">Pakistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-afghanistan\/\">Afghanistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tsaatan-nomads\/\">How to visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders in Mongolia<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-2-Kazakhstan-Travel-Tips-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-2-Kazakhstan-Travel-Tips-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/PIN-2-Kazakhstan-Travel-Tips-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Kazakhstan Travel Tips\" class=\"wp-image-52183\" style=\"width:458px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wanna travel to Kazakhstan with Against the Compass? Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Kazakhstan on: June 11th to 20th, 2026 Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world and the most modern of all the &#8216;stans&#8217;. Yet very little is known about this fascinating country. 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