Kazakhstan is the world's largest landlocked country, a land of endless steppe, snow-capped mountains and ultramodern cities. From the futuristic capital Astana to the canyons of Charyn, it offers nature and adventure on an epic scale.
Overview
Spanning Central Asia and Eastern Europe, Kazakhstan blends nomadic heritage with rapid modern development. Almaty, the leafy former capital, sits beneath the Tian Shan, while Astana dazzles with bold contemporary architecture.
Flights
Almaty and Astana international airports connect Kazakhstan with Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The national carrier Air Astana and low-cost FlyArystan serve an extensive domestic network.
Safety
Kazakhstan is generally safe for tourists, with welcoming people and good infrastructure in the main cities. Normal urban precautions apply, especially in crowded markets.
Traditions
Nomadic culture runs deep in Kazakh identity — from the felt yurt and eagle hunting (berkutchi) to the dombra lute and epic oral poetry. Hospitality to travellers is a sacred duty.
Kazakh Cuisine
Beshbarmak — boiled meat with flat noodles — is the national dish, traditionally eaten by hand. Kazakhs also enjoy kazy (horse sausage), baursak fried dough and the fermented mare's milk kumys.
