Discovering the Untouched Beauty of Kazakhstan

Introduction

Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, is an expansive land brimming with natural beauty and fascinating sights. With a rich history as a trading post on the ancient Silk Road, today it enchants visitors with its blend of modern cities, endless steppe, majestic mountains, and remnants of its storied past. Though not yet a major tourist destination, intrepid travelers are beginning to discover pristine landscapes, welcoming people, and adventure around every corner in this untamed gem.

Astana – The Modern Capital

Astana, in the north-central part of the country, has been the capital since 1997. Here ultra-modern architecture filled with marble, chrome, and glass contrasts starkly with the rest of Kazakhstan. The area was just open steppe before it was chosen as the capital city. Now coolly futuristic buildings like the Norman Foster-designed Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center grab the eye. Though very manufactured, Astana provides a look into Kazakhstan’s ambitions for the future.

Almaty – Cultural Hub of Kazakhstan

In southeast Kazakhstan’s mountains near the border with Kyrgyzstan lies Almaty, the largest city and former capital. With cosmopolitan cafes, restaurants, and nightlife set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, Almaty has long been the cultural and economic heart of the country. Zoom 700 meters up in the air on the Kok Tobe cable car for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains. Medeu Ice Arena high in the mountains hosted many world speed skating championships – skate a few laps yourself before hiking in the high alpine scenery nearby. Almaty makes a great basecamp for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences in Kazakhstan’s south.

The Endless Steppe

Much of Kazakhstan consists of rugged grasslands known as steppe. For millennia, nomadic people on horses have roamed these expansive highland plains herding livestock. You can immerse yourself in nomadic culture by staying in a yurt camp on the steppe. The National Parks of Altyn Emel and Charyn Canyon showcase some of the steppe’s unique landscapes. Look for rare, endangered species like the Saiga antelope that still roam parts of the steppe. Sleep under the stars after a day galloping on horseback through the wild grassland at your yurt camp.

Majestic Mountains

In addition to endless steppe, Kazakhstan’s landscape also features some of Central Asia’s most magnificent mountains. The Tian Shan range in the southeast soars to 7,439 meters at Jengish Chokusu (Pik Pobedy), Kazakhstan’s highest point. Glaciers and alpine lakes dot the rugged peaks and valleys. Lake Issyk near Almaty sits at an elevation of 1,626 meters, surrounded by snowy crags that provide excellent hiking and climbing. Ski resorts like Shymbulak offer winter sports with impressive mountain backdrops. With mountains covering much of southeastern Kazakhstan, opportunities abound for spectacular high-altitude adventures.

Untamed Wildlife

With much of Kazakhstan’s terrain still wilderness, a diversity of wildlife still roams free. Altyn Emel National Park and Katon-Karagay National Park within the Altai Mountains harbor endangered snow leopards, rare wolves, and other animals. Kazakhstan has reintroduced Przewalski’s horses, native to the region, back to their natural habitat after they were driven to extinction in the wild. Out on the steppe you may spot saiga antelope, black-tailed gazelles, or demoiselle cranes among the swaying grasses. With natural environments intact across much of the country, keep your eyes peeled for unique wildlife.

Ancient Sights

Kazakhstan has a rich history evident in many fascinating ancient sights across the country. Turkic nomads carved mysterious petroglyphs into stone over many centuries – visit Tamgaly Gorge to see rock art dating back 5,000 years. Silk Road trade brought prosperity and cultural influences reflected in ruins of ancient cities like Otrar and medieval mausoleums of past rulers. The cosmopolitan city of Turkestan revolves around the impressive Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Bronze Age carvings to elaborate tombs, Kazakhstan’s historic treasures reward exploration.

Delicious Cuisine

Food in Kazakhstan reflects influences from Europe to Mongolia and everywhere between. Expect meat to be featured prominently – particularly lamb and horse meat. Try beshbarmak, chunks of boiled meat mixed with noodles and broth, or kazy, a Kazakh style sausage. Baiterek markets sell all sorts of horsemeat sausages. Bread remains important, seen in dishes like baursaki – fried bread balls. Manti are steamed dumplings similar to Chinese potstickers or Russian pelmeni that sometimes come filled with pumpkin or meat. Samsa pastries make a great snack. With influences from the Silk Road, Kazakhstan cuisine offers new flavors for many visitors to enjoy.

The Cosmopolitan South

The oil boom in cities like Aktau on the Caspian Sea coast brought modern development and international influences, while not yet erasing old Kazakhstan. Here the massive Steppe and Mountains mall built of stone, marble, and glass houses luxury international shops and dining. But herders still drive livestock through the streets. Aktau has plenty of Soviet character as well – worth visiting is the Cosmonaut Training Center with capsules, satellites, and a real Buran space shuttle from the Soviet-era space program. The south provides an accessible blend of old and new Kazakhstan.

Hospitality of the People

Despite not being overrun with tourists, Kazakhs are extremely hospitable and welcoming to foreign visitors. With the rise of agritourism, many rural families are opening their homes to visitors for a glimpse of daily life herding livestock and living off the land. Urban areas also beckon – stop someone on the street for directions and you may end up making a new friend! Perplexing cultural differences exist alongside wonderful warmth and kindness. Travelers who make efforts to connect with locals often find the highlights of their Kazakhstan trip to be its people.

Activities and Adventures

Adventure seekers will find endless possibilities in Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes. Hiking through the snowcapped peaks and valleys around Almaty provides breathtaking vistas. The rugged terrain also offers excellent mountain biking. Long horseback rides allow you to experience the endless steppe as nomads have for thousands of years. Raft down rushing rivers winding through the canyons and gorges. Camping anywhere from the deserts to the high alpine zone provides nature immersion and amazing stargazing. Cultural festivals like the Eagle Hunting Festival offer glimpses into old traditions. Whether seeking adrenaline or cultural connections, Kazakhstan delivers incredible adventures.

Challenges of Travel

While exciting and full of possibility, Kazakhstan presents some challenges for travelers. Vast distances take long overland journeys – flying between cities may be necessary to avoid spending days in a vehicle. Outside of the largest cities, English is hardly spoken – come equipped with Russian phrases and patience for pantomime communication. While options are modernizing, hotels, restaurants and amenities still lag behind much of the world – lower your expectations for comfort. Infrastructure like roads can be quite poor in rural areas. For hardy souls not requiring luxury, these challenges are outweighed by the exploratory rewards. But they are worth accepting before embarking on your adventures.

Best Time to Visit

Due to its position in continental Asia, Kazakhstan experiences extreme seasonal variations. Bitter winters feature heavy snow and temperatures down to -40 C (-40 F), making travel difficult and miserable. The optimal times are spring (May-June) when the weather improves and flowers bloom, and summer (July-August) when sunny days prevail across the mountains and steppe. Fall (September-October) still offers decent weather. Planning around peak seasons allows you to take advantage of nicer conditions to maximize exploring this expansive country.

Essential Tips for Visitors

To make the most of your trip to Kazakhstan, keep these tips in mind:

• Respect cultural expectations by dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection. Remove shoes before entering homes.

• Carry small bills and have some tenge, the Kazakh currency – you’ll need it in rural areas without ATMs or card acceptance.

• Learn basic Russian phrases. Kazakh is the official language but Russian remains commonly spoken.

• Pack for diversity – sweltering deserts to frigid mountains. Layer clothing.

• Consider hiring a local guide to help navigate language and cultural barriers.

• Confirm visa requirements and allow enough time – they can be burdensome for many nationalities.

• Avoid drinking tap water or eating risky street food. Carry hand sanitizer.

Conclusion

For adventurers seeking the road less traveled, Kazakhstan offers untouched natural beauty and fascinating cultural heritage. From the cosmopolitan cafes of Almaty to endless steppe populated by wild horses and eagles, landscapes begging to be explored await. Through warm hospitality of rural villagers or new international friends in modern cities, meaningful cultural connections enlighten any visit. Don’t let the challenges dissuade you – with flexibility and preparation, this gem in the heart of Asia promises captivating encounters and memories to last a lifetime. The journey begins with a single steppe – start yours in extraordinary Kazakhstan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of accommodations are available in Kazakhstan?

Options range from modern hotels in big cities to rural homestays and yurt camps on the steppe. Standards are improving but still lag behind western expectations in many areas.

Do I need a visa to visit Kazakhstan?

Yes, nearly all nationalities require visas approved in advance for both tourism and transit. Lengthy application processes make hiring an agency a good idea.

Is it safe to travel in Kazakhstan?

Violent crime is relatively rare, even in large cities. Standard precautions apply. Bigger risks are road safety, exposure, and limited access to medical care in remote areas.

What is the best way to get around Kazakhstan?

Domestic flights are the most efficient way between major cities. Overland journeys by shared taxi or private car cover long distances otherwise. Roads deteriorate in rural areas.

What vaccines are recommended for travel to Kazakhstan?

Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, tick-borne encephalitis, and routine boosters are recommended. Measles outbreaks have also occurred recently. Consult your doctor.