Are you planning to travel to Kazakhstan? If so, you would better prepare for it and check out the following tips, especially if you are going there for the first time. Get ready for the most exciting experience in your life!
1. Check the weather conditions
When you plan your traveling time, it’s better to check the weather conditions for the specific dates. In Kazakhstan, it is cold and snowy in winter. If you want to travel there in springtime or fall, you should expect rainfall. In summer, the temperature is very hot. The local temperature there is measured in Celsius.
2. Arrange transportation
It is a great idea to take care of your transportation in advance. Keep in mind that the taxi drivers in the airport might appear to be friendly. However, indeed, they are very “tricky and inventive”. So, it would be better to use apps like “Yandex Go Kazakhstan” or “Uber KZ”.
Just download them from the Play Market or App Store. By doing this, you will book the ride efficiently. On average, you should spend from 8-10 USD for a journey of about 13-15 kilometers if you use Uber Black ride.
3. Care of currency exchange
The airport exchange rate is not significantly different from other exchange services in the country. On average, it is 1 USD = 500,80 tenge. Also, you might conveniently exchange other currencies, including RUB, EUR, GBP, and CNY.
4. Mobile service
It is essential to get a local SIM card. On average, the price for a 10 GB Internet package is from 10 to 15 USD. The cost depends on the type of the operator you select. Buying these SIM cards at any kiosk (small shop) or grocery store is possible.
There is also an E-SIM operator called “IZI mobile”. Just download their application from either the Play Market or the App Store.
5. Mind communication peculiarities
When traveling to Kazakhstan, you would better consider the language aspect, too. The native language is Kazakh. Nevertheless, Russian is also understood and used in Kazakhstan. You might rely on translation tools like Google Translator. With such tools, you will have smoother communication when visiting Kazakhstan.
6. Choose affordable airlines
You can fly to Kazakhstan with Air Astana Airlines, known for offering competitive prices and excellent service. As one of the top-rated airlines globally, Air Astana provides a range of additional services to enhance your travel experience:
- MyBAGGAGE: Enjoy a 30% discount when purchasing extra luggage in advance, allowing you to carry more without overspending.
- MyUPGRADE: Upgrade your travel class and enjoy premium services during your flight.
- MySTOPPOVER: If you have a long transit time (around 10 hours), you can explore Almaty or Astana with a stopover package for just $19.
- MyCHOICE: Choose the fare that best suits your needs and budget with flexible rate options.
Flying to Kazakhstan with Air Astana ensures a comfortable journey, affordable pricing, and a premium travel experience.
7. Get a visa
Kazakhstan is a country that expands the number of nationalities who can take part in their visa-free program each year. However, you need to follow specific rules before going there.
As for EU and US citizens, they may enjoy a visa for free within 30 days. You may also benefit from a visa-free regime if you are from Canada.
To get a visa to Kazakhstan, you must apply at your country’s consulate. You can get the visa even if you have different visa terms. Suppose there is no consulate in your country, but there is a visa upon arrival in Kazakhstan with a letter of invitation or advance notice.
8. Find a hotel to stay
There are more hotel options in the big cities in Kazakhstan than in smaller towns. For instance, you may find international five-star chains in Almaty and Astana.
In smaller towns, you may find local hotels. It would be better to reserve a room in advance.
9. Budgeting
You may get a comfy lunch in the local cafe in Shymkent for $1 per person, while a dinner in Starbucks in Almaty will cost $20. So, you need to plan your budget to expect higher meal prices in the big cities of Kazakhstan. However, this country offers infrastructure to cater to every single customer.
10. Safety and security
Being in Kazakhstan, you should not worry about your safety and security. The country is safe and clean. However, among the useful tips are keeping your wits about you, avoiding petty crime, locking your train compartment, locking your room, and so on.
11. Discover local mountains
If you have free time to travel to Kazakhstan, do not neglect the opportunity to see the marvelous mountains. This would be the most memorable experience because these mountains are so beautiful and grand.
Wish you have a great time traveling to Kazakhstan, especially, if you do it for the first time. For sure, the first impression matters! So, have a wonderful time flying to Kazakhstan!