Kazakhstan tours and programs

Kazakhstan is the ninth largest country in the world and is located in Central Asia. Its size offers visitors a unique variety of landscapes, shaped by five different climate zones and two time zones. They range from desert to steppe, from vast arid plains to imposing mountains topped by glaciers, from splendid canyons to delightful valleys and lakes. Kazakhstan extends magnificently across the heart of Eurasia, and its geography offers an extraordinary diversity of environments, from the arid regions of the Kyzylkum Desert, with its golden dunes, to the cool, verdant valleys of the Altai Mountains. Today's Kazakhstan is a perfect synthesis of ancient clashes of cultures, with nomadic populations passing through, yet leaving a strong influence on the land they traversed, making the country a melting pot of traditions. The stories of the peoples who have inhabited this land are intertwined over the centuries, creating a unique cultural heritage that attracts the attention of historians and tourists alike. Even today, a tour of Kazakhstan offers both traditional and extraordinary travel experiences. A trip to Kazakhstan means strolling among the ruins of cities from the era of Tamerlane, admiring modern and prosperous cities from the cable cars that crisscross them, visiting the stunning natural wonders of canyons sculpted by nature over millennia, and discovering authentic local markets where you can savor typical dishes like plov, a delicacy made of rice, meat, and spices. Every corner of Kazakhstan tells fascinating stories that blend with its extraordinary natural beauty, making every visit an unforgettable experience for anyone wishing to venture into this fascinating corner of the world.

tour in Kazakistan

We offer some sample programs for your trip to Kazakhstan. Incoming Tours specializes in organized tours for pre-formed groups. For individuals, we can design customized itineraries and optimize them in terms of cost, visits, and duration. All programs are customizable and can be optimized based on your needs.

For your inquiries, please write to us at info@incoming-tours.com

7-day Kazakhstan tour

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Duration : 7 days 6 nights
Code : T-K7

Accommodation: hotel
Excursions: included as per program
Meals: B&B, lunches and dinners bookable
Highlights: the Kazakh capitals, Astana and Almaty, visit to the natural beauties of Kazakhstan, Lake Issyk and the Charyn Canyon.

Top places to visit in Kazakistan

Kazakhstan is a splendid and unique country. It is the richest, largest, and most influential nation in all of Central Asia. Kazakhstan has an ancient and fascinating history, yet, thanks to its enormous natural wealth, it fearlessly looks to the future, embracing the challenge of modernity while maintaining a strong connection to its ancient traditions and history. Its natural landscape is as diverse as it is splendid, enriched by breathtaking beauty that ranges from majestic mountains to vast steppes. Furthermore, its ancient architecture tells stories of past eras and cultural influences that intertwine in a fascinating mosaic. Its modern, at times futuristic, cities offer a vibrant urban life, where tradition meets innovation. Its tasty and colorful food, representative of a rich culinary tradition, can captivate even the most discerning palates. Its proud and hospitable people are ready to welcome visitors with warm smiles and genuine curiosity. All these unique and unforgettable moments will make your tour of Kazakhstan a memorable experience you'll treasure forever, an adventure that explores not only the places, but also the stories and cultures that make up this extraordinary nation. It's a journey that will not only enrich you, but also allow you to deeply understand the soul of Kazakhstan.

Almaty

Capital until 1997, it is still Kazakhstan's largest city. Almaty, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a hub of commercial and artistic activity. This city is characterized by a cosmopolitan and international atmosphere, where local and global influences blend together to create a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore its fascinating markets, savor typical dishes in the vibrant food scene, and admire the numerous parks and public spaces that offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Additionally, Almaty is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, inviting nature lovers to discover its outdoor wonders, making it not only a place of work and culture, but also an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers.

Astana

The capital of Kazakhstan, renamed Nur-Sultan in 2019. Nestled in the vast Kazakh steppes, it is now a modern city where new architectural wonders emerge every year, attracting visitors from around the world. This capital, designed by internationally renowned architects, combines elements of traditional culture and innovation, creating a unique and captivating skyline. It is not only a political and administrative center, but also a cultural hub hosting artistic events, festivals, and exhibitions that celebrate Kazakhstan's rich historical heritage. Its continued growth and development make it a symbol of progress and modernity in the region.

Baikonur Cosmodrome

It is the world's largest space launch facility, operated by the Kazakh and Russian governments. Sputnik 1 and Vostok 1, the first manned spaceflight, launched from here. Every year, Baikonur hosts numerous launches of major space missions, contributing to the development of science and technology. Furthermore, it is an emblematic site in the history of space exploration, having seen the launch of astronauts and satellites that changed the course of our understanding of the universe. Walking its historic grounds, one can almost hear the echo of the voices of space pioneers and the challenges they faced. Without a doubt, the Baikonur Cosmodrome continues to be a symbol of unity and international collaboration in the field of astronautics.

Charyn Canyon

You arrive here from an arid steppe, crossing a landscape that seems to have stood still in time. It suddenly appears in all its majestic beauty, a true masterpiece of nature. The Charyn Canyon extends for 90 km with a maximum depth of 300 meters. This extraordinary place is known for its imposing rock formations and spectacular colors that change with the lighting. Every corner of this canyon tells the story of millions of years of erosion and geological processes. Furthermore, the park surrounding the canyon offers opportunities for hiking and immersing yourself in the region's wild nature.

Kazakh cuisine

Kazakh cuisine is the fruit of the country's millennia-long history, which has seen the passage of different peoples and traditions, leaving a rich and varied culinary legacy. Kazakh cuisine is the result of a fusion of these multiple European, Asian, Russian, and Caucasian influences, which combine to create unique and delicious dishes. Every Kazakh meal tells a story, with fresh ingredients and preparation techniques passed down from generation to generation.
More information is available on the page dedicated to Traditional Cuisine in Kazakhstan .

Country profile: Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan in brief

Capital: Astana
Population: approximately 19.8 million
Languages: Kazakh, Russian
Time zone: +5 hours Astana and Almaty (Italy), +4 with daylight saving time
Currency: Kazakh tenghe (KZT)
Country code for Italy: +39
Country code from Italy: +7 Safety: No special requirements in tourist areas Documents: Passport required for European Union citizens

Before departure

For a complete overview of the destination, please visit the dedicated website of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country and check the latest warnings and information about the country you will be visiting. This link provides the most up-to-date information regarding travel regulations for the destination you intend to visit.

When to visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is characterized by five climate zones, given its vast expanse, from the thin, arid steppes of the south to the imposing mountain ranges of the north and east, such as the Altai Mountains and the Tien Shan Mountains. The mildest seasons, ideal for a cultural tour of Kazakhstan, are undoubtedly spring and autumn, which feature pleasant temperatures and a temperate climate, perfect for exploring the country's natural and historical wonders. During spring, nature's colors awaken, offering spectacular views of blooming flowers and re-emergent wildlife. Autumn, on the other hand, is characterized by pleasant temperatures and breathtaking landscapes, with leaves turning shades of gold and red, creating a breathtaking panoramic view. Summer is particularly hot in the south of the country, where temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for visiting the many historic cities such as Almaty and Shymkent. However, summer days in the north are cooler and perfect for outdoor adventures and visiting natural wonders like Lake Balkhash and Burabay National Park. Visits to Astana (now called Nur-Sultan), Baikonur, and the Caspian regions are highly recommended year-round due to their unique history and culture. Finally, winters can be quite harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing, but they allow for extended periods of winter sports in Kazakhstan's many ski resorts, such as Shymbulak and Akbulak, where skiers and snowboarders can enjoy well-groomed slopes and breathtaking snow-covered panoramas.

Why visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a beautiful and unique country, rich in natural and cultural beauty. It is the richest, largest, and most influential nation in all of Central Asia. Kazakhstan is a country with an ancient history, dotted with significant events and extraordinary people. Thanks to its enormous natural wealth, it looks to the future without fear, accepting the challenge of modernity while maintaining a strong connection to ancient traditions and its fascinating history. Its diverse and splendid nature, ranging from imposing mountain ranges to vast deserts, offers breathtaking landscapes. Its ancient architecture, such as historic mosques and mausoleums, tells stories of a glorious past. Its modern, yet futuristic, cities, such as Almaty and Nur-Sultan, are a perfect balance of tradition and innovation, while its delicious and colorful food, rich in unique flavors, leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Its proud and hospitable people are known for their kindness and warmth, making every guest feel at home. All these factors contribute to making every visit an unforgettable experience. Every corner of Kazakhstan, from its vibrant and bustling markets to its tranquil natural corners, is a moment that will make your tour of Kazakhstan unforgettable.

Is it safe to travel to Kazakhstan?

There are no particular security concerns in Kazakhstan, considered one of the safest countries in the world. Kazakhstan's political and social stability contributes to a favorable environment for visitors from all over the world, allowing them to travel with complete peace of mind and without excessive worries. There are no specific reports of crimes against international tourists, whether traveling in groups or independently. Every visitor will have the opportunity to appreciate the country's natural and cultural beauty without fear. In general, the welcome for foreign tourists in Kazakhstan is always very positive, and a sense of security is felt throughout a trip. The locals are very hospitable and willing to help visitors, making the experience even more pleasant and enriching. Naturally, as in any tourist destination, normal caution should be exercised in the more crowded areas of large cities. It's advisable to avoid flaunting valuables and remain vigilant, but this applies to any city in the world. In short, traveling in Kazakhstan offers not only safety, but also the opportunity to explore a land rich in history and fascinating traditions, where adventure is always within reach.

How to get to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the easiest destination to reach in Central Asia. Thanks to its strategic location, you can explore not only its two main cities, Almaty and Astana, but also the country's natural and cultural wonders. Regular, seasonal flights connect these capitals to major international airports, making travel convenient and accessible. The national carrier is the excellent Air Astana, a highly respected airline that operates both international and domestic flights, including connections to nearby Central Asian capitals. There are also other flight options to consider, depending on your needs. Given the country's size, domestic travel is often by plane or comfortable overnight trains. While not the fastest, they allow you to reach your destination in one night, offering a fascinating way to see the scenery. Kazakhstan's railways offer a unique travel experience and the opportunity to observe the changing landscape, from open steppes to majestic mountains. Don't forget to plan excursions to national parks to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this vast land.

Is a visa required for Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan has also gradually simplified its entry policy in recent years. Citizens of many countries, including the European Union, Canada, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, can enter Kazakhstan with a 30-day visa exemption. Citizens of other countries require an electronic visa for Kazakhstan. However, we recommend checking the latest updates on entry requirements for Kazakhstan on the official website of the Kazakh embassy in your country of residence, which is also summarized at this link .

What to buy in Kazakhstan?

Felt making. Felting is one of Kazakhstan's traditional crafts. Felt is made from sheep's wool and is used to create warm slippers, vests, or jackets, highly resistant to the harsh temperatures that characterize the Kazakh winter.
Traditional musical instruments . The most popular instrument in Kazakhstan is the dombra, a stringed instrument that in the past could be found in every yurt, as it was an essential part of Kazakh life.
Traditional hats . The quintessential Kazakh headdress is the taqiyah, worn by everyone: men, women, children, and the elderly. It is sewn from fine materials such as cotton, silk, and velvet and is usually decorated with beads and embroidery.
Kazakh chocolate . It may not be as good as Swiss chocolate, but the quality is good, and chocolate wrapped in the Kazakhstan flag is common in every shop.