Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia and one of the world’s most diverse travel destinations. From futuristic cities and ancient Silk Road towns to alpine lakes, dramatic canyons, and vast steppe landscapes, Kazakhstan offers authentic, uncrowded, and unforgettable experiences.
We provide you with the most famous tourist destinations in Kazakhstan, carefully selected for cultural value, natural beauty, and traveler popularity. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, nature, or city life, Kazakhstan has it all.
Almaty is the top tourist city in Kazakhstan and the perfect starting point for any journey. Nestled at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains, it combines urban life with stunning alpine scenery.
Top attractions in Almaty:
Medeu Ice Skating Rink (world’s highest)
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Kok-Tobe Hill & cable car
Green Bazaar & local cuisine
Day trips to lakes and canyons
✔ Best for: City tours, food lovers, mountain escapes
✔ Ideal season: April–October, December–March for skiing
Astana (officially Astana) is a futuristic capital city known for bold architecture and grand national landmarks.
Must-see landmarks:
Bayterek Tower
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center
Hazrat Sultan Mosque
National Museum of Kazakhstan
✔ Best for: Architecture, culture, city breaks
✔ Ideal season: May–September
Charyn Canyon is one of Kazakhstan’s most iconic natural wonders, often compared to the Grand Canyon of the USA.
Why visit Charyn Canyon:
Valley of Castles rock formations
Hiking & photography
Easy day trip from Almaty
✔ Best for: Nature lovers, photographers
✔ Ideal season: April–June, September–October
The Kolsai Lakes are among the most beautiful lakes in Central Asia, surrounded by pine forests and mountain peaks.
Highlights:
Three stunning alpine lakes
Horse riding & hiking trails
Homestay experiences in Saty village
✔ Best for: Eco-tourism, trekking
✔ Ideal season: May–October
Kaindy Lake is famous for its submerged spruce trees, creating one of the most surreal landscapes in Kazakhstan.
✔ Best for: Unique photography, short hikes
✔ Ideal season: May–September
Burabay National Park is known for pine forests, granite mountains, and crystal lakes, making it one of the most popular holiday destinations for locals.
✔ Best for: Family trips, relaxation
✔ Ideal season: May–September
Mangystau is one of Kazakhstan’s most mysterious and dramatic regions, featuring desert plateaus, chalk cliffs, and sacred sites.
Top sights:
Bozzhyra Canyon
Torysh Valley of Balls
Beket-Ata Underground Mosque
✔ Best for: Adventure tours, off-road travel
✔ Ideal season: March–May, September–October
Turkistan is the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan and a key stop on the ancient Silk Road.
Main attraction:
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (UNESCO-listed)
✔ Best for: History, culture, pilgrimage
✔ Ideal season: March–May, September–October