Kazakhstan is a country located in Central Asia, with its capital and largest city being Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana). It is the ninth largest country in the world by land area and it is bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west.
As of 2021, the population of Kazakhstan is approximately 18.7 million people. The population is diverse, with Kazakhs being the largest ethnic group, followed by Russians, Uzbeks, and Ukrainians.
The climate of Kazakhstan is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. The temperature in January can drop as low as -20°C, while the temperature in July can reach up to 35°C. The country also experiences a rainy season in the summer, with heavy rainfall in June and July. The best time to visit Kazakhstan is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful.
Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors can experience the traditional nomadic culture by visiting the Kazakh Eagle Hunter’s camp and learning about the ancient art of hunting with eagles. They can also visit the stunning natural landscapes of the Almaty region, including the Charyn Canyon, the Kolsai Lakes, and the Medeu Skating Rink, which is the highest skating rink in the world. The city of Almaty, the former capital, offers many attractions such as the Central State Museum, the Zenkov Cathedral, and the Panfilov Park. Visitors can also experience the modern side of Kazakhstan by visiting the new capital, Nur-Sultan, where they can find a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The city is also home to the iconic Bayterek Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
Here is an example 7-day itinerary for Kazakhstan:
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty and city tour.
- Visit the Central State Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Kazakhstan.
- Explore the Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden cathedral built in 1904.
- Take a stroll in Panfilov Park, a popular spot for locals and visitors.
Day 2: Almaty region tour.
- Visit the Charyn Canyon, a stunning natural formation that is often compared to the Grand Canyon.
- Explore the Kolsai Lakes, a beautiful mountain lake system that offers scenic hiking and fishing opportunities.
- Visit the Medeu Skating Rink, the highest skating rink in the world.
Day 3: Kazakh Eagle Hunter’s camp.
- Learn about the ancient art of hunting with eagles and witness a live demonstration.
- Meet the local eagle hunters and learn about their culture and way of life.
Day 4: Transfer to Nur-Sultan.
- Take a tour of the new capital, including a visit to the iconic Bayterek Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Visit the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a unique architectural structure designed by the British architect Norman Foster.
Day 5: Nur-Sultan city tour.
- Visit the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which showcases the history and culture of the country.
- Take a stroll in the city center and explore the local markets and shops.
Day 6: Visit the Burabay National Park.
- Explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the Burabay National Park, including the lake and forests.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and boating.
Day 7: Departure from Nur-Sultan.
Please note that this is just an example itinerary and can be adjusted to suit personal preferences and time constraints. The above itinerary covers the most important and interesting places to visit in Kazakhstan within 7 days, which will give you a good sense of the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty.