Getting around Kazakhstan
Domestic air travel is a common and efficient means of transportation within Kazakhstan, given the country's vast size and the significant distances between major cities.
Major Domestic Airlines:
• Air Astana: As the national carrier, Air Astana operates numerous domestic routes connecting key cities such as Almaty, Astana, Shymkent, and Aktobe.
• FlyArystan: This low-cost subsidiary of Air Astana offers affordable flights across a wide network of domestic destinations, making air travel more accessible to a broader population.
• Qazaq Air: Qazaq Air connects regional centres and smaller cities, enhancing interregional accessibility.
Kazakhstan's vast landscapes are connected by a network of major road routes, making it possible to explore the country by car.
Major highways are generally well-maintained, especially between key cities like Astana and Almaty. However, roads leading to remote natural attractions can be rough and may require a vehicle with higher clearance. Fuel stations are readily available along main routes but become sparse in less populated areas, so filling up before long drives is essential. Navigation is relatively easy using mobile apps like Google Maps, though carrying an offline map or GPS device is advisable for journeys into areas with poor reception. Seasonal factors should also be considered—winter travel can be particularly challenging due to snow and icy roads, especially in mountainous regions.
Major tourist road routes include:
• Astana to Almaty, with a driving distance of 1,211 km (753 miles).
• Astana to Burabay National Park, about 250 km (155 miles).
• Almaty to Charyn Canyon, about 212 km (132 miles).
• Almaty to Kolsai Lakes, about 300 km (186 miles).
Major highways connecting cities like Astana and Almaty are generally in good condition. However, roads leading to natural attractions such as Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes may have rougher sections, so a vehicle with higher clearance is advisable. In addition, winter travel can be difficult due to snow and icy roads.
International car rental chains operate at major airports and within city centres, offering both short- and long-term rentals, as well as chauffeur-driven services and transfers.
The minimum age to rent a car in Kazakhstan typically ranges between 21 and 25 years, depending on the rental company's policy. While some companies accept domestic licences, many require an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a notarised translation of the licence into Russian.
Taxis in Kazakhstan can be tricky to navigate, as there is no standardised taxi colour or design, making it difficult to distinguish official taxis from unlicensed ones. Meter usage is inconsistent, so it's crucial to agree on a fare before starting your journey to avoid being overcharged. Also, be cautious of potential fake meter scams. Tipping is not common for taxi services.
Rail-hailing apps like Yandex Go are available in Kazakhstan. They offer clear pricing and vehicle tracking.
The country's sheer size means that cyclists can expect long distances between settlements, especially in central and western areas dominated by semi-deserts. Popular cycling regions include the Almaty Region, offering a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty, and the Altai Mountains, known for their challenging terrains and stunning vistas. The best time to cycle in the Altai is between July and August.
Cyclists should meticulously plan their routes, familiarise themselves with local laws and customs, and carry adequate food, water, and camping gear.
Long-distance coaches are a prevalent mode of transportation in Kazakhstan, though journey times can be extensive due to the country's size. For instance, a trip from Astana to Almaty by bus may take approximately 17 to 20 hours, and onboard amenities can vary.
Sayran Bus Station in Almaty, located at the intersection of Tole Bi and Otegen Batyr streets, is the city's primary hub for long-distance buses. It operates routes to cities such as Bishkek, Urumqi, Taraz, Shymkent, Oskemen, Karaganda, and Astana. The station offers amenities including a 24/7 luggage room and various shops.
Astana-Saparjai-1 Bus Station serves over 60 intercity, interregional, and international routes daily. It has facilities such as ticket counters, waiting areas, and eateries.
Kokshetau Central Bus Terminal, near the Kokshetau Railway Station, provides services to cities like Astana, Karaganda, Pavlodar, Petropavl, as well as international destinations including Yekaterinburg, Omsk, Tobolsk, Tyumen, Kurgan, and Bishkek.
Tickets for long-distance buses can be purchased directly at bus station counters or through online platforms such as Tickets.kz, which allows users to check schedules and book seats in advance.
Speed limits vary depending on location, usually 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas, 20 km/h (12 mph) in residential zones, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways.
Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers. The country enforces a zero-tolerance policy on alcohol consumption while driving, meaning even a small amount of alcohol in your system can result in severe penalties.
Winter tyres are not legally required, but they are highly recommended due to Kazakhstan's harsh winter conditions, where icy roads and heavy snowfall make driving extremely hazardous.
Foreign drivers are required to carry a valid driver's license (or an IDP if the license is not in Russian or Kazakh), vehicle registration documents, proof of insurance, and their passport.
Urban travel in Kazakhstan's two largest cities, Almaty and Nur-Sultan (Astana), is relatively well-developed, with multiple transport options catering to both locals and visitors.
Getting around in Almaty
Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, has a diverse transport network, including buses, trolleybuses, a metro system, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The ONAY! Card is Almaty's unified electronic payment system for public transportation and can be purchased at newsstands, metro stations, and railway stations.
• Metro: Almaty has Kazakhstan's only metro system, which is modern, clean, and efficient. It has one line with limited stations, but it's a great way to avoid traffic congestion.
• Buses & Trolleybuses: The city operates an extensive bus network covering most areas. These are an affordable way to get around, though they can be crowded during peak hours.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: While taxis are available, Yandex Go (Kazakhstan's equivalent of Uber) is the most popular and reliable way to book a ride.
• Cycling & Scooters: There are public bike-sharing and electric scooter services, though cycling infrastructure is limited.
• Walking: Almaty is more pedestrian-friendly than other Kazakh cities, with leafy streets and well-maintained pavements.
Getting around in Nur-Sultan (Astana)
Kazakhstan's capital, Nur-Sultan, has a modern but less extensive transport system compared to Almaty.
• Buses: The primary mode of public transport is buses. The fleet includes modern, eco-friendly buses with contactless payment options.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxis are available, but Yandex Go is preferred by many visitors.
• Cycling & Walking: The city has some bike lanes, but due to its extreme winters and vast distances, walking or cycling is not always practical.
The national railway company, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), operates an extensive network. Popular domestic routes include:
• Almaty to Nur-Sultan (Astana).
• Almaty to Shymkent.
• Nur-Sultan to Atyrau.
Foreign travellers should consider booking train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel months (July and August). Tickets can be purchased at station counters or via Kazakhstan Temir Zholy's (KTZ) official website.
Trains offer various classes of service, ranging from basic seating to sleeper cabins, with the latter providing enhanced comfort for long journeys. Station signage is primarily in Kazakh and Russian, so learning basic Russian phrases or having a translation app is useful. Long-distance trains generally provide basic amenities, including bedding and dining cars, but travellers should carry personal essentials and snacks to ensure a comfortable journey.
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