Verified Facts
To get around in Kazakhstan, you can utilize a variety of transportation options, including domestic flights, trains, buses, and taxis, as well as drive yourself with a rental car or ride-hailing services.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Kazakhstan has several international airports, with Almaty International Airport (ALA) and Astana International Airport (TSE) being the main hubs for direct flights from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. You can also enter the country by land through border crossings with Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. The most popular overland entry points are at the Russian-Kazakh border near Oral and the Chinese-Kazakh border near Khorgos. From there, you can take buses or taxis to get to your final destination.
If you're planning to enter Kazakhstan by air, you can fly into one of the three main international airports, which offer connections to major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Some of the direct flight hubs include Moscow, Beijing, Istanbul, and Dubai. Keep in mind that some flights may require a layover, so be sure to check with your airline for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Additionally, if you're entering the country by land, make sure you have all the necessary documents, including a valid passport and any required visas.
Domestic Flights
Kazakhstan has an extensive domestic air network, with several airlines operating flights between major cities. Some of the main domestic airlines include Air Astana, SCAT Airlines, and Qazaq Air. The most popular routes include Almaty to Astana, Almaty to Atyrau, and Astana to Aktau. You can book domestic flights online through the airlines' websites or at a local travel agency. Approximate costs for domestic flights range from $50 to $200, depending on the route and airline. It's a good idea to book in advance to secure the best prices, especially during peak travel seasons.
Trains & Rail
Kazakhstan has an extensive rail network, with trains connecting major cities across the country. The rail network is operated by Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), the national railway company. Some of the key routes include Almaty to Astana, Almaty to Shymkent, and Astana to Karaganda. While there are no high-speed trains in Kazakhstan, the rail network is generally reliable and comfortable. You can book train tickets online through the KTZ website or at a local train station. Prices vary depending on the class of service and route, but expect to pay around $10 to $50 for a one-way ticket.
Buses & Coaches
Kazakhstan has a well-developed bus network, with several companies operating intercity routes. Some of the main bus companies include Samal Bus and Astana Bus. Buses are a relatively affordable way to travel, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 for a one-way ticket. The quality of buses varies, but most are modern and comfortable. You can book bus tickets online or at a local bus station. Keep in mind that bus schedules may be limited, especially in rural areas, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and book in advance.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Almaty, Astana | $0.20 | Limited routes, but convenient for city center travel |
| City Bus | Most cities | $0.20-$0.50 | Affordable, but can be crowded and unpredictable |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $1-$5/km | Metered taxis are available, but you can also negotiate a fixed price |
| Ride-Hailing | Almaty, Astana | $2-$5 | Yandex.Taxi and inDriver are popular options |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available | - | Not a common mode of transportation in Kazakhstan |
Driving
- To drive in Kazakhstan, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as a car insurance policy that covers you in Kazakhstan.
- Road conditions can be challenging, especially in rural areas, where roads may be unpaved or poorly maintained.
- Fuel costs are relatively low, with gasoline prices averaging around $0.50 per liter.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to choose a reputable company and inspect the vehicle carefully before driving.
- Traffic rules are generally similar to those in Europe, but be aware that driving styles can be more aggressive in Kazakhstan.
- Hazards to watch out for include potholes, stray animals, and poor visibility due to weather conditions.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced taxi rides or fake train tickets.
- Payment methods accepted in Kazakhstan include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments like Apple Pay.
- Download the Yandex.Taxi or inDriver app to easily hail a ride.
- Learn some basic Kazakh phrases, such as "hello" (salem) and "thank you" (rahmet), to help you navigate.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when traveling to rural areas.
- Stay informed about local events and demonstrations, which may affect traffic and transportation.
- Bring a power adapter** for charging your devices, as Kazakhstan uses Type C and F power sockets.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance** to cover unexpected medical or travel-related expenses.