Lonely PlanetAug 26, 2026
14 of the Best Things to Do in Kazakhstan
From discovering remote mountains to exploring futuristic cities and more.
19 things in this story
- Charyn CanyonNature reserveHike red-rock formations east of Almaty
- Green MarketMarketBustling market in Almaty
- Zenkov CathedralRestaurantMarvel at the intricate architecture in Almaty
- Central MosquePlace of worshipPonder the call to prayer from its minarets
- ShymbulakSightSki resort accessible by daily buses from Almaty
- Kolsai LakesSightThree lakes in a dense forest region
- Kaindy LakeSightLake formed after a 1911 earthquake
- Singing DuneSightEmits a rumbling sound when windy and dry
- Elsewhere
- Baikonur CosmodromeSightBaikonur, KazakhstanBook a launch tour for a once-in-a-lifetime space experience
- Katon-Karagay National ParkSightKaton-Karagay, KazakhstanExplore lush valleys and mountains on horseback
- National MuseumTrain stationAstana, KazakhstanExplore culture in Astana
- Saken Seifullin’s former homeSightAstana, KazakhstanExplore poet's former home in Astana
- balbalsSightEreimentau, KazakhstanStone sculptures marking burial mounds of ancient warriors
- Aksu-Zhabagly Nature ReserveSightShymkent, KazakhstanOldest nature preserve, spot eagles and vultures
- Tuzkol LakeSightTian Shan mountains, KazakhstanSalty lake offering fabulous floats
- Ustyurt ReserveSightAktau, KazakhstanNatural wonder with pillars of limestone and chalk
- Shakhr-i-VazirSightAktau, KazakhstanRuins of an ancient city
- Beleuli CaravanseraiSightAktau, KazakhstanFortress on the Silk Road
- Allan FortressSightAktau, KazakhstanAncient fortress on the Silk Road
