Thanks to natural resources (and sheer size) Kazakhstan is probably the best developed of the –stans. You’re more likely to get a good coffee on the leafy avenues of Almaty than anywhere else on the Asian steppe, and the country’s capital, Asatana, is a 21st-century showcase of modern architecture and futuristic design. Not what you’d expect from a country where the horse and cart is still a pretty big deal. Whatever your expectations are, leave them in the arrivals lounge. Kazakhstan defies them all.
Veer off the beaten track in Kazakhstan. Unveil the once mysterious Cosmodrome of the...
Our Kazakhstan trips score an average of 4.38 out of 5 based on 8 reviews in the last year.
This was a really good introduction to Kazakhstan and would definitely return to explore further.
Review submitted 29 Sep 2017
Managed to see not only a manned space launch but caught a glimpse of a cargo launch the day before. Tour leader Nazira, made sure everything was well organised & travel schedule changes out of Intrepid's control actually worked in our favour. Would have liked a little more time to be able to explore by yourself, but the schedule didn't allow for his at times. Tips: 1. There an ATM for rubles next to the Baikonur hotel which you need at the cosmodrome & shops in Baikonur (you need cash), some other ATM only dispense tenge. 2. in respect of the city bus tour in Baikonur, sit on the right hand side of the bus.
Review submitted 28 Sep 2017
After months of planning, arguing, drinking and pondering, we've come up with the...
Visit the haunting ‘ship cemetery’ of the much-depleted Aral Sea
KAZAKHSTAN VISA
Many nationalities, including Australia, Germany, USA and United Kingdom do not require a visa for stays of up to 15 days. Please check with your local consulate for the most up to date requirements. New Zealand passengers do require a visa to travel to Kazakhstan. New Zealand passengers will need to send their application and passport to Sydney or Singapore, so it is important that this is done well in advance of the travel date. Please see here for the documents New Zealand passengers require before submitting their application:
http://www.kazakhstan.org.sg/content/intro.php?act=menu&c_id=49
A service charge of 10% is included at most restaurants so tipping isn’t necessary.
There are internet cafes available in the main towns and in libraries and universities.
Reception is good in the main towns but sketchy elsewhere. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.
Toilet facilities may be very basic. Expect drop toilets outside of hotels and bring your own toilet paper as there may not be any.
Bottle of soft drink = 120 KZT
Beer in a bar or restaurant = 400 KZT
Simple lunch = 800 KZT
Three-course meal = 3500 KZT
Short taxi ride = 500 KZT
Drinking tap water in Kazakhstan isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.
Credit cards are accepted in major shops and hotels in Almaty.
There’s some access to ATMs in major towns and cities.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Please note these dates are for 2017. For a current list of public holidays in Kazakhstan go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/kazakhstan/public-holidays
Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.
