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View PackagesGetting Around Kazakhstan
Getting Around in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, offers diverse and expansive landscapes, from bustling cities to serene steppes and majestic mountains. Navigating this vast country requires understanding the various modes of transportation available, each suited to different travel needs and destinations. For longer distances, air travel is recommended as Kazakhstan is a large country, and it can take more than a day to travel from one side to the other. For short and medium distances you can choose to travel by rail as the rail network is widespread. Road travel is usually uncomfortable due to long commute timings and bad traffic conditions.
Getting Around Kazakhstan By Air
Air travel is the most efficient way to cover long distances in Kazakhstan, given the vast size of the country. Key airports like Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Astana, Almaty International Airport in Almaty, Aktau International Airport in Aktau, Atyrau International Airport in Atyrau, and Shymkent International Airport in Shymkent connect major cities and regions of the country. Flights between Astana and Almaty are particularly frequent, often operating multiple times a day.
Getting Around Kazakhstan By Rail
Kazakhstan's rail network, operated by Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, spans over 15,000 kilometers and connects key cities and regions, making it a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists. Train classes range from the high-speed and comfortable trains known as Tulpar-Talgo to compartment four-berth sleeping compartments, Platzkart open-plan dormitory-style sleeping cars, and two-berth luxury compartments for privacy. Tickets can be purchased online through the KTZ website or at train stations, and booking in advance is recommended, especially for long-distance and high-speed trains.
Getting Around Kazakhstan By Road
Traveling by road in Kazakhstan offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore remote areas at your own pace. The road network includes highways connecting major cities and regions, but conditions can vary significantly. While urban regions and big cities have smooth roads, rural regions have rugged terrain. It’s important to be prepared for long distances and ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for the journey.
Taxis are widely available in cities. You can also get an app-based taxi service by Yandex Go. Intercity buses and minibusses (marshrutkas) are a budget-friendly option for getting around, with buses connecting major cities and towns and marshrutkas serving shorter routes and rural areas. However, the journey can be a bit uncomfortable due to poor traffic and bad roads. Main bus terminals in cities like Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent offer services to various destinations.
