Imagine you've just flown into Kazakhstan and want to see more than just the hotel and conference room. Start by getting to know its capital, tasting baursak, kumys, traditional beshbarmak, and seeing the endless steppes. From ultra-modern Astana to the tranquility of Borovoe, everyone will find their own Kazakhstan and a chance to fall in love in their own way with the hospitality of the Kazakh people.

TOP 10 places to visit in Kazakhstan

1. Astana – the capital of the future

Modern architecture, a unique mix of oriental and futuristic aesthetics. Baiterek, the new mosque and the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, the National Museum and the Astana Opera Concert Hall are symbols of a new era in Kazakhstan.

For all foreigners who visit the capital for the first time, Astana seems like a city of the future. It is here that architecture, new buildings and residential complexes leave a lasting impression.

2. Almaty – the cultural heart of the country

Almaty is called the southern capital, surrounded by picturesque mountains. Guests should see the Shymbulak ski resort, the Medeo ice rink, the Central Museum and the Green Bazaar. An ideal place to get acquainted with Kazakh hospitality and cuisine.

3. Charyn Canyon – the “younger brother” of the Grand Canyon

A unique natural park with bizarre rock formations. The Valley of Castles is especially impressive — a place for spectacular photos and hiking.

4. Borovoe (Burabay) – Kazakh Switzerland

Picturesque lakes, pine forests and the legendary Okzhetpes and Zhumabaktas rocks. A great destination for relaxation and easy hikes. The distance from Astana is more than 300 km.

5. Turkestan – spiritual center

Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city combines Islamic architecture, oriental flavor and modern tourist infrastructure.

6. Altyn-Emel – singing dunes and ancient petroglyphs

A national park where you can hear the “song” of the sand, see the colorful Aktau and Katutau mountains, as well as the ancient rock paintings of Tamgaly-Tas.

7. Kolsai and Kaindy – mountain pearls

Crystal clear lakes in the foothills of the Tien Shan. Lake Kaindy is especially famous for its flooded spruce forest.

8. Western Kazakhstan and the Ustyurt Plateau

Fantastic Martian landscapes, canyons and cliffs of Boszhira, as well as underground mosques of Mangystau.

9. Lake Balkhash – a unique two-faced sea

One part of the lake is salty, the other is fresh. A great place for fishing, water sports and ecotourism.

10. Climbing route to Abai Peak and Talgar Peak

For lovers of mountain adventures — routes in the Trans-Ili Alatau with stunning views and a real spirit of mountaineering.