Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the largest of the states of the former Soviet Union apart from Russia, and it dwarfs the other countries of Central Asia and stretches into Eastern Europe. Kazakhstan is the richest country in the region due to its large oil and natural gas reserves and is also the largest in Central Asia. And while the endless, featureless steppe might repel some visitors the emptiness and mystery of this goliath state keep many others captivated.

Main Destinations

Astana, Almaty, Aktau, Taraz, Lake Balkhash, Baikonur, Semey, Turgen Gorge, Lake Kaindy, Tamgaly-Tas, Nomad’s Land, Shymkent. 

The Location

Kazakhstan (officially the Republic of Kazakhstan) is a country located in central Asia. It is bordered by Russia, China, and Kyrgyzstan. Kazakhstan is central Asia's largest country and the ninth-largest country in the world. The nation houses many ethnic groups, such as the Kazakhs, Russians, and Uzbeks. Kazakhstan translates to "the land of the wanderers," and was known to have a large nomadic presence throughout the country. The country has great mineral resources but also houses large oil and national gas reserves.

Main Airport

Almaty International Airport is a major international airport 15 km (9.3 mi) northeast of Almaty, the largest city and commercial capital of Kazakhstan.

Capital City

The nation's capital is Nur-Sultan, which is located in the north-central part of the country. Nur-Sultan was the official name of the capital as of 2019. It was formerly known as Akmolinsk prior to the capital's name change. The capital resides along the Ishim River and is dominated by railways, which much of the city's population utilizes.

Language Spoken

Kazakhstan's people come from many countries and speak many languages, as it is the home of many immigrants who fled from countries such as Russia and Germany over the course of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. There is a large urban population, which is approximated to be 57.7% of the overall population. Less than half of the population is rural. 

Currency

The tenge is the currency of Kazakhstan. It is divided into 100 tiyn.

Emergency Calls

103 for ambulance service.
101 for fire.
102 for police.
112 for the national emergency number.

Peak Season

The best time to visit Kazakhstan is between July - August when the weather is perfect throughout the country. This is the peak season and the best time for hikers to visit. April - June, and September - October are also decent times to visit Kazakhstan. The steppes are particularly beautiful during this time.

Low season 

November to March is the low season, during which the entire country is buried under snow for over 100 days. If you are wanting to travel at this time you need to be prepared for sub-zero temperatures, although there are good opportunities for skiing.

Temperature

This means that temperatures in the winter months (December to February) are extremely cold, with national averages between -9°C and -12°C, whereas summers are hot, with average temperatures of 22°C to 23°C in June, July, and August.