Kazakhstan🇰🇿
Kazakhstan, situated in Central Asia and spanning parts of both Europe and Asia, is the ninth-largest country in the world by land area. It borders China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and shares a significant portion of the Caspian sea with Iran. Despite ethnic frictions in the past, Kazakhstan maintains good diplomatic ties with its surrounding nations. The country is recognized for its diverse landscapes featuring deserts, tundras, dense forests, and beautiful mountain ranges. Astana (known as Nur-Sultan since 2019), the capital exudes modern beauty with architectural marvels like Bayterek tower and Khan Shatyr Complex contrast. In contrast, Almaty, the former capital, houses historical wonders such as Zenkov's Cathedral. Kazakhstan is also famous for its rich nomadic history, UNESCO sites like petroglyphs of Tamgaly and Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, as well as the world's first spaceport, Baikonur Cosmodrome. The Kazakh tradition of hospitality and their national cuisine, especially Beshbarmak, is celebrated globally.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water. Always prefer bottled water for drinking.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics, corruption, or homosexuality openly, as they may invite unwanted attention.
- Always carry your identification with you. In Kazakhstan, police may stop individuals to check their documents.
- Avoid expecting prompt healthcare, especially in rural areas. The healthcare infrastructure is not well developed outside the cities.
- Avoid wildlife without proper guidance. Kazakhstan has a rich biodiversity, and it's essential to maintain a safe distance from wild animals.
- Don't ignore safety precautions while using public transport. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded buses or trains.
- Don't disrespect local customs and traditions. Kazakh people are proud of their heritage, and showing respect towards them is appreciated.
- Avoid engaging in illegal activities. Drug laws are strictly enforced, with heavy penalties, including imprisonment.
- Don't ignore general safety precautions. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night, especially in less traveled areas.
- Avoid getting involved in bribery. While corruption is an issue, participation can result in legal problems.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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While the overall crime rate is moderate in Kazakhstan, petty theft and robbery, particularly in the busy urban areas of Almaty and Nur-Sultan, have been reported. Travelers are advised to take standard precautions, especially in crowded public places. Violent crime does occur but is relatively rare. It's important always to ensure that personal belongings and travel documents are secure.
Terrorism 💣
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Kazakhstan has a low terrorism risk, with the last significant incident occurring in 2016 in the city of Aktobe, where multiple coordinated attacks left several people dead. Governmental efforts to curtail extremism and terrorism have been relatively successful, though visitors should always remain aware of their surroundings.
War ⚔️
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Kazakhstan is a politically stable country and has not been involved in any large-scale conflicts since its independence in 1991. The country maintains good relations with neighboring states and uses its diverse ethnic composition to maintain diplomatic relationships.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Kazakhstan occasionally experiences earthquakes due to its proximity to tectonic plates. The most severe in recent memory was a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in 2003 near the southern border. The country also endures annual flooding during the spring meltdown and soil erosion due to heavy agriculture.
Medical Care 🏥
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While Kazakhstan has made significant investments in healthcare, access to quality, specialized medical care, particularly outside of urban areas, can be challenging. Advanced medical facilities are mostly concentrated in cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in major cities of Kazakhstan is treated but not recommended for drinking due to inconsistent water purification practices. Bottled water is widely available and typically preferred for drinking.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Kazakhstan's healthcare system faces challenges with diseases like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. Seasonal diseases, including flu and tick-borne encephalitis, are not uncommon.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption remains a significant problem in Kazakhstan. Despite anti-corruption measures by the government, bribery and fraud are still prevalent, particularly within the judicial and public service sectors.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Kazakhstan is generally safe for female travelers. However, it's advised to avoid walking alone at night and take normal precautions in crowded and less traveled areas. Harassment and gender-based violence do occur in the country.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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While homosexuality is legal in Kazakhstan, societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals can be harsh, and discrimination is prevalent. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may provoke unwanted attention.
Censorship 📺
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There are reports of substantial media censorship in Kazakhstan, with the government exerting influence to control content. Foreign media and internet content are periodically blocked, and the government has cracked down on freedom of speech and public assembly.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transport is widely available and affordable in major cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Travelers should be aware of their belongings, as pickpockets can operate on crowded buses or trains. Roads throughout the country can be in poor condition resulting in difficult driving conditions.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Kazakhstan is moderately safe for travelers. While crime rates are relatively low, petty crimes like pickpocketing occur, particularly in urban areas. The country has a low risk of terrorism and war. While medical facilities are improving, they don't entirely meet Western standards, especially in the rural areas. Nonetheless, traveling with caution and respecting local laws and customs can ensure a pleasant stay in Kazakhstan.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Major countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia, and China have their embassies in Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers are recommended to have their routine vaccines up to date. Vaccines for Hepatitis A & B, Rabies, and Typhoid are also recommended.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Kazakhstan is home to some dangerous animals, including the brown bears in its mountainous regions and venomous snakes like Central Asian Cobra and Halys pit viper. Wolves can also pose a threat in remote areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visa policy is quite liberal, with many countries, including EU member states, USA, UK, and Canada, eligible for a visa-free stay for up to 30 days.
💲 Currency
The currency of Kazakhstan is Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards are accepted in most establishments in large cities. Currency can be exchanged in banks and authorized exchange bureaus.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
In major cities and tourist centers, credit cards are commonly accepted. However, it's advisable to carry cash when traveling to smaller towns or rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
With an open economy and friendly visa policies, Kazakhstan can be a good place for work and travel. However, a proficient understanding of Russian or Kazakh language is a significant advantage.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel in Kazakhstan is reasonable compared to Western standards. Accommodations, food, transportation, and entertainment are generally affordable.