Frequently Asked Questions About Kazakhstan
General FAQs for Kazakhstan
Which city is the capital of Kazakhstan?
The capital of Kazakhstan is Astana. The city was renamed in 1998 from its Soviet-era name of Akmola. It is located in the north-central part of the country, on the Ishim River in a vast steppe area. The city has a continental climate with very cold winters and hot summers.
What currency do I need in Kazakhstan?
The national currency of Kazakhstan is the tenge. The word “tenge” comes from the Turkic word for a monetary unit, and it was first introduced in 1993 after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union. The tenge was originally pegged to the U.S. dollar, but it has since been allowed to float freely on global markets. The tenge is a stable currency, and it is used by both businesses and individuals in Kazakhstan. Visitors to the country will need to convert their currency into tenge in order to make purchases. There are many exchange offices and ATMs located throughout Kazakhstan, so it is easy to get the tenge you need.
Which language is spoken in Kazakhstan mainly?
The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, a Turkic language. However, Russian is also widely spoken throughout the country. In fact, about two-thirds of the population speaks Russian as their first language. This is due to the legacy of Soviet rule, when Russian was the mandatory language in all schools and workplaces. Today, many Kazakhs are bilingual, speaking both Kazakh and Russian. However, there is a trend towards using Kazakh more often in daily life, as the country works to promote its national identity. Other languages spoken in Kazakhstan include Ukrainian, Uzbek, Tatar, and German.
When should I visit Kazakhstan?
The best time to visit Kazakhstan depends on what you want to see and do. If you are interested in outdoor activities, the summer months of June, July, and August are the best time to go. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hiking, camping, and other activities. However, if you want to experience the country’s winter wonderland, the months of December, January, and February are ideal. This is when Kazakhstan’s famous snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes come to life. No matter what time of year you visit, Kazakhstan is sure to surprise and delight you with its beauty.
How long do you need to travel Kazakhstan?
There is no easy answer to this question. Kazakhstan is a large country with a lot to see and do. If you want to explore the country’s major cities, such as Astana and Almaty, you will need at least a few days. However, if you also want to experience the country’s stunning natural scenery, you will need a week or more. The best way to decide how many days you need is to make a list of the places and activities that interest you the most. Once you have a plan, you can better determine how much time you will need to explore all that Kazakhstan has to offer.
What are the emergency phone numbers in Kazakhstan?
There are a few emergency numbers in Kazakhstan. The police can be reached by calling 102, and the ambulance can be reached by calling 103. The fire department can be reached by calling 101. For other emergencies, it is best to contact the local authorities.
Places FAQs For Kazakhstan
What are the must visit places in Kazakhstan?
There are many wonderful places to visit in Kazakhstan. The capital city of Astana is a modern metropolis with a variety of attractions, including the world’s largest tent city and the beautiful Khan Shatyr Entertainment Complex. Almaty, the country’s largest city, is home to stunning mountains and glaciers, as well as a number of cultural and historical sights. Other popular places to visit include the Charyn Canyon, Lake Balkhash, and the petroglyphs of Tamgaly.
How do I get around in Kazakhstan?
The best way to get around in Kazakhstan depends on your plans and itinerary. If you are staying in one place, such as Almaty or Astana, the best option is to use the city’s public transportation system. This includes buses, trolleys, and trams. You can also hail a taxi, although this can be more expensive. If you are planning to travel outside of the city, the best option is to rent a car. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way. Just be sure to keep an eye on the road conditions, as some roads can be in poor condition.
Budget FAQs For Kazakhstan
How much will the vacation in Kazakhstan cost?
The cost of a trip to Kazakhstan will vary depending on your plans and itinerary. If you are staying in one place and using public transportation, you can expect to spend around $30 per day. If you are renting a car and driving outside of the city, you should budget for gas, as well as for lodging and food. Good rule of thumb is to budget $100 per day for a trip to Kazakhstan.
How much does food cost in Kazakhstan?
The cost of a meal in Kazakhstan will vary depending on where you eat. A meal at a casual restaurant will cost around $10, while a meal at a more expensive restaurant can cost upwards of $30. If you are on a budget, there are many great options for street food, which is both cheap and delicious. You can also find a variety of snacks and drinks at the local supermarkets.
How much does accommodation cost in Kazakhstan?
The cost of accommodation in Kazakhstan will vary depending on your plans and budget. There are many great options for budget-friendly hotels, which can cost as little as $30 per night. If you are looking for something more luxurious, you can expect to pay upwards of $100 per night.
What is the cheapest time to travel Kazakhstan?
The cheapest time to visit Kazakhstan is during the winter months, when there are fewer tourists. You can also find great deals on accommodation and transportation during this time. If you are interested in visiting during the summer, be sure to book your tickets and accommodation in advance, as prices will increase during this time.
Culture FAQs For Kazakhstan
How are the people in Kazakhstan generally?
The people of Kazakhstan are warm and welcoming. They are proud of their country and its rich culture and history. Visitors to Kazakhstan will find that the people are very hospitable and eager to share their traditions with others. There is a strong sense of community in Kazakhstan, and you will quickly feel like part of the family.
What are the popular dishes in Kazakhstan?
There are a few popular dishes in Kazakhstan. One is beshbarmak, which is a noodle dish typically made with horse meat. Another is kuyrdak, which is a stew made with potatoes, carrots, and mutton. Other popular dishes include plov (a rice dish), shashlik (marinated meat skewers), and kazy (a type of sausage). Visitors to Kazakhstan will find that there is a dish to suit every taste.
What are the favorite sports in Kazakhstan?
There are a few popular sports in Kazakhstan. One is horse racing, which is a popular spectator sport. Another is skiing, which is a popular winter activity. Soccer is also popular, and there are many professional teams in Kazakhstan. Visitors to Kazakhstan will find that there is a sport to suit every interest.
What are the major religions in Kazakhstan?
There are a few common religions in Kazakhstan. Islam is the most common, followed by Christianity and Buddhism. Visitors to Kazakhstan will find that there is a religious tolerance and respect for all beliefs.
Which festivals are celebrated in Kazakhstan?
There are a few popular Festivals celebrated in Kazakhstan. One is Nauryz, which is the Kazakh New Year. Another is Victory Day, which commemorates the end of World War II. Other popular Festivals include Independence Day, Republic Day, and Constitution Day. Visitors to Kazakhstan will find that there is a Festival to suit every interest.
What souvenir gifts to buy from Kazakhstan?
There are a few different types of souvenirs you can buy from Kazakhstan. Traditional items include horsehair embroidery, felt rugs, and wooden spoons. You can also find a variety of Kazakh-themed clothing and jewelry. If you are looking for something unique, you can try your hand at bargaining for a piece of Kazakh art.