Group trips to Kazakhstan

If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Kazakhstan, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Kazakhstan – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Kazakhstan spans across two time zones: East Kazakhstan Time (GMT+6) and West Kazakhstan Time (GMT+5).

• If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 6pm in East Kazakhstan and 5pm in West Kazakhstan.
• If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 10pm in East Kazakhstan and 9pm in West Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan doesn't observe daylight saving time, so these time differences remain constant throughout the year.

Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) as its currency. The daily exchange rate is approximately:

• 1 GBP to 590 KZT
• 1 USD to 470 KZT
• 1 EUR to 510 KZT

You can exchange currency at banks, official exchange offices, and some hotels. Make sure to check rates as they can vary slightly between providers.

Payment methods in Kazakhstan include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments.

• Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities and larger towns, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops or rural areas.
• Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular, especially in urban areas.

Having a mix of payment options will ensure you're prepared for any situation.

Tipping in Kazakhstan is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, you can leave around 10 percent of the bill as a tip if you are happy with the service. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or bill is a nice gesture. It's always good to carry some local currency for tipping, as not everyone accepts credit card tips.

In Kazakhstan, internet access is generally good in urban areas, but coverage can be spotty in rural regions. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and shopping centers in cities. However, for more reliable connectivity, especially if you're traveling around, we suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan. Popular providers include:

• Beeline
• Kcell
• Tele2

These offer various data packages that can suit your needs. Just make sure your phone is unlocked to use a local SIM.

In Kazakhstan, people mainly speak Kazakh and Russian. Kazakh is the state language, while Russian is commonly used in business and everyday communication. Here are some useful expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Salam (Kazakh), Privet (Russian)
• Thank you: Rakhmet (Kazakh), Spasibo (Russian)
• Yes: Iya (Kazakh), Da (Russian)
• No: Zhok (Kazakh), Nyet (Russian)
• Please: Otinish (Kazakh), Pozhaluysta (Russian)

Kazakhstan uses Type C and Type F plugs, which are the same as those used in most of Europe. The voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If your devices are from the UK, the USA, or other countries with different plug types, we recommend you bring a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with Kazakhstani sockets. Always check your device's voltage compatibility to avoid any issues.

In Kazakhstan, the main religion is Islam, with a significant portion of the population being Muslim. It's important to note that Kazakhstan is a secular country, so religious practices can vary widely. However, if you're visiting, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially in religious sites. Women might consider wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Important religious holidays include Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are celebrated widely across the country.

Kazakhstan offers a variety of climates, so packing smartly is key. Here's a helpful list for your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight shirts and trousers for summer
  • Warm layers for winter, like a down jacket
  • A raincoat or umbrella
  • Swimwear if visiting the Caspian Sea
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for warmer days
  • Waterproof boots for winter
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Portable charger
  • Travel adapter (Kazakhstan uses Type C and F plugs)
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Common travel medications like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal pills

Kazakhstan experiences a wide range of weather conditions due to its large size and diverse geography. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Northern Kazakhstan: Cold winters and warm summers. Winters can drop to -20°C (-4°F), while summers reach around 30°C (86°F).
• Southern Kazakhstan: Mild winters and hot summers. Winter temperatures can be around 0°C (32°F), and summers can soar to 40°C (104°F).
• Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather throughout the country.