When you think of outdoor adventures, your mind might wander to the Swiss Alps, the Grand Canyon, or the forests of Canada. But what if we told you there’s a place in Central Asia with surreal landscapes, ancient history, alpine lakes, desert canyons, and zero crowds?
Welcome to Kazakhstan a country where untouched nature, mountains, steppe, and desert come together in one grand outdoor paradise.
Whether you’re an adventurer, photographer, hiker, or just someone looking to disconnect in the lap of nature, you’ll be amazed by the outdoor Places to Visit in Kazakhstan. This article explores the best of them what to expect, how to reach, what to do, and tips from travelers who’ve been there.
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Why Choose Kazakhstan for Outdoor Travel?
Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world, yet it’s still one of travel’s best kept secrets. With vast mountains, deserts, lakes, and canyons there’s something here for every nature lover.
What makes it special? It’s less crowded than typical tourist spots, so you can enjoy pure landscapes in peace. The country offers a unique mix of Europe and Asia in its food, culture, and traditions making every moment feel new.
It’s also affordable for international travelers, perfect for hiking, camping, stargazing, and offbeat road trips. Add to that the warm, welcoming locals, and you’ve got a destination that feels real and unforgettable.
Now, let’s explore the most stunning places to visit in Kazakhstan from canyons to crystal clear lakes and everything in between.
Charyn Canyon – Kazakhstan’s Own Grand Canyon
Charyn Canyon is one of the most jaw dropping natural wonders in Kazakhstan. Carved by the Charyn River over millions of years, the canyon stretches for more than 150 kilometers and reaches depths of up to 300 meters. Its reddish brown rock formations shaped by wind and time resemble natural castles, towers, and fortresses, giving it the nickname “Valley of Castles.” With its dramatic cliffs and desert like terrain, many compare it to the Grand Canyon in the USA, but Charyn stands out with its raw, unspoiled beauty and far fewer crowds.
The canyon is part of Charyn National Park, which also protects surrounding ecosystems like river forests and steppe zones, making it a haven for both nature lovers and photographers. It’s perfect for a day trip from Almaty or a longer adventure with camping and local exploration.
Things to Do:
• Hike the Valley of Castles Trail
This is the most popular route and the easiest to access. It’s about a 3 kilometer hike (one way) into the canyon, where you can walk between towering rock formations that look like they’ve been sculpted by ancient gods. The walk is fairly easy and suitable for most fitness levels.
• Camp Under the Stars
For a deeper experience, spend the night in a tent or eco camp near the canyon. With minimal light pollution, this area offers some of the clearest stargazing in Central Asia. Waking up to the canyon walls glowing in the morning sun is something you’ll never forget.
• Take Epic Drone Shots
Charyn is a photographer’s dream. Bring a drone if you have one the aerial views of the red cliffs, riverbeds, and rock formations are absolutely stunning. Just be sure to check for any local drone regulations before flying.
• Visit Nearby Eco-Villages
Just outside the park, you’ll find small Kazakh villages like Saty, where you can enjoy authentic local food such as besbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and homemade kumys (fermented mare’s milk). These stops offer a peek into traditional nomadic culture and warm rural hospitality.
- Location: 200 km east of Almaty
- How to Reach: About 3-hour drive from Almaty (available via guided tours or self-drive)
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Big Almaty Lake – A Turquoise Gem in the Mountains
Hidden high in the Trans Ili Alatau mountains, Big Almaty Lake is a stunning alpine reservoir that sits at an elevation of about 2,500 meters above sea level. Famous for its intense turquoise color, the lake reflects the surrounding snow capped peaks, creating picture perfect scenery every season of the year.
Although it’s relatively close to the city, the landscape transforms completely as you climb higher replacing urban noise with crisp mountain air, pine forests, and serene silence. The lake itself serves as a major source of drinking water for Almaty, which is why swimming and camping near the shore are prohibited, but that doesn’t take away from the breathtaking experience. It’s a peaceful and refreshing escape, perfect for a half day or full day trip.
Things to Do:
• Scenic Hike Around the Lake
There are various trails around the lake that offer spectacular views from different angles. Some routes take you slightly uphill, giving you a panoramic view of the blue water surrounded by rugged peaks. The paths are not too difficult, making them great for casual walkers and photographers alike.
• Mountain Picnic
Pack a light meal or some snacks and enjoy a peaceful picnic with a view like no other. While you’re not allowed to sit directly at the lake’s edge, there are several grassy and rocky spots nearby where you can relax and take in the beauty. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the mountain atmosphere.
• Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
If you’re a nature enthusiast, keep an eye out for golden eagles, mountain finches, and marmots. The area around the lake is rich in alpine wildlife and is especially active during spring and summer. You might even catch a glimpse of wild ibex on the cliffs.
• Photography with Snow Capped Peaks
This lake is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Kazakhstan. Whether you’re shooting with a phone or DSLR, you’ll want to capture the stunning contrast of icy mountains, forest greens, and deep blue water. Sunrise and sunset bring out even richer colors—ideal for content creators and landscape photographers.
Location: 28 km south of Almaty
How to Reach: Around 1.5 hours by taxi, rental car, or guided tour from Almaty
Cost:
Guided Tours: Starting from ₹2500–₹4000 (30–50 USD) including transport and light snacks
- Entry Fee: Free (but restricted access in winter)
- Taxi from Almaty: ₹1500–₹2000 (20–30 USD) for roundtrip
Kolsai Lakes – The Swiss Alps of Kazakhstan
Often referred to as the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan,” Kolsai Lakes are a chain of three stunning alpine lakes surrounded by dense pine forests and snow dusted peaks. Located near the Kyrgyz border, these glacial lakes are tucked deep within the Kungey Alatau mountains, making the area feel more like a hidden corner of the Swiss Alps than Central Asia.
Each lake sits at a different altitude and offers a unique setting crystal clear water, mirror like reflections, and lush mountain backdrops that are perfect for photography and hiking. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone simply looking to disconnect, Kolsai offers peace, fresh air, and postcard worthy beauty at every step.
Things to Do
• Hike from Kolsai Lake 1 to Lake 2
This is one of the most scenic hikes in Kazakhstan. The trail from the first to the second lake takes about 3–4 hours and follows a forested mountain path with views of streams, wildflowers, and steep valleys. It’s moderate in difficulty and highly rewarding for photographers and trekkers.
• Horse Riding Along Mountain Trails
Don’t feel like walking the entire route? You can hire a local guide and horse in the nearby village of Saty. Riding through these serene mountain trails with panoramic views all around is not just comfortable it’s an experience that connects you with the nomadic roots of the region.
• Stay in Homestays in Saty Village
The village of Saty, which serves as a base for most visitors, offers charming homestays hosted by local Kazakh families. These homes are simple but cozy, and staying there gives you a taste of local hospitality, home cooked meals, and cultural traditions. Expect hot tea, plov, and lots of warmth.
• Camp Beside the Lakes
For those who love the wild, there are designated camping areas near Lake 1 and further up the trail. Falling asleep to the sound of the wind in the trees and waking up to morning mist over the water is nothing short of magical. Just be sure to bring warm clothes even in summer, nights can get cold.
Cost:
- Park Entry Fee: ₹80–₹200 (1–3 USD)
- Horse Rentals: ₹600–₹1000 per ride (8–12 USD)
- Homestay in Saty: ₹1000–₹2000 per night (12–25 USD), including meals
- Camping (with own gear): Free or nominal fee at designated spots
Insider Tip:
The best time to visit is May to October. During winter, the trails become inaccessible due to heavy snow, and homestays often close for the season. Also, pack layers weather in the mountains can shift quickly from sunny to chilly within minutes.
- Location: Kungey Alatau Range, near the Kyrgyz border
- How to Reach: Around 5 hours by car from Almaty via the village of Saty
Altyn Emel National Park – Singing Dunes & Desert Landscapes
Altyn Emel National Park is one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural wonders. Covering over 4,600 square kilometers, the park features a surreal combination of deserts, semi arid steppes, rock formations, and mountains all in one place. Its most famous attraction is the Singing Dunes, a massive sand dune that produces a low humming sound when the wind blows or when sand shifts almost like a natural musical instrument.
Beyond the dunes, the park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare wildlife such as goitered gazelles, argali (wild sheep), kulan (wild donkeys), and golden eagles. Whether you’re here for adventure, photography, or solitude, Altyn Emel offers a peaceful and otherworldly experience, far away from city noise and tourist crowds.
Things to Do:
• Climb the Singing Dune
The highlight of the park is the Singing Dune, which rises about 150 meters high and stretches for 3 km. Climbing to the top is challenging but doable, and from the summit, you get panoramic views of the Ili River and surrounding mountain ranges. On dry, windy days, the sand “sings” with a deep, vibrating sound that feels almost supernatural.
• Spot Wild Gazelles and Argali Sheep
Altyn Emel is one of the best places in Central Asia to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Early morning or sunset are ideal times for sightings. You might see herds of gazelles grazing on the steppe or spot argali climbing rocky outcrops. Binoculars and patience are key here.
• Visit Aktau and Katutau Mountains
These colorful hills are ancient, eroded clay formations that look like a painted desert. Aktau (“White Mountains”) are known for their bright chalky colors and fossils, while Katutau (“Red Mountains”) are volcanic and rugged. The drive between them feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
• Off-Road Jeep Tours
Because the terrain is rugged and remote, most visitors explore the park via 4×4 jeep tours, which can be booked from Almaty or local guesthouses. These tours cover multiple spots in a day, including the Singing Dunes, mountains, and wildlife viewing areas.
Cost:
- Park Entry: ₹400–₹600 (5–8 USD) per person
- Guided 4×4 Jeep Tour: ₹6000–₹8000 (75–100 USD), often includes guide, lunch, and fuel
- Optional Yurt Stay: ₹1500–₹2500 per person (18–30 USD), meals may be included
Insider Tip:
Stay overnight in a yurt camp inside the park to experience the desert at its most magical. The stars here are incredibly bright, and the quiet is almost surreal. Bring warm clothes the desert gets chilly at night even in summer.
- Location: 250 km north of Almaty
- How to Reach: 4–5 hour drive from Almaty (access mostly via gravel and dirt roads)
Mangystau Region – Mars on Earth
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet, the Mangystau Region is your destination. Located in the far west of Kazakhstan, this surreal and rugged area is home to alien like rock formations, vast salt flats, chalk white cliffs, and underground mosques carved into stone. Often described as “Kazakhstan’s Mars,” it’s remote, raw, and largely undiscovered by mass tourism.
With minimal infrastructure and wide, open terrain, Mangystau is all about the adventure of isolation. You won’t find luxury resorts or bustling cities here just endless landscapes, silence, and spiritual sites that are deeply tied to Kazakh history and mysticism. It’s a photographer’s dream and a soul stirring escape for true wilderness seekers.
Things to Do
• Trek Through Bozzhyra Canyon
This is the star of Mangystau. Bozzhyra Canyon features sharp limestone spires and dramatic cliffs, rising like fangs from the desert floor. Hiking around this area gives you breathtaking views from above and below, and the sunrise or sunset light makes the chalk cliffs glow. Be careful it’s steep, but the views are more than worth it.
• Visit Beket Ata and Shakpak Ata Underground Mosques
These sacred Sufi pilgrimage sites are carved into rock faces and caves, some dating back centuries. Beket Ata, in particular, is considered a holy site where locals come to pray and pay respects. Walking into these cool, dimly lit underground chambers surrounded by the desert is a humbling experience, combining spirituality and raw natural wonder.
• Explore the Sherkala Rock (The Tent Mountain)
Shaped like a giant white tent rising from the earth, Sherkala Rock is one of the region’s most iconic landmarks. You can hike partway up or walk around its base to get different views. Legend has it that the rock has caves, tunnels, and even ruins hidden within it.
• Camp in Complete Isolation
This is one of the few places in the world where you can pitch a tent in total silence, with no light pollution, no people, and no distractions. Most travelers choose to camp near Bozzhyra or Sherkala with local guides who provide basic equipment and meals. The night skies here are jaw droppingly clear.
Cost:
- Flight to Aktau: ₹8000–₹12000 (100–150 USD) one way from Almaty
- Local 4×4 Tour (2–3 days): ₹6000–₹10000 (75–125 USD), including transport, driver, guide, and meals
- Camping Option: Usually included in guided tours, or ₹1000–₹2000 (12–25 USD) if arranged separately
Insider Tip:
Public transport is not available to most landmarks in Mangystau. Either join a local eco tour or rent a 4×4 with a guide who knows the area well. Also, carry extra water, snacks, and a power bank this region is remote, and mobile signal is limited.
- Location: Western Kazakhstan, near the Caspian Sea
- How to Reach: Take a domestic flight to Aktau, then drive 3–4 hours into the desert (4×4 required)
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Boszhira Tract – The Ultimate Desert Adventure
Located in the heart of the Ustyurt Plateau, the Boszhira Tract is one of the most surreal and remote landscapes in all of Kazakhstan. It feels like you’ve landed on another planet towering chalk white cliffs shaped like sharp fangs, endless gravel plains, and not a single soul in sight for miles. This area, part of the Mangystau region, is as raw and untouched as it gets.
Boszhira is not just visually stunning it’s spiritually stirring, offering moments of true solitude in nature. There’s no phone signal, no buildings, no sound beyond the wind and your own footsteps. If you want to disconnect completely and connect with nature on a deeper level, this is where you go.
Things to Do:
• Hike Up to Panoramic Points
There are several rugged trails that lead to high cliffs and viewpoints overlooking the plateau. The most popular one takes you to a ridge above the “Fangs of Boszhira” two iconic limestone formations jutting from the desert floor. The hike is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain, but the reward is a 360 degree view of pure wilderness.
• Watch the Sunset Over the Cliffs
Sunset at Boszhira is a magical experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, the chalk formations turn shades of gold, pink, and orange. It’s quiet, otherworldly, and incredibly photogenic. Don’t forget your camera—or just soak it in without a screen.
• Off-Road Camping in Silence
Camping here is not about luxury—it’s about true desert survival and serenity. Most guided tours set up basic tents near the cliffs, giving you a chance to sleep under a pitch dark sky filled with stars. Wake up to the sun rising over the cliffs, and you’ll feel like the only person on Earth.
Cost:
- 4×4 Tour from Aktau (Day trip or Overnight): ₹7000–₹9000 (90–110 USD), includes transport, guide, camping gear, and meals
- Permits: Some parts of the Ustyurt Plateau may require entry permits—your guide will usually arrange this in advance
- Solo trips not advised due to the remoteness and lack of signage
Insider Tip:
There are no shops, toilets, electricity, or water sources in Boszhira. Bring plenty of water, dry food, power banks, warm clothes, and a flashlight. Nights can get cold even in summer. It’s highly recommended to go with an experienced local guide who knows the terrain well.
- Location: Ustyurt Plateau, Mangystau Region
- How to Reach: 6–7 hour off-road drive from Aktau (4×4 vehicle required)
Borovoe (Burabay) – The Green Oasis of the North
Often called the “Kazakh Switzerland” by locals, Borovoe (or Burabay) is a beloved natural retreat in northern Kazakhstan. Nestled among pine forests, sparkling lakes, and granite hills, it’s the perfect destination for those who want a peaceful escape from city life without venturing too far from the capital.
Borovoe is not just about the scenery it also has a calming, therapeutic atmosphere. It’s a popular weekend getaway for Kazakh families and couples looking to relax in nature. The region is known for its clean air, health resorts, and hiking trails, making it ideal for both leisure and wellness trips.
Things to Do:
• Go Boating on Lake Burabay
Lake Burabay is the centerpiece of the region, offering clear waters surrounded by forests and rocky outcrops. Rent a paddleboat or take a relaxing rowboat ride across the lake while enjoying the view of Zheke Batyr Rock, a stone island with a legend of its own. It’s a serene way to explore the area and connect with nature.
• Climb Bolektau Mountain for the Best View
For panoramic views of the entire lake region, hike up Bolektau Mountain. The trail is relatively easy and takes about 30–40 minutes. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning lookout over the surrounding forests, lakes, and granite formations it’s a favorite photo spot for travelers and locals alike.
• Try Local Kazakh Food in Lake View Cafes
Scattered around the lake are charming cafes and restaurants serving authentic Kazakh dishes like besbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), lagman (hand pulled noodle soup), and grilled fish fresh from the region. Dining with a lake view, especially at sunset, is a peaceful and flavorful experience.
Cost:
- Train from Astana: ₹400–₹600 (5–7 USD), with comfortable seating and scenic views
- Hotel or Resort Stay: ₹2000–₹4000 per night (25–50 USD), ranging from family run guesthouses to lakeside resorts
- Boating & Entry Fees: ₹200–₹400 (2–5 USD), depending on activity
Insider Tip:
Don’t leave without trying kumys a traditional Kazakh drink made from fermented mare’s milk. It’s rich in probiotics and considered a health tonic in this part of the world. Locals believe it boosts energy and improves digestion, and it’s part of the authentic Burabay experience.
- Location: 250 km from Astana (Nur-Sultan)
- How to Reach: 3.5-hour scenic drive or a comfortable train ride from Astana
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve – A Hidden Paradise for Hikers
Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve holds a special place in Kazakhstan’s ecological heritage it’s the oldest protected area in Central Asia, established back in 1926. Nestled at the western tip of the Tien Shan Mountains, this biodiverse haven is a botanical treasure and a sanctuary for rare wildlife including snow leopards, ibexes, marmots, and golden eagles.
The landscape here is straight out of a nature documentary rolling meadows filled with wildflowers, dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and forested slopes, all changing colors with the seasons. For hikers, birdwatchers, nature photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with the wild, Aksu Zhabagly offers a peaceful and incredibly rich experience that feels far removed from the modern world.
Things to Do:
• Hike Through Wildflower Valleys
During spring, the reserve transforms into a colorful carpet of wild tulips, poppies, and alpine flowers. Guided hikes take you through gentle trails and mountain ridges, with opportunities to cross rivers and stand at the edge of the deep Aksu Canyon, one of the highlights of the reserve.
• Spot Rare Animals and Birds
The reserve is home to over 300 species of birds and many elusive animals. With some luck and the help of trained guides, you may spot golden eagles soaring above, ibexes grazing on the cliffs, and traces of the elusive snow leopard. Binoculars are a must!
• Learn from Local Eco Guides
Aksu Zhabagly promotes eco tourism and conservation, so most visits are led by knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about the area’s ecology and history. They’ll not only guide you safely but also share interesting facts about the plants, geology, and wildlife of the region.
Cost:
- Entry + Guided Hike: ₹500–₹800 (6–10 USD) depending on trail and group size
- Homestay in Nearby Villages: ₹1500–₹2500 per night (18–30 USD), often including homemade meals and transport
- Custom Eco Tours: Available on request for multi day trekking or wildlife tracking
Insider Tip:
The best time to visit is between April and June, when the wild tulips are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant for hiking. Autumn is also beautiful, but trails may be slippery. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring a rain jacket just in case.
- Location: Southern Kazakhstan, near Shymkent
Travel Tips Before You Go:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | Many nationalities get 14–30 day visa free access. Check before travel. |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September for hiking; December–Feb for winter sports |
| Connectivity | Buy a local SIM at the airport (Beeline, Tele2 are reliable) |
| Currency | Tenge (₸). Credit cards work in cities, but carry cash in remote areas |
| Language | Russian and Kazakh. English is spoken at tourist spots only |
How to Reach Kazakhstan
Getting to Kazakhstan is easier than many travelers think, thanks to growing international connectivity and visa-free access for many countries.
By Air:
The most common way to reach Kazakhstan is by flying into one of its major international airports:
- Almaty International Airport (ALA) – Ideal if you’re exploring southern Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Big Almaty Lake.
- Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) – Located in Astana (Nur-Sultan), great for accessing northern destinations like Borovoe.
- Aktau Airport (SCO) – For western Kazakhstan and the Mangystau region.
Direct international flights are available from cities like Delhi, Dubai, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Moscow, and Tashkent. Budget carriers and national airlines like Air Astana, FlyArystan, and SCAT Airlines also offer affordable options.
By Land:
You can also enter Kazakhstan via train or road from neighboring countries like Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, China, and Russia. Popular land border crossings include:
- Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) → Almaty
- Tashkent (Uzbekistan) → Shymkent
Visa Requirements:
Kazakhstan allows visa-free travel for up to 14–30 days for many nationalities, including India, EU countries, UAE, Turkey, UK, and the USA. Always check the latest visa policy before booking your trip.
Final Thoughts: Kazakhstan is an Outdoor Wonderland
Whether you’re standing at the edge of Charyn Canyon, hiking to a sunken forest, or riding horses by a mountain lake, one thing is clear Kazakhstan is full of places that surprise and inspire.
The places to see in Kazakhstan are more than just scenic they are soul refreshing. With fewer tourists and more raw nature, it offers something truly rare: silence, space, and the joy of discovery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the most beautiful place in Kazakhstan?
One of the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan is the Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” Other stunning spots include Lake Kaindy with its submerged forest, Kolsai Lakes, and the Altai Mountains in the east. Almaty is also a scenic city surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
What is the most famous thing in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan is famous for its vast steppes, rich nomadic culture, and being the birthplace of the apple. It’s also known for the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest space launch facility.
What is unique in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan is unique for its blend of modern cities and untouched nature, its nomadic traditions, and multi-ethnic culture. The country also has singing sand dunes, underground mosques, and steppe eagles used in hunting.
Is Kazakhstan good for tourists?
Yes, Kazakhstan is increasingly popular among tourists looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures, beautiful landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. It’s safe, welcoming, and has a growing tourism infrastructure.
Is Kazakhstan cheap for tourists?
Generally, yes. Kazakhstan is relatively affordable compared to many European destinations. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, especially outside major cities.