5 Reasons to Visit Kazakhstan - The Land of Nomads
A Journey Through Culture, History, and Natural Beauty
If you are an intrepid traveler eager to explore where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, Kazakhstan should be on your radar. If you’d like to experience the nomadic lifestyle of the steppe firsthand, traverse expansive open spaces, and marvel at stunning natural beauty, you might be interested in exploring Kazakhstan. Here are 5 reasons why Kazakhstan deserves a prominent place on your travel list:
1. Well-Preserved Nomadic Culture
The culture of Kazakhstan is influenced by nomadic, Turkic, and Persian cultures. The rich nomadic heritage can be experienced through various activities like staying in yurts, learning about traditional crafts like felt-making and horse riding, and attending cultural festivals and events, from eagle hunting to traditional Kazakh games like kokpar (a type of horseback sport) and beyond. Kazakh hospitality, known as “қонақпенділік” (qonaqpendilik), is deeply ingrained in the culture. Travelers often find locals to be welcoming and eager to share their customs and traditions.
2. Natural Beauty
Beyond its cultural attractions, Kazakhstan boasts stunning natural landscapes, including the Tien Shan Mountains, the Charyn Canyon, the badlands of Mangystau, Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. These locations offer a serene retreat for nature lovers.
Perfect Trips for Nature Lovers
3. World Heritage Sites & Historical Monuments
The country is home to ancient Silk Road cities like Turkestan, with its mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Almaty, the former capital, showcases Soviet-era architecture and a range of eclectic museums that highlight the nation’s history. The modern capital of Kazakhstan, Astana, is known for its architecture, including futuristic buildings like the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation which stand alongside Soviet-era structures, providing a fascinating contrast.
Perfect Trips for Historic Explorations in Kazakhstan
4. Markets & Art
Cities like Almaty and Astana offer a modern urban experience, with vibrant markets, bustling streets, thriving arts and music scenes. These cities offer opportunities to learn about traditional musical instruments, and listen to the captivating sounds of the Dombra and Kobyz; as well as to visit artisans in their studios and learn more about Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage, and see how handcrafted items from colorful Shyrdak rugs to exquisite silver jewelry are made.
Perfect Trips for Artisan Travelers
5. Access and Connectivity
Kazakhstan is well-connected by air making it relatively easy to travel to and around this vast country (the 9th largest by land area in the world). The country also offers a visa-free regime for many nationalities, including U.S. citizens, simplifying the travel process.
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