Kazakhstan Travel Essentials
Kazakhstan, a vast and intriguing country in Central Asia, offers a unique blend of modern cities, ancient traditions, and sweeping landscapes. From the futuristic skyline of Astana to the mountainous beauty of Almaty, the country is a fascinating destination for curious travelers. However, before setting out on your journey, it’s important to understand the essentials that can help you navigate the culture and daily life in Kazakhstan smoothly. This guide covers three crucial areas every visitor should be familiar with: currency, language, and local customs.
Currency in Kazakhstan
The Tenge (KZT)
The official currency of Kazakhstan is the Tenge (KZT). Banknotes come in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 tenge. Coins, called “tiyn,” are used less frequently and generally include values of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 tenge. For most daily transactions, especially in urban areas, you’ll primarily use banknotes.
Currency Exchange
Foreign currencies such as the US dollar, Euro, and Russian ruble can be exchanged easily at banks, official exchange offices, or at major hotels. Exchange offices are found throughout cities and airports, and they usually offer competitive rates. Avoid exchanging money on the street, as this is not only illegal but also carries a high risk of fraud.
Always carry some local currency with you, particularly if you’re heading to rural areas or smaller towns where card payments may not be accepted. In cities, you can use credit and debit cards widely in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, cash is still preferred in markets, taxis, and local eateries.
ATMs and Card Use
ATMs are widely available in major cities and support international cards, although it’s advisable to check with your bank regarding international withdrawal fees. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most places, but American Express and other cards may have limited usability.
Tip: Keep smaller bills handy, especially when traveling to less populated areas, as vendors may not always have change for larger notes.
Language in Kazakhstan
Official Languages
Kazakhstan is officially bilingual. The state language is Kazakh, a Turkic language written in the Cyrillic script (though the country is transitioning to the Latin alphabet). Russian is also widely spoken and understood across the country, especially in urban centers and northern regions. In fact, Russian often serves as the language of business and interethnic communication.
Most signage, menus, and official documents are available in both Kazakh and Russian. In major cities and tourist areas, you will occasionally find English translations, especially in hotels, airports, and some restaurants. However, English is not widely spoken by the general population, particularly among older generations and in rural areas.
Language Tips for Travelers
While you don’t need to be fluent in Kazakh or Russian to enjoy your trip, learning a few basic phrases can greatly enhance your experience and interactions with locals. Here are a few useful expressions:
Hello – “Salem” (Kazakh) / “Zdravstvuyte” (Russian)
Thank you – “Rakhmet” (Kazakh) / “Spasibo” (Russian)
Yes/No – “Iä / Joq” (Kazakh) / “Da / Net” (Russian)
How much? – “Qansha?” (Kazakh) / “Skol’ko?” (Russian)
Translation apps and offline dictionaries can be very helpful while navigating day-to-day conversations. You may also want to consider carrying a phrasebook or downloading a translation app with voice capability for easier communication.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Hospitality and Greetings
Kazakhstan is known for its warm and generous hospitality. When visiting someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets, fruits, or flowers. It’s also polite to remove your shoes at the entrance unless your host says otherwise.
Greetings are generally formal, especially when meeting someone for the first time. A firm handshake accompanied by direct eye contact is common between men. When greeting women, a nod or verbal greeting is appropriate unless the woman initiates a handshake. Close friends and family may greet with a light hug or kiss on the cheek.
Respect for Elders
Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Kazakh culture. Always address older people with appropriate titles such as “Ake” (father) or “Apa” (mother), even if they are not your relatives. Offering your seat to an elderly person on public transport is expected and appreciated.
Dress Code
While Kazakhstan is a secular country, modesty in dress is still valued, particularly in rural areas and during visits to religious sites. In cities, Western-style clothing is common and acceptable, but revealing outfits may draw unwanted attention, especially outside of cosmopolitan areas. When visiting mosques or mausoleums, women should cover their heads and wear long skirts or trousers, and men should avoid shorts.
Dining Etiquette
Meals are a central part of Kazakh hospitality. If you’re invited to someone’s home, you’ll likely be offered traditional dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), kazy (horsemeat sausage), or baursak (fried dough). It’s polite to at least try a bit of everything served.
Tea, often green or black, is commonly offered and frequently refilled as a gesture of hospitality. Declining tea or food without a good reason may be considered impolite. When drinking from a shared bowl or eating from a communal dish, follow the host’s lead in terms of portion and behavior.
Taboos and Cultural Sensitivities
While Kazakhstan is quite tolerant and open-minded, there are a few social norms to be aware of:
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or making critical comments about the government.
Don’t point your feet at people or religious objects.
Avoid public displays of affection, particularly in conservative regions.
It’s best not to photograph people—especially women—without their permission.
Religion and Beliefs
Kazakhstan is a multi-religious country, with the majority of the population identifying as Muslim (predominantly Sunni) and a significant minority as Russian Orthodox Christian. Religion tends to be practiced in a moderate and private manner, and you’re unlikely to encounter strict religious rules in public settings. Still, being respectful of religious customs is important when entering places of worship.
Final Thoughts
Kazakhstan is a country of contrasts—modern yet traditional, urban yet untamed—and understanding the basics of its currency, language, and customs will help you enjoy your visit with confidence and ease. Whether you’re exploring the bustling avenues of Astana, trekking in the Almaty mountains, or discovering ancient Silk Road sites, a little cultural awareness goes a long way.
Traveling with an open mind and a respectful attitude will not only help you avoid misunderstandings but also open doors to genuine local experiences and warm hospitality. Kazakhstan may still be off the beaten path for many travelers, but those who make the journey are often rewarded with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of this remarkable Central Asian nation.