Driving in Kazakhstan: Exploring Cool Places, Legends, and Folklore Along the Road

Kazakhstan, a vast and diverse land, offers an unparalleled road trip experience through its stunning landscapes. Every mile reveals the country's unique beauty, from the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains to the endless steppe and surreal deserts.

As you drive through Kazakhstan, you'll uncover breathtaking terrain and the rich history and legends woven into its culture. This itinerary features the best driving routes in Kazakhstan. The destinations deeply rooted in the country's folklore will make each stop a captivating part of your journey.

Distance & Driving Time: Approximately 120 kilometers and the drive typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Almaty, Kazakhstan's vibrant city at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains, offers a blend of modern culture and stunning natural beauty. As you explore driving in Kazakhstan, Almaty is a perfect starting point. You can make preparations in the city for your drive or double-check your rental car and the things you need to bring on your trip.

If you got enough time in Almaty, try these activities:

1. Visit the Central State Museum: Dive into Kazakhstan's history and culture through extensive exhibits and artifacts.

2. Explore the Green Bazaar: Experience local flavors and shop for traditional Kazakh goods in this lively market.

3. Stroll through Panfilov Park: Relax in this beautiful park, home to the impressive Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden structures.

4. Ride the Almaty Cable Car: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains from the cable car to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill.

5. Discover Medeo Skating Rink: Visit the world’s highest ice skating rink, nestled in the mountains, and enjoy winter sports or scenic views.

6. Hike in the Big Almaty Lake: Take a day trip to this stunning mountain lake, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

7. Explore the Republic Square: See important landmarks like the Independence Monument and the Presidential Palace.

Tamgaly Tas is a sacred site renowned for its ancient petroglyphs, including mysterious carvings of Buddha figures on the rocks. This area, steeped in legend and spiritual significance, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit destination for culture and nature enthusiasts alike.

1. Explore the Petroglyphs: Wander through the open-air gallery of Tamgaly Tas, where you can admire ancient rock carvings that date back thousands of years. The most famous of these are the Buddha images, which are believed to have been etched by early Buddhist travelers or local inhabitants with spiritual ties to Buddhism.

2. Photography: Capture the striking contrast of the petroglyphs against the rugged landscape, with the Ili River providing a captivating backdrop.

3. Hiking: Take a short hike around the area to explore more of the rocky outcrops and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

4. Picnicking: After exploring the petroglyphs, enjoy a picnic by the Ili River. Relax and take in the tranquil surroundings.

The best time to visit Tamgaly Tas is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is mild and pleasant during these periods, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the petroglyphs.

This route takes you through the Kolsai Lakes, which are believed to be enchanted. Local legends tell of spirits guarding the waters. Continue to Charyn Canyon, often called the "Valley of Castles," where myths speak of ancient spirits residing in its dramatic rock formations.

Distance & Driving Time from Almaty: The distance from Almaty to Kolsai Lakes is approximately 200 kilometers. The drive typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.

Kolsai Lakes, known as the "Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan," are a trio of breathtaking alpine lakes set in Kazakhstan’s mountainous region. Local legends speak of ancient spirits guarding the lakes, adding a mystical aura to their already enchanting beauty.

• Hiking: Explore the trails around the Kolsai Lakes, which are renowned for their serene beauty and rumored to be protected by ancient spirits.
• Picnicking: Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
• Boating: Rent a rowboat to paddle on the pristine waters of the lakes, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

Distance & Driving Time: About 100 kilometers. The drive typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Charyn Canyon, known as the "Valley of Castles," is a striking natural marvel in Kazakhstan with its towering, castle-like rock formations and vibrant colors. Stretching over 154 kilometers, the canyon’s unique shapes create a dramatic and grand landscape. Local legends suggest that ancient spirits dwell within the canyon’s rocks, adding a mystical element to its breathtaking beauty.

• Hiking and Exploration: Discover the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon, also known as the "Valley of Castles," through various hiking trails.
• Photography: Capture stunning photos of the canyon's unique rock formations and panoramic views.
• Picnicking: Set up a picnic in designated areas and enjoy the natural beauty while taking in the canyon's grandeur.

The best time to visit this route is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Winter can be cold and snowy, which may limit access to the lakes and canyon.

Distance & Driving Time: The distance from Astana to Ulytau is approximately 700 kilometers, and the driving time is around 9 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a modern city known for its futuristic architecture and rapid development. As a political and cultural hub, it features landmarks like the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, symbolizing the country's progress and vision for the future. Astana's blend of tradition and innovation makes it a unique destination in Central Asia.

• Visit the Bayterek Tower: Climb to the top of this iconic symbol of Astana for panoramic views of the city and learn about its cultural significance.
• Explore the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: This unique pyramid-shaped building is dedicated to fostering global harmony. Its exhibits and events highlight Kazakhstan's commitment to peace.
• Stroll through Nurzhol Boulevard: Enjoy a walk along this central promenade, lined with impressive modern architecture, including government buildings, cultural institutions, and the National Museum of Kazakhstan.

Distance & Driving Time: Approximately 800 kilometers (497 miles), and the drive typically takes around 10 to 12 hours.

Ulytau, in central Kazakhstan, is rich in history and spirituality, known for its sacred mountains and ancient burial sites central to Kazakh legends. It’s a cultural heartland where the origins of the Kazakh people are celebrated.

Here are some activities you can enjoy when you’re in Ulytau:

• Hiking Sacred Mountains: Explore Ulytau’s sacred mountains, where you can hike and immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty and spiritual significance.
• Visit Historical Sites: Discover ancient burial mounds and petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage.
• Ulytau Museum: Learn about the region's history and its importance in Kazakh culture at the Ulytau Museum.

In Kazakhstan, Baikonur Cosmodrome is the world's first and largest space launch facility. Established in 1955, it was the launch site for many historic space missions, including Yuri Gagarin's first human spaceflight. Today, it remains a key hub for space exploration, symbolizing the intersection of modern technology and Kazakhstan’s role in global space history.

Here are three activities you can enjoy at Baikonur Cosmodrome:

• Tour of the Launch Pads: Visit the historic launch pads where iconic missions like Yuri Gagarin's space flight began, and learn about the technology behind space exploration.
• Space Museum: Explore the Baikonur Space Museum, which showcases artifacts from past missions, space suits, models of spacecraft, and detailed exhibits on the history of space travel.
• Rocket Launch Viewing: If your visit coincides with a scheduled launch, you can witness a live rocket launch and experience the thrill of a spacecraft lifting off into space.

The best time to take the Astana to Baikonur Cosmodrome route via Ulytau is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). The weather is generally mild and pleasant during these periods, ideal for long drives and outdoor exploration without the extreme summer heat or winter cold.

Set out on a captivating journey from Shymkent to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, traversing the scenic Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve and immersing yourself in Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and historical grandeur.

Distance & Driving Time: Approximately 90 kilometers; around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Shymkent, a major city in southern Kazakhstan, blends modern amenities with traditional charm. It's a vibrant hub known for its markets, history, and access to nearby natural attractions.

• Visit the Shymkent Central Mosque: Explore this grand mosque known for its impressive architecture and peaceful ambiance.
• Wander Through the Shymkent Zoo: Enjoy a diverse collection of animals and lush surroundings at this well-maintained zoo.
• Explore the Abay Park: Relax in this large park, which offers walking paths, green spaces, and statues celebrating local history and culture.

Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Kazakhstan’s oldest nature reserve, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity. The reserve is steeped in local legends, including tales of ancient spirits said to guard its mysterious caves and petroglyphs. It is believed that these sacred sites were once spiritual havens for ancient tribes, adding an air of mystique to its natural beauty. Here are some activities you can enjoy here:

• Hiking and Trekking: Explore the reserve’s diverse trails, offering scenic views of rugged terrain, lush valleys, and unique rock formations. Popular routes include hikes to ancient petroglyphs and panoramic viewpoints.
• Wildlife Viewing: The reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers, where you can observe a variety of wildlife, including rare species like the snow leopard and ibex, in their natural habitat.
• Exploring Caves and Petroglyphs: Discover the ancient petroglyphs etched into cliffs and venture into mystical caves believed to have been spiritual sites for ancient civilizations.

Distance and Driving Time: Approximately 110 kilometers; around 2 to 2.5 hours.

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important spiritual and historical landmark in Kazakhstan. Built in the 14th century, it is dedicated to Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a revered Sufi mystic, and poet.

• Explore the Mausoleum: Wander through the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, marveling at its intricate tilework, grand domes, and historical architecture.
• Visit the Historical Complex: Discover the surrounding historical complex, which includes a mosque, a madrasah, and a well-preserved caravanserai, providing insight into the region's past.
• Stroll Through the City: Enjoy a walk around Turkestan, taking in the blend of modern and traditional Kazakh culture, and visit local markets for souvenirs and traditional crafts.

The best time to visit Kazakhstan, particularly from Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve to Turkestan, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring the areas.

Kazakhstan may not be your first choice for a road trip, but it offers a unique adventure with its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Proper planning can transform your journey into an unforgettable experience. From understanding local driving rules to preparing for diverse road conditions, these tips for driving in Kazakhstan will ensure your trip across Kazakhstan is both enjoyable and hassle-free.

1. Check Travel Documents: Before embarking on your journey, ensure your passport, visa (if required), and international driving permit are in order.

2. Consider Weather and Seasons: For the best weather conditions, plan your trip during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). Avoid the winter months if you’re not prepared for cold temperatures and possible road closures.

3. Plan Your Route and Accommodation: Map out your driving routes and book accommodations in advance, especially in remote areas. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped for long drives.

4. Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers road accidents, vehicle breakdowns, and medical emergencies.

5. Safety Tips: Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road conditions. Keep emergency supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle, and be aware of potential hazards in remote areas.

1. Understand Local Traffic Laws: Learn the basics of Kazakhstan's traffic regulations, including speed limits, road signs, and seat belt laws. Driving is on the right side of the road, and adherence to local rules is crucial.

2. Prepare for Diverse Terrain: Kazakhstan features a mix of well-paved roads and rugged, unpaved routes. Ensure your rental car is suitable for various terrains, and be ready for sudden changes in road conditions.

3. Plan Fuel Stops: Fuel stations can be sparse in remote regions. Keep your tank full and plan refueling stops in advance, especially on long journeys between major cities.

4. Carry Essential Documents: Bring your passport, driver's license, international driving permit, and vehicle rental agreement. Having these documents handy will help avoid potential issues with local authorities.

A road trip through Kazakhstan offers a unique adventure, blending stunning landscapes with a rich tapestry of folklore and legends. As you explore this vast country, you'll encounter a variety of captivating stories and cultural treasures that make the journey truly memorable. From the dramatic scenery to the intriguing myths woven into the land, this road trip promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.