Kazakhstan is an amazing destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have and amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Kazakhstan?
You should plan to spend around $23 (KZT11,863) per day on your vacation in Kazakhstan. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $9.13 (KZT4,774) on meals
- $0.66 (KZT345) on local transportation
- $14 (KZT7,108) on hotels
A one week trip to Kazakhstan for two people costs, on average, $318 (KZT166,082). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Kazakhstan expensive to visit?
Kazakhstan is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within Asia, Kazakhstan is very affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in Asia for its affordability. Very few countries in the region are as affordable as Kazakhstan.
Whether you're watching your wallet or ready to splurge, Kazakhstan provides a range of accommodation options and things to do. For travelers on a budget, there are affordable hotels, while those seeking luxury can enjoy high-end stays, with mid-range hotels also available for couples and families.
While Kazakhstan can be costly, following advice like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can make your trip more affordable.
On average, budget travelers spend $9 (KZT4,949) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $23 (KZT11,863) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $53 (KZT27,545) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Kazakhstan.
For more details, see Is Kazakhstan Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Kazakhstan?
The average Kazakhstan trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Kazakhstan travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Kazakhstan cost?
Kazakhstan on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$2.92
(KZT1,530)
|
$6.79
(KZT3,554)
|
$14
(KZT7,158)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$0.23
(KZT120)
|
$0.66
(KZT345)
|
$2.12
(KZT1,108)
|
|
Food 2
|
$3.93
(KZT2,056)
|
$9.13
(KZT4,774)
|
$18
(KZT9,603)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$0.99
(KZT516)
|
$2.47
(KZT1,290)
|
$6.07
(KZT3,175)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-7
(KZT1,138-3,414)
|
$6-17
(KZT3,016-9,049)
|
$16-48
(KZT8,413-25,240)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Kazakhstan without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Kazakhstan for $9 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore major museums and attractions, many of which have entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. Since most things cost money, your daily budget should realistically be closer to $23 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Kazakhstan. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Almaty, Nur-Sultan, and Karagandy, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Almaty, D'Rami is a good kid-friendly option, and in Nur-Sultan, Boutique Hotel Traditional is also terrific. For a romantic retreat in Almaty, couples will love Renion Hills Hotel. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Kazakhstan here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $53 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and hire private drivers to get around, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. With this level of spending, you'll be traveling alongside the rich and famous in places like the major cities and resort areas.
Accommodation Budget in Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan, you'll find a wide range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Peak season brings higher costs, but if you travel in the off-season, prices drop. Booking ahead is another great way to save some money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Kazakhstan for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $14 (KZT7,108). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $6.79 (KZT3,554) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Kazakhstan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Kazakhstan
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $0.66 (KZT345) per person, per day, on local transportation in Kazakhstan. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Kazakhstan is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$0.66
KZT345
Food Budget in Kazakhstan
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Kazakhstan can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Kazakhstan is $9.13 (KZT4,774) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$9.13
KZT4,774
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Kazakhstan is around $9 (KZT4774) per person, with previous travelers spending from $4 to $18. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Kazakhstan are as follows:
- Breakfast: $2 to $3
- Lunch: $1 to $5
- Dinner: $3 to $7
- Coffee: $1
- Fast Food or Street Food: $1
When dining with children, make sure to find restaurants that offer a childrens' menu. This can save you a considerable amount, as those meals are usually much cheaper. Also, remember that some restaurants might not list the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your waiter.
Many hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some may charge extra for it. The price and quality of breakfast can differ greatly between hotels. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you want to spend more on that hotel buffet or if a nearby bakery or café would be a more budget-friendly option.
Instead of purchasing drinks everywhere, bring a water bottle along. It's also an eco-conscious choice.
Before you head out on a tour, it's important to check which meals are included. If you have to pay for some meals yourself, it could affect your overall budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Kazakhstan, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Walking Food Tour in Almaty for $80 details
- Authentic food tour in Almaty for $80 details
- Almaty City Tour 4 hour & Dinner in local family for $158 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Kazakhstan
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Kazakhstan typically cost an average of $2.47 (KZT1,290) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$2.47
KZT1,290
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Kazakhstan. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Astana City Tour: Private Full Day with Lunch and Comfort Pickup for $149 details
- Private Full Day Almaty City Tour for $200 details
- Private Tour to Burabay Park: Full Day with Lunch & Pickup for $219 details
- Singing dunes & Aktau mountains 1 day group tour to Altyn Emel for $280 details
Nightlife Budget in Kazakhstan
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $12 (KZT6,033) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Kazakhstan per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$12
KZT6,033
While enjoying the local nightlife is part of the adventure, limiting drinks can help stretch your travel funds.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Kazakhstan. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- City Pub Crawl Almaty for $37 details
- Almaty city & Shymbulak tour with local cuisine and wine tasting for $40 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Nov 22, 2024
Traveling in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan
From astounding cathedrals to breathtaking landscapes, Kazakhstan is often overlooked by many tourists. However, within its borders, exquisite architecture and amazing historical landmarks adorn the country. The ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is home to over 131 ethnicities as well as a wide variety of religions, making the land enriched by culture and tradition. This former Soviet republic is one of the most economically developed countries throughout Central Asia, generating 60% of the region's GDP, primarily through its oil/gas industry. This allows for higher standards to be placed upon such accomodations as restaurants or transport. As you travel through the glimmering metropolitan areas of its capital, Astana, and its most popular city, Almaty, you will be amazed at how Europe has influenced the country so generously, with its leafy avenues, chic cafes, glossy shopping centres, and partying nightlife. When in the cities of Kazakhstan, you will find the number of adventures you can have is seemingly endless.
However, if you are adventurous enough to move beyond the futuristic skyscrapers and dazzling towers, you will find yourself equally amazed. Kazakhstan is known for its biodiversity, with its terrain acquiring flatlands, steppe, taiga, rock canyons, hills, deltas, snow-capped mountains, and deserts. Engage in your favorite winter sports at the Medeu Skating Rink and Ski resort. With a to-die-for view of Kazakhstan's true beauty, feel free to skate and ski amidst the snowy mountaintops. If you venture to the bottom of these endless mountains, you will find the land is equally as beautiful, such as the Big Almaty Lake. A stunning spot for a picnic, the Big Almaty Lake is located 28.5 kilometers south of Almaty, up a gorge of the Bolshaya Almatinka River. Sit back and relax as you take in the full serenity of Kazakhstan's natural world.
In Kazakhstan, you can use taxis, buses, trains and planes to get wherever you need to go. If you are traveling within highly populated areas, taking the bus is a cheap way to get around. Nevertheless, due to its popularity, be prepared for the bus to be crowded. It can also be quite inconvenient as none of the bus systems stick to a given schedule. Knowing and speaking Russian is definitely a plus, but is not needed. Taxis, however, are far more convenient than buses and are relatively cheap. Often times, you do not even need to use proper taxis as most drivers are willing to pull over if you raise your hand. While this works best in Almaty and Astana, when it comes to places like Karagandy, it is best to order a taxi over the phone.
Trains are also quite popular in Kazakhstan as they cover huge distances between Kazakhstan's main cities. Main train stations are located in Astana, Karaganda and Almaty, but they can be found almost in every major metropolitan area. Kazakhstan's ticket and reservation system is astoundingly similar to that of Russia's, though the price is relatively cheaper in Kazakhstan. Most travelers agree that the train is the most fun way to travel as you are able to meet new people and enjoy the rolling landscape. Be sure to remember when traveling that Kazakhstan is a big country, with the average amount of time between cities like Almaty and Astana being 24 hours. If you are looking for a fast way to travel, going by plane is not a bad option if you can afford it. Air Astana provides offices in a few major hotels in big cities, or you can reserve your ticket online. Similar to the rest of Europe, airline standards are top-tier.
If you're planning a longer trip through multiple countries in Central Asia, read this amazing guide to backpacking routes and border crossings in Central Asia.
The Pamir Highway
The Pamir Highway If you are into overlanding, then you might want to check out the M1 highway - also known as the
Pamir Highway. One of the highest highways in the world, this one takes you right past the Pamir Mountains and through multiple countries in Central Asia. You can witness the beauties of Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, and you won't even have to get off the main road.
This highway is not your typical road, as it doesn't go on a straight line as many others do. It has many side trips and detours - but on the plus side, you have several magnificent views and impressive colorscapes. Not only will this highway take you through the beautiful natural Central Asia, but it will also introduce you to the culture.
Here are the stops that you may make while you are on the highway:
Nurek Lake: If you start from Dushanbe and take your ride to Osh, then Nurek Lake should be one of the first stops. Indeed, you won't be getting very close to the actual lake, but the view you'll get is still spectacular.
Khorog: Going further on the Pamir Highway, you will come across the beautiful city of Khorog. Plus, if you are fortunate enough to explore this beautiful city in July, you may even witness the Roof of the World Festival.
Wakhan Corridor: This narrow strip connects Afghanistan to China while separating Pakistan from Tajikistan. It is packed with beautiful valleys and mountain views, making it the perfect choice for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
The Pamir Highway is a great place to go through if you are looking for excitement and beautiful landscapes. You have mountains, lakes, towns - everything that would leave your mouth gaping - and all you need is a 2 or 3-day timeframe.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Zenkov Cathedral: Without using any nails and purely made from wood, the Zenkov Cathedral works as one of the most spellbinding landmarks of Kazakhstan. Located in Panfilov Park, visitors are allowed to enter but should be weary of the customs of the church out of respect. Its elaborate architecture is truly worth the trip if you are in Almaty.
Bayterek Tower: One of the most unique sights in Kazakhstan, the architecture of Bayterek Tower acquires a meaning that is truly unique. Symbolizing the legend of the golden egg on top of the tree of life, this unusual construction has been a hotspot for tourists across the globe who seek to marvel at the 97-meter tower. Observe the collision of old and new traditions as the dated legend is brought to amazing life through the Bayterek Tower.
Kok-Tobe Hill: Take a cablecar and watch the natural beauty of Kazakhstan unfold beneath your feet. Those scared of heights should be wary of this ride as the cablecar is known to slightly swing due to the strong winds. Get an amazing view of Almaty and stop at the few souvenir shops, amusement park, and zoo when you get off.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.