Kazakhstan’s major cities (Almaty, Astana/Nur-Sultan) are generally safe — many locals say they’re as safe or safer than comparable Western cities. Still use common-sense precautions: avoid poorly lit/unknown suburbs at night, keep valuables out of sight, and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded places.
Use trusted taxi apps
Avoid hailing random street taxis. Use apps like Yandex Go or inDrive for clearer pricing and safer rides — Yandex is pricier but often more reliable. Confirm the car and driver details before getting in.
Learn basic Russian/Kazakh phrases and carry Google Translate
English isn’t universally spoken, though people are friendly. Knowing simple Russian or Kazakh phrases or using Google Translate will make communications, ordering food, and navigating museums much easier.
Pack for weather and mountains
Temperatures can be cold, especially in Astana and mountainous areas near Almaty (Medeo, Shymbulak). Bring warm layers and a windproof jacket if you plan to visit outdoors or higher elevations.
Explore food and cultural spots
Try traditional Kazakh cuisine at recommended places (Sandyq, Ayul, Navat) and visit cultural sites like the National Museum in Astana and Medeo/Kok Tobe/Shymbulak around Almaty. Local folk performances and markets are great for authentic experiences.
Use good maps and local apps
Download 2GIS for detailed offline maps and ONAY for public transport. These help you find attractions, restaurants, and routes — handy when roaming cities or catching trains between Astana and Almaty.
Meet locals and join events
Kazakhs are welcoming — join English-speaking clubs, meetups, or follow local Instagram project accounts to connect with knowledgeable locals who can show you lesser-known spots and cultural context.
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