When we set out backpacking in Kazakhstan, we didn’t really know what to expect. We did know that it’s the ninth largest country in the world and that Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman had ridden through it on motorbikes in “The Long Way Round” (fantastic series, by the way). We also knew of its portrayal in the movie “Borat.”
We spent only 10 days in Kazakhstan because we wanted to time our trip to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan for the trekking season and to traverse the epic Pamir Highway without freezing. Despite the brief stay, our time there was unforgettable.
We started with a long overnight bus trip from Russia to Kazakhstan, almost overstaying our Russian visa. Our first stop was Astana, where we were amazed by the city’s incredible architectural designs. From egg-shaped buildings to heat-absorbing tent structures, and from mosques and museums to grand palaces and massive malls, Astana featured some of the most fascinating structures we’ve seen.
From Astana, we took a 21-hour train journey to Almaty, the former capital. Our culinary adventures included meat stews, skewers (shashlyk), fried rice, steamed dumplings, and more—we learned quickly that Kazakhs love their mutton, lamb, chicken, and beef. The delicious meat dishes were accompanied by various breads, soups, and salads.
We wandered through local markets, tasting dried fruits, nuts, and honey from enthusiastic vendors. We also enjoyed a bit of home comfort with pizza and beer as the sun set. We bought loads of fresh raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and honeydew melons from street vendors. A visit to one of Central Asia’s finest bathhouses was a relaxing treat.
In Kazakhstan, we made amazing friends who treated us to lunch and spent a day with us at the glowing Big Almaty Lake. We also took a gondola up to a nearby ski resort and hiked to a perfect picnic spot. Days spent in beautiful parks with brightly colored Russian Orthodox Cathedrals in the background were truly enjoyable.
Most importantly, we relaxed. Wandering the leafy streets of Almaty without a rush was just what we needed. After dealing with some low days before arriving in Kazakhstan, these 10 days rejuvenated us. We left Kazakhstan feeling recharged and ready for more travel adventures.
Thank you, Kazakhstan!