Kazakhstan is the world’s ninth-largest country and the largest landlocked nation on Earth. Located in Central Asia and straddling a portion of Eastern Europe, it is a land of vast contrasts — where sweeping steppes meet soaring mountains, and modern cities rise beside echoes of the Silk Road.

Landscapes & Nature

• Steppe and Desert: The Great Steppe dominates Kazakhstan’s geography — endless grasslands dotted with wild horses, camels, and nomadic traditions.
• Altai Mountains & Tian Shan: The eastern and southeastern frontiers are bordered by dramatic alpine ranges, home to rare snow leopards and glacial lakes.
• Charyn Canyon: Often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” this stunning geological marvel offers dramatic hiking views and striking rock formations.

Culture & Cities

• Astana (now called Nur-Sultan, then Astana again in 2022): The futuristic capital, known for its bold architecture, wide boulevards, and symbols of Kazakhstan’s modern ambitions.
• Almaty: The cultural and economic hub in the south, framed by mountains and known for its lively cafés, museums, and leafy avenues.
• Turkistan: A spiritual center featuring the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects the deep Islamic history of the region.

Heritage & History

• Nomadic Traditions: Rooted in horse culture, yurt living, and eagle hunting, Kazakhstan’s identity remains strongly tied to its nomadic past.
• Silk Road Legacy: The southern regions were once vital trading stops along the Silk Road, bridging China, Persia, and Europe.
• Soviet Influence: A complex chapter marked by Russian colonization, space exploration (Baikonur Cosmodrome), and the impacts of nuclear testing at Semipalatinsk.