Kazakhstan is a huge and varied country that is filled with sweeping steppes, glittering lakes, as well as bustling cities. If you're interested in hiking in the Tien Shan Mountains, exploring old Silk Road cities, and soaking up the rich culture that is Almaty and Nur-Sultan. The most important question to be asked is when is the most appropriate moment to go to Kazakhstan?
This guide will take you through the various seasons, festivals, best places to visit, as well as events that make every time of the year memorable. Pack your bags and set out to discover the best moment to explore the wonder of Kazakhstan.
Understanding Kazakhstan’s Climate
Kazakhstan’s climate is as vast as its landscape. It’s a landlocked country with a sharply continental climate—think hot summers, cold winters, and dramatic shifts between seasons. Because the country is so large, regional weather differences are common. Here’s a quick overview:
Summer (June to August): Hot and sunny, especially in the lowlands and steppe areas. Temperatures can reach 30–40°C (86–104°F).
Autumn (September to November): Cool, crisp, and colorful. A popular time for outdoor adventures.
Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy, perfect for skiing in the mountains.
Spring (March to May): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and great for exploring cities and parks.
Best Time for Outdoor Adventures
Hiking & Nature Exploration – Late Spring to Early Autumn
Kazakhstan’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws. The ideal time for hiking, trekking, and nature photography is between May and September. During this period:
Almaty Region is perfect for hikes to Big Almaty Lake, Shymbulak Resort, and the Charyn Canyon.
Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes are accessible, with turquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery and pine forests.
Altai Mountains in the east offer rugged, remote terrain for experienced hikers.
Daytime temperatures are comfortable, trails are open, and the air is filled with wildflowers. Just remember that July and August can get quite hot in the lowlands, so high-altitude escapes are ideal.
Desert & Steppe Exploration – Spring and Autumn
If you’re planning to visit places like Mangystau, Baikonur, or the vast Kazakh steppe, consider going in April–May or September–October. These shoulder months offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Avoid mid-summer in the desert—it’s scorching and not ideal for extended exploration.
Best Time for Cultural Experiences
Nauryz (Kazakh New Year) – March
One of the most colorful times to visit Kazakhstan is during Nauryz, the Persian New Year celebrated on March 21st. This ancient festival marks the arrival of spring and is a celebration of renewal and unity. You’ll find:
Traditional music and dance performances in public squares
Yurts set up with cultural exhibits
Horse games like kokpar and kyz kuu
Delicious feasts featuring beshbarmak, kurt, and baursak
Major cities like Almaty, Nur-Sultan, and Shymkent come alive with festivities. It’s a fantastic time to engage with locals and experience Kazakh hospitality.
Ethno-Festivals – Summer Months
Throughout the summer, you’ll find smaller cultural festivals across the country that celebrate nomadic life, crafts, and traditions:
Ethnoaul festivals: Reenact traditional village life with archery, horse riding, felt-making, and more.
Kymyz festivals: Dedicated to the fermented mare’s milk beloved in Central Asia.
These events often take place in scenic natural settings, giving you the best of both culture and landscape.
Best Time for City Sightseeing
Exploring Almaty & Nur-Sultan – Spring and Autumn
Kazakhstan’s cities offer a contrast to its wild landscapes. Almaty, the former capital, is vibrant, green, and surrounded by mountains. Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), the current capital, is a futuristic metropolis rising from the steppe.
The best months for city sightseeing are April–June and September–October:
Comfortable temperatures for walking tours
Flowering parks in spring and colorful foliage in autumn
Outdoor cafes and cultural events in full swing
Avoid the harsh winters unless you're specifically visiting for winter sports or festive markets.
Best Time for Winter Sports
Skiing in Shymbulak – December to March
Kazakhstan may not be the first destination that comes to mind for skiing, but the Shymbulak Ski Resort near Almaty is a hidden gem. Set in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, it offers:
Excellent snow conditions
A modern cable car system
Fewer crowds than European ski resorts
Affordable rentals and passes
The best snow conditions are between January and March, with crisp blue skies and beautiful mountain views.
When to Avoid Visiting
While Kazakhstan is a year-round destination, there are a few periods to plan around:
Mid-summer (July–August): It can be extremely hot, especially in southern and desert regions. Urban sightseeing becomes less pleasant.
Deep winter (Late December–February): Unless you’re skiing or attending festivals, the freezing temperatures and snow can limit travel between cities and to rural areas.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Month | Weather Highlights | Best Activities |
January | Cold, snow in mountains | Skiing, winter festivals |
February | Cold continues, longer days | Shymbulak skiing, ice skating in Almaty |
March | Start of spring | Nauryz festival, mild hikes |
April | Warming up | City tours, steppe travel |
May | Pleasant weather | Mountain hiking, nature tours |
June | Hotter, but still manageable | National parks, cultural events |
July | Very hot in lowlands | High-altitude hiking, lakes |
August | Continued heat | Kolsay, Kaindy, canyon visits |
September | Cooling down, autumn colors | Ideal for all types of travel |
October | Crisp and colorful | City sightseeing, golden foliage |
November | Cold begins, fewer events | Quiet city visits, museums |
December | Snow returns, festive lights | Winter sports, Christmas/New Year vibes |
Travel Tips Based on Season
Spring Travel Tips (March–May)
Pack layers: While days are mild, evenings can still be chilly.
Bring waterproof shoes or boots: Especially in March, melting snow and spring rains can create puddles and mud.
Plan around Nauryz: Book your accommodations in advance if traveling in late March, as it’s a national holiday and popular travel time.
Summer Travel Tips (June–August)
Hydrate and protect: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and reusable water bottles if you’re exploring during the heat.
Hike early: If you're planning mountain excursions, start early to avoid midday heat and thunderstorms.
Stay high: Head to places like Altyn-Emel, Kolsay Lakes, and the Altai region to escape lowland heat.
Autumn Travel Tips (September–November)
Capture the colors: Autumn is a fantastic time for photography, especially in national parks and around lakes.
Book fall foliage tours: Some local tour operators offer scenic routes through golden valleys and alpine forests.
Markets are full: This is harvest season, so don’t miss out on fresh fruit, honey, and nuts in local bazaars.
Winter Travel Tips (December–February)
Bundle up: Temperatures can drop well below freezing, especially in Nur-Sultan and eastern regions.
Watch for delays: Snow can sometimes affect rural road travel, so leave extra time for transfers.
Visit thermal spas: If you're in the south, places like Saryagash offer warm springs and spa hotels for winter relaxation.
What to Pack for Your Trip
No matter when you go, here are essentials to consider:
Comfortable walking shoes: Especially important for city tours and national parks.
Weather-appropriate layers: Lightweight and breathable fabrics in summer; thermals and down jackets in winter.
Power adapter: Kazakhstan uses type C and F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
Reusable water bottle: Great for hikes and reducing plastic use.
Local cash (Kazakhstani tenge): Many rural areas don’t accept credit cards.
Travel insurance: Always a good idea, especially for outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts – When Should You Visit Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan offers something special in every season:
Spring and autumn bring ideal weather, cultural festivals, and stunning landscapes.
Summer is perfect for highland treks, lake adventures, and exploring remote nature.
Winter transforms the country into a snowy wonderland—great for skiers and cold-weather lovers.
The best time to visit depends on your travel style:
For nature lovers: Late spring and early autumn offer the best balance of beauty and weather.
For culture seekers: Plan around Nauryz or summer ethno-festivals.
For adventurers: Summer opens up the most remote and wild landscapes.
For cozy escapes: Winter in the mountains, spas, and cities is quiet and atmospheric.
So, when are you packing your bags?
While hiking through awe-inspiring canyons, sipping Kymyz in the yurt or watching sunset at Kok Tobe, Kazakhstan is an area that enthrals and excites.
Do you have a plan for your travels? Check out our Kazakhstan vacation packages including Fun & Sun and let us manage all the details so you can concentrate only on the fun.
Keep an eye out for future travel guides, insider info as well as unforgettable travel motivation!