In recent years, Kazakhstan has increasingly caught the attention of nature tourism enthusiasts. With its vast steppes, stunning mountain ranges, and well-preserved natural areas, the country stands out as a hub offering sustainable and adventure-filled travel experiences.

Kazakhstan is home to 13 national parks, numerous nature reserves, and dozens of natural monuments. These areas make up approximately 9% of the country’s landmass—an expanse large enough to encompass the entirety of the United Kingdom.

A Gateway to Sustainable Tourism in the Heart of Central Asia

One of the most striking aspects of ecotourism in Kazakhstan is the wide range of adventurous experiences that can be had across varying climates and pristine natural landscapes. In a single region, it’s possible to go hiking in flower-filled valleys in the spring and explore snow-covered mountain slopes. The areas surrounding Almaty, as well as southern and eastern Kazakhstan, are ideal for these experiences. Such incredible biodiversity makes the country a destination open to exploration year-round.

Interview with Mr. Kuat Kanafeyev, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Antalya, on Kazakhstan’s Ecotourism Routes

We had a conversation with Mr. Kuat Kanafeyev, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Antalya, about his country’s growing tourism potential, developments in ecotourism, and travel preferences of Kazakh tourists.

Tourism Explorer: Mr. Consul General, could you tell us about Kazakhstan’s most prominent tourism assets?
Kuat Kanafeyev: Kazakhstan, as the largest country in Central Asia, offers vast natural beauty, rich historical heritage, and modern cities—all of which contribute to its strong tourism potential. Our main tourist attractions include natural sites, cultural landmarks, and opportunities for adventure tourism.

A Destination in the Heart of Nature: From Almaty to Mangystau

Tourism Explorer:  Let’s begin with nature — which regions stand out the most?
Kuat Kanafeyev: Almaty and its surroundings are among the top highlights. Surrounded by mountains, the city boasts ski resorts like Shymbulak, as well as natural wonders such as Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon. Burabay (Borovoe) National Park is also very popular and is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Kazakhstan.” Its lakes and forests are particularly appealing for nature lovers. In addition, the Mangystau Region offers unique desert-like landscapes with sites such as the Kaplankyr cliffs and Bozzhyra Valley. Each of these places promises a completely different nature experience.

The Intersection of Culture, History, and Modernity

Tourism Explorer: What cultural and historical attractions can tourists look forward to?
Kuat Kanafeyev: One of our most important cultural centers is Turkistan. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, located there, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds great significance in Turkic-Islamic civilization. Moreover, our capital city Astana (formerly known as Nur-Sultan) stands out for its modern architecture. Iconic landmarks like the Bayterek Tower, Hazret Sultan Mosque, and the Khan Shatyr are of particular interest to visitors.

Tourism Explorer: How is ecotourism and adventure tourism developing in Kazakhstan?
Kuat Kanafeyev: These sectors are experiencing significant growth. Activities such as hunting, off-road expeditions, and trekking are increasingly popular among travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature. Thanks to Kazakhstan’s diverse climates and geography, these experiences can be enjoyed year-round.

Top Travel Destinations Through the Eyes of Kazakh Tourists

Tourism Explorer: How do Kazakh tourists choose their international travel destinations?
Kuat Kanafeyev: Kazakh tourists evaluate different destinations based on a range of criteria. Türkiye, Egypt, and Thailand are among the most preferred countries.

Tourism Explorer: What makes Türkiye so popular?
Kuat Kanafeyev: Türkiye is an extremely popular destination among Kazakh travelers. Antalya and Istanbul are at the top of the list, followed closely by Alanya, Belek, and Kemer.
The fact that Türkiye is a Muslim country, the cuisine being compatible with our tastes, the shared historical and cultural ties, and the visa-free travel policy all play a significant role in this preference.
Additionally, Türkiye stands out with its luxurious hotels and family-friendly services.

Tourism Explorer: What kind of appeal do Egypt and Thailand hold?
Kuat Kanafeyev:Egypt stands out with destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. It’s a favored location during the winter months thanks to its warm climate. Marine tourism and diving opportunities are particularly attractive for those interested in nature and the underwater world.

Thailand draws attention with its exotic nature, affordable vacation options, and tropical climate. Cities like Pattaya, Phuket, and Bangkok are highly popular among Kazakh tourists. The country’s vibrant nightlife and entertainment options especially appeal to younger travelers.

Tourism Explorer: If you were to compare these three destinations overall…
Kuat Kanafeyev: For family vacations, Türkiye is by far the most suitable destination.
For affordable beach holidays, Egypt takes the lead.
When it comes to adventure and youth travel, Thailand is the top choice.
Türkiye’s advantages—visa-free travel and easy access—also directly influence travelers’ decisions.

In summary, Kazakh tourists prefer Türkiye for its cultural ties and family-friendly holidays, Egypt for affordable seaside getaways, and Thailand for adventurous and exotic travel experiences.

With its rich natural diversity, cultural heritage, and developing tourism infrastructure, Kazakhstan is becoming an attractive destination for both ecotourism enthusiasts and travelers in search of unique experiences. As Consul General Mr. Kuat Kanafeyev highlights, Kazakhstan is not just a stopover—it’s a destination waiting to be explored. There is no doubt that the country will gain even more visibility on the international tourism stage in the years to come.