Travel restrictions
The following areas of Kazakhstan are closed to visitors unless prior permission has been received from the Foreign Ministry and the Interior Ministry, with the agreement of the Kazakh National Security Committee:
- the Gvardeyskiy urban-type village in Almaty region (south eastern Kazakhstan)
- the town of Baykonur
- the districts of Karmakchi and Kazalinsk in southern Kyzylorda region.
Border regions
Do not cross the border into or out of Kazakhstan illegally.
Most land borders are currently closed to foreign nationals due to Coronavirus restrictions.
If you plan to travel to areas within 25km of Kazakhstan’s borders, carry ID. Local authorities may ask to see proof of identity.
Strict border controls apply to road travel between Almaty in Kazakhstan and Bishkek in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Crossing the land border between the Kyrgyz Republic and Kazakhstan by car can be slow. Customs checks can create long delays.
The border between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan may close for short periods. Before you go, check with the Kazakhstan Border Service (Russian).
Driving permits
To drive in Kazakhstan, you need both:
- an valid driver’s licence
- an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Get your IDP before you leave Australia.
Road travel
You’re 4 times more likely to die in a car accident in Kazakhstan than in Australia. Hazards include:
- poor road conditions
- poor driving standards
- lack of street lighting
- pedestrians crossing streets with no warning
- snow and ice on roads during winter
Cars often don’t give way to pedestrians on roads.
In rural areas, animals on roads are another hazard.
The road between Almaty and Bishkek in Kyrgyz Republic is very poor. Drive carefully.
It may be difficult to access service stations in rural areas. Fuel shortages happen sometimes.
If you plan to drive:
- check your travel insurance covers it
- learn local traffic laws and driving practices
- beware of animals on the roads
- look out for pedestrians crossing streets without warning
- avoid travel at night, especially in rural areas
More information:
Motorcycles
Check your insurance policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
Taxis
Use only registered taxis and limousines. Arrange them through your hotel if you can.
Public transport
Avoid public transport.
Local buses and mini-buses have poor safety standards and maintenance.
Rail travel can be unreliable and dangerous due to petty crime.
Air travel
DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Kazakhstan’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information: