Transport and Driving in Kazakhstan

As the world’s largest landlocked country and one of its most sparsely populated, getting around in Kazakhstan is not always easy. Because of the country’s vastness, your experience of driving and transport in Kazakhstan will vary from place to place.

While there are various public transport options and well-developed roads in large cities such as Almaty and Astana (previously Nur-Sultan), the country’s rural areas are likely to have considerably less to offer in this regard.

Public transport in Kazakhstan

Buses

Buses are the most widely used public transport option in Almaty and Astana. There are some ongoing modernisation efforts introducing newer vehicles in the main cities. On the other hand, issues such as unreliable schedules and overcrowding continue to be common complaints, especially during rush hour.

Train

Trains can be a scenic way for expats to travel locally and regionally in Kazakhstan. They even reach neighbouring countries such as Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, provided time isn’t an issue. While long-distance trains offer a comfortable ride on newer Talgo models, regional services can be slower and less predictable, particularly during peak seasons when tickets sell out quickly.

Marshrutkas

A marshrutka is a type of shared minivan that operates on fixed routes. They are often more frequent and faster than buses, but they can be overcrowded and are not always the safest option. Some cities are gradually phasing them out in favour of larger, more regulated buses.

Metro

Almaty has the country’s only metro system, and although there are plans for expansion, progress has been slow. The metro is clean, reliable, and affordable, making it a practical choice for short trips. With just one line spanning 14 miles (23km) and 11 stations, its coverage remains limited.

Tram

Tram services exist in Pavlodar and Temirtau. Almaty’s tram system was shut down in 2015, and while there have been talks about reinstating it, no solid plans have materialised yet.

Useful links

• Almaty City Bus and Astana Bus Service
• Kazakhstan Railways
• Yandex Transport
• Talgo Trains
• Kazakhstan Temir Zholy

Taxis in Kazakhstan

Getting around by taxi in Kazakhstan is straightforward, but the experience can vary. Traditional street taxis are available outside bus and train stations, but most travellers prefer using ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go and Bolt due to their pricing transparency and reliability.

Many street taxi drivers speak only Russian, so brushing up on key phrases can help avoid misunderstandings or fare disputes. Most traditional taxis do not have meters, so you will need to negotiate the price before starting your journey. Unauthorised taxis may overcharge tourists, making ride-hailing apps a safer and more predictable option.

Ride-hailing services dominate the market. Yandex Go is the most widely used app in Almaty and Astana, offering various ride options, including economy, comfort, and business-class vehicles. Bolt is a growing competitor, although slightly less widespread. Uber is no longer operational in Kazakhstan, as Yandex Go acquired its regional operations. Indriver, another popular option, allows passengers to negotiate fares directly with drivers, making it particularly useful for long-distance and intercity travel.

Useful links

• Yandex Go Kazakhstan
• Bolt Kazakhstan
• Indriver
• Astana Taxi Services

Driving in Kazakhstan

Driving in Kazakhstan can be a mixed experience. While major highways, such as the Western Europe–Western China transport corridor, have seen significant upgrades, rural and remote roads often remain in poor condition. Mountainous areas, especially around Almaty, can be treacherous in winter due to ice and snow. Traffic congestion is another issue, particularly in Almaty and Astana during peak hours.

Road safety is a concern, as local drivers are known for aggressive manoeuvres and unpredictable behaviour. While traffic police enforcement is improving through digitalisation and body cameras, occasional bribery and selective enforcement still occur, especially in rural areas.

All drivers in Kazakhstan must have Mandatory Third-Party Liability Insurance (OSAGO). This can be purchased from local insurers at border crossings or in major cities. While OSAGO covers third-party damage, comprehensive insurance (KASKO) is recommended for additional protection.

Driver’s licences

If you wish to drive in Kazakhstan, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national driving licence. For stays exceeding six months, you will need to convert your licence to a Kazakhstani one, which requires a medical examination, a theoretical test in Kazakh or Russian, and submission of required documents.

Useful links

• Kazakhstan Government Portal (Driving & Licensing)
• Ministry of Internal Affairs (Traffic Police)

Cycling in Kazakhstan

Cycling in Kazakhstan is growing in popularity, but infrastructure remains limited. In Almaty, bike lanes have been expanded in the city centre, and a bike-sharing programme has been introduced. Astana also has some dedicated cycling paths, although they are far from comprehensive. For the most part, you will need to cycle on the road, where drivers are not always accustomed to sharing space with cyclists.

Recreational cycling is more common than commuting, especially among expats and fitness enthusiasts who take advantage of Almaty’s parks and scenic routes. Safety remains a major concern, as bike lanes are often obstructed by parked cars or pedestrians. In winter, extreme cold and snow make cycling impractical in many parts of the country.

Useful links

• Almaty Bike Sharing
• Astana City Cycling Initiatives

Air travel in Kazakhstan

Given Kazakhstan’s vast size, air travel is often the most practical way to move between major cities. The country’s two main aviation hubs, Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Astana and Almaty International Airport, handle the bulk of domestic and international flights.

Air Astana is the national carrier and has a strong reputation for safety and reliability. FlyArystan, a budget airline, offers affordable domestic routes but has received mixed reviews on punctuality. SCAT Airlines also serves regional airports, providing connections to more remote locations.

The busiest domestic routes include flights between Almaty and Astana and services to Shymkent, Aktau, and Aktobe. While air travel is generally reliable, winter weather can cause delays and cancellations, particularly on regional routes.

Useful links

• Air Astana
• FlyArystan
• SCAT Airlines