Flights to Kazakhstan at a glance

Traveling to Kazakhstan is easy with a range of options for flights to Kazakhstan that cater to different budgets and preferences. You can compare airfare to Kazakhstan and choose between full-service and low-cost airlines to find the best fit for your travel plans. Popular attractions like EXPO 2017, Bayterek Tower, and the Almaty Opera House offer a blend of cultural, outdoor, and urban experiences. Whether you’re interested in history or modern architecture, there’s something to explore throughout the country.

• Major airports in Kazakhstan: Almaty International Airport (ALA) serving Almaty; Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) serving Astana
• Flights per week: 280+ flights arriving across Kazakhstan airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Kazakhstan: around 15+ carriers

Popular airports in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a fascinating destination for travelers drawn by family connections, cultural experiences, adventure, sports, and outdoor activities. The country is primarily accessed through two major airports.

• Almaty International Airport (ALA): Situated in Kazakhstan, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights, linking approximately 2 cities within the country and around 25 global destinations. Travelers have the option to upgrade to business class for enhanced comfort, depending on the specific route and airline. Notable carriers operating at this airport include Air Astana, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways.
• Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ): Found in Kazakhstan, this airport handles both domestic and international services, connecting to about 1 domestic city and over 10 international locations. For a more comfortable experience, passengers can opt for upgrades to business class or premium economy seats, subject to the airline and route. Major airlines serving this airport are Turkish Airlines, Air Astana, and APG Airlines.

Top routes to Kazakhstan

• Tashkent (TAS) to Almaty (ALA), with one-way flight options from around $95
• New York (JFK) to Almaty (ALA), with one-way airfare from around $480
• Istanbul (IST/SAW) to Almaty (ALA), with one-way flight options from around $180
• Dubai (DXB) to Almaty (ALA), with one-way airfare from around $240
• New York (JFK) to Astana (NQZ), with one-way flights starting at around $470

Cheapest routes to Kazakhstan

• Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Almaty (ALA), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $80
• Tashkent (TAS) to Almaty (ALA), with cheap one-way fares from around $95
• Tashkent (TAS) to Astana (NQZ), with low one-way fares from around $110
• Delhi (DEL) to Almaty (ALA), with budget one-way fares from around $110
• Baku (GYD) to Almaty (ALA), with cheap one-way fares from around $180

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Best time to fly to Kazakhstan

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Kazakhstan are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Kazakhstan can reach up to 41.2°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 54°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $429), roughly 23% cheaper than the yearly average.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	4.3°F (-15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	$536
February	7.2°F (-13.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$516
March	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	$578
April	41.2°F (5.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$538
May	55.4°F (13.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	$574
June	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$644
July	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$545
August	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$511
September	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$567
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$429
November	22.6°F (-5.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	$537
December	10.6°F (-11.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	$721

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Kazakhstan

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Kazakhstan is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Kazakhstan hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Kazakhstan

• Almaty: Almaty is located in the area of Kazakhstan and is an adventurous destination perfect for sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. This vibrant region offers thrilling skiing opportunities, especially during the winter months, along with excellent shopping centers for those looking to indulge in retail therapy. Must-visit landmarks include the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, which showcases beautiful architecture, the Almaty Opera House for an evening of culture and romance, and Big Almaty Lake, a picturesque spot ideal for outdoor activities and scenic relaxation.
• Astana: Astana is located in the area of Kazakhstan and serves as a modern hub for business, sports, and outdoor activities. This dynamic city features impressive shopping malls and theaters, making it a great destination for urban explorers. Key highlights include the iconic Bayterek Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a symbol of cultural harmony, and the EXPO 2017 site, which reflects innovative architecture and serves as a venue for various events. Travelers will find Astana bustling with energy year-round.
• Turkestan: Turkestan is located in the area of Kazakhstan and is a city steeped in rich cultural heritage. It attracts visitors who are eager to immerse themselves in its historic significance. The city is home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasavi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning Islamic architecture. This monumental mausoleum is not only a spiritual center but also a testament to the region's historical importance, drawing culture enthusiasts from around the globe.

Tips for short-haul flights to Kazakhstan

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits strategically. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may secure a preferred seat without any additional charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to charge your devices fully before boarding.
• Arrive early—even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Kazakhstan

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit earlier seat selection, but this might come with an additional fee.
• Arrive early—make sure to get to the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to ensure sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortable—since the journey will be lengthy, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.