13 Things Not To Do in Kazakhstan: Insider Tips For Smart Travelers

Kazakhstan is a land of big skies, vast steppes, snow-capped mountains, and modern cities like Almaty and Astana that shine with futuristic architecture. From sipping tea in cozy chaikhanas to hiking to turquoise alpine lakes, the country feels both adventurous and welcoming.

At the same time, Kazakhstan has its own customs, unspoken rules, and social expectations. Understanding the main things not to do in Kazakhstan helps you avoid awkward encounters, misunderstandings, and unnecessary stress. If you are visiting for the first time, here is a guide on the things to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist.

1. Do Not Ignore Basic Kazakh And Russian Phrases

One of the key things not to do in Kazakhstan is to arrive without any attempt to learn a few local words. Russian is widely understood, and Kazakh is the state language. In big cities, you will find some English speakers, but relying only on English is one of the common mistakes to avoid in Kazakhstan.

Learning simple phrases such as “Salem” (hello in Kazakh), “Zdravstvuyte” (hello in Russian), “Rakhmet” or “Spasibo” (thank you), and “Pozhaluysta” (please) instantly makes interactions warmer. Ignoring local languages completely can come across as distant, especially outside major tourist routes.

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2. Do Not Disrespect Bread And Shared Food

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In Kazakh culture, food, especially bread, is closely tied to hospitality and blessing. Among the essential things not to do in Kazakhstan for first-timers is treating bread casually, throwing it away, or stepping on crumbs on the ground.

If bread is served at the table, do not place it upside down or let it go to waste. Avoid playing with food or complaining loudly about traditional dishes. When a host offers you something to taste, even a small bite shows appreciation. Disrespecting shared food is one of the things that offend locals in Kazakhstan more than many visitors expect.

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3. Do Not Point Your Feet At People Or Sacred Objects

Body language matters. Pointing your feet directly at someone, resting them on a table, or stretching them toward a guest is seen as impolite in many traditional households. This is one of the things not to do in Kazakhstan if you are invited into a home or sitting on floor cushions.

If you are seated cross-legged or on a low platform, try to keep your feet tucked in neatly. Similarly, avoid pointing your feet at religious items, family photos, or elders. These may seem like small details, but they are subtle things to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist if you want to show respect.

4. Do Not Dress Inappropriately At Mosques And Religious Sites

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Kazakhstan is a secular country with a strong Muslim heritage, and you will come across beautiful mosques and spiritual sites. When planning what not to wear in Kazakhstan, keep religious spaces in mind.

At mosques and shrines:

• Cover shoulders and avoid low-cut tops
• Choose skirts or trousers that reach at least the knees
• Women may be asked to cover their hair
• Remove shoes where required

Very revealing clothing, short shorts, or sleeveless tops in these places are among the things not to do in Kazakhstan for first-timers. Dressing modestly at religious sites is a simple way to show that you understand and respect local values.

5. Do Not Drink Excessively In Public Or During Family Meals

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While alcohol is available in Kazakhstan and toasts are a common part of celebrations, losing control is not admired. Overdrinking in public, shouting, or causing a disturbance is one of the travel mistakes in Kazakhstan to avoid.

If you are invited to a family meal, there might be toasts with vodka, wine, or kumis (fermented mare’s milk). You can sip lightly or politely decline, but do not pressure others to drink more. Behaving loudly or disrespectfully after drinking is one of the key things to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist if you want to be welcomed back.

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6. Do Not Haggle Rudely In Bazaars And Shops

Colorful bazaars are a highlight of traveling through Kazakhstan. Bargaining can be possible in markets, but aggressive haggling is one of the things not to do in Kazakhstan if you want friendly exchanges and fair prices.

A few tips:

• Greet the seller first and smile.
• Negotiate politely and avoid mocking prices.
• If the price does not work for you, decline respectfully and walk away.

Treating the bazaar like a bargaining game without courtesy is one of the common mistakes to avoid in Kazakhstan. For fixed-price shops and supermarkets, haggling is not appropriate at all.

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7. Do Not Photograph People Or Military Sites Without Permission

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Kazakhstan’s landscapes and cityscapes are photogenic, but some subjects require extra care. Taking photos of people, especially elderly locals, children, or women, without asking can be uncomfortable for them. Always seek permission with a smile or gesture.

In addition, avoid photographing border posts, military installations, strategic infrastructure, or government buildings. This is one of the serious things not to do in Kazakhstan, as it can lead to questioning or fines. When in doubt, ask your guide or a local before taking out your camera.

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8. Do Not Sit Carelessly At The Table Or On Pillows

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In traditional settings, you might sit around a low table on cushions or carpets. Placing your feet on cushions, leaning heavily on the table, or sitting in a way that points your soles toward others can feel disrespectful and quickly become one of the things that offend locals in Kazakhstan.

Among the subtle things to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist:

• Do not place bags or hats on dining surfaces.
• Do not lean back casually with feet stretched through the middle of the group.
• Do not reach across people for food; ask for dishes to be passed.

These gestures may not be part of your culture, but observing how hosts sit and following their example helps you avoid unknowingly breaking etiquette.

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9. Do Not Forget Weather And Distance Realities

One practical thing not to do in Kazakhstan for first-timers is to underestimate distances and the climate. This is a huge country with long drives between cities and rapidly changing weather, especially in the mountains and steppes.

Avoid:

• Heading into remote areas without enough water, warm clothing, or fuel.
• Ignoring local advice about sudden temperature drops or strong winds.
• Expecting to see multiple far-apart destinations in a single day.

Not planning for these realities is one of the big travel mistakes in Kazakhstan to avoid, especially if you want a relaxed, safe journey.

10. Do Not Treat Public Transport Casually

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In cities like Almaty and Astana, buses and metro lines are organized and widely used. Among the things not to do in Kazakhstan:

• Do not board without a valid ticket or card.
• Do not occupy priority seats reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.
• Do not speak loudly on your phone, especially in quieter compartments.

Standing up for older passengers, moving your backpack off an extra seat, and keeping noise low show you understand what to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist while using public transport.

11. Do Not Misbehave In Malls And Shopping Centers

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Modern malls in Kazakhstan often combine shops, cafés, entertainment zones, and restaurants. If you are wondering what not to do in Kazakhstan malls, think of them as shared indoor spaces, not open parks.

Avoid:

• Sitting for long periods in food courts without ordering.
• Playing loud music on speakers or shouting in corridors.
• Leaving trash behind or letting children climb on displays.

Respectful behavior in malls and shopping centers helps you avoid being asked to leave and keeps your experience pleasant. Ignoring these simple norms is one of the common mistakes to avoid in modern urban spaces in Kazakhstan.

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12. Do Not Ignore Local Traditions And Elders

Respect for elders and guests is deeply woven into Kazakh culture. One of the things not to do in Kazakhstan is to interrupt older people, address them too casually, or ignore them during greetings and toasts.

When entering a home or joining a group:

• Greet older people first.
• Accept the seats offered to you and avoid taking the best spot without being invited.
• Listen attentively during stories and toasts.

Overlooking these simple courtesies can quickly become one of the things that offend locals in Kazakhstan, even if they remain polite outwardly.

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13. Do Not Forget To Respect The Environment

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From alpine lakes like Big Almaty Lake to the endless steppe, Kazakhstan’s nature is a big part of its charm. Leaving trash on hiking trails, lighting careless campfires, or driving off-road in fragile landscapes are some of the most important things not to do in Kazakhstan.

Always:

• Carry your litter back with you.
• Stick to marked paths and official viewpoints where possible.
• Follow local guidance about wildlife and protected areas.

Respecting the environment is one of the key things to avoid in Kazakhstan as a tourist if you want to help keep these wild places beautiful for future travelers.

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FAQs

What are the laws in Kazakhstan for tourists?

Tourists must follow local laws, including carrying identification, respecting alcohol regulations, and not photographing sensitive sites like military installations.

Is it ok to wear shorts in Kazakhstan?

Yes, wearing shorts is generally acceptable in many casual settings, especially in summer and outdoor areas. However, when thinking about what not to wear in Kazakhstan, avoid very short or revealing outfits in religious sites, traditional villages, and formal restaurants. Modest clothing is appreciated in more conservative environments.

Can unmarried couples go on holiday to Kazakhstan?

Unmarried couples can travel together and stay in hotels in Kazakhstan without issues. Large cities are used to international visitors. As always, keeping public displays of affection moderate is respectful, especially in more traditional neighborhoods or smaller towns.

Is it safe to visit Kazakhstan as a solo traveler?

Kazakhstan is considered relatively safe for solo travelers, with friendly locals and low violent crime in most tourist areas. However, as with anywhere, stay aware of your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and follow local weather and distance advice when heading into nature.

What is the best month to go to Kazakhstan?

The best time to visit depends on your plans. Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies for city sightseeing and nature trips. Summer is warmer and suitable for high-altitude hikes, while winter brings snow and a different kind of steppe beauty.

What are the strict rules in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan enforces strict regulations on drugs, border areas, military zones, and certain government buildings. There can also be firm rules around public order, such as limits on unauthorized gatherings or disorderly behavior. Being aware of these and avoiding the main pitfalls for tourists in Kazakhstan helps ensure your trip remains safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free.