The world’s ninth-biggest country, Kazakhstan is the most tourist friendly of all the ‘stans’, and is fast becoming a cool place to visit.
Its main cities, Almaty and Astana, are futuristic and could be compared to any European destination, while the lush countryside is mega photogenic. Whether you want a city break or to explore deserts and grasslands, this is a top spot.
We’ve chosen the 7 best places to get a Kazakhstan Instagram photo to remember your trip by…
1. The Singing Dunes
What really makes these red and gold sand dunes phenomenal is that they sing out a whistling sound when the wind skims across the sands. Rent a 4X4 to drive out to this National Park, and then climb the dunes on foot.
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2. Lake Kaindy
This mystical place has to feature in your Kazakhstan Instagram album. The sunken forest lake was created after an earthquake in 1911 filled the gorge with rainwater.
The turquoise blue water and ‘floating’ trees are mind blowing.
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3. Sova Espresso Bar
Want some delicious Kazakhstan Instagram food shots? Make your way to Sova Espresso Bar where you will find the latest coffee trends (as well as sangria and cocktails) in this cute bar in Almaty.
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4. Charyn Canyon
Known as Kazakhstan’s ‘Mini Grand Canyon’, this 90 kilometre amber wonder is worth the 2-hour drive from Almaty. Pack some snacks for an afternoon adventure you’ll never forget.
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5. Big Almaty Lake
The most famous lake in the country, and for good reason. Just look how blue that water is.
The best part about its location is that it is surrounded by majestic mountain peaks on all sides.
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6. Bayterek Tower
Bayterek Tower was built to celebrate Astana was being named the capital of Kazakhstan. It’s a modern tower that symbolises the legend of a golden egg on top of the tree of life.
You can also get amazing views of the city from an observation deck in the golden globe at the top.
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7. Valley of Balls
Want a photo of some mysterious stone balls in the desert? You’ll find them in the Valley of Balls, where the rocks range in size from tiny marbles to huge boulders the size of a car.
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