Kazakhstan in February: Explore Stunning Beauty

Crisp air, snow-dusted landscapes, and a calendar sprinkled with cultural events—Kazakhstan in February is a winter wanderer’s dream. While the frosty weather might make you want to curl up by the fire, Kazakhstan rewards those who bundle up and explore.

From skiing pristine slopes to savoring hearty traditional meals to discovering how locals celebrate winter, a trip here in February is anything but dull. Let’s dive into this Central Asian gem and uncover its chilly charms. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss:

Is February a Good Time to Visit Kazakhstan?

If your ideal vacation involves winter sports, cultural experiences, and crowd-free sightseeing, then February is a great time to visit Kazakhstan. The country transforms into a snowy playground, perfect for adventurous souls. However, if you prefer basking on sunny beaches, you might want to wait for warmer months.

Advantages of visiting in February:

• Ideal for winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating
• Fewer tourists mean you can enjoy popular attractions without the crowds
• Unique cultural events and festivals
• Spectacular snow-covered landscapes

Weather

Kazakhstan weather in February is not for the faint of heart, with temperatures plummeting well below freezing. The average temperature hovers around -15°C, but it can dip as low as -41°C in some areas.

Snowfall is common, blanketing the landscape in a picturesque white coat. However, the short daylight hours (7-8 hours per day) and frequent cloud cover can make the cold feel even more biting.

Here’s a table of average February temperatures in major Kazakh cities:

City	Average Low	Average High
Nur-Sultan (Astana)	-16°C	-12°C
Almaty	-7°C	2°C
Shymkent	-5°C	5°C
Aktobe	-18°C	-10°C

Cultural Experiences & Events

Winter doesn’t put a freeze on Kazakhstan’s rich cultural scene. From traditional winter sports to art exhibitions showcasing the country’s heritage, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences. Some such activities include:

Ballet Performance at Astana Opera House

• When: Throughout February
• Where: Astana
• Significance: Showcases Kazakhstan’s rich performing arts tradition.

Traditional Kazakh Music Concert

• When: Various dates in February
• Where: Local venues across Kazakhstan such as Kazakhstan Central Concert Hall in Nur-Sultan, Almaty Concert Hall in Almaty, and Abai Kazakh National Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Nur-Sultan.
• Significance: Features local instruments like the dombra, celebrating national heritage.

Events & Festivals

While Kazakhstan in February doesn’t have major national holidays, the month still offers a festive atmosphere, particularly around Valentine’s Day. Some notable events and festivals for February include:

1. Valentine’s Day Celebrations

• When: February 14
• Where: Hotels such as The Dostyk Hotel often provide special packages for couples on Valentine’s Day. These packages might include romantic dinners, spa treatments, and room decorations to make the stay memorable.
• Significance: A time for couples to celebrate love with special dinners and themed events.

2. Almaty International Short Film Festival

• When: Early February
• Where: Almaty
• Significance: Highlights emerging filmmakers and diverse cinematic expressions.

3. KVN Humor Competitions

• When: Throughout February
• Where: Various locations, including Abai Kazakh National Theatre in Almaty and Kazakhstan Central Concert Hall in Nur-Sultan
• Significance: A popular comedic competition showcasing local talent.

4. Winter Sports Competitions at Shymbulak Ski Resort

• When: Various weekends in February
• Where: Shymbulak, near Almaty
• Significance: Attracts winter sports enthusiasts for skiing and snowboarding events.

Top Things To Do in Kazakhstan

What to do in Kazakhstan in February? Embrace the winter wonderland! From hitting the slopes to exploring snow-dusted cities, there’s no shortage of chilly adventures. Here are some of the best activities in Kazakhstan for February:

1. Ice skating at the Medeu outdoor rink, one of the world’s highest
2. Visiting the stunning Charyn Canyon, which looks even more magical under a layer of snow
3. Exploring the futuristic architecture of Nur-Sultan, including the iconic Baiterek Tower
4. Taking a rejuvenating dip in the hot springs at Chunja
5. Embarking on a winter hike in the Tian Shan Mountains (with a guide and proper gear)

Famous Places to Eat in Kazakhstan in February

Warm up from the inside out with Kazakhstan’s hearty, comforting cuisine. Kazakhstan in February is the perfect time to indulge in steaming bowls of beshbarmak (meat and noodles), fragrant manti dumplings, and succulent shashlik kebabs.

Some top places to eat:

• Gakku in Nur-Sultan for modern Kazakh cuisine with a gourmet twist
• Navvat in Shymkent for mouth-watering shashlik and other Central Asian favorites
• Capri Restaurant in the Radisson Hotel in Astana serves Italian cuisine infused with Kazakh flavors

Don’t forget to sip on some hot tea or coffee to keep your hands toasty between bites!

What to pack for February?

Packing for Kazakhstan in February is all about staying warm and dry. Temperatures can drop drastically, so layers are your best friend. Here’s a packing list to keep you cozy:

Clothing

• Thermal base layers (long underwear, shirts)
• Warm, insulated coat or parka
• Fleece or wool sweaters and pants
• Snow pants or ski pants for outdoor activities
• Warm, waterproof boots with good traction
• Thick socks (wool or synthetic)
• Warm hat or beanie
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Scarf or neck warmer

Accessories

• Sunglasses or ski goggles to protect from snow glare
• Sunscreen and lip balm (the sun reflects off snow!)
• Hand and toe warmers
• Moisture-wicking clothes for indoor layering

Where to stay in Kazakhstan?

From cozy guesthouses to luxurious ski resorts, Kazakhstan offers a range of accommodation options for February visitors. Here are some top picks:

• Rixos Almaty: Luxurious 5-star hotel with spa, pool, and mountain views
• Nur-Sultan Marriott Hotel: Elegant rooms and suites in the heart of the capital
• Shymbulak Resort Hotel: Scenic ski-in/ski-out resort near Almaty
• Altyn Kargaly Eco-Resort: Rustic-chic cabins in a tranquil forest setting near Almaty

Look for hotels or resorts with amenities like heated indoor spaces, hot tubs or saunas, and on-site restaurants to make your winter stay extra comfortable.

Average Cost of a Trip to Kazakhstan

The cost of a trip to Kazakhstan in February depends on your travel style and itinerary. However, here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend per person per day:

• Budget: 10,000-20,000 KZT (INR 1,600-3,200)
• Mid-range: 20,000-40,000 KZT (INR 3,200-6,500)
• High-end: 40,000+ KZT (INR 6,500+)

Some typical costs:

• Accommodation: 5,000-30,000+ KZT (INR 800-5000) per night
• Food: 2,000-10,000 KZT (INR 350-1,600) per day
• Transportation: 150-500 KZT (INR 25-80) for public transport, 1,000-3,000 KZT (INR 150-500) for taxis
• Activities: 1,000-15,000 KZT (INR 150-2,500) (e.g. 7,000 KZT (INR 1,200) for Shymbulak ski pass)

Note: Exchange rates are approximate and subject to change.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Kazakhstan Adventure

Local Etiquette

• Remove shoes when entering a home or mosque
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
• Accept tea or food when offered, as it’s a sign of hospitality

Safety and Health

• Take precautions against cold-related illnesses like hypothermia and frostbite
• Wear sunscreen, as snow can reflect harmful UV rays
• Stay hydrated and take breaks to warm up indoors
• Watch for ice and snow on sidewalks and roads

Currency

• Kazakhstan’s currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
• Exchange money at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices
• Credit cards are accepted in larger cities but always carry cash

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FAQs

1. What are the best things to do in Kazakhstan in February?

Some of the best things to do in Kazakhstan in February include:

• Skiing or snowboarding at resorts like Shymbulak
• Ice skating at the Medeu rink
• Visiting snow-covered attractions like Charyn Canyon
• Exploring cities like Nur-Sultan and Almaty
• Soaking in hot springs at Chunja
• Shopping at winter markets

2. Is Kazakhstan cold in February?

Yes, Kazakhstan is very cold in February, with average temperatures ranging from -20°C to -11°C. Some areas can experience lows down to -41°C. Proper winter clothing is essential.

3. What can I wear in Kazakhstan in February?

In Kazakhstan in February, wear warm, layered clothing such as:

• Thermal base layers
• Insulated coat or parka
• Fleece or wool sweaters and pants
• Warm, waterproof boots
• Thick socks, gloves, and a hat

4. Is Kazakhstan expensive to visit in February?

The cost of visiting Kazakhstan in February depends on your travel style. Budget travelers can expect to spend around 10,000-20,000 KZT (INR 1,600-3,200) per person per day, while luxury travel could cost 40,000+ KZT (INR 6,500+) per day.

5. How safe is Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is generally a safe country to visit. However, travelers should take precautions against cold-related illnesses, watch for icy conditions, and be aware of petty crime in cities. It’s always a good idea to check current travel advisories before your trip.

6. What can I see in Kazakhstan in February?

Some top tourist spots in Kazakhstan for February include:

• Nur-Sultan: Hazrat Sultan Mosque, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Baiterek Tower
• Almaty: Kok-Tobe Hill, Central State Museum, Panfilov Park
• Charyn Canyon: Stunning red rock formations dusted with snow
• Kolsai Lakes: Serene mountain lakes surrounded by fir trees
• Turkestan: Ancient mausoleums and the UNESCO-listed Khoja Ahmed Yasawi shrine

7. Will it rain in Kazakhstan in February?

February is a relatively dry month in Kazakhstan, with an average of 16mm of precipitation over 5 days. While rain is unlikely, snowfall is common throughout the country.

8. What are the major Events & Festivals in Kazakhstan in February?

There are no major national festivals or celebrations in Kazakhstan in February. However, locals do celebrate Valentine’s Day with special events and dinners. Other smaller events include the Almaty International Short Film Festival and various winter sports competitions.