Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan-travel-tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan

Greetings and Basic Phrases

  • Greet locals with a handshake or a slight bow of the head
  • Learn basic Kazakh phrases: “Сәлем” (Salem) - hello, “Рахмет” (Rahmet) - thank you, “Жақсы” (Zhaksy) - goodbye
  • Be prepared to remove your shoes when entering a home or traditional yurt

Dress Code and Modesty

  • Dress conservatively: avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas
  • Women should cover their shoulders and knees as a sign of respect
  • Remove your hat and sunglasses when interacting with locals or entering a place of worship

Table Manners and Food Etiquette

  • Wait for the host to invite you to sit down before taking a seat
  • Use your right hand when eating, as the left hand is considered unclean
  • Try a little bit of each dish offered: it’s impolite to refuse food or leave a full plate
  • Don’t finish a meal completely: leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates the host provided enough

Social Interactions and Gift-Giving

  • Show respect for elders: address them with titles such as “Аға” (Aga) or “Әже” (Eje)
  • Bring a gift when visiting a local’s home, especially if you’re invited for a meal
  • Avoid public displays of affection: keep physical contact to a minimum

Visiting Mosques and Cultural Sites

  • Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering a mosque
  • Keep your voice down and avoid taking pictures during prayer times
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting cultural sites, such as the Bayterek Tower or the Museum of Modern Art

Tipping and Bargaining

  • Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service (5-10% in restaurants)
  • Be prepared to bargain at markets: it’s a common practice, especially for souvenirs

Safety and Security

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas
  • Avoid traveling alone at night or using unlicensed taxis
  • Stay informed about local events and demonstrations, which may affect tourist areas

Additional Tips

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases: many Kazakhs speak Russian as a second language
  • Respect the country’s Soviet past: avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or history
  • Be patient with language barriers: not everyone speaks English, so consider hiring a local guide or using translation apps.