Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan? If you're planning to go to Karkaraly National Park, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Karkaraly National Park
- Important essentials for Karkaraly National Park
- Activities for Karkaraly National Park
- Karkaraly National Park in January: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in February: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in March: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in April: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in May: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in June: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in July: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in August: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in September: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in October: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in November: weather and what to pack
- Karkaraly National Park in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan
Based on the climate and weather in Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Karkaraly National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan by month
January
January for Karkaraly National Park can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heated gloves
Night cap
It's suggested to wear a head protector at night in this climate like this
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestThermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Insulated boots
The best value
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Goggles for eye protection
our pickThick pajamas
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisLip balm
Our pick: this
Coveralls
We pick:
Neck gaiter/ski mask
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Karkaraly National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Karkaraly National Park has some excellent skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
February
If you go to Karkaraly National Park in February, you will notice that it is beyond freezing. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Coveralls
We love:
Neck gaiter/cold weather mask
Night cap
It's vital to wear a head warmer at night in this weather like this
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisExtreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Fleece for under jacket
Goggles for eye protection
our pickInsulated boots
The best value
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Heated gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Thick pajamas
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestWaterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Karkaraly National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Karkaraly National Park has some great ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in this region can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Heated gloves
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Coveralls
We love:
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated boots
The best value
Goggles for eye protection
our pickLip balm
Our pick: here
Thick pajamas
Neck gaiter/ski mask
Night cap
It's vital to wear something on your head at night here like this
Fleece for under jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisWaterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Karkaraly National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Karkaraly National Park has some good skiing If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
April
Traveling to Karkaraly National Park in April, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
May
Traveling to Karkaraly National Park in May, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
June
June for Karkaraly National Park is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
July
If you are traveling to Karkaraly National Park in July, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
August in Karkaraly National Park is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
September
September for Karkaraly National Park is cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
October
October in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy socks
Such as:
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisWarm pants or jeans
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Sweaters
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
November can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the month. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best is: here
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Karkaraly National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Karkaraly National Park has some great skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
December
If you are traveling to Karkaraly National Park in December, you will notice that it is beyond freezing. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated boots
The best value
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestThermal undergarments
We like:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisCoveralls
We love:
Fleece for under jacket
Goggles for eye protection
our pickNeck warmer/cold weather mask
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a head warmer at night in this climate like this
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated gloves
Thick pajamas
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Karkaraly National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Karkaraly National Park has some famous skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Karkaraly National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kazakhstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Karkaraly National Park, Kazakhstan
Located in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan, the Karkaraly National Park is a hidden gem for those in search of natural beauty and unparalleled scenic views. The park offers a rich landscape consisting of pristine lakes, lush forests, and rugged mountain ranges. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that make this national park a must-visit destination.
1. Karkaraly Lake
Surrounded by greenery and mountains, Karkaraly Lake is the main attraction of the park. It is a beautiful freshwater lake that offers activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is also home to several species of birds, including swans, eagles, and ducks.
2. Mount Karkaraly
The park is also home to Mount Karkaraly, which is the highest peak in the park rising to 1,400 meters above sea level. The mountain offers a challenging hike with beautiful views at the summit. It's an ideal destination for hikers and thrill-seekers who love to ascend rugged terrains.
3. The Zhirentay
Zhirentay translates to “sacred springs” in Kazakh, and this beautiful fresh water body is believed to have healing properties. Located at the foot of Mount Karkaraly, the Zhirentay is believed to flow through and be charged with positive energy unique to the region. Visitors to this site can enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal clear, cool water.
4. The Kajyrga Section
Another popular section of the park is the Kajyrga Section. This section has lush meadows, wildflowers, and echoing valleys. The park is home to several endangered species of plants and animals, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
5. Karkaraly Tract
Karkaraly Tract is a protected landscape in the park, that showcases the beauty of the Kazakh steppe. Here, visitors can spot numerous animals grazing, and numerous bird species flying overhead. It's a perfect destination for photographers, bird watchers, and animal lovers alike.
In conclusion, Karkaraly National Park is a place of great natural beauty and offers a variety of attractions to visitors who love nature, adventure and cultural obscurity. So if you’re planning to visit Kazakhstan, you should consider adding this park to your itinerary. Its mix of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, lush forests, and rich biodiversity provides a thrilling taste of Kazakhstan's untamed beauty.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Wolfe Creek Crater National Park, Western Australia, Australia, Dellroy, Ohio, United States of America, Upolu, Samoa, Jutland, Denmark, Kotabaru, Indonesia, Cunnamulla, Queensland, Australia, Laem Ngop, Thailand, Hampton Roads, Virginia, United States of America, Baco, Philippines, Hachioji, Japan, and Jinjiang, China.