Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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 Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan? If you're planning to go to Kazakh Desert, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan

Based on the climate and weather in Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kazakh Desert, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan by month

January

January in this region is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently 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 Kazakh Desert. 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

February

February in Kazakh Desert is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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

March

March in Kazakh Desert is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

April

If you visit Kazakh Desert during April, you will probably find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Kazakh Desert is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage 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 Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

June

If you visit Kazakh Desert during June, you are likely to find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

July

July in this region is unbearably hot. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

August

August here is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September in this region is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works 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

October

If you vacation in Kazakh Desert during October, you might see that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • 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 Kazakh Desert. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale 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 works in most countries.

November

November in Kazakh Desert is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

December

December in Kazakh Desert is cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Kazakhstan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kazakh Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in 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 surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Kazakh Desert, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a vast country located in Central Asia, and its deserts are among its top tourist attractions. The Kazakh Desert in particular offers visitors breathtaking landscapes and a unique experience of the country's rich culture and history. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions in the Kazakh Desert.

1. Altyn Emel National Park

Located in the Ili River Valley, Altyn Emel National Park covers over 4600 square kilometers and boasts a variety of unique natural attractions. Visitors will marvel at the towering sand dunes, stunning rock formations, and the grand canyons. The park is home to rare and endangered species of animals such as the snow leopard, wild boar, and the Caspian tiger. It is also home to the famous Singing Dune which produces a distinctly musical sound when the wind blows across its peak.

2. Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is another spectacular natural wonder in the Kazakh Desert. It is a 90 km long canyon that was formed over thousands of years by the Charyn River. The canyon features striking red rock formations and a range of varied wildlife. The canyon is a popular hiking destination, and visitors can take guided tours to explore its numerous trails.

3. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

This magnificent structure is located in the city of Turkestan, and it is an excellent example of Timurid architecture. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi was built in the 14th century in honor of a revered Sufi teacher, and it has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Baisenau Village

Located at the bottom of a mountain, Baisenau Village is a historic site that is popular with visitors seeking a glimpse into the Kazakh way of life. The village hosts traditional Kazakh events, such as weddings and horse riding competitions. A highlight of the village is a reconstructed Kuyruk-ata mosque, built in the 16th century.

5. Aktau Mountains

The Aktau Mountains are a stunning range of chalky white peaks located in the eastern part of the Kazakh Desert. The mountains are an archeological site and offer visitors a chance to see dinosaur fossils that date back to the Jurassic period.

In conclusion, the Kazakh Desert is a truly unique and exciting travel destination. Whether you are looking for natural wonders or cultural experiences, the region has something to offer every visitor. We hope this article has given you a glimpse into some of the top tourist attractions in the area!

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: Kamphaeng Phet, Thailand, Poloniny, Slovakia, Salerno, Italy, Loveland, Colorado, United States of America, Elyria, Ohio, United States of America, Stevenage, England, United Kingdom, Sussex, England, United Kingdom, Brajčino, Macedonia, Bandarawela, Sri Lanka, Brighton, Colorado, United States of America, and South San Francisco, California, United States of America.