AILT

What to Bring If You Are Planning to Visit Wild Nature in Summer?

What to bring for a summer trek

Since it can get quite cold in the evenings due to the high altitude, please bring warm clothing, including:

  • A warm jacket, hat, and pants
  • Waterproof hiking boots and trekking poles
  • Extra clothing and socks (in case of rain or sweat)
  • Power banks (for charging devices during the trek)
  • A flashlight (torch) for night-time use, especially in yurt camps
  • A reusable plastic bottle (we promote responsible tourism)
  • Antiseptic spray, wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Health insurance and other essential documents
  • Prescription medication (in your hand luggage)
  • Clothing with long sleeves (to avoid sunburn)
  • A raincoat
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
  • Insect repellent (for both skin and clothing)
  • A personal first aid kit (for blisters, sunburn, allergies, diarrhea, sore muscles; painkillers, antihistamines, general antibiotics, and any medication specific to your personal health needs)

Money Exchange

If you plan to exchange USD or EUR to KZT (Kazakhstani Tenge), we recommend bringing $50 or $100 bills that are clean and undamaged — no stamps, marks, tears, or inscriptions. Banks may refuse damaged banknotes or deduct a percentage fee for each one they accept.

Important Notes Before Your Mountain Trip to Kazakhstan

Trekking shoes are highly recommended to prevent ankle injuries. You can bring: - Proper hiking boots with ankle support - High-top sneakers (as a lightweight backup) - Avoid thin-soled or worn-out shoes — opt for shoes with thick, sturdy soles **Electrical sockets.** Electrical sockets in Kazakhstan are European-style. Please bring special plugs (adapters) if you use an American-style one.

❌ Not recommended

✅ Recommended

Electrical sockets

Electrical sockets in Kazakhstan are like this. Please take a special plugs (adapters) if you use American style one.

Drive to Wild Nature – What to Expect?

Safety. Kazakhstan is a very safe country, and our people are warm, welcoming, and curious. We recommend taking normal travel precautions: keep your valuables secure, and during trekking always store them safely inside your tent.

Food. Kazakh cuisine is rich in meat dishes, especially beef, horse meat, and noodles, and we traditionally enjoy black tea with milk. Vegetarian meals can be arranged upon request.

Basic Phrases in Kazakh Language

Hello (formal, to women)Salemetsiz be
Hello (informal)Salem
Hello (for men)Assalamu aleikum
WelcomeQosh keldiniz
Good dayQaiyrly kun
I don't understandMen tusinbeymin
Thank youRahmet
GoodbyeSau bolynyz
YesYa
NoJok
PleaseOtinemin
Where?Qaida?

Roads

In some mountainous areas, there are no paved roads, so please be prepared for a more adventurous journey.

Toilets

In some areas, only simple, rustic facilities are available.

Accommodation

Depending on the destination, you may stay in guesthouses or traditional yurts — authentic and cozy but not luxury-level.

Local Currency

The official currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge, but most people prefer to pay by card or QR code.

Time Zone & Opening Hours

Kazakhstan operates on GMT +5 (Almaty time).

Most shopping malls are open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

  • Use reputable taxi apps such as Yandex Go and InDrive to avoid scams and overcharging. Exchange currency only at authorized exchange offices or banks.
  • Electric scooters are very popular in Almaty. You can rent them via Bolt, Yandex, Jet or Whoosh apps. Always ride in designated areas and follow traffic rules.
  • Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in parks or less-populated areas.
  • Be polite and respectful toward local traditions and cultural norms.