Pre-Trip Checklist: Almaty

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline to prepare for your trip effectively.

Your Pre-Departure Action Plan

A structured approach ensures all necessary arrangements are in place for a smooth journey.

Early Planning 3+ Months

Passport Validity

Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality and apply if necessary.

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations and any necessary prescriptions.

Mid-Term Preparations 1 Month

Flight Bookings

Book international and domestic flights for your itinerary.

Accommodation Reservations

Reserve accommodation, especially if traveling during high season periods.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance for unexpected situations.

Final Details 1 Week

Packing & Gear

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and all required equipment.

Digital Readiness

Download essential apps like 2GIS and Yandex Go, plus offline maps.

Currency & Cash

Exchange some local currency for immediate needs upon arrival.

Pre-Trip Planning

Careful planning reduces last-minute stress.

Essential Bookings

Secure flights, especially during peak travel periods.
Book main accommodation well in advance.
Reserve long-distance train tickets.
Confirm multi-day tours (e.g., to Kolsai or Charyn Canyon).

Home & Research

Prepare your home and knowledge base before departing.

Pre-Departure Tasks

Arrange for mail collection or pet care.
Implement home security measures.
Read up on Kazakh history and culture.
Familiarize yourself with basic Russian or Kazakh phrases.

Financial Preparedness

Ensure your finances are ready for international travel.

Currency Considerations

Exchange some local currency upon arrival for immediate needs.
USD or EUR are easily exchanged at banks or exchange points.
Small denominations are useful for local purchases.
Many smaller shops prefer cash.

Banking & Cards

Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card suspension.
Carry multiple payment methods (cards, some cash).
Keep track of your expenses.
Be aware of international transaction fees.

Budget Management

Set a daily budget for expenditures.
Look for discounts or deals.
Utilize discount cards where available.
Allocate funds for souvenirs and emergencies.

Document Organization

Create a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage for all flight confirmations, hotel bookings, visa documents, and travel insurance details. This provides easy access if you lose physical copies.

Arrival & Departure Flow

Navigate your entry and exit from Almaty smoothly with these practical steps.

Arrival Checklist

1
Immigration & Luggage
Clear immigration and customs efficiently. Collect your luggage promptly from the carousel.
2
Connectivity & Currency
Obtain a local SIM card at the airport if not pre-ordered. Exchange a small amount of currency for immediate needs.
3
Transport to Accommodation
Arrange transport to your accommodation; Yandex Go is recommended for airport transfers.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping
Purchase souvenirs well in advance. Check luggage weight limits. Use reputable services for shipping items home.
VAT Refund (N/A)
Kazakhstan does not currently operate a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Airport Timing
Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights; 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.

Seamless Travel Flow

Upon Arrival

Prioritize customs clearance and luggage collection.

Activate your local SIM card for immediate communication.

Initial Steps

Acquire local currency for initial expenses.

Secure transportation to your lodging efficiently.

Before Departure

Reconfirm flight details and pack essentials for the journey.

Allow ample time for airport procedures.

Confirmation Checklist

Confirm all bookings and reservations one week before departure to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Financial Essentials

Understand currency, budgeting, and payment methods for a smooth financial journey.

Budgeting & Exchange

Plan your daily expenditure to manage finances.
Calculate potential costs for activities and dining.
Exchange currency at official banks or exchange offices.
Be aware of exchange rates and potential fees.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.
Cash is preferred for smaller shops, markets, and local transport.
Carry a mix of cash and cards for versatility.
Mobile payment options are increasing in popularity.

Emergency Funds

Allocate funds for unforeseen circumstances during your trip.

Contingency Planning

Emergency fund:Recommended for medical or travel disruptions.
Travel insurance:Critical for covering major unexpected costs.
Backup credit card:Keep a separate card for emergencies.
Accessible funds:Ensure rapid access to emergency cash.

Shopping Budget

Set a specific budget for souvenirs and gifts.
Consider local markets for unique finds and good prices.
Factor in transportation costs for shopping excursions.
Keep receipts for larger purchases.

Financial Safety

Always carry some local currency for small purchases and tips. Keep larger sums and valuable cards in a secure, discreet location.

Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any card issues abroad.

Pre-Trip Checklist