in Kazakhstan: when to go?
continental aride climate
Kazakhstan offers an arid continental climate characterized by harsh winters and hot summers. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C in the northern plains, while summers easily reach 35°C. The country experiences three distinct seasons: a freezing winter from December to February, mild spring and autumn from April to May and September to October, and a hot summer from June to August. Rainfall remains low throughout the year, concentrated in spring. To discover the Kazakh steppes, Almaty and the Balkhash Lake region, prioritize May-June and September when temperatures are pleasant and days are sunny. Absolutely avoid winter when extreme cold makes travel difficult.
- Best period
- May to June, September
- Good alternatives
- March to April, July to August, October to November
- Icy winter
- December to February
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
Find your best time to go
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General Kazakhstan Climate
FairA vast territory dominated by steppes and semi-deserts, Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate with significant se...
Almaty and the Tian Shan Mountains
FavorableCentral Steppes
FairNur-Sultan and the North
FairMangystau Region
IdealAltai Mountains
FairMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
-25° — 3°C
Precipitation
19 mm
Average temperature
-2.2°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Extreme cold making visits difficult. Avoid prolonged outdoor activities.
Temperature
-23° — 5°C
Precipitation
16 mm
Average temperature
-1.7°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Still very cold temperatures but days getting longer. Low season for tourism.
Temperature
-15° — 12°C
Precipitation
23 mm
Average temperature
-0.3°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Melting snow and unpredictable weather. Landscapes still drab but temperatures rising.
Temperature
-5° — 19°C
Precipitation
34 mm
Average temperature
1.5°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Awakening of nature and flowering steppes. A few showers but favorable conditions.
Temperature
3° — 26°C
Precipitation
43 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Great time to discover the blooming steppes. Pleasant temperatures for hiking.
Temperature
8° — 32°C
Precipitation
40 mm
Average temperature
3.7°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Ideal climate for visiting cities and natural sites. Long, sunny days.
Temperature
11° — 35°C
Precipitation
37 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Intense heat during the day but manageable dryness. Prefer morning visits.
Temperature
9° — 34°C
Precipitation
28 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Still high temperatures but more bearable. Good for exploring the east of the country.
Temperature
3° — 28°C
Precipitation
22 mm
Average temperature
2.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Excellent period with mild temperatures and magnificent autumn colours of the steppes.
Temperature
-4° — 19°C
Precipitation
25 mm
Average temperature
1.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Temperatures declining but still pleasant. Landscapes with autumn hues.
Temperature
-14° — 11°C
Precipitation
24 mm
Average temperature
-0.3°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Cold weather returns and first snows. An unpleasant transition period for traveling.
Temperature
-22° — 6°C
Precipitation
21 mm
Average temperature
-1.5°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Intense cold and very short days. Only for extreme winter adventure enthusiasts.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Kazakhstan
The best months to visit in Kazakhstan are May, June, September. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes. Kazakhstan experiences a long and cold continental winter, with temperatures dropping well below freezing between December, January, February. The average annual temperature is 8.5°C, which masks the true seasonal variation.
It's possible but requires specific preparation: cold-weather gear, heated accommodations, adapted transportation. Winter reveals magical landscapes (snow, frozen lakes, local festivals), but many summer trails and activities are closed.
For trekking and horse or hiking expeditions, favor the summer season (May, June, September). Temperatures are comfortable, trails are accessible, and the steppe vegetation is at its peak. It's also the season of major nomadic gatherings.
Summer (May, June, September) brings together the main cultural and sporting festivals in Kazakhstan. Ask our local agency for exact dates of the year to plan your stay around these highlights.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Kazakhstan, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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