Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth-largest country, is packed with fascinating culture, stunning landscapes, and surprising quirks. From vast steppes to futuristic cities, and a love for horse milk, Kazakhstan is full of unexpected delights that are as big as its landmass!
Discover Fun Facts About Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan Is So Big, It Stretches Across Two Continents
Kazakhstan is so huge that it spans both Europe and Asia. It’s the largest landlocked country in the world, meaning it has no sea borders—but don’t worry, they have plenty of lakes, rivers, and desert space for you to get lost in. With a land area bigger than all of Western Europe combined, you could drive for hours and still be in Kazakhstan (just make sure to pack snacks).
Apples Were Born Here (No, Seriously)
Did you know Kazakhstan is the birthplace of apples? The wild ancestors of modern apples originated in the mountains near Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city. In fact, “Almaty” roughly translates to “Father of Apples.” So, every time you munch on an apple, give a little shout-out to Kazakhstan, the OG apple orchard.
They Have a Love Affair with Eagles
While most people have dogs or cats as pets, Kazakhs take it up a notch by partnering with eagles. Traditional Kazakh eagle hunters, known as “berkutchi,” train these majestic birds to hunt foxes and rabbits in the wild. It’s like falconry but with eagles, which is about as hardcore as it gets. Watching an eagle swoop down at 200 mph is the stuff of legends—and Kazakhstan nails it.
Horse Milk Is the Drink of Choice
While some countries pride themselves on their wine or coffee culture, Kazakhstan has kumis—fermented horse milk! This traditional drink is loved by locals for its slightly sour, fizzy taste and supposed health benefits. You might not find it at Starbucks anytime soon, but when in Kazakhstan, why not give it a try? It’s the perfect conversation starter.
The Baikonur Cosmodrome: Kazakhstan’s Very Own Spaceport
Kazakhstan isn’t just about steppes and mountains—it’s also about space! The Baikonur Cosmodrome is the world’s first and largest space launch facility. This is where Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, was launched into orbit. Today, it’s still used for space missions, making Kazakhstan a key player in the global space race. Who knew?
Kazakhstan’s Love for Horses Goes Beyond Riding
Kazakhstan’s relationship with horses runs deep. Not only do they ride horses and drink their milk, but horse meat is also a staple in Kazakh cuisine. Beshbarmak, the national dish, consists of boiled horse meat served with flat noodles and broth. It literally translates to “five fingers” because Kazakhs traditionally eat it with their hands. It’s a full horse appreciation experience, from saddle to supper!
Astana (Now Nur-Sultan): The Futuristic City in the Middle of Nowhere
Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) is Kazakhstan’s capital, and it looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie. Built in the middle of the vast steppe, this city boasts cutting-edge architecture, like the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation and the towering Bayterek monument. It’s a place where you’ll find modern skyscrapers next to endless flat plains—a striking contrast that only Kazakhstan could pull off.
Kazakhstan’s National Game Involves… a Goat Carcass?
Say hello to kokpar, Kazakhstan’s wild national sport that involves horse riders battling over a goat carcass. Think rugby, but with horses and a headless goat. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s a beloved tradition that dates back centuries. If you ever witness a kokpar match, just know that you’re watching a piece of Kazakh history in action.
Shymbulak: Skiing in the Middle of the Steppes
Skiing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Kazakhstan, but the Shymbulak ski resort near Almaty offers world-class slopes with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. It’s a winter wonderland in a country known for its vast steppes, proving that Kazakhstan is full of surprises!
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