Kazakhstan, a beautiful and diverse country, offers its visitors unique and exciting experiences. However, as with any popular destination, tourists should be aware of potential pitfalls that can ruin their trip. In this article, we will look at some of the most common tourist traps in Kazakhstan and provide useful tips on how to avoid them.
Renting a car at the airport or on the street
International car rental companies at the airport may entice you with low prices, but hidden costs often lurk in extras such as mandatory GPS rentals, cleaning services, strict refueling rules and high scratch fees. High street rental companies can also have unreasonably high prices during peak season combined with questionable fleet quality. To avoid these pitfalls, use a reputable online car rental service in Kazakhstan to compare prices, read real reviews, understand the terms of the rental agreement and book your car in advance.
Overpriced souvenir stores
Many souvenir stores in popular tourist areas charge exorbitant prices for low-quality goods. Instead, visit local bazaars, such as the famous Green Bazaar in Almaty, where you can find more authentic and inexpensive souvenirs and embrace the local culture.
Unofficial guides at tourist sites
Beware of unofficial guides offering their services at major tourist sites. They often charge high fees for inaccurate or incomplete information. It's better to book a tour through a reputable agency or use a guidebook or smartphone app to explore the sights.
Cab scams
Some cab drivers may try to overcharge tourists or take an unnecessarily long route. To avoid this, use official cab services or hitchhiking apps such as Yandex.Taxi or Uber, which provide transparent prices and route information.
Currency exchange scams
Avoid currency exchange outlets with suspiciously high rates or hidden fees. Exchange money at banks, authorized money changers or ATMs to ensure a fair rate and avoid potential fraud.
Restaurants with touristy menus
In areas with many tourists, some restaurants offer separate "tourist menus" with inflated prices. To enjoy delicious local cuisine without overpaying, research and visit restaurants popular with locals or check out reviews online.
By keeping these common tourist traps in mind and aiming for a more authentic experience, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of Kazakhstan.
