Are you planning a trip from Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan? Whether you're a backpacker, a business traveler, or a tourist, there are several convenient options for traveling between these two vibrant Central Asian cities. In this blog post, we will explore the various methods of transportation available to you, along with some helpful tips to ensure a smooth journey.
3 Ways to Go From Bishkek to Almaty
1. By Air:
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Bishkek to Almaty is by air. There are frequent flights between the two cities, operated by Air Astana. The flight duration is around 50 minutes, making it the perfect choice for those who want to save time and avoid any potential hassles on the road. Cost-wise, you can find tickets for approximately $100 USD. Personally, this is my preferred method of transportation because I tend to get carsick often.
2. By Shared Taxi:
The most common way of traveling from Bishkek to Almaty is by shared taxi. The distance between the two cities is approximately 240 kilometers and the journey takes around three to four hours, depending on the traffic conditions and how fast your driver drives.
Finding a shared taxi is very simple and people usually depart from the Korday border. This border is open 24/7 and you’ll have to go through the typical border crossing process like showing your passport and getting any of your luggage and baggage passed through security.
Once you’ve passed the border and have officially taken your first steps into Kazakhstan, there will be taxis lined up. The taxi will typically leave once every seat is taken by a passenger. Note that since you are now in Kazakhstan, you will be required to pay in Kazakh Tenge, so make sure you have the right currency. There are currency exchanges in that area as well. A one-way trip to Almaty will cost around 5000 Kazakh Tenge which is equivalent to around 1000 Kyrgyz Som ($10 USD).
3. By Car:
Traveling from Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan with your own car or vehicle is an option. It is important to note that you will need to have the necessary documents, including a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance, to drive in both Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Additionally, be prepared for potential delays at the border crossing, as there may be long queues and thorough checks.
If you are driving with a car rental, make sure you find a company that allows you to take the car cross-border. If you are looking into renting a car within Kyrgyzstan, check out my other blog post. I share how you can rent a car and tips to keep in mind.
Regardless of the method of transportation you choose, it is always a good idea to plan your journey in advance. Check the schedules and fares for flights and consider factors such as travel time, cost, and convenience. It is also recommended to have some local currency on hand, as it may be required for certain transactions, such as buying tickets or paying for transportation services.
When traveling between Bishkek and Almaty, it is important to note that there may be differences in language and customs. While many people in Kyrgyzstan speak Kyrgyz and Russian, English may not be widely spoken. It can be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Russian or have a translation app handy to communicate with locals.
Additionally, be aware of the weather conditions during your travel dates. Both Bishkek and Almaty experience cold winters and hot summers, so dress accordingly.
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