Kazakhstan

Straddling both Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan is a land of free spirits. The term “kazakh” comes from an ancient Turk word meaning, “independent; free spirit”—a perfect description for its horseback nomadic culture. The last to declare independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world and has the strongest economy in Central Asia. With 70% of its population Muslim and 26% Russian Orthodox, it is also a land in need of the Gospel. Will you share the freedom of life in Christ in Kazakhstan?

Culture

Smiling in public in Kazakhstan is rare. This is left over from the the former Soviet Union. Kazakhs are also often suspicious of foreigners.

Men greet each other by shaking hands, but it is usually initiated by the younger man as a sign of respect. There are also specific greetings for speaking with an older man or woman versus a younger.

It is polite to remove your shoes when visiting a home. Often, hosts will provide slippers for guests to wear inside.

Explore

Spend a day in Almaty. The modern architecture, many parks, and view of the mountains make for a great way to explore this awesome city.

Climb even the world’s tallest wooden building (built without using a single nail!) and Zenkov Cathedral.

Go hiking or climbing in the Tien Shan Mountains. Some of them reach over 24,000 feet and will be an adventure to remember!