Culture & Etiquette

The Cyrillic alphabet is in general use and most people in the cities can speak Russian; people in the countryside tend to only speak Kazakh. English is usually only spoken by those involved in tourism.

Kazakhstanis are generally very hospitable. When greeting a guest the host gives them both hands as if showing that they are unarmed. At a Kazakhstani home, the most honoured guest, usually the oldest, is traditionally offered a boiled sheep's head on a beautiful dish as a sign of respect.

Inside mosques, women observe their own ritual in a separate room, and must cover their heads and their arms.

Some restrictions exist on photography near military establishments, border areas and some official buildings. Restriction notices are sometimes, but not always, displayed, so caution is advised.