Travellers should choose May to discover Kazakhstan because this month provides a seamless combination of appealing weather conditions and cultural celebrations amid stunning natural sights. Kazakhstan in May experiences its annual blossom season and merrymaking activities when spring shifts to summer. The comprehensive guide provides insight into all the best parts about visiting Kazakhstan in the month of May by presenting detailed information about climate patterns and regional variations, along with cultural events and travel tips to ensure a memorable experience. So, what’s the wait for? Read on so that you can plan the best trip to Kazakhstan ever.
Kazakhstan Weather in May
Kazakhstan temperature in May marks the moment when the country experiences a significant shift from the cold of winter to the warmth of summer. The weather in Kazakhstan in May is generally mild and comfortable and this makes it absolutely perfect for everyone who wants to participate in outdoor activities and simultaneously visit attractions. The large dimensions of Kazakhstan create climate variations between different geographical areas.
Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan in May
Kazakhstan in May is a land of contrasts. This is when snow still glistens on the pretty peaks while valleys bloom with beautiful spring colours. It’s the most perfect time to explore the natural wonders of the country along with its lively cities and cultural gems before the summer heat sets in.
1. Almaty
Almaty glows brightest in May, when the weather is pleasant, flowers are in bloom in Panfilov Park, and the snow-covered Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains provide a dreamlike setting. You can trek to Big Almaty Lake, walk along Arbat Street, or sample local art and cuisine in intimate cafes. The May weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor adventure and cultural discovery as well. Whether you're a history buff or a hiker, Almaty strikes a perfect balance between the two this time of year.
- Big Almaty Lake: Picturesque walk with turquoise waters.
- Zenkov Cathedral: Colourful Russian Orthodox architecture
- Green Bazaar: Spices, local food and souvenirs
Suggested Read: Things to do in Almaty: Discovering the Charms of Almaty
2. Nur-Sultan (Astana)
Capital city Nur-Sultan becomes a pleasant walkabout in May. The chill of winter disappears and warmer days are perfect to explore futuristic places. Climb Bayterek Tower for breathtaking views, stroll along Nurzhol Boulevard, or relax on the Ishim River promenade. May also sees a rise in cultural events and festivals as people emerge outdoors. Architecture is bold, modern and symbolic—one of the finest cities to visit in Kazakhstan in May.
- Bayterek Tower: Panoramic city views
- Khan Shatyr: Beach life indoors and mall beneath a colossal tent
- Hazrat Sultan Mosque: Kazakhstan's largest mosque
3. Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon, or Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon, is a breathtaking natural beauty 200 km from Almaty. May is perfect weather to hike its steep gorges and the world-famous Valley of Castles. The reddish-orange rock formations shine in the spring sunlight and you can picnic on the banks of the Charyn River or camp overnight. It's one of the most picturesque destinations in Kazakhstan in May, particularly for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
- Valley of Castles: Stunning rock spires and cliffs
- Charyn River: Peaceful picnic spots
- Eco Park: Overnight yurts and camping
4. Turkistan
Turkistan provides a blend of Kazakh heritage and Islamic architecture that is profound. Its most famous building is the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. During May, the sunny weather is perfect for viewing its blue-tiled monuments and historic streets. The city also starts to arrange cultural performances and open-air events during this time. If you have a passion for history and religion, Turkistan is a place that you should visit in Kazakhstan in May.
- Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum: 14th-century Islamic architecture
- Historical Museum: Ancient manuscripts and artefacts.
- Yassy Bazaar: Traditional crafts, textiles and spices
5. Lake Kaindy
Lake Kaindy, situated in the Tian Shan Mountains, is renowned for its sunken forest and ethereal beauty. May is when trails open, with the melting snow. The emerald-green-colored lake, where tree trunks rise from the middle, is a haunting yet breathtaking spectacle. It's lesser known in May, and the location is perfect for hiking, photography and picnicking. If you're seeking unorthodox and nature-filled places to visit in Kazakhstan in May, Kaindy stands peerless.
- Sunken forest: Rare underwater tree trunks
- Hiking trails: Panoramic views on moderate treks
- Photography: Clear reflections and blue skies
Suggested Read: Top 14 Places to Visit in Kazakhstan in 2025
Cultural Events and Festivals in Kazakhstan in May
Kazakhstan's spring, which comes late in the year, is full of vibrant cultural celebrations. May, in particular, has festivals celebrating the nation's unity, heritage and traditions—each of which gives the visitor a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the country.
1. Day of People's Unity (May 1st)
Observed on May 1st every year, People's Unity Day is a Kazakhstani public holiday. It marks the harmonious coexistence of more than 130 ethnic groups in the country. There are parades, concerts and cultural fairs in cities to display ethnic costumes, folk music and dance. Exhibitions and traditional storytelling are conducted in schools and government offices to promote cultural heritage. For tourists, it's a vibrant, friendly day of food stalls, performances and community bonding. The festival is a testament to Kazakhstan's multicultural heritage and hospitality.
- Observed on: May 1st
- Principal attractions: Cultural parades, dance performances, food fairs
- Top locations to visit: Almaty, Astana, Shymkent
Suggested Read: Best Time to Visit Almaty: Discover the Jewel of Central Asia
2. Nauryz Celebrations
Nauryz, the Persian New Year, officially occurs on March 21st but festivities can extend to April and May, especially rural and cultural celebrations. The holiday symbolises renewal, rebirth through nature and the unity of people. Nauryz Kozhe, a unique dish made from seven ingredients representing abundance and harmony, is cooked by the people. Music performances, people's games and traditional horse-riding competitions are conducted. The extended festival allows late-spring travellers to still experience the atmosphere of this deeply rooted Central Asian celebration.
- Main dish: Nauryz Kozhe
- Activities: Music, traditional games and communal feast
- Where to travel: Ethno-villages, national parks, city festivals
3. Victory Day (May 9th)
Victory Day is a solemn and dignified holiday in Kazakhstan, celebrating the victory of World War II. Military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies and minutes of silence are celebrated on May 9th in cities throughout the country to honour veterans and heroes who perished. Organisations and schools hold commemorative exhibitions and war veterans' storytelling. Though the mood is more subdued, tourists can witness the patriotic passion of Kazakh citizens. Concerts and patriotic performances conclude the evening in major cities.
- Date: 9th May
- Principal events: Parades, memorial services, honours to veterans
- Best locations: Astana's Victory Park, Almaty's Panfilov Park
4. Almaty Marathon
Organised annually every May, the Almaty Marathon is the largest long-distance running event in Central Asia. It draws thousands of participants, from foreign runners, to sport and fitness enthusiasts and fans. The route runs through iconic city landmarks and stunning mountain scenery. It provides distances in full marathon, half marathon, 10K and charity runs. Apart from sports, there is also a music festival, food stalls and cultural booths scattered throughout the city. The marathon is also a social cause, with funds raised typically going into healthcare and education.
- Event type: International sporting marathon
- Side events: Musical performances, cultural activities, charitable stalls
- Ideal for: Active travellers and interaction with locals
5. Astana Day (Extended Events)
While officially declared on July 6th, some of Astana's cultural institutions begin exhibitions and performances in May to commemorate the establishment of the capital city. These pre-festive activities include concerts, performances in theatres, art exhibitions and historical accounts of Astana's evolution. Museums offer discounted or free entry and city squares offer light displays and handicraft exhibitions. Many tourists may be able to witness these pre-events and view the architectural and cultural pride of Kazakhstan's new capital.
- Pre-campaign events start: Early to mid-May
- Includes: Architecture tours, art displays, history displays
- Location: Nur-Sultan (Astana)
6. Eurasia Film Festival (alternate years in May)
Usually held in late spring, say in May in some arrangements, the Eurasia Film Festival is Kazakhstan's top film festival. It welcomes filmmakers from across Europe and Asia, screening a range of feature films, documentaries and shorts. Held primarily in Almaty or Astana, the festival promotes cross-cultural exchange via film. Industry discussions, masterclasses and red-carpet screenings are advertised. Travellers who enjoy film and culture will find this a rewarding, star-studded experience.
- Topic: International and regional cinema
- Activities: Movie screenings, Q&A, workshops
- Ideal for: Movie enthusiasts and artists
Things to Do in Kazakhstan in May
Kazakhstan’s climate in May makes everything perfect – the weather is pleasant, the nature is breathtaking, and the urban energy is alive and kicking. With the flowers coming into bloom, milder temperatures, and cultural festivals taking place all over the country, it is one of the best months to travel. No matter if you enjoy seeking adventures or love culture, you will find something special in the beautiful spring season.
1. Trek to Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is a beautiful alpine pool that is even more fabulous in Kazakhstan in May. Encircled by snow-capped peaks and fresh spring blooms, the lake is reachable by scenic trails, ideal for half-day or full-day hikes. The sunshine and high mountain air means it’s the perfect time for a tranquil, and at the same time, refreshing walk.
2. Explore Charyn Canyon
Many people in Kazakhstan have likened Charyn Canyon to the Grand Canyon of the United States and it would be best to explore it in the month of May. The comfortable spring weather permits long hikes, going through its dramatic red-rock formations. In the absence of tourists and flowering desert plant life, it’s also a good time to spend the night camping along the placid Charyn River.
3. Cycle through Almaty’s parks
The parameters for a bicycle tour in Almaty are good in May. In other words, Kazakhstan in May is the best time to have a ride in Almaty’s parks. The nature in full bloom makes Panfilov Park and First President Park the green refuges sprinkled with flowers and people’s activities. Ride a bike and become one of the residents who go outside and make picnics, see street performances, and breathe fresh spring air.
4. Visit Nur-Sultan’s landmarks
The young capital city glimmers in the sky of Kazakhstan in May, when the cool spring weather makes visits easier. Marvel at the Bayterek Tower, an advanced architectural structure of the future, or appreciate the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, which has a complex pattern. Take leisurely strolls along Nur-Sultan’s broad boulevards and riverside promenades, particularly active in this invigorating and colorful period.
5. Experience local bazaars
The bazaars are alive in Kazakhstan in May, resulting in a feast of senses. You can taste local sweets, seasonal fruits, dried nuts, and aromatic spices at places like Green Bazaar in Almaty. The excitement, friendly vendors and vibrant stalls create an ideal and lively cultural travelogue that is entertaining and affordable.
6. Take a train to Turkistan
Turkistan is a real gemstone, and a visit to it in Kazakhstan in May is an ideal option for sightseeing. Take a scenic train ride from Almaty or Nur-Sultan and see ruins like the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The city’s spiritual and architectural beauty is especially strong during the holiday season with sunny skies and the relatively moderate temperatures.
7. Ride horses in the steppe
One of summer’s finest moments is spring in the wide area of the Kazakh steppe. Kazakhstan in May presents modest climates and a landscape full of wildflowers. Take a local tour to get a taste of this old-school way of traveling and share some nomadic traditions while riding over one of Central Asia’s most famous landscapes.
8. Join spring festivals
In the spring, take part in several local Kazakhstan festivals that celebrate its spirit in May. Whether it is folk music and traditional dance, handcrafted goods and local foods, these events are the signature of the native cultural heritage of the country. It is good to look out for regional fairs in both cities and rural places where you can socialize with the locals and sand of the festive mood.
9. Visit Lake Kaindy
Located deep within the Tian Shan Mountains, Lake Kaindy is a lake that is known for its surreal underwater forest. Considering that the Charyn Canyon is located in Kazakhstan, it is most suitable to visit it in May when it is not too cold and the access is easier and comfortable. The lake’s ghastly trees and clear water are an amazing place to take photos, and the calm atmosphere is the perfect place to have a spring picnic or hike in a day.
10. Relax in Shymkent
If you are looking for a slower pace, visit Shymkent in Kazakhstan in May. This southern city is famous for its warm caress, compelling culinary rituals, and relaxing spa experiences. The weather conditions are perfect for strolls in outdoor cafes, museum visits, and excursions around national parks near the city. It’s a more mellow spot that retains the spirit of Kazakh culture and peacefulness of spring.
The spring season of May provides an excellent opportunity to explore Kazakhstan's culture while enjoying its natural wonders alongside comfortable temperatures. The month of May creates an ideal situation for travellers through its comfortable temperatures and minimal crowds as they explore Big Almaty lakes and Turkistan cities and step across vast steppes. Temperatures are comfortable and landscapes show blooming flowers in Kazakhstan in May and visitors can fully explore the country's cultural heritage and spectacular sites. May in Kazakhstan offers promising opportunities for unique experiences tailored for any type of touring interest. Pack your bags right away and start planning now to make the most of this stunning spring destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the average temperature in Kazakhstan in May?
A1: The average temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C. Potential highs can reach up to 32°C in some regions.
Q2: Is May a good time to visit Kazakhstan?
A2: Yes, May offers pleasant weather, blooming landscapes and several cultural events, All of these make it an excellent time for tourism.
Q3: What should I pack for a trip to Kazakhstan in May?
A3: Pack layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes to accommodate varying weather conditions.
Q4: Are there any significant festivals in Kazakhstan in May?
A4: Yes, Unity Day on May 1st and Victory Day on May 9th are significant national holidays that are celebrated with various events.
