Astana to Baikonur
Updated: March 11, 2024 07:12 PMAstana to Baikonur - The Ultimate Travel Guide
Language
The official languages of both Astana and Baikonur are Kazakh and Russian. English is also widely spoken in Astana, but not as common in Baikonur.
Currency
The official currency of both Astana and Baikonur is the Kazakh tenge (KZT).
Distance
The distance between Astana and Baikonur is approximately 1,100 kilometers (683 miles).
How to Reach
There are several ways to reach Baikonur from Astana:
- By plane: Air Astana operates direct flights from Astana to Baikonur. The flight takes about 1 hour.
- By train: There is no direct train service between Astana and Baikonur. However, you can take a train from Astana to Kyzylorda and then transfer to a bus to Baikonur. The journey takes about 12 hours.
- By bus: There are several bus companies that operate services between Astana and Baikonur. The journey takes about 15 hours.
- By car: You can also drive from Astana to Baikonur. The journey takes about 8 hours.
Expenses
The cost of your trip to Baikonur will vary depending on your travel style and budget. However, here is a general overview of what you can expect to spend:
- Accommodation: Budget-friendly guesthouses start at around $10 per night, while mid-range hotels cost around $20-$30 per night. Luxury hotels start at around $50 per night.
- Food: Street food and local restaurants are very affordable, with meals costing around $5-$10. Western restaurants are more expensive, with meals costing around $15-$20.
- Transportation: Public transportation is very affordable, with bus fares starting at around $0.50. Taxis are also relatively inexpensive, with fares starting at around $2.00.
- Activities: Many of the activities in Baikonur are free, such as visiting the Baikonur Museum. However, some activities, such as a tour of the launch pad, do have a cost. You can expect to pay around $10-$20 for most activities.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Baikonur is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit).
What to Eat
Baikonur has a variety of restaurants serving both Kazakh and international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes to try include:
- Beshbarmak: A traditional Kazakh dish made with horse meat, noodles, and vegetables.
- Plov: A Central Asian dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables.
- Lagman: A noodle soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
- Kuirdak: A Kazakh dish made with lamb, potatoes, and onions.
- Baursak: A Kazakh fried dough pastry.
Where to Go
Here are some of the top places to visit in Baikonur:
- Baikonur Cosmodrome: The world's first and largest space launch facility.
- Baikonur Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
- Yuri Gagarin Monument: A monument to the first man in space.
- Gagarin's House: The house where Yuri Gagarin lived before his historic flight.
- Baikonur City Park: A large park with a variety of attractions, including a Ferris wheel and a water park.
FAQs
- Do I need a visa to visit Baikonur?
Yes, all foreign visitors need a visa to visit Baikonur. You can apply for a visa at the Kazakh embassy or consulate in your home country. - What is the currency exchange rate in Baikonur?
The current exchange rate is approximately 400 Kazakh tenge to 1 US dollar. - Is Baikonur safe to visit?
Baikonur is a safe city to visit. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime. - What is the best way to get around Baikonur?
The best way to get around Baikonur is by taxi or bus. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and buses are a good option for budget travelers. - What should I pack for a trip to Baikonur?
Be sure to pack light clothing for the summer months and warm clothing for the winter months. Also, pack comfortable walking shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.
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