LOCAL TRAVEL APPS · ASIA

Essential Apps for Travelers in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is increasingly digital-first, with mobile payments, ride-hailing, and delivery services widely used in Almaty, Astana, and other major cities. Installing the right apps before you arrive will make transport, dining, and everyday purchases much smoother.

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Before You Arrive in Kazakhstan

  • Download offline maps for Almaty and Astana in 2GIS or Google Maps, as mobile data can be slow or patchy in some areas.
  • Set up a multi-currency card or have a Visa/Mastercard ready, and plan to install Kaspi.kz after arrival with a local SIM for full payment functionality.

Top Apps for Travelers in Kazakhstan

2GIS

English

The most detailed and reliable map and navigation app for Kazakhstan, with offline maps, building-level detail, business hours, and public transport routes for Almaty, Astana, and other cities.

Yandex Go

English

The most widely used ride-hailing app in Kazakhstan, offering standard taxis, economy and comfort classes, plus scooter rental in some cities. Fares are shown upfront and can be paid by card or cash.

Kaspi.kz

Russian and Kazakh

Kazakhstan's dominant super-app for mobile payments, bank transfers, QR payments in shops and restaurants, bill payments, and a built-in marketplace. A local SIM card is needed to register and use the full payment features.

Glovo

English

Food and grocery delivery app operating in Almaty and Astana, with restaurant meals, supermarket items, and pharmacy products delivered by courier. Payment can be made by card or cash.

Wolt

English

Restaurant and grocery delivery service active in Almaty and Astana, known for reliable couriers and a wide selection of cafes and supermarkets. Supports card payment and real-time order tracking.

Google Translate

English

Essential for translating Russian and Kazakh signs, menus, and conversations. Download the Russian and Kazakh offline language packs before arrival for use without mobile data.

Halyk Homebank

Russian and Kazakh

Mobile banking app from Halyk Bank, one of Kazakhstan's largest banks. Useful for travelers who open a local account or need to transfer money locally; also supports QR payments and utility bills.

Aviata.kz

Russian and Kazakh

Local travel booking platform for domestic and international flights, train tickets, and hotels within Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Useful for comparing local airline and rail options.

InDrive

English

Ride-hailing app where passengers and drivers negotiate the fare directly. Popular in Kazakhstan as an alternative to Yandex Go, especially for intercity rides and longer trips.

Tips for Using Apps in Kazakhstan

  1. Buy a local SIM card from Beeline, Kcell, or Tele2 at the airport or a mobile shop, as many local apps require a Kazakh phone number for registration.
  2. Keep some cash as a backup, because some small shops, bazaars, and rural areas may not accept QR or card payments even if they use apps in larger cities.
  3. Download offline language packs and maps before traveling to remote regions, where mobile coverage can be limited outside major highways and towns.

Conclusion

With a local SIM, offline maps, and a ride-hailing app installed, you will be able to navigate Kazakhstan's cities and handle daily payments with confidence. Pair these with translation and food delivery apps to make your trip more comfortable and independent.

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