Almaty is the lively cultural and business center of Kazakhstan. The city sits next to the big, snowy Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. A lot of tourists now go there. In the first half of 2025, over 1.14 million people visited. That is a 6.5% jump from the same time in 2024. This shows the city has become a top spot for both fun trips and work travel. Almaty mixes new buildings, stories from the Soviet past, and busy markets. All these things show how Kazakhstan has changed over time.
Almaty is a great city to see, but what makes it special is the land around it. If you rent a car in Almaty, you get to make your trip much more fun. You can go wherever you want. You will see huge canyons, clean mountain lakes, and big parks. You can drive at your own speed.
This guide has all you need to know about renting a car in Almaty. You will find tips for booking, ways to see costs, and help for how to follow driving rules and be polite on the road. It is helpful whether you want to see the city or take long trips across Central Asia.
Why Rent a Car for Your Almaty Adventure?
Choosing to rent a car in Almaty is a smart move. It gives you more freedom and lets you do things your way, unlike public buses or group trips. You get to decide where to go and when. This means you can make your own plans and visit places that most tourists usually miss.
Freedom to Explore: Almaty City & Beyond
While Almaty does have a working public transport system, having your own car lets you skip waiting for buses or looking for taxis. You can go right from the famous Zenkov Cathedral to Kok-Tobe Hill and see the wide city views with no delay. A rental car gives you more flexibility to go out to the local neighborhoods, eat at places outside the busy city center, and plan your time better, especially if you have a busy day. This freedom lets you see more of the city in your own way. You can also stop or change your plans when you want, which is something that you would not get with group tours.
If you are planning business meetings or need a car for work travel, having a car you can trust helps you be on time and look professional. Many rental groups offer top-level help for moving VIP guests and for events like weddings and work get-togethers.
Unlocking Spectacular Day Trips from Almaty
The best reason to rent a car is that you get to see the amazing spots around Almaty. You can drive to Charyn Canyon, which is about 215 km east and takes 3 hours to reach. Big Almaty Lake is another great place to visit. It is only 15 km south of the city and you can get there in 40-50 minutes. Kolsai Lakes are also a must-see if you are in Kazakhstan. When you visit Kaindy Lake, you can see the trees underwater. Many people from all over come to see this view and take photos.
A rental car also gives you the chance to go to Altyn-Emel National Park. This park is about 216 km from Almaty. It takes a little less than 3 hours to get there by car. The park is known for its amazing sand areas and animals. Having your own car lets you get there early in the morning when it is quiet, stay until sunset, or visit several places in one day. This can be hard and very costly if you use group tours.
Having your own car is also good when a lot of people are traveling. You can pick the best time to visit, miss the busy times, and feel like you see the place in a real way.
Essential Pre-Trip Planning for Your Almaty Rental
Getting ready is the key to having a smooth and easy time when you rent a car. Before you even look for a car, make sure you have all the papers you need and that you understand how to book it. This first step will help you save time and stop any problems when you get there.
Driver’s License Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) & National License
To drive a car in Kazakhstan the legal way, you need to have a driver’s license from your own country. It must be current. Along with that, you need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP changes your license into several languages. One of these languages is Russian. You need the IDP because most car rental places and police in Kazakhstan will ask for it.
The IDP is a small grey book. It has translations of your driving license in about 10 languages. These include English, French, Russian, Chinese, and Arabic. It is not the same as an “International Driver’s License.” That is not a legal paper. You cannot use it to drive in other countries.
Important: You must get your IDP in your home country before you go on your trip. You cannot get one while you are in Kazakhstan. Most rental companies set a minimum age for drivers. This is usually 21 or 23 years old. They also ask for at least one to three years of driving experience. If you visit for a short time, you can drive with an IDP for up to six months. If you want to stay longer or live there, you have to get a local Kazakhstani driver’s license.
Required Documents: Passport, Credit Card, and More
When you go to pick up your rental car, you will need to show some papers:
- Original passport (not a copy) for checking your identity
- Current credit card in the main driver’s name—debit cards are rarely allowed, as they are used for the security deposit
- Driver’s license and IDP (photocopies are okay, but you should bring the real ones)
- Booking confirmation (printed or digital)
Critical note on credit cards: The rental company will put a hold on your credit card for the deposit amount. Make sure you have enough credit left on the card for this. The hold is often cleared a few weeks after you bring back the car. Using your own credit card helps things go well if you need to make an insurance claim, so do not use a card from someone else.
Booking Your Car in Almaty: Key Considerations
Booking your rental car before your trip, mostly when it is busy with lots of tourists, is a good idea. This helps you be sure you will get a car and you may also find better prices with the deals they offer at that time. If you book online, you can see prices for big companies like Hertz and Avis, plus good local providers like Europcar, Keddy by Europcar, Sixt, and other small companies.
Make sure you think about the kind of transmission the car has. In Kazakhstan, automatic vehicles can be hard to find and cost much more than manual ones. So, be clear about what you want when you book.
You should also think about where to get the car. Picking up at Almaty Airport (ALA) is fast and easy. A city-center spot can work better if you will not need the car right when you get there.
Many car rental places have membership levels and rewards programs. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is one. These programs can help you check in and out faster, and give you special offers. When you book, ask if they have one.
Choosing the Right Vehicle for Almaty’s Roads and Excursions
Choosing the right car is important for a safe and fun trip in and around Almaty. You need to pick the car based on the places you plan to go, the number of people who will be with you, and the roads you will drive on.
Vehicle Categories: Matching Your Needs
For city driving and on big highways, a regular sedan or small car will do the job well and use less fuel on paved roads. These cars are a good pick if you want to go around Almaty or take trips to close places you can get to easily. A well-liked car for this is the Toyota RAV4. This car is a good choice because it can do many things and you can count on it.
For mountain and unpaved roads: If you want to go into the mountains to see places like Big Almaty Lake or travel on rougher country roads, you should rent a vehicle that sits higher off the road. An SUV or 4×4 will give you the strength and feel you need to get up steep hills and drive over uneven paths. These vehicles will make sure you feel good and can see more of Kazakhstan’s wild places. If you want more comfort, you can choose a larger car or a luxury model like a Mercedes-Benz, but these are best if you stay on smooth, paved roads.
For big days like weddings and events, some agencies have luxury limousines and other nice ways to travel. Right now, you can also get electric cars. But, they are mostly good in the city because places to charge them are still few.
Essential Add-ons & Equipment for Your Trip
Think about useful add-ons when you book:
- GPS unit: A lot of people use Google Maps or local apps like 2GIS on their smartphones. But a dedicated GPS can be more reliable. It will still work offline even in places where there is bad cell service.
- Child safety seats: If you have young children with you, make sure to book child seats ahead of time. This is a legal rule in Kazakhstan. If your child is under 12 years old, the law says you must use a child restraint or special seat. Rental agencies have options for different ages like infant seats or booster seats, but you need to arrange this before your trip.
- Additional driver: If your trip will be outside the city, ask about adding a second driver. This lets you share the driving and take turns during long trips.
- Winter tires: From December 1 to March 1, your car must have winter tires in Kazakhstan. The law says it’s required, and you can get a fine if you don’t have them. Some rental companies include winter tires in the winter, but check this before you book.
- Ski racks and equipment: If you plan to do winter sports, ask if roof racks and cargo holders are available for your gear.
Understanding Car Rental Costs & Deposits in Almaty
Figuring out the cost to rent a car is an important step when you plan your trip budget. If you know what makes up the rental price, like the base rate, the insurance, and any extra fees, you can avoid any surprises later on.
Decoding the Base Rental Rate
The base rental rate is the cost you pay each day, week, or month just for the car. This cost can change because of the type of car, how long you want to rent it, and the time of year. When you rent during a less busy time, you can get a much lower price than you would in the busy season.
Recent data shows that the cost of economy vehicles in Almaty is about $58 to $73 each day. The price can change depending on the season and the kind of vehicle you pick. The Toyota RAV4 is the most popular model for rental. Most prices already cover basic third-party insurance. There is a set distance you can drive, and sometimes it is not open-ended.
Always make sure you know the mileage policy to avoid extra charges. Some agencies give you unlimited mileage, but others make you pay for every kilometer. The rule about miles matters for day trips and trips that last several days.
Insurance Options: Protecting Your Rental in Kazakhstan
It is important to know about insurance to keep yourself safe with money.
Third-Party Liability (TPL) Insurance: This is basic coverage you get with every rental agreement. It pays for damage to things owned by other people. But it does not pay for damage to the car you rent. You need to have this coverage.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This extra coverage can lower what you have to pay if the rental car gets damaged. There is still an amount, called an excess, you may have to pay. It is often $100 or more. A Collision Damage Waiver means the rental company will not make you pay a big amount if there is damage from a crash. It brings down what you owe, but it does not take away all the cost.
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW): You can pay a bit more each day (usually $7-15). This will bring your extra cost down to zero. It gives you full cover for any damage to the car if you hit something.
Theft Protection (TP): This will help if your car is stolen or you lose it.
Important things not covered: Standard CDW policies usually do not pay for fixing tires, windows, windshields, side mirrors, undercarriage, clutch, or the inside seats. You should read the policy closely, so you know what is not covered.
Fair fuel policy: Some places use a “full-to-full” fuel rule. This means you have to return the car with a full tank. If not, you might pay high costs for fuel. Ask about this rule when you book the car.
Security Deposits: What to Expect
Every car rental needs a security deposit. This hold is only for a short time and will be put on your credit card. It is there to cover things like damages, fines, or if you bring the car back without a full tank of fuel. The amount depends on the type of car and the insurance package you pick. It is usually between 50,000 and 200,000 Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) or maybe even more.
The rental company will block this amount on your card, but they will not take the money. You will get it back after a few weeks when you bring the car back, as long as the car is fine. You should plan ahead for this hold, since it lowers how much credit you can use for a short time.
Potential Additional Fees & Charges to Look Out For
Be aware of other potential charges:
- Additional driver fees: $5-15 each day
- Young driver fee: For drivers under 25 (usually $15-20 each day)
- Late return fees: You may get charged 1-2 times the daily rate
- Airport pickup/drop fees: Sometimes you do not have to pay; other times there is a charge each time
- GPS rental: $5-10 each day if it does not come with the car
- Child seat rental: $8-15 each day for every seat
- Refueling charge: If you do not fill up the tank when you return the car, they charge a lot more for gas than local prices
- One-way rental fees: Dropping the car at a different place can cost extra
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Almaty: A Smooth Start
The pickup process is when you first meet the vehicle and look over the rental agreement. A careful approach at this time helps make the whole rental period easy and trouble-free.
Almaty Airport (ALA) Car Rental: Navigating Arrivals
When you get to Almaty International Airport (ALA), you will see car rental desks in the arrivals hall. Big companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar are there. You can also find some local choices. Make sure you have your booking confirmation, passport, driver’s license, and IDP with you. This will help make things go faster. The staff will help you with the forms and show you where your car is parked.
Think about when you need to get your rental car. If you do not need the car right now, try picking it up in the evening or the next morning. This can help you save money on your rental.
Thorough Vehicle Inspection: Before You Drive Off
Do not rush this step. Before you leave the rental lot, take your time to check the car very well:
- Exterior: Walk around the car. Make a note of every scratch, dent, or scuff you see. Write these things on the rental agreement’s vehicle condition report.
- Documentation: Use your phone to take photos or a video with the date and time shown. This will show what the car looked like before you took it. Make sure to get close-up shots of any damage.
- Interior: Look at the seats for stains or tears. Write down how many miles are on the car. Make sure the air conditioning works well. See if there is a spare tire and an emergency kit in the car. Test all the windows and locks.
- Lights and wipers: Make sure the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers all work.
This careful checking helps you not be blamed for damage that was already there when you bring it back.
Understanding Your Car Rental Agreement in Almaty
Take your time to read the car rental agreement before you sign it. This is an official contract that can affect you. Check the following things:
- The price and what services are included match your booking
- Insurance coverage details and amounts you might need to pay
- How far you can drive and any charges if you go over the set distance
- The rules about fuel and what you need to do when refueling
- Emergency phone numbers and what to do if you need help on the road
- What happens if you return the car late and what fees you might pay
- Costs that you have to pay if the car is damaged and your deductible
- Rules for crossing borders to other countries (if this applies to your trip)
If anything is not clear, ask the rental agent to explain it before you sign. If some parts of the terms are not the same as your booking confirmation, ask for the details in an email or text. This paper or message will be very important if there is a problem or if you need to talk to your insurance company.
Driving Rules and Etiquette in Almaty & Kazakhstan
Driving in Kazakhstan can feel different from other places. It is important to get to know the local road rules and how people drive here. This helps you have a safe trip. It is also good for when you drive in a city, because the way people get around these days has changed a lot.
General Road Rules in Kazakhstan
Traffic direction and seatbelts:
- You have to drive on the right-hand side of the road
- Seatbelts are required for all passengers, in both the front and back seats
- If you do not wear your seatbelt, you can get a fine
Mobile phones and communication:
- You are not allowed to use a mobile phone while driving unless you use a hands-free system.
- The traffic police check this rule often.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: The speed limit here is 60 km/h (37 mph).
- Rural roads: The speed limit is 110 km/h (68 mph).
- Motorways/highways: The speed limit goes up to 140 km/h (87 mph) on highways, but signs on the road could show a lower speed you need to follow.
- School zones: In these places, the speed is often slowed to 20-30 km/h when school is in session.
- Always obey posted signs, because they can be different from the usual speed limits.
Headlights:
- You need to turn on your headlights all the time, day or night, if you are driving outside towns or cities by law.
- The rule is for the whole year and it helps people see your car better.
Zero-tolerance alcohol policy:
- Kazakhstan has a zero-tolerance policy for driving when someone has been drinking
- If the police find any amount in you, it can lead to tough punishment, such as losing your license or getting fined
Mastering Almaty Traffic: Navigating the City’s Unique Flow
Almaty has a lot of cars on the roads, especially in the morning and evening when many people go to or come back from work. Here are some things to know:
- Driver behavior: Drivers can be confident, and people may change lanes more freely than you are used to
- Safety measures: Stay alert, keep enough space from the car in front, and be ready for sudden stops or lane changes by others
- Clear signaling: Use your turn signals clearly and watch for what other drivers may do
- Navigation: Using a GPS app like 2GIS, which gives detailed local information like road conditions and route options, is very helpful when you get around the city’s grid layout
Some drivers may not always follow lane lines or use their signals. So, it is important for you to be careful when driving.
Parking in Almaty: Practical Tips
Parking in the main part of Almaty is often hard. Here are some good tips:
- Designated paid parking zones: Look for marked areas, usually you can pay at terminals on the street or with apps on your phone.
- On-street parking: You can park on the street if there is not a sign saying no, but watch local practice so you do not block other cars.
- Secured facilities: A lot of hotels and malls have safe spots to leave your car—try to use these if you see them.
- Parking enforcement: If you park where you should not, your car might get a ticket or be towed.
- Always double-check the parking rules where you are going.
Parking your car in a home courtyard or on someone’s private land without asking can get your vehicle towed. You will have to pay for it.
Interacting with Local Authorities (Police)
It is normal to see traffic police on the roads in and around Almaty. If they ask you to stop:
- Pull over safely to a safe spot
- Stay calm and polite at all times
- Keep your hands easy to see on the steering wheel or in a way that is not scary
- Have your papers out: Passport, driver’s license, IDP, and car registration or rental papers
The officer will probably ask for your papers for a normal check. Most of the time, this is a regular process. Following road rules makes it less likely the officer will stop you.
Road Conditions and Toll Roads
Road conditions:
- Main highways between big cities like Almaty and Astana (Nur-Sultan) are often in good shape.
- Rural and mountain roads can be hard to drive on, with many potholes and rough spots.
- Always change your speed to fit the road conditions.
Toll roads:
Many big highways between cities have tolls.
- Almaty-Khorgos: The highway is 295 km long. Cars have to pay a toll when they use it.
- Almaty-Konaev: This part of the road is 42 km long.
- Big Almaty Ring Road (BAKAD): It opened in 2023 and people use it now.
Payment options for tolls:
- Electronic payment systems are used at toll gates for automated payments.
- Subscription-based payments can be set up with mobile apps like Kaspi, Halyk, and Qiwi.
- Prepayment discounts: When you pay for tolls before you travel, it will cost much less. It can be about twice as cheap as paying with cash at toll booths.
- Rental companies often handle toll payments for you. It is good to check this when you make your rental agreement.
You can get clear details about tolls from your rental agency. They can tell you if toll costs are part of the rental fee or if they are charged by themselves.
Exploring Beyond Almaty: Day Trips and Border Crossing Considerations
With your rental car, you can now see the beautiful places that are in the Almaty region and Central Asia. Make sure to plan your trips and know about any rules for crossing borders.
Popular Destinations Accessible by Rental Car from Almaty
Charyn Canyon (Valley of Castles)
- Distance: The canyon is about 215 km east of Almaty.
- Driving time: It takes about 3 to 4 hours to get there by car. You can take the A351 and A352 highways.
- Description: Many people call this canyon the Grand Canyon’s “little brother.” It has tall sandstone walls and cool shapes made by the Charyn River and weather. The views here are amazing. A lot of people come to take photos. It is a place you should not miss.
Big Almaty Lake
- Distance: This place is 15 km south from the center of Almaty. A round trip is 29 km.
- Driving time: It takes about 40 to 50 minutes to get there by car.
- Elevation: The lake is 2,511 meters above sea level.
- Description: Many people call this the “Pearl of the Tien Shan.” The lake is high up in the mountains, and it is known for its bright, turquoise-blue water. The color of the water can change with the season and weather. You need to drive on mountain roads with some steep parts to reach the lake. A SUV is the best choice for the trip. You can camp in areas meant for camping.
Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake
- Distance: This place is about 250 km east of Almaty.
- Features: There are three big mountain lakes here. You will see tall green trees around the lakes. Kaindy Lake has something special. There are trees under the water that stand out and look strange and beautiful. People often come here to go boating, ride horses, and take pictures of nature.
- Road conditions: The roads are rough in some spots. It is a good idea to take an SUV to feel safe and comfy as you travel.
Altyn-Emel National Park
- Distance: The park is about 216 km away from Almaty.
- Driving time: It usually takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to get there by car.
- Features: You will see dry, sandy landscapes, special land shapes, and you can watch animals that live there. The place looks very different from the mountain areas in other parts of the region.
All these places get the most out of leaving in the early morning. You can stay away from crowds at that time. It is best to use an SUV or a car that is high off the road when you travel in the mountains or countryside.
Border Crossing Considerations: Kyrgyzstan and Other Central Asian Nations
Important: Most regular car rental agreements in Kazakhstan do not let you take the car out of the country. If you want to drive to a place like Kyrgyzstan or any other nearby Central Asian country, you need to get clear permission from the rental company before you go.
What’s required for border crossing:
- Written permission from the rental agency (many call this a “permit” or “power of attorney”)
- Notarized translation of your rental agreement
- Extra fees (often big, and can be $200-500 or more depending on the country)
- Extra insurance coverage that works in other countries
- Temporary Import Document (TIP): In Kyrgyzstan and other Eurasian Economic Union countries, your vehicle gets a TIP for 6 months to 1 year. This lets you travel inside the customs union (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Belarus, Armenia)
- Vehicle-specific documents that show you have power of attorney to cross borders
Eurasian Economic Union: Kazakhstan is in this group with Russia, Belarus, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. Because of this, the border rules inside the group are easier than in other places.
Important: If you try to cross the border without getting permission, it will:
- Make your insurance not work
- Make serious legal trouble
- Get fines and maybe take your car
Always check the company’s rule about going to other countries when you book your trip, and get all needed papers before you try to go out of Kazakhstan.
What to Do in Case of an Accident or Breakdown in Almaty
Even when you plan everything well, things can still go wrong. You should know what steps to take if there is an accident or your car stops working. This helps keep you safe and makes sure you follow the rules of your rental agreement.
Accident Procedures: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Ensure Safety
- First priority: Make sure all people are safe. Move to a safe place if you can.
- Set up a warning triangle 3-5 meters from your car. This will help let other drivers know.
Step 2: Emergency Services
- If there are people hurt or in need of help: Right away call 112 (the main emergency number) or:
- 101: Fire department
- 102: Police
- 103: Medical help
- 104: Gas issue
- Give clear details about where you are and what is happening
Step 3: Contact Your Rental Company
- Right away, call your rental company. Use the emergency phone number you find on your car’s windshield or your papers.
- Let the manager know all that has happened. Share where you are and give them the names of the other people involved.
- Make sure to write down the manager’s name and the reference number. Keep these for your records.
Step 4: Interact with Traffic Police
- Do not move the vehicles until the police come to see what happened (unless this could be unsafe)
- Call the police (dial 102) and give details
- Work with the officer and show your papers
Step 5: Documentation and Evidence
- Take many photos of:
- The accident scene from several angles
- Damage to all cars that took part
- Road conditions and weather at this time
- License plates of other cars
- Traffic signs and signals near there
- Collect information from the other driver:
- Full name and how to reach them
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Phone number
- Get witness information: Take names and contact details of people who saw it
- Obtain official documentation: Ask police for the accident report or certificate
Step 6: Medical Examination
- You need to get a checkup to see if you have alcohol or other substances in your system.
- Get a paper that shows you had this checkup.
- This helps with insurance claims and helps you in legal matters.
Breakdown Procedures
In case of mechanical breakdown:
- Call your rental company right away using the emergency number—they will get:
- Roadside help
- Car repairs
- A replacement car if you need one
- Stay with your car and wait for help in a safe spot
- Keep good notes of the problem, time, and repairs done
Practical Tips for a Successful Almaty Car Rental Experience
Before You Depart
- Check weather and road conditions: This is very important from November to March. Snow and ice are common in these months.
- Fill the fuel tank: There are many gas stations in Almaty and on big highways.
- Program your GPS: Put in all places you want to go and other possible ways before you leave.
- Share your itinerary: Tell someone the way you will go and the time you plan to come back.
Vehicle Maintenance and Checks
The rental agency should give you a car that works well. When you get the car, check:
- Fluid levels: Check the oil, coolant, and windshield washer.
- Tire condition: Look at the tread and make sure the air is right in the tires. This is very important when you have to drive in winter.
- Battery: Make sure the battery is in good shape.
- Brakes: Make sure they work well when you press them.
- Climate control: Be sure that the air conditioning and heat work.
Fuel Management
- Full-to-full policy: You need to bring the car back with a full tank. If not, you might get high charges for fuel.
- Fuel stations: The fuel stations are easy to find in and around Almaty. There are also plenty on the main highways.
- Payment methods: Most stations take both credit cards and cash.
Winter Driving Considerations
If renting during winter months (December-March):
- Winter tires are a must (December 1 – March 1)
- Carry emergency kit: Blanket, jumper cables, flashlight, spare bulbs
- Slow down a lot when roads have ice or snow
- Give more space between cars so you have more room to stop
- Try not to drive in bad weather if you can
Conclusion
Renting a car in Almaty is the best way for you to see all the amazing places and culture that Kazakhstan gives you. You get the freedom to go where you want, find new places, and move at your own pace. This makes your trip feel full of fun and adventure. You can visit the high cliffs of Charyn Canyon. You might sit by the blue waters of Big Almaty Lake. Maybe you drive through the busy streets inside Almaty. A rental car can make your trip better than you ever thought.
Get your papers ready before you go. Pick the best car for your trip. Know how people drive there and learn what the rules are. Make sure you read about your insurance. If you do these steps, you feel ready for your trip.
Before you leave, check your car well. Know what your rental paper says and know what the insurance covers. These things help you feel calm during the trip.
With the keys in your hand, you can enjoy the lively streets of Almaty. The wide landscapes of Charyn Canyon, the calm beauty of the region’s high lakes, and many chances to explore Central Asia are waiting for you. Go out, see new things, and have a safe and fun Almaty trip!
