Kazakhstan Set to Become Premier Astro-Tourism Destination, Reports Euronews
Kazakhstan Emerges as Top Astro-Tourism Destination According to Euronews Travel Trend Report
Astana – Kazakhstan has recently been named as one of the top trending destinations for astro-tourism in the latest Euronews Travel Trend Report 2025 edition.
The country, known for its vast steppes and stunning lakes, is now aiming to establish itself as a premier choice for stargazing, as there is a growing interest among travelers for celestial experiences.
Kazakhstan’s southern and eastern regions offer ideal open-air conditions for astro-tourism, with dark, star-filled skies free from the interference of urban light pollution.
According to Ildana Izmailova, a junior researcher at Almaty’s Fesenkov Astrophysical Institute, visitors to Kazakhstan can witness planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and the rings of Saturn with the naked eye. Additionally, during the winter months, the brightest star in the sky, Sirius, and the constellation Orion are visible, while the Milky Way can be seen year-round.
While Kazakhstan has long been a draw for astro-enthusiasts and journalists, efforts are now being made to attract a wider range of visitors interested in space exploration and learning. Tours are currently available at the Kamenskoye Plateau Observatory in Almaty, situated 1,450 meters above sea level.
Plans are also in place to open the Assy-Turgen Plateau Observatory, located 85 kilometers east of Almaty at an elevation of 2,750 meters, to visitors. This observatory will offer overnight accommodation options, including camping facilities.
Furthermore, the Tien Shan Astronomical Observatory, located around 30 kilometers southeast of Almaty in the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, is expected to launch tours with accommodation options in the near future.
Kairat Sadvakassov, the chairman of the Kazakh Tourism National Company, expressed excitement about the prospects of astro-tourism for the nation’s tourism industry. He noted that Kazakhstan is dedicated to promoting this exceptional facet of its natural heritage and aims to attract more international visitors seeking a unique connection with the cosmos.
