A British couple, Silke and Kieran, who have been travelling full-time since 2021, recently embarked on an extended journey through Kazakhstan, sharing their experiences with the world.
Known for vlogging their global adventures, the duo was drawn to Kazakhstan for its rich nomadic heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
According to the Kazakhstan Tourism Association (KTA) and the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan, international tourism in the country has grown steadily, with over 8.5 million visitors in 2024.
However, what Silke and Kieran discovered went beyond the usual tourist experience—they found themselves welcomed into countless homes, immersing in local traditions, and forming deep friendships.
Silke and Kieran were particularly amazed by Kazakh hospitality, stating that they had never been invited into so many homes in any other country.
One of their most touching encounters was in Taraz, where worsening weather forced them to delay their journey to Shymkent.
A local police officer named Serik invited them to stay with his family, turning an unexpected stop into a memorable cultural exchange.
Kazakhstan’s emphasis on welcoming travellers as ‘God’s guests’ is deeply rooted in nomadic culture, a practice still widely followed today.
The couple began their Kazakh adventure in Astana, where they were surprised by the city’s modern skyline, expecting more of the steppe.
Their visit coincided with the 5th World Nomad Games, a prestigious event celebrating Kazakhstan’s rich equestrian and nomadic sports culture, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan.
Their travels also took them to:
With their travels documented on YouTube and social media, their stories have inspired more travellers to visit Kazakhstan, reinforcing the country’s growing appeal as an adventure and cultural destination.
