Is Astana Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Astana, now renamed Nur-Sultan, is relatively safe for solo female travelers. Most areas are well lit and populated until late, and people are generally friendly. However, like in any city, it's essential to remain vigilant especially after dark and in less crowded areas. Be cautious when taking public transportation, particularly taxis. Make sure to use trusted taxi services. Also, understanding a bit of the local language or having a translation app can be helpful as English is not widely spoken outside the tourist areas.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.5 /5

Based on 9 experiences from local women

Astana is currently ranked #2 safest place in Kazakhstan for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Astana?

Safety at night:Safe

Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is relatively safe for solo female travelers even at night. Like any other city, it does have its share of minor crimes but generally, the city center areas are safe and well-lit. Public transportation and taxis are reliable too. However, it's always smart to stay vigilant, avoid poorly lit areas and not to flaunt valuables when walking alone.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is generally safe and reliable. Buses run regularly during day hours and are quite crowded during peak hours. Metro is not yet in operation but its construction is ongoing. Taxis are also a common and convenient form of transportation in the city. Always remember to take official taxis or use ride-hailing apps for safety. Make sure to keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times, as one should do in any crowded place. Overall, the transportation system in Astana can be considered relatively safe for solo female travelers.

Street harassment:Low

Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is the capital city of Kazakhstan and is relatively safe for solo female travelers. Street harassment is not a common issue here compared to other cities around the world. Locals are usually hospitable and helpful, but like in any other city, it's still advisable to always stay vigilant and avoid deserted and poorly lit areas late at night. Also, learning a few phrases in Russian or Kazakh could be useful when asking for help or directions.

Petty crimes:Low

Astana (now Nur-Sultan) is generally a safe city for travelers with low instances of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag snatching. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Having said that, crime rates have been decreasing over the years, and the city has been investing heavily into public safety. As a solo female traveler, it is always recommended to follow standard safety precautions like avoiding empty or poorly lit streets late at night.

Is Astana worth visiting?

Couple travel

Astana is a new city, built specifically as the capital. We spent one night in Astana and that was enough. I recommend visiting the mosque and the tower. About 1.5 hours from Astana is a former gulag (for women and children) - we hired a driver to take us there.

Posted: June 9, 2022

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Is Astana safe for women?

Safety index

3.5 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

Crime index

2 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

The city is actually very safe, especially if you’re walking around the left bank. Of course, like in any other city, it’s good to stay a bit cautious, but overall it feels very safe. The right bank can be a bit less safe, especially late at night and on the outskirts.

Posted: April 17, 2025

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I would say it's usually very safe near Expo park, in Esil neighborhood overall. But it's very dark and unsafe in other parts of Astan, and i wouldn't dare to walk alone at night. At some parts I could get robbed, but I have to truly try my best to find those areas.

Posted: April 16, 2025

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Meet locals in Astana

Alisha

About Me

Hey ladies! I’m Alisha from Astana, Kazakhstan, 18 yo. I’m planning to study fashion design, and have a plan to travel around the world. I’m newbie in the solo female travel, but hope will be very fast to adapt ;) I am interested in self-development, learning new things, esoteric, human rights, feminism, DIY and dream about to create some to help world be better. Feel free to message me ❤️‍🩹 I always open to communication and new people 🫶🏼

Speaking

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Maiya

About Me

Hello, My name is Maya, I’m almost 23 years old, and I’m from Kazakhstan! I’m English teacher, who teaches college students) currently I’m living in Astana, the capital city of my country, but my hometown is in Atyrau, which is located to the west. I’d like to see and explore the world, meet new people and get acquainted with them, and exchange with our life experiences. Imma little introverted person, but I guess it can’t beat my passion to see this world)

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Astana

zhuldyz

Astana

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I do pole dance and creative writing. I also consult students of my university on their writing assignments. I’ve been to 9 countries, and am willing to explore and travel more.