If you are looking for things to buy in Kazakhstan then you have come to the right place. Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world, situated in Central Asia. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including vast steppes, majestic mountains, and deserts. As a bridge between Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan has a unique blend of cultural influences from both regions. It has strong influences from nomadic traditions, Turkic roots, and Persian and Russian influences. It is renowned for its traditional music, dance, craftsmanship, and hospitality. When looking for souvenirs from Kazakhstan you will see evidence of all of these influences.
Kazakhstan Souvenirs
Chocolate from Kazakhstan
Chocolate is probably one of the easiest things to buy in Kazakhstan to take back home. You can find locally made chocolate in grocerty stores all over the country as well as in the factory near the Green Market in Almaty. This is an easy Almaty souvenir to transport back home! I grabbed a few bars when I was there!
Traditional Kazakh Souvenir Instruments
Would you like to know what is famous in Kazakhstan? My first suggestion would be their musical instruments. In the earlier years of Kazakhstan, the dombra (a two-stringed instrument) could be found in every yurt, as it was an essential part of Kazakh life. It was used as a way to deliver news and tell stories. Today the Dombra is used in musical performances, hung in homes, and sold as souvenirs. The prices vary depending on whether you are shopping for a professional grade instrument or one to have some fun with at home or one that is for decoration only.
Vodka from Kazakhstan
For the spirit lover, consider vodka as the perfect Kazakh gift to bring home! It is easy to find in any grocery store and there are a variety of brands and prices! Just be mindful of your own country’s customs rules around alcohol and put any large bottles in your checked luggage.
Kazakh Souvenir Fridge Magnets
Do you collect fridge magnets or shot glasses when you travel? This is probably one of the easiest souvenirs to pick up just about anywhere in the world. Kazakhstan is no exception. You can grab a variety of fridge magnets from around Kazakhstan to bring home. A common one to find in Almaty is one featuring the apple design (as seen below).
Edible Souvenirs
Beyond chocolate, there are many other edible souvenirs you can bring home from Kazakhstan. They have a delicious treat similar to Turkish delight that you can buy in the market, as well as various nuts and dried fruits. The vendors are friendly and often offer samples to taste. This is especially true in the Green Bazaar.
Canned Horse Meat Souvenir
Yes, you can easily bring back a taste of Kazakhstan’s horsemeat if you pick up some canned horsemeat at any grocery store! Check your country’s restrictions for bringing meat back before you purchase some! Some countries allow canned goods much more easily than fresh-packed products. This would probably be my pick for one of the famous things to buy in Almaty to share with friends at home!
Felt Goods
From shoes to yurts, you can find many felted material souvenirs in Kazakhstan. One of the best places for high-quality felted items is Qazak Oner Artisan centre. If you are looking for something specifically representing Almaty, known as “the place with apples” look for a felted Almaty apple souvenir.
Spices
Spices are one of the cheap things to buy in Kazakhstan and are readily available in Almaty. Look for saffron and other sought-after spices to bring back home.
Jewelry
Kazakhstan has plenty of jewelry for those who love to buy it as a souvenir when they travel. Look for beautiful Kazakh jewelry featuring intricate patterns and traditional motifs. Silver and turquoise are commonly used materials in Kazakh jewelry.
Artwork from Kazakhstan
There are plenty of art options for those who love art. Whether carvings, paintings, leather goods or textiles, you can find all of them in souvenir shops in Almaty and beyond.
Souvenir Shopping in Almaty
Qazak Oner Artisan Centre has a showroom full of unique handmade items from local artisans. They sell a variety of high-quality Kazakh souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, decor items, and hats. The purpose of the Qazak Oner Artisan Center is the revival and development of locally made traditional Kazakh crafts.
The Green Market / Green Bazaar is the most well-known stop for any visit to Almaty. Locals shop for food and clothing, everything from hose meat to sweets to sandals can be found in the market! Those looking for souvenirs can find plenty of options.
I hope this has given you an extensive list of what to buy in Kazakhstan when you visit this unique place. If you have been, were there any other souvenirs you would suggest? Let me know!
Like this series? Consider these other popular souvenir posts: Things to buy in Jordan, Alaska souvenirs, What to buy in Greece, and What to buy in Israel.
This publication was made possible through support provided by USAID’s Trade Central Asia activity, implemented by DAI, under the terms of Contract No. 720-115-21-C-0002. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.