According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Kazakhstan, the pearl of Central Asia, experienced a substantial increase in foreign tourist arrivals between January and September 2023, with a total of 834.9 thousand visitors. This marked a notable surge of 225 thousand individuals compared to the same period in 2022, reflecting a growth rate of 37%. in 2022, totally 609.8 thousand foreigners visited the country, Turanews.kz reports.
The statistics reveal a broadening geography of foreign tourists, as Kazakhstan attracts travelers not only from neighboring countries but also from more distant places. Notably, the top five countries contributing to the visitor influx in the first nine months of 2023 are highlighted below.
Top 5 Countries Contributing to Kazakhstan’s Tourism Boom:
- Russian Federation: Leading the charts, 356,850 Russians visited Kazakhstan between January and September 2023.
- China: Taking the second spot, 75,131 Chinese tourists explored the country during the same period.
- Türkiye: Claiming the third position, 41,134 Turkish tourists contributed to the vibrant tourism scene in Kazakhstan.
- India: With 34,757 visitors, India secured a significant place among the top countries.
- United States: Bringing up the rear of the top five, 28,160 tourists from the United States explored Kazakhstan’s attractions.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports, Yerzhan Erkinbayev, expressed optimism about the increasing interest in Kazakhstan among foreign tourists. He noted a continuous growth trend, citing over 900 thousand arrivals in 2022 and more than 800 thousand in the first nine months of 2023. The ministry remains committed to enhancing the experience for every traveler, showcasing the country’s natural beauty and cultural allure. The deputy minister anticipates even higher figures in the upcoming year, highlighting Kazakhstan’s potential as a captivating destination.
