In 2023, Kazakhstan welcomed a total of 1,084.8 thousand foreign tourists, marking a substantial rise of 156.8 thousand visitors compared to the previous year. This surge represents a remarkable 17% increase from 2022 when the country hosted 928 thousand foreigners.
Moreover, domestic tourism also saw a considerable boost, with accommodation sites serving 7,054.5 thousand local tourists by the end of last year. This figure reflects an impressive increase of 647.5 thousand individuals compared to 2022. Notably, the current domestic tourist numbers surpass pre-pandemic levels by 1,767 thousand people, exceeding the figures recorded in 2019, which stood at 5,286 thousand.
Erzhan Erkinbayev, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, commented on the upward trend, stating, “In recent years, Kazakhstan has witnessed a notable rise in interest among tourists from across the globe. This year, our country attracted more than 1 million foreign visitors. This accomplishment underscores the appeal of our natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.”
Erkinbayev further highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, including the construction of new hotels, expansion of transportation networks, and development of tourist routes. The ultimate aim, he emphasized, is to ensure that travel to Kazakhstan is accessible and comfortable for every visitor, enabling them to explore the country’s diverse offerings and create unforgettable experiences.
