Overland Travel Across Borders: A Tale of Two Frontiers
Korday Ak Zhol Almaty Bishkek Relaxed Queue
The border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, stretching for 1,257 kilometers, separates the vast, open steppes of Kazakhstan from the soaring, mountainous landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. This is one of the most frequently traveled and straightforward borders in Central Asia, a busy corridor for trade, tourism, and family connections.
Issyk-Kul Trek Gate in Tian Shan Natural Entry
Your main crossing point will almost certainly be the Korday (Kazakhstan) – Ak Zhol (Kyrgyzstan) post. It lies on the main road between Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, and Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital. The two cities are only a few hours’ drive apart, making this a very popular route. Several smaller, more local crossings also exist, but Korday is the best equipped for international travelers.