Burabay is the most popular weekend getaway from Kazakhstan’s capital. The resort is located approximately 257 kilometers from Astana: the route follows the toll A1 highway to the Shchuchinsk interchange, followed by a scenic 20-kilometer drive to Burabay village. Here are all the ways to get there, including travel times, costs, and booking options.
By Car
The fastest and most flexible option. The route follows the A1 Astana — Kokshetau toll highway. The road features three lanes in each direction, no traffic lights or intersections, and a speed limit of up to 140 km/h. Travel time from Astana to Shchuchinsk is around two and a half hours. Including the final 20 kilometers to Burabay village, the total journey takes approximately three hours.
The highway is toll-based. The fee for passenger vehicles is around one KZT per kilometer, meaning the trip to the Shchuchinsk exit costs approximately 200 KZT. Payment is usually processed automatically through vehicle registration recognition at the toll terminal, although cash payments are also accepted. During public holidays and peak travel weekends, journey times can increase by an hour or more due to heavy tourist traffic.
After leaving the A1 highway, continue along the R-233 road toward Burabay village. The route is clearly signposted. For those wishing to stop along the way, several viewpoints near the resort entrance offer panoramic views of Mount Okzhetpes and Zhumbaktas Rock.
By Train
The train is the most popular way to reach Burabay. Trains depart from both "Astana 1" and Nurly Zhol railway stations. The destination station is Kurort-Borovoe in Shchuchinsk. An important detail: the station is located approximately 22 kilometers from Burabay village, so travelers will need to continue by taxi or minibus. The transfer usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Travel time depends on the train. Fast services cover the route in 2 hours 28 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, while regular trains take between 3 and 4 hours. Several departures operate daily, with schedules varying by season.
Ticket prices start from 1008 KZT for economy-class sleeper seats, while compartment tickets are more expensive. During the summer season, tickets sell out quickly, so booking one to two weeks in advance is recommended. Tickets can be purchased online through the official Kazakhstan Railways website, as well as platforms such as Probilet and Tickets.kz.
The ticket price starts from 1008 tenge in a reserved seat, the compartment is more expensive. In the summer season, tickets sell out quickly — it's better to book one or two weeks in advance. You can buy online on the official website of KTZ bilet.railways.kz, as well as on probilet.kz and tickets.kz.
By Bus
Buses to Burabay depart from "Saparzhai" bus station in Astana. Both direct services to Burabay village and transit routes via Shchuchinsk are available, including buses operating on the "Astana — Kokshetau" and "Astana — Petropavl" routes. Travel time ranges from three to four hours, depending on the specific service.
Schedules and online ticket purchases are available through the official website saparzhai.kz. Prices for direct routes may need to be confirmed at the ticket office, as not all services are available for online booking.
By Taxi
The most convenient option for groups. A taxi provides direct transportation from Astana to your hotel without transfers. Prices depend on the vehicle type and arrangements with the driver. According to current listings, fares start at approximately 16 000 KZT for the entire vehicle. Intercity rides can be booked through services such as Yandex Go, InDrive, and other local platforms. For larger groups, minivans are available, typically starting from around 25 000 KZT.
Things to Know Before Your Trip
Train tickets for the peak season in June-August and during the May holidays sell out in a few days. Book in advance — one to two weeks ahead.
Kurort-Borovoe railway station is located 22 kilometers from Burabay village. A taxi to the resort costs approximately 1500-2000 KZT, while shared minibuses are also available.
Bicycles, electric scooters, and local taxi drivers are available on-site for traveling around the resort and to remote locations.
Entry to Burabay National Park is subject to a fee of 241 KZT per person per day.