Astana in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Astana

-8°C (17°F) High Temp

-16°C (3°F) Low Temp

25 mm (1.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Winter wonderland atmosphere transforms the futuristic architecture into a magical snow-covered cityscape, perfect for photography between 10am-2pm when light is best
Indoor attractions are uncrowded and comfortable - spend hours in Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center (heated to 22°C/72°F year-round) without tourist masses
New Year celebrations are spectacular with elaborate ice sculptures along Nurzhol Boulevard and traditional Kazakh winter festivals in Kok-Tobe Park
Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to summer months, with luxury accommodations available from $80-120 per night versus $200+ in peak season

Considerations

Extreme cold limits outdoor sightseeing to 30-45 minute intervals before requiring indoor warming breaks
Daylight is severely limited - sunrise at 8:30am, sunset at 5:15pm gives only 8.5 hours of natural light for activities
Transportation delays are common due to snow and ice, with domestic flights frequently delayed 2-4 hours and road trips taking 50% longer than scheduled

Best Activities in December

Bayterek Tower and Presidential Park Winter Tours

December offers crystal-clear views from the 97m (318 ft) observation deck with minimal crowds and impressive snow-covered city panoramas. The indoor portions provide warm respite while outdoor viewing areas are manageable in 15-minute intervals. Best visited between 11am-1pm for optimal lighting.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for individual visits. Entry costs 500-800 tenge ($1-2). Combine with nearby indoor attractions like Banjul to maximize warmth. See current guided tour options in the booking section below.

Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Complex

This massive transparent tent maintains tropical temperatures year-round, featuring indoor beach resort, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Perfect escape from -16°C outdoor temperatures. The indoor climate is consistently 22-25°C (72-77°F) regardless of outside conditions.

Booking Tip: Free entry, individual attraction fees 1,000-3,000 tenge ($2-7). Monorail rides and beach access require separate tickets. Plan 3-4 hours minimum. No advance booking needed for general access.

Traditional Kazakh Banya and Spa Experiences

December is peak season for traditional steam baths and spa treatments. Local banyas offer real feels with birch branch treatments and contrast therapy - perfect after cold outdoor exploration. Temperatures inside reach 80-90°C (176-194°F).

Booking Tip: Book 3-5 days ahead during December. Sessions typically cost 5,000-12,000 tenge ($12-28) for 2-3 hours. Look for facilities with English-speaking staff. Traditional treatments cost additional 3,000-8,000 tenge.

Hazret Sultan Mosque Winter Architecture Tours

Central Asia's largest mosque is impressive in snow, with heated interiors offering respite during tours. The contrast between the white marble exterior and snow creates impressive photographic opportunities. Indoor sections maintain comfortable 20°C (68°F).

Booking Tip: Free entry with modest dress code enforced. Guided tours available for 2,000-4,000 tenge ($5-10). Best visited mid-morning after snow clearing. Scarves and long pants required regardless of weather. Current tour options available in booking section.

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation Indoor Cultural Tours

Norman Foster's pyramid design is striking against winter landscapes, with fully climate-controlled interiors housing opera hall, museum, and art galleries. Perfect for extended indoor cultural immersion during harsh weather.

Booking Tip: Advance booking recommended for opera performances, tickets 3,000-15,000 tenge ($7-35). General tours available walk-in for 1,500 tenge ($4). Allow 2-3 hours minimum for full experience.

National Museum Winter Exhibitions

Kazakhstan's premier museum offers extensive indoor exploration perfect for December weather. Special winter exhibitions often feature traditional Kazakh winter customs and historical artifacts. Maintained at comfortable 21°C (70°F) throughout.

Booking Tip: Entry 1,000-2,000 tenge ($2-5) depending on exhibitions. English audio guides available for additional 1,000 tenge. Plan 3-4 hours for complete visit. No advance booking required except for special exhibitions.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December

Astana Winter Festival

Annual celebration featuring ice sculptures along Ishim River embankment, traditional Kazakh winter sports demonstrations, and heated food pavilions serving seasonal specialties like beshbarmak and kurt cheese

December 31st

New Year Celebrations at Republic Square

Elaborate light shows projected onto this destination, outdoor concerts (with heated spectator areas), and midnight fireworks display. Traditional felt yurt installations provide warming stations

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Extreme cold weather boots rated to -30°C (-22°F) with non-slip soles - sidewalks remain icy despite clearing efforts

Layered thermal system: merino wool base layer, insulating mid-layer, windproof outer shell - temperature swings of 10°C (18°F) common between indoor/outdoor

Insulated winter hat covering ears completely - frostbite risk on exposed skin within 10 minutes at -16°C (3°F)

Waterproof insulated gloves plus thin liner gloves for phone use - touchscreen compatibility essential for navigation

Neck gaiter or balaclava for face protection during outdoor walking between attractions

Sunglasses for snow glare - UV reflection off snow can cause eye strain despite low UV index

Portable phone battery pack - cold drains batteries 40-50% faster than normal conditions

Moisturizing cream and lip balm - 70% humidity indoors vs dry cold outdoors causes severe skin issues

Ice cleats or yaktrax for shoe traction - attachment grips essential for safe walking on ice

Emergency hand/foot warmers for extended outdoor photography or sightseeing sessions

Insider Knowledge

Use underground passages connecting major downtown buildings - locals avoid surface walking during December, extensive tunnel system links shopping centers, hotels, and business districts

Restaurants typically close kitchen service 30 minutes earlier in December due to reduced foot traffic - plan dinner before 9pm instead of usual 10pm

Taxi apps work better than street hailing in December - drivers reluctant to stop frequently, Yandex Taxi and inDriver offer heated car guarantees

ATMs inside heated buildings often malfunction less than outdoor units - withdraw cash from bank lobbies or shopping centers rather than street-side machines

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating travel time between attractions - walking speed drops 30-40% in heavy winter clothing and icy conditions, allow double normal transit time

Planning too many outdoor activities in one day - locals limit outdoor exposure to 2-3 brief sessions with indoor warming breaks between each

Wearing cotton layers instead of synthetic or wool materials - cotton retains moisture and loses insulation when wet from snow or indoor condensation