Astana in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Astana
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect crisp weather with 19°C (66°F) highs ideal for all-day walking tours without summer's brutal heat or winter's -20°C (-4°F) temperatures
- Shoulder season pricing drops 30-40% from peak summer rates while attractions remain fully operational with shorter queues
- City Day celebrations on September 6th showcase the best of local culture with free concerts, traditional games, and special museum exhibitions
- Golden autumn light creates impressive photography conditions for the futuristic architecture, with clear skies 70% of days
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather requires layered clothing - temperatures can swing 12°C (22°F) between morning and afternoon
- Light rain occurs on 10 days throughout the month, though showers are brief and rarely disrupt outdoor plans
- Daylight hours are decreasing rapidly from 13 to 11 hours, limiting late afternoon sightseeing opportunities
Best Activities in September
Bayterek Tower and Modern Architecture Walking Tours
September's crisp 19°C (66°F) weather is perfect for exploring Astana's futuristic skyline on foot. The golden autumn light creates incredible photo opportunities of Khan Shatyr, Nur-Alem Sphere, and this destination. Lower humidity makes the 4-5 hour walks comfortable without summer's exhaustion.
Ishim River Embankment Cycling Routes
Perfect cycling weather with mild temperatures and minimal wind. The 14 km (8.7 miles) embankment route showcases both old and new Astana. September's stable weather means 85% chance of clear skies for the 2-3 hour rides. Autumn colors along the riverbank create impressive scenery.
National Museum and Cultural Center Tours
September is ideal for indoor cultural exploration when brief rain showers occur. The National Museum of Kazakhstan offers 4-5 hours of world-class exhibits. Cooler weather makes the walks between cultural sites comfortable, and City Day events add special exhibitions and performances.
Ak Orda Presidential Palace District Exploration
September's clear skies and excellent visibility make this the best month for exploring the government district. The 19°C (66°F) temperatures are perfect for the extensive outdoor walking required. Autumn light enhances the white marble buildings and creates dramatic architectural photography.
Traditional Kazakh Cuisine and Market Tours
September brings harvest season specialties including fresh horse meat sausages, new dairy products, and seasonal fruits. Cooler weather makes market walking comfortable, and City Day festivities feature traditional food demonstrations. Indoor restaurant portions provide shelter during brief rain showers.
Nur-Alem Expo Pavilion and Surrounding Park Complex
The world's largest spherical building is perfect for September's variable weather - extensive indoor exhibitions plus outdoor park areas. The 19°C (66°F) temperatures make the 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking paths comfortable. Clear September skies showcase the building's impressive architecture.
September Events & Festivals
City Day of Astana (Capital Day)
The city's biggest celebration featuring free concerts at Kok-Tobe Hill, traditional Kazakh games demonstrations, special museum exhibitions, and fireworks over the Ishim River. Street food vendors offer seasonal specialties and local artisans display crafts.
Autumn Equinox Cultural Festival
Traditional Kazakh celebration marking the seasonal transition with folk music performances, horseback riding demonstrations, and traditional craft workshops. Takes place in various venues across the government district and cultural centers.