How to get to Baikonur

Baikonur is a legendary city in Kazakhstan that has become a global symbol of space exploration, attracting travellers with its unique history. If you are wondering how to get to Baikonur, the choice of route depends on your preferences: you can arrive by plane, travel by train, or drive by car through the picturesque steppe expanses.

Krayniy Airport (IATA code: BXY) is located within Baikonur itself. It is important to note that this air harbour operates under a special regime: regular passenger service here is limited, and many flights are charters from Moscow specifically for cosmodrome employees or as part of organised tours for rocket launches.

For independent travellers, the most reliable and common option remains flying to the city of Kyzylorda, located approximately 240 kilometres from the cosmodrome. Kyzylorda Airport receives regular flights from major cities in Kazakhstan and neighbouring countries, making it a convenient starting point for a further transfer to the legendary complex.

For those who prefer ground transport, a journey by train will be a convenient and atmospheric solution. The railway station serving Baikonur is called Tyuratam (Toretam). It is located in the immediate vicinity of the city, making it the main hub for tourist arrivals.

Many passenger trains travelling across the territory of Kazakhstan, as well as international trains, pass through Tyuratam station. From the station to the city's checkpoints, you can quickly get there by taxi or local transport. This distinguishes the railway route favourably from flying via Kyzylorda, from where the journey by car takes significantly more time.

Bus services are an affordable and scenic way to reach the vicinity of the cosmodrome, especially if you wish to observe the changing landscapes of the Kazakh steppe. The most popular and convenient option is considered the route from Kyzylorda: buses and marshrutkas (fixed-route taxis) cover the distance of about 245 kilometres along a modern highway in an average of 3–4 hours.

Longer journeys await travellers departing from Shymkent or Turkestan. In these cases, the travel time increases significantly, so such routes are more often chosen by experienced tourists ready for long transfers across the territory of Kazakhstan for the sake of the unique experience of travelling to Baikonur.

The most popular and comfortable route for car travellers begins in the city of Kyzylorda: the distance of 245 kilometres along the modern M32 international highway is easily covered in 3–3.5 hours. A trip by intercity taxi or private car is considered the optimal option here, allowing you to enjoy views of the endless steppe without unnecessary fatigue.

If you are planning more complex logistics, the road from the city of Zhezkazgan will take about 8–9 hours, as the path of over 500 kilometres may include sections with varying surface quality. For lovers of true adventure, the route from Moynaq in Uzbekistan will be a challenge: this massive journey stretches over 1,300 kilometres with a border crossing, combining the tragic history of the Aral Sea and the grandeur of the space harbour into one trip.

A trip to Baikonur is not just tourism, but a connection to the great history of cosmonautics, requiring special preparation due to the city's specific status. To ensure your stay in this unique place goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate: The city is located in a steppe zone with a sharply continental climate. In summer, it can be extremely hot (up to +40°C and above), so a head covering, sunglasses, and light, modest clothing made of natural fabrics are mandatory. In winter and the off-season, strong piercing winds blow, so a windproof jacket and warm footwear will be vital.
2. Entry Permit Regime: This is the most critical nuance. Baikonur is a closed city, and you can only enter with a special pass. It must be arranged in advance (usually 30–45 days before the trip) through authorised travel agencies. It is impossible to enter the city or the cosmodrome "wild" — you will simply be turned away at the checkpoint.
3. Finances and Currency: A unique feature of the city is the simultaneous circulation of two currencies. Most shops and establishments accept both the national currency of Kazakhstan (Tenge) and Russian Rubles. However, cards are not accepted everywhere, and ATMs may not be compatible with your payment system, so it is strongly recommended to carry a reserve of cash.
4. Transport: The city is quite compact, and the centre is pleasant to explore on foot. For trips to longer distances, it is most convenient to use taxis — fares here are very reasonable, and waiting for a car takes mere minutes. Public transport also operates, but taxis save significant time.
5. Photography and Prohibitions: Be very careful about what falls into your camera lens. It is strictly forbidden to photograph checkpoints, security facilities, military personnel, and special service officers on duty. During excursions around the cosmodrome, you may only take photos where permitted by the guide.
6. Communication: The primary language of communication in the city is Russian; it is understood and used everywhere. English is not widely spoken, so if you do not speak Russian, it is best to have an offline translator app or travel accompanied by a guide.
7. Health and Safety: The crime rate in the city is low thanks to the strict regime. The main danger for a tourist is the climate: dry air and the hot sun can quickly lead to dehydration. Always carry a bottle of water with you and use sun protection cream.
8. Souvenirs: Do not leave souvenir shopping until the last moment. Themed shops with space attributes (tubes of space food, rocket models, badges) have their own operating hours, which may not coincide with your departure. The best selection is found in the museums of the city and the cosmodrome.

Observing these simple rules and respecting local order will save you from unnecessary hassle. Baikonur is a hospitable city for those who honour its traditions and rules, and it is ready to reveal its cosmic secrets to you.