GARE ROUTIÈRE

Most connections are with Uralsk, north of Atyrau, or Beyneu, to the east. From Beyneu you can reach Astana, in the north of the country (40h minimum), or Almaty (48h). Given the distances involved, you'll need to consider spending a night in the bus if you choose this mode of transport. Shared cabs or minibuses are a good, albeit more expensive, option if you want to save a little time and travel more comfortably. Like buses, they leave throughout the day as soon as they've filled up with passengers.