Located between Russia and China, Kazakhstan is characterised by wide expanses of steppe bound in by mountains in the southeast, and the shores of the Caspian Sea in the west.

This new guide includes arrangements for visiting natural parks and unique sights such as the singing sand dune and the Sharyn Canyon - Asia's equivalent of the Grand Canyon. Although most Kazaks are now settled, the nomadic tradition of the steppe and, prominently the yurt, remains at the heart of their culture.The Bradt guide provides in-depth explanation of these rich traditions and more.

• Full details on where to stay and eat, plus background information on the country's history and people
• Kazakhstan's natural beauty, from tulip spotting to the desiccation of the Aral Sea
• In-depth focus on the travel issues of most interest to the extensive expatriate market working in the local oil industry

Author Paul Brummell is currently British Ambassador to Kazakhstan and non-resident Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan , having previously served in Turkmenistan - he is Bradt's 'stan man! Against a background of newly relaxed entry requirements Bradt's new guide explores the world's ninth-largest country from the steppelands to the snow-capped summits of the Altai and Tian Shan mountains to the equally astral site of Baikonur Cosmodrome, the new capital of Astana and the brilliant blue mineralised water of Big Almaty Lake. For genuine 'cultural learnings', Kazakhstan offers diplomatic insight on one of Central Asia's most important states and if that benefits the 'Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan' then so much the better.