In April the desert blooms briefly and the monotonous ochre landscapes explode in reds, oranges and yellows.
Autumn is harvest time, when market tables heave with freshly picked fruit.
If you do decide to battle the winter, be aware that many domestic flights are grounded and finding food can be a problem since lots of eateries close for the season. Festivals Kazakstan isn't really known for its splashy mardi gras. It's an Islamic adaptation of pre-Islamic vernal equinox or renewal celebrations and can include traditional games, music and drama festivals, street art and colourful fairs. Medeu, outside Almaty, hosts the Voice of Asia rock festival in August when bands from all over the CIS and Asia dribble on the drum riser. Lonely Planet Publications Pty. Ltd. All rights reserved.