Join our tour to Baikonur and witness all the most exciting and remarkable places and events of the legendary cosmodrome with your own eyes!
Touch the cosmos
The Baikonur Cosmodrome is one of the most significant sites in the world of space exploration, where Yuri Gagarin embarked on his historic flight aboard Vostok-1 and the first artificial Earth satellite was launched.
The tour includes visits to launch complexes, the Cosmonautics Museum, the Mission Control Center, and other key landmarks.
The Baikonur spaceport museum will provide the opportunity to delve into rocket engineering, the history of space technologies, and the process of space exploration, as well as see items that have been in space.
The outdoor exhibition will impress you with the size of rocket engines, and by boarding the "Burán" space shuttle, you will even be able to sit in the pilot's seat. Visiting the houses of Korolev and Gagarin will give you an insight into the modest conditions in which the pioneers of the space age lived and worked.
Visit to the museum complex of the spaceport
Excursion to the launch pads
There are over 20 launch pads at the Baikonur spaceport. Some of them have been in operation for more than 50 years and have served as the launch point for hundreds of rockets. Other launch pads were designed for special projects, which were not always successful. During the excursion, we will explore several of these launch pads, both from the outside and the inside.
Underground Control Center
By visiting one of the command posts, you will be able to feel like a rocket engineer pushing the "Start" button to launch a super-heavy rocket into space
The command post is a massive fortified bunker, the size of a football field, which looks like a large mound from the outside. Inside, it consists of several floors with thick walls, heavy doors, corridors, and halls. Such robust protection is provided in case of an explosion or rocket failure, even though the launch pad is more than 3 kilometers away
We will visit the assembly complex and watch a film about the disaster. JSC "Baitek" assists in building and launching the Baitek rockets. This is important for Kazakhstan to be able to launch its satellites into space independently. Additionally, it will help in the development of space science and educate people on how to build and operate spacecraft.
Excursion to the assembly and testing complex Baitek
Here, at Launch Pad No. 1 of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Yuri Gagarin uttered his famous "Poyekhali!" and embarked on the first human spaceflight. Today, you can experience the atmosphere of this legendary site: see the launch structure where rockets were prepared, look into the shaft from which they soared into the sky, and feel the immense ambition behind the dream of breaking beyond Earth's boundaries.
The tower is a special structure that astronauts use to ascend by elevator, as they say, "to the 9th floor," from where they transfer to the rocket. For those who want to challenge themselves with roof-spotting, we will climb the tower at dawn. You will get to feel the unique atmosphere and enjoy the breathtaking view of Baikonur. It promises to be an unforgettable experience, combining adventure with the beauty of the early morning sky.
One of Baikonur’s main museums, established in 1968, houses over 15,000 unique exhibits. Here, you'll find scale models of legendary rockets, personal belongings of cosmonauts, rare documents, and archival photographs. Its four exhibition halls reveal the history of the cosmodrome: 🚀 Development of Rocket and Space Technology – The journey of space exploration. 🏗 Baikonur’s Working Glory – The people who built the cosmodrome. 🌍 Ethnographic Collection – The culture and traditions of the steppe region. 🎨 Art Gallery & Exhibitions – Showcasing temporary displays and modern projects.
City Tour of Baikonur & Museum Visit
Our tour takes you to Baikonur—once a closed city with a rich history in space exploration. You’ll discover its landmarks, experience its unique atmosphere, and learn about its crucial role in the space program. This is a rare opportunity to step into a city that was once shrouded in secrecy.
We will meet the sunrise at the abandoned lift tower!
Let’s gaze at the Baikonur night sky through a telescope
We won't be able to rocket into space, but an exciting journey to the stars awaits us at Baikonur: through a powerful telescope, we'll observe the Moon, planets of the Solar System, binary stars, and star clusters. During the day, we'll take a closer look at the Sun's surface, examine sunspots, and even capture them with a special filter.
Day One
In the morning, we meet at the Toretram railway station, transfer to the hotel on the cosmodrome territory, check into our rooms, and have breakfast. We start our activities with a visit to the memorial for fallen rocket engineers and then head to the Zenit Assembly and Testing Complex, where we explore the railway equipment used for transporting rockets and the rocket technology exhibition, including the Almaz station and rocket engines.
In the afternoon, we have lunch at the hotel and go to the Zenit launch site, where we inspect the launch pad, the destroyed launch site, parts of the Buran spacecraft, the underground command post, and the famous "road of life." Then, we visit the service tower for the Zenit rocket ("birdhouse").
In the evening, we have dinner at the hotel and take part in the evening program: relaxing by the fire, trying glass-walking and nail-standing techniques (optional), playing exotic musical instruments, and ending the day with stargazing through a powerful telescope.
Day Two
In the morning, we have breakfast and visit the Baikonur Museum, where we explore the houses of Gagarin and Korolev, view the Buran spacecraft and other large-scale exhibits, and visit the souvenir shop. Then, we head to the Gagarin Launch Site, the place where the era of manned spaceflight began.
In the afternoon, we have lunch, pack our belongings, check out, and go to the city of Baikonur, where we visit the Cosmodrome History Museum and take a city tour.
In the evening, we have dinner at a café in Baikonur and then head to the Toretram railway station to conclude the trip.
Baikonur with photosafari-travel
We will see with our own eyes the launch of a gigantic rocket into space, feel like pilots of space vessels, immerse ourselves in the history of cosmonautics, and explore the fantastic launch facilities.
During the tour, we will stay and dine at the "Yuzhnaya" Hotel, located within the cosmodrome. This historic hotel once housed and served as a workplace for the renowned scientist and rocket designer M.K. Yangel, a key figure in Soviet space exploration.
Apply at least 20 days in advance
Preliminary Application
Tour-Excursion of the City and Baikonur Cosmodrome
April 2025
Action Tour without Rocket Launch
Action Tour without Rocket Launch
Tour-Excursion of the City and Baikonur Cosmodrome
Choose a suitable tour and submit an application to reserve your spot in the group
Accommodation and Tour Cost
Tour Conditions
Accommodation at the "Yuzhnaya" Hotel
Part of the program takes place on the territory of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, where we will stay and have meals at the "Yuzhnaya" Hotel, once home to the outstanding scientist and space technology designer M.K. Yangel.
The hotel once housed and served as a workplace for the renowned Soviet rocket and space technology designer Mikhail Yangel. His personal room has been preserved in its original state, featuring authentic furniture, work tools, and details that capture the atmosphere of that era. The room also contains his library, filled with books that inspired Yangel to develop powerful rockets, including the legendary R-16 and "Zenit."
Tour Inclusions
Transfer to the Baikonur Cosmodrome and back to Kyzylorda Airport or Toretam railway station.
Accommodation at the hotel.
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner.
Entrance tickets to museums and excursions.
Escort by a cosmodrome staff member.
Permit processing for facility access.
Transportation for 2 days.
Guide services from Photosafari.kz, including stargazing through a powerful telescope.
Not Included in the Tour Cost
Flight to Kyzylorda or train to Toretam station
Optional lunch on the third day at a roadside café (if time allows)
Insurance (at your discretion, to be arranged independently)
Personal expenses during the trip or at the sites
Important Information
On the territory of the cosmodrome:
There are no shops, pharmacies, or supermarkets
There is no internet signal, only cellular service from the Beeline operator
The water in the rooms is purified and not for drinking. We provide drinking water without restrictions
During the summer tour period, it is necessary to bring protective clothing
If you do not eat meat or have intolerance to certain products, please let us know
List of Items for Visiting Baikonur Cosmodrome in Hot Season (May-September):
Comfortable sneakers and lightweight sandals;
Long-sleeve shirt or t-shirt;
Windbreaker jacket, fleece;
Sun hat;
Sunglasses;
Sunscreen and lip balm;
Insect repellent;
First aid kit with necessary medications;
Personal hygiene products;
Special equipment – cameras, binoculars, charging station;
Water bottle or mini thermos;
Other personal items that may be needed during the trip.
Ekaterina Koshko
Co-founder of Photosafari.kz
Konstantin Kikvidze
Co-founder of Photosafari.kz
Konstantin Ludanov
Guide, Administrator, Driver
Damir Karimov
Guide for space and terrestrial expeditions
Team Photosafari-travel
We, the Photosafari team, are a family of road lovers and true adventurers, exploring unexplored paths and new discoveries. Every journey we undertake is infused with a spirit of adventure and an atmosphere of expeditions.
Over 10 years of traveling through the Untamed Kazakhstan and dusty corners of the planet, we have captured tons of unique material, including videos that have glorified Kazakhstan worldwide.
With us, it's half the price
We work without intermediaries and are exclusive tourism partners of JSC Baiterek for the program described above.
Taking Care of Everything
We handle transfers, meals, accommodation, drinking water, showers, internet, and much more to ensure every participant feels comfortable and cared for.
Safety and Health
We prioritize the safety and health of our guests at every stage of the journey, including excursions and accommodations.
Unique Tour Programs
Unmatched programs that other companies won’t offer. As true adventurers, we are eager to share our experiences and emotions with our guests.
Payment and Guarantees
Choose a convenient way to pay for the tour. In case of unforeseen circumstances, we guarantee a full refund.
Complete Immersion
We’ll take you on a thrilling journey through space history, from its origins to future innovations.
Why choose us
Booking and payment procedure
Booking
The tour price is indicated in US dollars. Payment is made according to the exchange rate on the day of payment. To reserve a spot on the tour, please submit an application and make a 50% prepayment.
Contract
Once you confirm your participation, we will issue an invoice for the deposit and sign a contract. We value our reputation and always fulfill our commitments.
Guarantees
In the event of the official closure of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, cancellation of the launch, or cancellation of flights — we guarantee the transfer of your deposit to any other trip or a refund.
Our journey starts in the city of Kyzylorda. Please note that tickets for the flight or train to Kyzylorda are not included in the package price and must be purchased separately. Our administrators will provide information on suitable dates and flight times.
For citizens of Kazakhstan and Russia, applications must be submitted at least 20 days before visiting the cosmodrome. For foreign nationals, it must be submitted 35 days in advance.
When planning your trip, please consider that on the territory of the cosmodrome:
There are no shops, pharmacies, or supermarkets.
There is no internet or mobile phone signal.
The water in the rooms is purified and not potable. We provide drinking water without restrictions.
During the summer tour period, it’s necessary to bring protective gear.
We recommend the following items for visiting the Baikonur Cosmodrome during the hot period (May-September):
Trekking shoes and lightweight sandals;
Long-sleeve shirt or T-shirt;
Windproof jacket, fleece;
Sun hat;
Sunglasses;
Sunscreen, lip balm;
Insect repellent spray;
First aid kit with necessary medications;
Personal hygiene items;
Special equipment – cameras, binoculars, charging station;
Water bottle or mini-thermos;
Other personal items that may be needed during the trip.
We recommend the following items for visiting the Baikonur Cosmodrome during the cold period (November-April):
Trekking shoes and warm footwear;
Thermal underwear;
Windproof jacket, fleece, down jacket;
Warm hat or buff;
Windproof pants;
Gloves, scarf;
Sunglasses;
Sunscreen, lip balm;
First aid kit with necessary medications;
Personal hygiene items;
Special equipment – cameras, binoculars, charging station;
Water bottle or mini-thermos;
Other personal items that may be needed during the trip.
As tourism on the territory of the cosmodrome in Kazakhstan is just beginning to develop, we will be staying at the only hotel located near the launch pads. This is the Soviet-era "South" hotel, where the scientist and designer of space technology M.K. Yangel once lived and worked. The hotel has been renovated, and most rooms are equipped with a shower or bathtub, toilet, and air conditioning. It's really great not to leave the cosmodrome at night and to constantly be in this atmosphere.
We will organize meals on-site ourselves, and we will have a cook with us. The hotel has a dining room. If you do not eat meat or have an intolerance to certain foods, please let us know in advance.
Mobile service is available only with the Beeline operator. The internet sometimes works, but it's only enough for text messages on WhatsApp. There are no stores on the territory, so all necessary items must be purchased in advance.
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