Aktau-Almaty by train in August

[Burton]

Hello,

I’m planning a long trip to Central Asia, and my idea is to start from Baku at the beginning of August, taking a boat to Aktau and then to cross southern Kazakhstan eastward by train, over several days (probably stopping at Aral, Turkestan, Shymkent, Almaty).

I describe my itinerary here: viewtopic.php?f=7&t=13005


However, I’m afraid that this part of Kazakhstan might be very warm during August, especially in the trains – plus, as far as I know, the best I could get is a bed in a 4-berth sleeper compartment, so I’m beginning to think that may not be the best idea.

Has anyone done this during more or less the same period? I’d also be interested in getting feedback on the Aktau-Almaty line.

If it appears to be unfeasible, I’ll consider the option of flying directly to Almaty or Bishkek, and visit southern Kazakhstan at the end of my 3 months trip, so probably towards end of October, first part of November. But I rather not take a plane to get there.

Thank you!

[Bakhtiyark]

It is excruciatingly hot during that period. More comfortable Talgo cars started operation on the mentioned route last December, However you might miss out on some "authentic post-soviétique platzkart experience."

[Burton]

Thank you ! I might consider doing southern Kazakhstan at the end of my trip, then, that is probably towards the end of October/beginning of November.