Things To Do
in Oral

Oral, Kazakhstan, also known as Uralsk, is a vibrant city located on the banks of the Ural River. It serves as a cultural hub that reflects a mix of Kazakh and Russian influences, showcasing its rich history and diverse architecture. The city is known for its beautiful parks, museums, and a lively market scene, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

With a friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals, Oral provides a unique experience in the heart of Kazakhstan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Oral's Culture and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oral History Museum to learn about the city's past and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the city center, exploring the beautiful architecture and visiting local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a walk along the Ural River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the nearby Akzhayik Park for a leisurely morning walk and enjoy the natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the local bazaar to taste street food and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Relax at a café with live music, enjoying the local nightlife and atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🥖Loaf of bread$0.50
🏨Night in a hotel$30
🚌Public transport ticket$0.30
Coffee at a café$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Limited English speakers in some areas.
  • Public transportation may not be as developed as in larger cities.
  • Some tourist services may be lacking.
  • "Салеметсіз бе?" - Hello
  • "Рахмет" - Thank you
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Сізді қайдан алам?" - Where are you from?
  • "Көмек керек" - I need help

Places to Visit in Oral

Visit one of these nice places.

Ural River Promenade

A picturesque riverside walkway perfect for capturing stunning sunset views.

The Kazakh Drama Theater

An architectural gem, the theater's facade is a great backdrop for photos.

Akzhayik Park

A lush park filled with flowers and greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oral

Oral's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Kazakh and Russian dishes that reflect the city's diverse heritage.

Oral Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over large pasta and topped with onion sauce.

Must-Try!

Kazy

A type of sausage made from horse meat, seasoned and often served as part of a meat platter.

Plov

A hearty rice dish typically cooked with meat and vegetables, popular across Central Asia.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oral Central Market

A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Various stalls selling popular street foods like chebureki (fried pastries) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).

Climate Guide

Weather

Oral experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop below -20°C (-4°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is common; when greeting elders, a slight bow of the head is respectful.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's customary to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oral is generally safe for travelers, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keeping valuables secure is essential.

Tipping in Oral

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally expected in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to warm up, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and enjoying blooming flowers.

Summer

Hot and dry, summer is perfect for exploring parks and enjoying river activities.

Autumn

Mild weather with beautiful fall foliage, ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter offers a unique charm, though travelers should prepare for chilly conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Oral at Night

Oral has a relaxed nightlife scene primarily focused on socializing in cafes and restaurants. Many places feature live music or cultural performances, creating a friendly atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Bars and nightclubs are limited but offer a mix of local and international music.

Hiking in Oral

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zhailau Trail

A scenic hiking trail located about 20 km from Oral, offering stunning views of the surrounding steppe.

Mount Boldyzhak

A more challenging hike located a bit further out, known for its rocky terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Airports

How to reach Oral by plane.

Oral Ak Zhol Airport

Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities in Kazakhstan and limited international services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oral is a walkable city with a compact downtown area that allows visitors to explore many attractions on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common, making it easy to navigate the city while enjoying the local ambiance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority of the population is ethnic Kazakh, who contribute to the cultural identity of the city.

Russian Community

There is a significant Russian minority, reflecting the historical ties between the two ethnic groups, especially in culture and language.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Oral, with local teams frequently competing in regional leagues.

Hockey

Ice hockey is also popular, especially during the winter months, with local teams attracting many fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oral is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation consists mainly of buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oral.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable dumplings and salads.

Halal Food

Most local eateries serve halal food, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oral is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. However, services may vary in quality, so for serious medical issues, it's advisable to seek treatment in larger cities like Atyrau or Almaty.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide