Things To Do
in Qazyqurt

Qazyqurt is a picturesque town located in southern Kazakhstan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and historical significance. Surrounded by the majestic Tien Shan mountains, it serves as a gateway for various outdoor activities and cultural exploration. The town is also notable for its rich folklore and local traditions, which are deeply rooted in Kazakh history.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of modern amenities and traditional experiences in this charming destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Qazyqurt Museum, where you can learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided tour of the nearby Qazyqurt Mountain, famous for its legends and breathtaking views.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine while watching a cultural performance.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast and then head out for a hike in the nearby Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax by the river and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Wrap up with a visit to a local café for some coffee and dessert, soaking in the evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Fast Food Combo$5
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🛒Groceries (per week)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Kazakh speakers
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
  • "Rakhmet!" - Thank you!
  • "Keshirim etiniz" - Excuse me
  • "Keshik bolmayin" - Please don't be late
  • "Sizdi kórip qoldym" - Nice to meet you

Places to Visit in Qazyqurt

Visit one of these nice places.

Qazyqurt Mountain

Capture stunning panoramic views and unique rock formations, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Aksu River

The serene river with its crystal-clear waters offers a perfect backdrop for nature photography.

Local Villages

Photograph traditional Kazakh yurts and the vibrant daily life of local villagers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qazyqurt

Kazakhstan's culinary heritage is rich and diverse, and Qazyqurt offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the region's traditions and flavors.

Qazyqurt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

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

Must-Try!

Kazy

A type of sausage made from horse meat, often served as a delicacy during special occasions.

Plov

A hearty rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, commonly enjoyed during gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qazyqurt Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, meats, and local snacks, perfect for sampling traditional flavors.

Street Kebab Stalls

Street vendors throughout the town serve delicious shashlik (grilled meat skewers) that are popular among locals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qazyqurt experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, while summers can be hot, reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Precipitation is moderate, with most rain occurring in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group before starting a conversation.

Hospitality

Hospitality is a significant part of Kazakh culture; it is customary to accept offers of food or drink when visiting someone's home.

Dress Modestly

When visiting rural areas or religious sites, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qazyqurt is generally safe for travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of nearby hospitals.

Tipping in Qazyqurt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, although it's not obligatory. Round up the bill for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many establishments accept credit cards. Ensure you have some local currency (Tenge) for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make this a beautiful time to visit, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer (June - August)

Warm and sunny, summer is perfect for exploring nature, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create stunning landscapes, perfect for photography.

Winter (December - February)

Cold and snowy, winter is great for experiencing local winter sports, but ensure you dress warmly.

Nightlife Guide

Qazyqurt at Night

Qazyqurt has a laid-back nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafes offering a relaxed atmosphere. Most places close by midnight, with options ranging from casual pubs to family-friendly restaurants. You can enjoy traditional music and sometimes live performances in local establishments, making it a cozy and culturally enriching experience.

Hiking in Qazyqurt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tengri Mountain Trail

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the Tien Shan mountains and the surrounding valleys.

Zhabagly Nature Reserve Trails

Various trails in this nature reserve provide opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and spot wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Qazyqurt by plane.

Shymkent International Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Qazyqurt, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the closest major air travel hub.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qazyqurt is fairly walkable, with most attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The town center has pedestrian-friendly paths, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require transportation, especially if venturing into surrounding natural parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority of the population is ethnic Kazakh, known for their rich traditions and hospitality.

Russian Community

A significant Russian community also resides in Qazyqurt, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a widely loved sport in Qazyqurt, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Eagle Hunting

A traditional sport in Kazakhstan, eagle hunting showcases the skill of both the hunter and the bird, often celebrated in local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qazyqurt is generally light, with the main roads being well-maintained. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and provide a convenient way to navigate the town. However, it's advisable to check schedules in advance as they can be inconsistent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qazyqurt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes based on vegetables and grains.

Halal Food

Most local eateries serve halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Qazyqurt includes local clinics and hospitals that provide basic medical services. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities are available. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide