Qulsary

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Qulsary's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Qulsary
morning
:

Start your adventure with a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Kazakh dishes. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk in the town center, absorbing the ambiance and observing the unique architecture. Visit the local museum to learn about Qulsary's rich history and cultural significance, engaging with exhibits that showcase the region's heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves authentic Kazakh cuisines such as beshbarmak. Post-lunch, embark on a guided tour to the stunning Caspian Sea, where you can relax on the shores and take in the picturesque views. Don’t miss the chance to partake in water activities or just unwind while enjoying the serene environment.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Qulsary for a traditional evening meal featuring grilled meats and refreshing drinks. Attend a cultural performance or visit a local tea house to experience Kazakh hospitality firsthand. End the night by stargazing in the clear skies, a perfect way to embrace the tranquility of the steppes.

day 2
Nature Excursion
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the breathtaking Kenderly Mountains. Spend the morning hiking through stunning trails, where each bend reveals stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Bring along a guide to help identify local flora and fauna, creating a deep connection with nature.

afternoon
:

After working up an appetite, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the mountains, taking in the refreshing air and scenic beauty. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby lakes, perfect for a peaceful paddle or fishing. Capture beautiful photos of the views and wildlife, leaving you with lasting memories of Kazakhstan's natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Qulsary, feeling fulfilled from your outdoor adventures, and enjoy a meal at a cozy bistro. Engage with locals at a community gathering or market, where stories and laughter are shared. As your evening winds down, reflect on the day's encounters over a cup of sweet tea.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Delve into Kazakh culture with a visit to a nearby nomadic family who welcome you into their yurt. Participate in traditional practices, learning about horsemanship and how they craft everyday tools from natural resources. Savor a homemade breakfast prepared with fresh, local ingredients, making the experience truly authentic.

afternoon
:

After bidding farewell to your hosts, head to a local craft workshop to witness artisans at work, from pottery to embroidery. Participate in a hands-on session to create your own memento to take home, embodying the skills passed down through generations. Enjoy lunch at a café featuring dishes made with produce sourced from the local community.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a folklore performance that showcases Kazakh music and dances, immersing you in the rich traditions of the region. Join locals at a communal feast, where stories are shared and laughter fills the air. This vibrant ending to the day will leave you enchanted by the warmth of Kazakh culture.

day 4
Historical Landmarks
morning
:

Start the day with breakfast at your accommodation before setting off to explore some of Qulsary's historical landmarks. Visit the local mosque and discover the architectural influences that have shaped its design. Engage with local historians who can provide insight into the rich narratives surrounding these sites.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the town, sampling dishes inspired by the historical Silk Road. Post-lunch, stroll through the town's historical district, featuring vintage buildings and lovely squares. Take the opportunity to shop for local crafts and souvenirs that reflect Qulsary’s unique identity.

evening
:

As you wind down, join a guided night walk highlighting the beautifully illuminated buildings and monuments. Savor a delicious dinner at a well-recommended restaurant, trying out local specialties. End the evening exchanging stories with fellow travelers, sharing experiences and tips for the days ahead.

day 5
Adventurous Activities
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a local eatery known for its delicious pastries. Head out for a thrilling day filled with adventurous activities such as quad biking or horseback riding in the surrounding countryside. The morning hours are perfect for experiencing the rush of wind as you navigate the breathtaking terrain.

afternoon
:

After an adrenaline-pumping morning, have a hearty lunch packed with energy-boosting foods to keep you going. Explore the rocky outcrops or even engage in a friendly competition of archery or falconry, activities that resonate with Kazakhstan's nomadic past. Capture the thrill with plenty of photos as you create unforgettable memories.

evening
:

After a day full of adventure, relax with a comforting dinner at a restaurant offering local delicacies. Share stories and laughs with your companions, recounting the highlights of your day and planning for tomorrow's adventures. Wind down with a stroll through the town, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and interactions with friendly locals.

day 6
Culinary Exploration
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast tour at local bakeries, tasting fresh-baked traditional treats like baursaks and pastries. Engage with bakers as they demonstrate their techniques, providing insight into the distinctive flavors of Kazakh cuisine. This immersive experience gives you a unique taste of local culture right from the start of your day.

afternoon
:

After your morning adventures in baking, join a cooking class where you create a Kazakh meal from scratch. Work alongside a professional chef who will help you master the art of dishes like manty and plov. Enjoy your creations for lunch, savoring the flavors that you've learned to combine.

evening
:

As night falls, visit a local market filled with vibrant produce and unique ingredients, where you can gather final goodies for your culinary journey. Relish a meal at a family-run restaurant, where fresh, seasonal food is served. Cap off the night by reflecting on your culinary experiences with new friends over a warm drink.

day 7
Relaxation Day
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before indulging in a relaxing spa treatment at a local wellness center. Focus on rejuvenating yourself with traditional Kazakh therapies that utilize local herbs and natural remedies. Use this peaceful morning to reflect on your journey and plan for the coming days.

afternoon
:

After your spa session, enjoy lunch at a tranquil café with a beautiful garden setting. Spend your afternoon exploring Qulsary at a relaxed pace, perhaps visiting art galleries or quaint coffee shops, immersing yourself in the local vibe. Take the time to engage in light shopping for handmade crafts to take home.

evening
:

To wrap up the day, head to a local tea house where you can embrace the warmth of Kazakh hospitality. Enjoy traditional snacks alongside tea, engaging with locals as you listen to stories and gain insights into their lives. The serene atmosphere coupled with friendly conversations provides a perfect ending to a day of relaxation.

day 8
Adventure Beyond Qulsary
morning
:

Set off for a day trip to the breathtaking Mangistau Region, beginning with a traditional breakfast before your journey. As you travel, admire the changing landscapes that stretch for miles, filled with canyons and unique rock formations. Engage with your guide to learn about the geological heritage of the area.

afternoon
:

Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic tour of the striking underground mosques and the natural wonders that await you in Mangistau. Savor a packed lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of the cliffs, taking time to absorb the natural beauty around you. Consider joining an optional hike to experience the dramatic scenery firsthand.

evening
:

As you return to Qulsary, enjoy a comforting dinner at one of the town's eateries, reflecting on the awe-inspiring day you’ve had. Share stories with your travel companions about the breathtaking sights you encountered. End the day with a leisurely stroll, taking in the charms of Qulsary's evening atmosphere.

day 9
Local Community Engagement
morning
:

Engage with a local community initiative that aims to preserve and promote Kazakh traditions. Participate in a morning workshop, learning about traditional crafts or music from skilled locals eager to share their knowledge. Start the day with breakfast made by community members, fostering a warm connection with the culture.

afternoon
:

After enriching your morning, share lunch with the community group discussing the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Spend your afternoon volunteering for a community project, helping to beautify public spaces or assist in local schools. This engaging experience allows you to learn through contribution and connection.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, attend an informal gathering where locals come together to celebrate their heritage through storytelling and music. Participate by sharing your experiences, creating bonds through mutual admiration for culture. Conclude your exploration of Qulsary with a sense of fulfillment and new friendships forged through shared experiences.

Discover Qulsary

Read more in our Qulsary 2025 Travel Guide.

Qulsary Travel Guide