Things To Do
in Shymkent
Shymkent, Kazakhstan is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and beautiful landscapes. It is the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, serving as a significant industrial and cultural hub in the southern part of the country. Visitors will discover a mix of modern infrastructure alongside traditional Kazakh culture, making it an intriguing destination.
The city is also a gateway to stunning natural attractions, including mountains and parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Shymkent Central Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst beautiful greenery and local flora.
Visit the Historical Museum of Shymkent to learn about the city's history and its significance along the Silk Road.
Experience local cuisine at a traditional restaurant, followed by a stroll through the vibrant evening markets.
Take a trip to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve for a morning hike and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains.
Return to the city and explore the local bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample street food.
Wrap up your trip by visiting a local café for a night of traditional music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🥘Meal at a restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within the city) | $2 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $30 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and history
- Affordable cost of living
- Beautiful natural landscapes nearby
- Limited English speakers in some areas
- Public transport can be unreliable
- Extreme weather conditions in winter and summer
- "Сәлем" - Hello
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Қайда?" - Where?
- "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me
- "Сізді жақсы көремін" - I love you
Places to Visit in Shymkent
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque park featuring lush greenery, beautiful sculptures, and a serene lake, perfect for capturing nature shots.
An ancient fortress that provides stunning views of the city, ideal for historical photography.
A vibrant park with fountains and monuments, offering great opportunities for colorful sunset shots.
Food in Shymkent
Shymkent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with boiled meat (typically lamb or beef) served over pasta and topped with onion sauce.
Must-Try!
A type of sausage made from horse meat, often served as a delicacy during special occasions.
A flavorful rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, widely enjoyed across Central Asia.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food including shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
An expansive marketplace offering a variety of local delicacies and a chance to experience the local lifestyle.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kazakh culture, it is customary to show respect to elders, addressing them formally and allowing them to go first in social situations.
Kazakh people are known for their hospitality. If invited to a local's home, it’s polite to bring a small gift.
While Shymkent is modern, it’s advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Shymkent
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory. However, check if a service charge is included.
Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures begin to warm, flowers bloom, and outdoor activities become popular. Ideal for hiking and exploring parks.
Hot weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.
Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. A great time for photography and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Cold temperatures, often below freezing. Snow can cover the ground, providing a beautiful winter landscape but requiring warm clothing.
Shymkent at Night
Hiking in Shymkent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail located about 30 km from Shymkent, known for its stunning cliffs and diverse flora.
A popular hiking route along the Aksu River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for picnicking.
Airports
How to reach Shymkent by plane.
Located approximately 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it accessible for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Shymkent, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
A significant minority group, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Shymkent, with local teams competing in national leagues, drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Traditional wrestling, known as 'kures,' is a significant part of Kazakh culture, with local competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shymkent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants now offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and vegetable-based soups.
Most local restaurants serve halal food, but it is advisable to confirm with the establishment.