Things To Do
in Zhetisay

Zhetisay is a small town located in the southern part of Kazakhstan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled near the stunning mountains of the Tian Shan range, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local traditions. The town serves as a gateway for tourists exploring the nearby Aksu-Jabagly Nature Reserve, which is one of the oldest reserves in Kazakhstan.

With a friendly community and a peaceful atmosphere, Zhetisay provides a charming experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in authentic Kazakh culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Zhetisay
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bazaar where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase fresh produce and local handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zhetisay Museum to learn about the region's history and cultural significance, followed by a leisurely stroll in the nearby park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can try traditional Kazakh dishes, followed by a walk along the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature Adventure
morning
:

Head out early to the Aksu-Jabagly Nature Reserve for a guided hike through breathtaking landscapes, spotting unique flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring the reserve, perhaps visiting the nearby waterfalls and enjoying a picnic in nature.

evening
:

Return to Zhetisay and unwind at a local café, sampling traditional sweets and drinks while reflecting on your adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
🏨Hotel per night$30
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🥛1 liter of milk$1
🥖Loaf of bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other destinations
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barriers may exist for non-Kazakh speakers
  • Transportation can be challenging in remote areas
  • "Сәлем!" - Hello!
  • "Рақмет!" - Thank you!
  • "Сіз қалайсыз?" - How are you?
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me
  • "Сау болыңыз!" - Goodbye!

Places to Visit in Zhetisay

Visit one of these nice places.

Tian Shan Mountains

Capture breathtaking views of the majestic Tian Shan range, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Aksu-Jabagly Nature Reserve

This reserve offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful flora, perfect for nature photography.

Zhetisay Park

The park features scenic paths, fountains, and local flora, providing a peaceful setting for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zhetisay

Zhetisay offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Kazakh cuisine that emphasizes fresh ingredients and hearty flavors.

Zhetisay Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A traditional dish made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over wide noodles with a rich broth.

Must-Try!

Kazy

A famous Kazakh sausage made from horse meat, typically served at festive occasions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zhetisay Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local street food delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zhetisay experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summer days can reach up to 30°C (86°F) while nights cool down significantly. Winters can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below -10°C (14°F) and snowfall common. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake with direct eye contact is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Always wait for the host to start the meal; it's polite to try everything offered to you.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by offering them seats and addressing them formally.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zhetisay is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Always stay informed about local customs and regulations.

Tipping in Zhetisay

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; around 10% of the bill is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards; however, it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, with blooming flowers and lush greenery making it a beautiful time to explore the outdoors.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Autumn

A picturesque season with vibrant fall foliage, perfect for photography and enjoying cooler temperatures.

Winter

Winter brings cold temperatures and snow, making it suitable for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Zhetisay at Night

Zhetisay has a mellow nightlife scene, primarily centered around local cafes and restaurants. While there are limited bars, locals often gather for social events and gatherings. Music and dance are a part of some cultural events, offering a glimpse into traditional Kazakh celebrations.

Hiking in Zhetisay

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kyzylkum Trail

A moderately challenging trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for adventurous hikers.

Big Almaty Lake Trail

A scenic hike that leads to the beautiful Big Almaty Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and vibrant alpine scenery.

Airports

How to reach Zhetisay by plane.

Shymkent International Airport

Located approximately 150 km from Zhetisay, this airport serves international and domestic flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zhetisay is a small town, making it quite walkable. Many attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably on foot. Sidewalks are generally in good condition, and the pace of life is relaxed.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority of the population, the Kazakhs have a rich cultural history and are known for their hospitality and traditional customs.

Russian Community

A significant minority in Zhetisay, the Russian community contributes to the town's diversity with their own cultural practices and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Horse Riding

A traditional sport in Kazakhstan, horse riding is a popular activity in the region, often celebrated during festivals.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely loved sport in Zhetisay, with local teams and community events regularly held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zhetisay is minimal, with most locals using bicycles or walking. Public transportation is limited but available, primarily consisting of buses and shared taxis, which are an affordable way to navigate the town and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhetisay.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests with dishes like vegetable dumplings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Zhetisay are basic, with a few clinics and hospitals available. For serious medical needs, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Shymkent. Travelers should have health insurance that covers international medical services.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide