Things To Do
in Zhitiqara
Zhitiqara is a small, sun-washed town on the central Kazakh steppes where expansive skies meet a mix of steppe traditions and quiet modern development. Its friendly markets, open landscapes, and nearby chalk-white hills invite slow travel and authentic Kazakh hospitality. Visitors can witness traditional yurt life alongside contemporary cafes and a growing arts scene.
Seasonal events, clear night skies, and easy access to nature make Zhitiqara a gateway to the region’s rugged beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Zhitiqara Airport and settle into your accommodation. Take a moment to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings of the Kazakh steppe. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to prepare for your adventure ahead.
Begin your exploration with a visit to local markets to experience the vibrant culture and taste regional delicacies. Engage with friendly locals and learn about traditional crafts. Don't forget to pick up some unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
Relax at a local café as you savor a traditional dinner. Enjoy the serene ambiance while trying local dishes that Kazakh cuisine has to offer. As the sun sets, take a stroll under the stars and appreciate the tranquility of this remote destination.
After breakfast, embark on a day trip to the nearby village of Konysay. Wander through the picturesque landscape, taking in rolling hills and vast plains. Capture stunning photos of the traditional Kazakh yurts scattered across the scenery.
Visit a local museum to learn about the rich history and heritage of the region. Meet artisans skilled in handmade crafts and watch demonstrations of their techniques. Have lunch with a local family, experiencing authentic Kazakh hospitality.
Return to Zhitiqara and unwind at your accommodation. Spend the evening reflecting on the day's experiences, perhaps with a book or some local music playing in the background. Enjoy a light dinner, sampling any new dishes you discovered during your visit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚎Local transit ticket (one-way) | $0.5-1 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine Kazakh hospitality and slower pace of travel
- Wide open steppe landscapes and clear night skies
- Limited nightlife and English proficiency in remote areas
- Fewer direct flight connections and fewer large tourist services
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Бұл қанша тұрады?" - How much does this cost?
- "Қазақ тілін сөйлейсіз бе?" - Do you speak Kazakh?
- "Сіз қай тілде сөйлейсіз?" - What language do you speak?
Places to Visit in Zhitiqara
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-town panorama with the steppes stretching to the horizon at sunset.
Low-water river bend with reflections and morning light.
Colorful facades and traditional doors that create interesting textures for portraits.
Rocky outcrop with views of the surrounding plains and distant hills.
Food in Zhitiqara
Zhitiqara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting dish of boiled meat and broad noodles served with onion sauce; best at family-run places.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions, enjoyed with sour cream or butter.
Horse meat sausage often served thinly sliced as a festive starter.
Fermented camel or mare milk drink, tangy and slightly effervescent.
Light, fluffy fried dough pastries perfect with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering dairy, meat, herbs, dried fruit, and freshly baked bread; try a hot pastry and a glass of ayran.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet elders first and use polite titles.
Guests are offered tea; accepting helps build rapport; avoiding refusing politely when offered food is courteous.
Dress modestly in public spaces; bring a shawl or jacket for religious sites.
Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces if invited.
Safety
Tipping in Zhitiqara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5–10% in restaurants if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly accepted in larger cafes and hotels; carry some local currency for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days (often 25–35°C) with plenty of sun; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat; occasional thunderstorms in late summer.
Mild days with cooler evenings; vivid skies and harvest markets; layers recommended.
Cold, dry air with subfreezing temperatures and occasional wind; pack thermal layers and a warm coat.
Cool mornings warming to comfortable afternoons; variable rain; good for hiking and blooming steppe flora.
Zhitiqara at Night
Hiking in Zhitiqara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle hike to hill viewpoints with photo stops along the way.
Ridge-route offering panoramic vistas and rock formations.
Short loop through seasonal meadows near the outskirts of town.
Airports
How to reach Zhitiqara by plane.
Primary nearby airport serving domestic and international flights; connected by road and rail to Zhitiqara.
Regional airport offering domestic flights with connections to major cities; useful if traveling from west Kazakhstan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young professionals and students fueling cultural and culinary scenes.
Keepers of traditional customs and seasonal trades who contribute to markets.
Adventurous travelers seeking steppe landscapes and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team and school sport; local matches attract families and youth.
Neatly aligned with Kazakh heritage; often offered to visitors in nearby ranches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhitiqara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetarian plov, salads with legumes and vegetables, paneer-like cheese or fried bread with vegetables; many cafes can adjust soups and dumplings to be meat-free.