Things To Do
in Zhosaly

Zhosaly is a quaint village located in the Karaganda Region of Kazakhstan, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Known for its warm hospitality and traditional Kazakh lifestyle, it offers visitors a glimpse into the rural life of the region. The village is also a gateway to the stunning steppes and vast natural beauty of Central Kazakhstan.

With its blend of historical significance and natural attractions, Zhosaly is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of urban centers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Zhosaly
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of nearby historical sites, including ancient burial mounds and petroglyphs that depict the region's rich history.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local family-run restaurant, savoring dishes like Beshbarmak and Kazy.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby hills, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the steppes and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit a local yurt to learn about traditional Kazakh customs and participate in a cooking class to make local dishes.

evening
:

End your day with a stargazing experience, as Zhosaly's remote location offers clear skies perfect for viewing constellations.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$2
🌍Public Transportation Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and warm hospitality.
  • Limited dining and entertainment options.
  • Transportation can be challenging for those without a car.
  • Language barriers may exist as English is not widely spoken.
  • "Сәлем!" - Hello!
  • "Рақмет!" - Thank you!
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me.
  • "Сізді көруге қуаныштымын" - Nice to meet you.
  • "Қайда?" - Where?

Places to Visit in Zhosaly

Visit one of these nice places.

Zhosaly Steppe

A vast expanse of rolling hills and grasslands, perfect for capturing the essence of Kazakhstan's natural beauty.

Local Yurt

Traditional yurts provide a picturesque backdrop for photos showcasing Kazakh culture.

Sunset Over the Hills

The sunsets in Zhosaly are breathtaking, with vibrant colors painting the sky over the steppe.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zhosaly

Zhosaly offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the traditional flavors of Kazakhstan, with an emphasis on meat, dairy, and hearty grains.

Zhosaly Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A traditional dish made from boiled meat, usually served over pasta and accompanied by a rich broth.

Must-Try!

Kazy

A specialty sausage made from horse meat, seasoned and smoked for a unique flavor.

Kurt

Dried cheese balls that are a popular snack, often enjoyed with tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zhosaly Market

A local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade products.

Street Vendors

Look out for street vendors selling traditional pastries and snacks like Baursak (fried dough balls) and Shashlik (skewered meat).

Climate Guide

Weather

Zhosaly experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can plummet to -30°C (-22°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering mild weather, making them perfect for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, with the majority occurring in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone, along with a warm smile.

Hospitality

Kazakh culture places great importance on hospitality; if offered food or drink, it is polite to accept.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zhosaly is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. In case of an emergency, local healthcare facilities are available, but having travel insurance is recommended.

Tipping in Zhosaly

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10% in restaurants, but not obligatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most common payment method, though some establishments may accept cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be quite hot, ideal for hiking and exploring, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning foliage changes and cooler temperatures, perfect for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Winter is cold with snow, offering opportunities for winter sports and experiencing the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Zhosaly at Night

Zhosaly offers a quiet nightlife scene, with a few small cafes and local gathering places where residents socialize. Traditional music and dance can sometimes be experienced at local events, providing a unique glimpse into Kazakh culture. For a more vibrant nightlife, visitors may need to travel to larger cities in the region.

Hiking in Zhosaly

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Karkaraly National Park

Located approximately 70 km from Zhosaly, this national park offers stunning hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, including mountains and forests.

Saryarka Steppe

A vast steppe area nearby, perfect for long hikes and observing the unique flora and fauna of Central Kazakhstan.

Airports

How to reach Zhosaly by plane.

Karaganda Airport (KGF)

Located about 150 km from Zhosaly, Karaganda Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections. It serves as the primary gateway for travelers heading to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zhosaly is a small village, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, local markets, and amenities are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably on foot. However, for distant attractions, public transport or private vehicles may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority of the population is Kazakh, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Russian Community

A significant portion of the population is of Russian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely popular in Kazakhstan, with local teams and community matches regularly taking place.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling, known as Kures, is a celebrated sport, often featured in local festivals and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zhosaly is minimal due to its small size, making it easy to navigate by foot or bike. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, but many residents own personal vehicles. Roads leading to and from Zhosaly are generally in good condition, though rural roads may be less maintained.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhosaly.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple, some restaurants offer vegetarian options like salads and dairy dishes.

Gluten-Free Meals

Gluten-free options may be limited, but fresh fruits and vegetables are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Zhosaly are basic, with a local clinic available for minor ailments. For more serious medical needs, residents often travel to larger cities such as Karaganda, which has better-equipped hospitals. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide