Shymkent, Kazakhstan-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Downtown Shymkent

  • Morning: Arrive in Shymkent and check-in at Hotel Kazakhstan, a comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at Café Espresso, a cozy café serving traditional Kazakh and European dishes.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Shymkent History Museum, which showcases the city’s rich history, from ancient civilizations to modern times. (Free admission)
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Tasty Café, a popular spot serving delicious Kazakh and Uzbek cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Explore the bustling streets of downtown Shymkent, visiting local markets and shops. Don’t forget to try some traditional Kazakh sweets at Sweet Shop.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Turkestan, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Kazakh and Turkic cuisine.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Visit the Shymkent Botanical Garden, which features a wide variety of plant species. (Free admission)
  • 11:00 AM: Go on a hike at the nearby Aktau Hill, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Café Nauryz, a cozy café serving traditional Kazakh cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent Lake, a popular spot for boating and fishing. (Boat rental: 5,000 KZT ~ $10 USD)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Dastarkhan, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Kazakh cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Turgen Valley

  • Morning: Depart for Turgen Valley, located about an hour’s drive from Shymkent. (Transportation: taxi or tour)
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Turgen Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Café Turgen, a cozy café serving traditional Kazakh cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Explore the scenic Turgen Valley, featuring stunning natural beauty and hiking trails. (Free admission)
  • Evening: Return to Shymkent and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Uzbeki.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last day in Shymkent shopping for souvenirs or visiting any attractions you missed earlier.
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Café Central, a cozy café serving traditional Kazakh cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and your return journey.

Important Information

  • Language: Russian, Kazakh, and Uzbek are widely spoken in Shymkent. English is not as common, but many locals will still try to communicate with tourists.
  • Currency: The Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted at most tourist establishments.
  • Weather: Shymkent has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for extreme temperatures.
  • Safety: Shymkent is generally a safe city, but as with any travel destination, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  • Airport: Shymkent International Airport (CIT) receives flights from major Kazakh cities and some international destinations. Taxi and airport transfer services are available.
  • Public Transportation: Buses and taxis are widely available in Shymkent, with fixed routes and fares. Consider hiring a taxi for convenience.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore downtown Shymkent, but be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety.

Tips

  • Learn some Kazakh phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “Hello” (Сәлем), “Thank you” (Рахмат), and “Goodbye” (Бая).
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is a common practice in Kazakh markets. Be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Enjoy the hospitality: Kazakhs are known for their warm hospitality. Smile, make an effort to communicate, and you’ll likely receive a hearty welcome!