Shymkent Kazakhstan 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary: Exploring Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Shymkent, the “Green City” of Kazakhstan, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This itinerary will guide you through the highlights of this vibrant city.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Tenge (KZT)
  • Language: Kazakh & Russian (English spoken in tourist areas)
  • Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather.

Transportation:

  • Taxis: Widely available and affordable, but negotiate the fare beforehand.
  • Buses: Efficient and cheap for travelling within the city.
  • Marshrutkas: Minibuses offering frequent service on specific routes.

Accommodation:

  • Shymkent Plaza Hotel: 4-star luxury with a central location.
  • Dostyk Hotel: Comfortable mid-range option with good amenities.
  • Numerous guesthouses and apartments: Available for budget travellers.

Day 1: Historical Shymkent

  • Morning: Visit the Shymkent History Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient times to modern Kazakhstan.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Abay Park, a tranquil green space with a monument to Kazakh poet Abay Kunanbayev. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bike.
  • Evening: Dine at “Ayu” restaurant for traditional Kazakh cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Religious & Cultural Exploration

  • Morning: Visit the Nur-Astana Mosque, an impressive architectural marvel with intricate details.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Kazakh culture at the Shymkent Drama Theatre, experiencing a traditional performance (check schedules beforehand).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at “Cafe Baku” for delicious Azerbaijani cuisine and live music.

Day 3: Nature & Recreation

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Aksu Canyon, a stunning natural wonder with towering cliffs and breathtaking views. Hiking trails are available for all levels.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the “Dostyk” Water Park, enjoying slides, pools, and other aquatic activities.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious BBQ dinner at “Shashlik House”.

Day 4: Shopping & Local Experiences

  • Morning: Explore the bustling Shymkent Central Market, experiencing local life and finding unique souvenirs like traditional crafts, spices, and fabrics.
  • Afternoon: Visit the “Green Bazaar”, a vibrant market with fresh produce, street food, and household goods.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at “Karavan Restaurant” for European and Asian cuisine in a stylish setting.

Day 5: Farewell Shymkent

  • Morning: Visit the Monument to Friendship symbolizing the unity of different ethnic groups in Shymkent.
  • Afternoon: Relax at a cafe, enjoying a cup of Kazakh tea and reflecting on your experiences in Shymkent.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Kazakh or Russian phrases for smoother interactions.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Kazakh people!

Other Things of Interest:

  • Shymkent Zoo: Home to various animal species.
  • Central Stadium: Catch a football match if you’re a fan.
  • Arbat Street: Pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and entertainment options.

This itinerary is just a suggestion; feel free to customize it based on your interests and time constraints. Enjoy your journey through Shymkent!