Shymkent, Kazakhstan-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Shymkent International Airport (CIT)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel in the city center
  • Check-in to Hotel Shymkent or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Shymkent City Museum (ул. Толе би, 43) to learn about the city’s history and culture
  • Explore the Green Market (Зеленый рынок) for a taste of local cuisine and souvenirs
  • Walk around the Independence Square (Площадь Независимости) and admire the city’s architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine at Assel Restaurant
  • Take a stroll along the Shymkent River and enjoy the city lights

Transportation

  • Taxi: approx. 500 KZT (~ $1.20 USD) from airport to hotel
  • Bus: approx. 100 KZT (~ $0.25 USD) from airport to hotel

Tips

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases, as not everyone speaks English
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions

Day 2: Historical Landmarks and Nature

Morning

  • Visit the Mausoleum of Shaikh Ahmed Yasawi (Мавзолей Шейха Ахмеда Ясави), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the Shymkent Fortress (Шымкентская крепость), a historic fortification from the 19th century

Afternoon

  • Take a trip to the nearby Sayram-Ugam National Park (Сайрам-Угам национальный парк) for hiking and scenic views
  • Visit the Kazygurt Mountains, a popular spot for trekking and horseback riding

Evening

Transportation

  • Taxi: approx. 1,500 KZT (~ $3.75 USD) to Mausoleum of Shaikh Ahmed Yasawi
  • Bus: approx. 300 KZT (~ $0.75 USD) to Shymkent Fortress

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting historical sites

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Attend a traditional Kazakh folk show at the Shymkent Drama Theater (Шымкентский драматический театр)
  • Visit the Shymkent Art Gallery (Шымкентская художественная галерея) to explore local art and crafts

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Kazakh dishes
  • Explore the Old Town, a historic neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Arai Restaurant
  • Visit the Night Market (Ночной рынок) for souvenirs and snacks

Transportation

  • Taxi: approx. 500 KZT (~ $1.20 USD) to Shymkent Drama Theater
  • Bus: approx. 100 KZT (~ $0.25 USD) to Shymkent Art Gallery

Tips

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions during cultural performances
  • Bargain prices at the Night Market, as it’s a common practice

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out from your hotel

Afternoon

  • Take a taxi or bus to Shymkent International Airport (CIT)
  • Depart from Shymkent and head back home

Transportation

  • Taxi: approx. 500 KZT (~ $1.20 USD) to airport
  • Bus: approx. 100 KZT (~ $0.25 USD) to airport

Tips

  • Double-check your flight details and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare
  • Exchange any remaining Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) for your home currency or USD

Other Things to Know

  • Language: Russian is widely spoken, but not everyone speaks English. Learn some basic phrases to help you navigate.
  • Currency: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). You can exchange currency at banks or currency exchange offices.
  • Safety: Shymkent is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Weather: Shymkent has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly.
  • Electricity: Type C and F power sockets, 230V, 50Hz.

Additional Resources

Note: Prices and exchange rates are approximate and may vary. This itinerary is meant to serve as a general guide and can be customized based on individual preferences and interests.