Shymkent, Kazakhstan-6-day-itinerary

Shymkent, Kazakhstan: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Shymkent Airport and take a taxi ( approx. 10-15 minutes) or bus (approx. 30-40 minutes) to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent Museum of History and Local Lore to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Explore the city center, including Independence Square, The Monument to the Heroes of the Soviet Union, and the beautiful Orthodox Church.

Where to Eat:

  • Try traditional Kazakh cuisine at Assel Restaurant, located in the heart of the city.
  • For a quick snack, visit Korzhinsky Market, where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Shymkent: A comfortable 3-star hotel with modern amenities and a convenient location.
  • Guest House Shymkent: A cozy, family-run guesthouse offering home-cooked meals and a warm atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Shymkent is a relatively small city, making it easy to navigate on foot or by taxi.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters.

Day 2: Saryaghash and Turkestan

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Saryaghash, a charming town located about 30 km from Shymkent. Visit the Mausoleum of Shaikh Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Turkestan, where you can explore the ancient city, including the Maqbarat-al-Arab and Juma Mosque.

Transportation:

  • Hire a taxi or driver for the day (approx. 3-4 hours).
  • Alternatively, take public transportation (marshrutkas) from Shymkent to Saryaghash and Turkestan.

Day 3: Local Markets and Crafts

  • Morning: Visit Korzhinsky Market, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Craft Center, showcasing traditional Kazakh crafts, such as embroidery, weaving, and pottery.

Tips:

  • Be prepared to haggle at markets and bazaars.
  • Try to learn some basic Kazakh phrases to interact with locals.

Day 4: Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Take a hike in the nearby Ugam-Chatkal National Park, offering stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent Hippodrome, where you can watch horse racing or take a horseback ride.

Where to Eat:

  • Café Europa: A cozy café serving international cuisine and delicious coffee.
  • Plov Center: Try traditional Kazakh plov (pilaf) at this popular eatery.

Day 5: Historical Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the Fortress of Shymkent, a historic fortress dating back to the 12th century.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museum of Military History, showcasing Kazakhstan’s military heritage.

Things to Know:

  • Be respectful when visiting mosques and mausoleums, removing your shoes and dressing modestly.
  • Learn about Kazakh customs and traditions to better understand the local culture.

Day 6: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Depart from Shymkent Airport or continue your journey to other destinations in Kazakhstan.

Additional Tips:

  • Be prepared for occasional language barriers, as not everyone speaks English.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques and mausoleums.

This itinerary provides a mix of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip to Shymkent, Kazakhstan!