Shymkent, Kazakhstan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Shymkent

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Albatross (Kunaev St, 34), a popular local spot offering a variety of Kazakh and international dishes.
  • Visit the Ak-Orda Mosque (Kunsai qala st., 102). This beautiful mosque is one of the most significant religious sites in Shymkent.
  • Explore the Shymkent Regional Museum (Abay avenue, 98) to learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Chimbulak Ski Resort (approximately 30 km from Shymkent). If it’s not winter, enjoy a scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of the city and the Tian Shan Mountains.
  • Visit the Regional Botanical Garden (Abay avenue, 296) to see a variety of flora from Kazakhstan and other regions.

Evening:

  • Have dinner at KazMurza (Altyn Orda St., 17), a restaurant offering traditional Kazakh cuisine in a cozy, authentic setting.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Ak-Orda Park, enjoy the local atmosphere, and maybe grab an ice cream from one of the vendors.

Overnight Stay:

  • Consider staying at the Rixos Shymkent (Kunaev St., 192), a luxury hotel offering comfortable rooms, a spa, and several dining options. For budget travelers, the Burunko Guesthouse (174, Kunayev Str.) is a good choice.

Things to Know:

  • Shymkent’s weather can be quite warm during the summer months, so remember to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.
  • English is not as widely spoken as in some other tourist destinations, so it may be helpful to have a translation app or know a few basic Kazakh phrases.
  • Kazakhstan uses the Tenge (KZT) as its official currency.

Day 2: Discovering Shymkent’s Surroundings

Morning:

  • Have breakfast at your accommodation or try a local bakery for fresh bread and pastries.
  • Take a day trip to the Tashkorgan National Park (approximately 130 km from Shymkent). The park is home to unique rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and various species of wildlife.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Shymkent and visit the Tobolovka Ethnographic Complex (Shailaqsy, 31st km). Here, you can learn about traditional Kazakh life, see yurts, and even participate in some activities.
  • If time allows, visit the Central Bazaar (Ak Orda Ave., 95) to shop for souvenirs, spices, and local crafts.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Café Paris (Abay avenue, 103), known for its Mediterranean cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
  • Reflect on your journey and plan your next adventure over a cup of tea or coffee at one of the city’s many cafes.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available in Shymkent, but using a ride-hailing app like Yandex.Taxi or Lift.kz is recommended for convenience and safety.
  • Consider renting a car if you’d like to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.