Shymkent Kazakhstan 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Shymkent

Morning:

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Ala-Too Square (Ала-Тоо Мемориалный комплекс) to witness the impressive architecture and learn about Kazakhstan’s history.
  • Head over to the Shymkent Zoo (Шымкентский зоопарк), home to a variety of animals, including the rare snow leopard.
  • For lunch, try Sultan Chalchy for traditional Kazakh cuisine or Terrace Cafe for international dishes.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops and bazaars in the city center, such as Jayil Bazar (Жайыл базары).

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along the beautiful Sairam Canal (Саирам Канал) during sunset.
  • For dinner, visit Borubai Restaurant, which offers a variety of dishes and live Kazakh music performances.

Day 2: Discovering the Surroundings

Morning:

  • After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Chimkent (Chimkent Aulie Ata Mosque), about an hour’s drive from Shymkent. The mosque is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the nearby Ak-Bulak Cave (Ак-Булақ пещера), a natural wonder featuring stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Grab lunch at a local restaurant near the cave or pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.

Evening:

  • Return to Shymkent in the evening and spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring more of the city center.
  • For dinner, consider trying Tam-Tam Restaurant, which offers a mix of traditional Kazakh and international dishes.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Morning:

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Regional Museum of History, Archeology, and Arts, where you can learn more about the region’s history and culture.
  • Visit the beautiful Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas (Церковь Святого Николая) for a peaceful and spiritual experience.

Afternoon:

  • For lunch, try China Town Restaurant, which offers authentic Chinese cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon visiting local art galleries and workshops to immerse yourself in Kazakh art and craftsmanship. One option is Tamgaly Tas Art Studio (Тамгалы Тас).

Evening:

  • Enjoy your final dinner in Shymkent at Dastarkhan Cafe, which offers a variety of traditional Kazakh dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Take some time to reflect on your experiences during your stay in Shymkent before retiring for the night.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available, or you can use ride-hailing apps like Tole or Lada.Taxi.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card for data and making calls during your stay, as this will make navigation easier.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Kazakh, but Russian is also widely spoken. English may be limited outside of tourist areas.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or mosques.
  • Always carry cash, as many places do not accept credit cards.
  • Respect local customs and traditions during your stay.