Outdoor Activities in Shymkent

Welcome to Shymkent, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Kazakhstan! While exploring its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets can be enthralling, don’t miss out on the thrilling outdoor activities that this city has to offer. Here are some tips for your exciting outdoor adventures:

Hiking & Trekking

1. Sayram-Ugam National Park: About 70 km from the city, the park has the Sairamsu, Kaskasu and Burgulyuk valleys. Visitors register at a cordon and pay a small eco fee. Mountain weather changes quickly, so tell someone your route.

2. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve: About 100 km from the city, the reserve runs ten tourist trails. A permit and a reserve guide are required, and leaving the marked trails is not allowed. Wild tulips flower in late April and May.

Parks and Lakes

1. Asanbay Askarov Dendrological Park: More than 100 hectares of shaded paths in the north of the city, with roe deer, peacocks and pheasants.

2. Jailaukol Park: A lake with boats and catamarans beside the zoo.

Safety

The FCDO warns of avalanche, landslide and rockfall in remote terrain and advises against trekking alone. Carry water, a hat and sun protection, and avoid the Aksu canyon descent during or after rain.