Things To Do
in Aral
Aral is a small town in Kazakhstan located near the shrinking Aral Sea. The town has been greatly impacted by the environmental disaster caused by the shrinking of the sea due to diversion of its waters for irrigation. Residents have faced significant challenges such as economic hardship and health issues due to the disappearing sea.
Efforts have been made to address the environmental crisis, but the town continues to struggle with its effects.
- "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
- "Rakhmet" - Thank you
- "Keshiriniz" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Iä" - Yes
- "Jok" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Aral Sea's shoreline, witnessing the dramatic changes in its landscape. Enjoy a calm morning walk and capture beautiful sunrise photographs.
Head to the local museum to learn about the history of the sea and the surrounding region. Enjoy a traditional meal at a local café while engaging with locals.
Relax by the sea, watching the sunset as the sky reflects off the water. Consider sharing stories with fellow travelers around a campfire.
Take a guided trek to Munaytpas, a famous rock formation near the Aral Sea. The journey offers stunning vistas that showcase the unique Kazakh landscape.
Lunch at a popular eatery followed by leisure time in Aral, where you can explore local markets. Purchase handcrafted souvenirs to remember your visit.
Enjoy local street food for dinner and wander through the town to experience the evening ambiance. Feel free to engage with performers showcasing traditional music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with unique traditions.
- Scenic landscapes and natural beauty.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Growing interest in tourism and economic development.
- Environmental issues stemming from the shrinking Aral Sea.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Harsh climate with extreme temperatures.
Best Activities in Aral
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Exploring the dried-up Aral Sea and its eerie landscape, and learning about the environmental impact of its disappearance.
Enjoying fishing in the remaining sections of the Aral Sea or in the nearby lakes and reservoirs.
Observing the diverse bird species that inhabit the wetlands and lakes around the Aral Sea area.
Embarking on a camel trek through the arid landscapes surrounding Aral, providing a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aral with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aral
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Aral Sea and its surrounding landscape, ideal for photography
Provides stunning views of the former seabed and the environmental changes in the area
Food in Aral
Aral Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kazakh dish featuring boiled meat, usually lamb or horsemeat, served over flat noodles and accompanied by onion sauce. Best enjoyed at local eateries and during cultural events.
Must-Try!
A popular savory pastry filled with meat, onions, and spices, then baked until golden and crispy. Look for samsa at local bakeries and street food vendors for a satisfying snack.
A fermented dairy beverage made from mare's milk, known for its tangy flavor and health benefits. It can be found at traditional Kazakh yurt cafes and some local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aral better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, dairy products, and traditional snacks. Visitors can savor street food delights such as shashlik (grilled meat skewers), belyash (fried dough filled with meat), and baursak (deep-fried bread).
Explore the lively food stalls at the local bazaars, where vendors showcase an array of ready-to-eat dishes such as plov (pilaf), shurpa (hearty soup), and manti (steamed dumplings). These bustling spots are ideal for sampling authentic Aral street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aral, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also customary to address people using their titles and surnames, followed by a polite form of address.
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Aral. It is customary to show deference and attentiveness to older individuals, and to seek their advice and guidance.
Hospitality is highly valued in Aral culture. When visiting someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. Additionally, it is customary to accept food and drink offered by the host.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aral with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aral
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aral, Kazakhstan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, cafes, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Aral, Kazakhstan. Credit and debit cards may be accepted in some larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash for day-to-day transactions. It's also important to note that some establishments may not accept foreign currency or cards, so it's best to have the local currency on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Aral, Kazakhstan in spring is from April to June when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This is the time when the landscape starts to bloom with wildflowers and the Aral Sea may be slightly more accessible for exploration.
During summer, from July to August, Aral experiences hot and dry weather with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy long sunny days and don't mind the heat. The Aral Sea may be at its most accessible during this time, allowing for activities such as fishing and boat trips.
In autumn, from September to November, the weather starts to cool down, making it another good time to visit Aral. The temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, and the landscape turns vibrant with autumnal colors. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Winter in Aral, from December to February, brings cold temperatures averaging around -10°C to 0°C. The area may also experience snowfall, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. It's the off-peak tourist season, but if you're interested in winter sports or experiencing a snowy landscape, this could be an interesting time to visit.
Aral at Night
Hiking in Aral
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast desert ideal for hiking with unique landscapes and desert flora.
Offers various trails that provide stunning views of the desert environment and wildlife.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful hills and water bodies perfect for hiking expeditions.
Located a bit farther, these mountains offer breathtaking hikes with picturesque views.
Aiports
How to reach Aral by plane.
Located in Shymkent, approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Aral. It serves international and domestic flights.
Located in Almaty, about 2,000 kilometers southeast of Aral. It is Kazakhstan's largest international airport and serves numerous international destinations.
Located in Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), approximately 2,500 kilometers northeast of Aral. It serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Aktobe, around 1,000 kilometers west of Aral. It operates flights to various domestic and some international destinations.
Situated in Atyrau, about 800 kilometers southwest of Aral. It connects to several domestic routes and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Aral, Kazakhstan, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority in Aral, reflecting the historical presence of Russian communities in the region.
A smaller ethnic group in Aral, often involved in trade and local commerce.
A minority group in Aral, with roots from historical migration periods.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and communities residing in Aral, such as Tartars and Ukrainians.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Aral, with local teams participating in regional leagues and community events.
Basketball enjoys a strong following among the youth, with many schools and communities organizing basketball games and tournaments.
Traditional wrestling is an important sport in Kazakhstan, including Aral, where it is celebrated during local festivals and competitions.
Boxing has a notable presence in Aral, with various training centers and local clubs promoting the sport among aspiring athletes.
Track and field events are popular, particularly among schools, with regular competitions held to encourage athleticism and teamwork.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aral.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes in Aral now provide vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes, as well as international fare.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find an increasing number of eateries offering gluten-free choices, particularly in urban areas. It's advisable to communicate specific dietary requirements to ensure a satisfying dining experience.