Things To Do
in Borovskoy

Borovskoy is a quiet rural town in northern Kazakhstan, surrounded by expansive steppe plains and open skies. The area blends agricultural livelihoods with small-town Kazakh hospitality, giving visitors a taste of everyday life in the Kazakh heartland. You’ll find modest Soviet-era architecture alongside traditional yurts and family farms, creating a low-key, authentic atmosphere.

It’s a convenient base for exploring nearby nature, markets, and cultural heritage with friendly locals who are happy to share stories.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Riverside Stroll
morning
:

Touch down in Borovskoy and check into your cozy riverside guesthouse. Enjoy a steaming cup of traditional tea as you admire mist rising off the Tobol River. Feel the gentle breeze and settle into the tranquil rhythms of this Kazakh town.

afternoon
:

Set out for a leisurely walk along the riverbank to explore hidden coves and scenic overlooks. Watch local fishermen casting nets and learn about their daily routines. Bask in the golden light as it dances on the water surface.

evening
:

Dine at a family-run eatery serving plov and fresh salads with crisp vegetables. Listen to stories from friendly locals as they recall Borovskoy’s history. End the day with a peaceful riverside sunset.

day 2
Local Market Exploration
morning
:

Rise early to wander through Borovskoy’s bustling open-air market. Sample fresh berries, homemade cheeses, and warm samsa. Chat with vendors about traditional Kazakh ingredients.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking demonstration to learn how to prepare local specialties like beshbarmak and kazy sausage. Chop vegetables under the guidance of a local chef. Savor your own creations with a side of freshly baked flatbread.

evening
:

Stroll back to the market area as lanterns glow overhead. Sip on sweet kumis as street performers share folk tunes. Feel the community spirit in every smiling face.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant$20-35
🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel$40-70
🚖Taxi ride (5 km)$3-7
Coffee$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful countryside and authentic Kazakh hospitality
  • Low-traffic towns with genuine regional culture
  • Limited nightlife and international dining options
  • English spoken mainly in larger towns; expect language barriers in rural areas
  • "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello (formal)
  • "Рақмет" - Thank you
  • "Қанша тұрады?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Сіз ағылшын тілін сөйлей аласыз ба?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Borovskoy

Visit one of these nice places.

Borovskoy Riverside Viewpoint

Wide river views at golden hour, with calm waters reflecting the sky and the open steppe surrounding the town.

Sunrise over the Kazakh Steppe

Expansive horizons and soft morning light ideal for landscape photography.

Old Town Architecture

A mix of modest Soviet-era buildings and traditional homes offering characterful street scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borovskoy

Kazakh cuisine in Borovskoy blends pastoral traditions with Soviet-era influences, featuring hearty meat dishes, breads, and dairy, anchored by seasonal produce.

Borovskoy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

Noodles with boiled meat and onions; a centerpiece dish often served with broth.

Must-Try!

Baursak

Light, fried dough balls enjoyed as a snack or with tea.

Manty

Steam-filled dumplings typically stuffed with meat and onions.

Kazy

Horse meat sausage, a regionally celebrated cured delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Borovskoy Central Bazaar

A bustling market stall area with fresh produce, dairy, and prepared foods; try freshly baked bread and seasonal produce.

Street Food Stalls

Informal vendors offering quick bites like fried dough, meat skewers, and warm soups.

Climate Guide

Weather

Borovskoy experiences a continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and transitional springs and autumns. Summer highs often reach the 20s to low 30s Celsius, while winter temperatures can dip well below freezing with snowfall. Spring and autumn are variable, with windy conditions possible and weather changing quickly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; address elders with respectful language and a courteous tone.

Modest dress

Dress modestly in public and when visiting homes or religious sites; in rural areas, more traditional attire is common.

Hospitality and conversation

Guest hospitality is important; accepting tea or snacks when offered is customary and polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in Borovskoy, but exercise standard travel precautions: guard valuables in markets, be cautious on rural roads after dark, and stay informed about weather conditions. Road surfaces can be dusty or muddy after rain, so drive carefully. Have emergency numbers handy and travel with copies of important documents.

Tipping in Borovskoy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; in cafes and restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments and some hotels. Have local currency on hand for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with cool evenings; expect clear skies and vibrant fields. Hydration and sun protection are important; occasional rain showers can occur.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; air can be crisp in the mornings and evenings. Good for photography and outdoor walks.

Winter

Cold with potential sub-freezing temperatures; snow can blanket the landscape. Pack warm layers and be prepared for longer indoor comfort times.

Spring

Milder weather with blooming plants and fresh greenery; occasional rain or wind. A pleasant time for outdoor exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Borovskoy at Night

Nightlife in Borovskoy is low-key, centered around cozy cafes with occasional live music or cultural gatherings. Most evenings are quiet, with people socializing in family-run eateries and small community events rather than large clubs. Expect a warm, relaxed atmosphere rather than a party scene, perfect for quiet conversations and stargazing after dark.

Hiking in Borovskoy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Steppe Ridge Trail

Gentle climbs with wide-open views of the Kazakh steppes and distant horizons.

Shoreline Nature Walks near local water bodies

Seasonal trails along rivers or lakes offering birdlife and tranquil landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Borovskoy by plane.

Kostanay International Airport

Regional hub with domestic flights; access by road from Borovskoy is feasible for longer trips.

Aktobe International Airport

Larger western Kazakh airport; longer transfers from Borovskoy but useful for broader connectivity.

Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport

Major national hub offering international connections; typically reached via flight from regional centers.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with short distances between shops, markets, and sights; for exploring surrounding countryside or rivers, a short drive or taxi is convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Kazakh

Predominant group in the area with strong kinship and rural traditions.

Russian and other minorities

Smaller communities; bilingual communication is common in some households and shops.

Rural aging population

Many residents are older; services and amenities reflect a slower, community-focused pace.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played and watched; local matches and youth leagues are common in regional towns.

Horseback riding

A traditional activity available in rural areas and on weekends; good for short rides and scenery.

Wrestling and traditional Kazakh sports

Cultural events and community gatherings often feature local wrestling and display of traditional skills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Borovskoy is light; public transport is limited, with taxis and minibuses serving the town. Rural roads can be dusty or muddy after rain and may have limited signage.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borovskoy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy dairy, breads, fruit, vegetables, and traditional pastries; ask for vegetable-based soups or dumplings without meat stock where possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local clinics provide basic care; for more specialized treatment, visitors may need to travel to regional centers or larger cities. Carry health insurance and essential medications, and keep important documents handy.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide