Things To Do
in Ereymentaū

Ereymentau is a small mining town in central Kazakhstan located on the edge of the Kazakh Steppe. Surrounded by rolling hills and wide open skies, it serves as a quiet gateway to the country’s rural heart. Life here moves at a slower pace, with friendly locals, markets, and a strong sense of community.

The surrounding landscapes offer wide horizons, wind-swept plains, and easy access to outdoor adventures in the Erementau Hills region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Ereymentaū
morning
:

Arrive in Ereymentaū and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the quaint town to absorb the local culture and architecture. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and fresh produce. Sample some regional dishes at a local eatery, immersing yourself in the flavors of Kazakhstan. Visit the nearby parks for a serene afternoon amidst nature.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, soaking in the local ambiance. Join a cultural performance if available, to experience the music and dance of the region. Take a relaxing evening walk under the starry sky.

day 2
Ereymentaū Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Visit the Ereymentaū Museum to learn about the region's history, culture, and traditions. Engage with local guides who can share fascinating stories of the area. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at the museum's café.

afternoon
:

Head to the historical sites within the town, exploring ancient monuments that tell the tale of the land. Participate in a workshop on traditional crafts, gaining hands-on experience. Enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic location.

evening
:

Attend a local folk music event, where you can appreciate the unique sounds and rhythms of Kazakh culture. Socialize with the friendly locals and exchange stories over dinner. Wind down at a cozy tea house, sipping on traditional teas.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
☕️Coffee/tea$2-4
🛏️One-night budget accommodation$15-25
🚕Short taxi ride$3-7
🧶Local crafts or souvenirs$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, authentic Kazakh steppe experience
  • Friendly locals and low crowds
  • Limited nightlife and fewer English speakers
  • Longer travel times from major cities
  • "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello (formal)
  • "Қанша тұрады?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Рақмет" - Thank you
  • "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me / I am sorry
  • "Сіз қайдансыз?" - Where are you from?
  • "Сау болыңыз" - Goodbye
  • "Өтінемін" - Please
  • "Сіз қалайсыз?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Ereymentaū

Visit one of these nice places.

Erementau Hills Lookout

Panoramic viewpoints over rolling hills and open steppe; dramatic skies at sunrise and sunset.

Central Square at Dusk

Iconic Soviet era architecture framed by warm sunset light and local life.

Wind Farm Corridor

A row of modern turbines set against a wide horizon—great for minimalist skyline shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ereymentaū

Kazakh cuisine here celebrates meat, dairy, and grains, with hearty dishes that pair well with the nomadic heritage of the region.

Ereymentaū Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A national staple: boiled meat with noodles and onion sauce; best enjoyed on a shared platter.

Must-Try!

Plov

Savory rice with carrots and meat, cooked with cumin and bay leaves; a festival staple at markets and family gatherings.

Kazy

Horse meat sausage served sliced with flatbread and onions; a traditional centerpiece in celebratory meals.

Baursaki

Fluffy fried dough snacks, perfect with tea.

Kumis

Fermented mare's milk, tangy and refreshing in warm weather.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Bazaar

A lively market with fresh produce, dairy, and grilled bites from local vendors.

Street stalls near the square

Casual bites like fried dough, samosas, and seasonal fruits sold by friendly sellers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ereymentau has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn bring mild days with variable winds. Rain is infrequent but weather can shift quickly in the steppe.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a handshake and a warm smile; address elders with respect and use formal forms.

Dress and Etiquette

Modest clothing is appreciated in public spaces and religious sites; remove shoes where required; ask before taking photos of people.

Mealtime Etiquette

Meals are often shared; wait for elders to start, offer tea, and accept invitations to sit.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should take standard safety precautions: keep valuables secure, be cautious when travelling at night in isolated areas, and stay aware of weather and road conditions. Carry a basic first aid kit and local emergency numbers. When driving, watch for livestock on rural roads and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.

Tipping in Ereymentaū

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In cafes and restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash in Kazakh tenge is widely used; many shops accept cards in towns, and mobile payments like Kaspi are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long, hot days with dry conditions. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Afternoon storms can occur; plan indoor activities during the hottest hours.

Winter

Cold, windy, and snowy with potential road ice. Pack insulated clothing, waterproof boots, and a windproof layer. Some remote routes may be impassable after heavy snowfall.

Spring

Mild days and blooming steppe flora; watch for gusty winds. Great for photography and outdoor walking.

Autumn

Cool temperatures returning; harvest season in nearby farms; clear air and dramatic skies.

Nightlife Guide

Ereymentaū at Night

In Ereymentau, nightlife is subdued. Most evenings center on family meals in cafes or cultural centers. For livelier options, head to Karaganda for bars, live music, and clubs, or join seasonal festivals when they occur in the region.

Hiking in Ereymentaū

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Erementau Hills Trail

A scenic loop through the rolling hills and steppe with several viewpoints.

Steppe Ridge Path

Easy to moderate trails along long grasslands and seasonal wildflowers.

Airports

How to reach Ereymentaū by plane.

Karaganda International Airport (KGF)

The closest major airport with domestic and some international flights; roughly 100-150 kilometers from Ereymentau depending on route.

Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ)

Astana airport, a longer option with more international connections (~300 km from Ereymentau) but accessible by road or rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ereymentau is small and walkable around the town center, with most sights reachable on foot. Sidewalks are present on main streets but can be lacking on some peripheral routes, so a short drive may be needed to reach more remote spots.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Kazakh

The majority group, with rich cultural traditions and language.

Russian-speaking residents

A significant minority; Russian is commonly understood in town.

Young professionals and students

People connected to regional mining, agriculture, and education.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular team and amateur games in town and region.

Ice Hockey

Winter ice sports and local leagues in nearby facilities.

Horseback Riding

A traditional Kazakh sport often offered by local hosts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in Ereymentau with limited public transport within the town. For longer trips to Karaganda or Astana, expect intercity buses or shared taxis. Roads can be variable in winter; winter tires are recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ereymentaū.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes center on meat, but you can find vegetable plov, dumplings, breads, dairy, and salads. Ask for vegetarian options and for meat to be omitted.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is limited within Ereymentau; there are small clinics in town and a larger hospital network in Karaganda. For complex medical needs, plan to visit Karaganda or Astana and carry your health insurance information. Travel insurance is advised.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide