Ertis
,Ertis, Kazakhstan is a vibrant city located in the northeastern part of the country. It is known for its industrial development, particularly in the fields of energy and manufacturing. The city is situated along the Irtysh River and offers picturesque views of the surrounding natural landscapes.
Ertis also has a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites and museums showcasing its unique blend of Kazakh and Russian influences.
- "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
- "Rakhmet" - Thank you
- "Keshiriniz" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Iä" - Yes
- "Jok" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $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 plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the Mountains
morning
:Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Then, head to the nearby mountains for a refreshing hike.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, explore local flora and fauna.
evening
:Return to Ertis and dine at a traditional restaurant. Savor local dishes while sharing stories of your adventure.
Visit the National Park
morning
:Drive to the nearby national park early in the morning. Enjoy the scenic views and wildlife spotting.
afternoon
:Have a packed lunch at one of the park's designated areas. Spend the afternoon hiking the marked trails.
evening
:Head back to Ertis and relax at a local café. Indulge in some desserts while reflecting on the day's experiences.
Highlights
Good
- Rich natural resources, including oil and minerals.
- Beautiful landscapes and natural parks for outdoor activities.
- Cultural heritage with a mix of Kazakh and Russian influences.
- Developing infrastructure and growing economy.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
Bad
- Harsh climate with extreme temperatures.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities in rural areas.
- Infrastructure challenges in remote locations.
- Economic reliance on natural resource extraction.
- Political issues and concerns regarding governance.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Altai Mountains
Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife while hiking through the stunning trails of the Altai Mountains near Ertis.
Fishing in the Irtysh River
Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in the Irtysh River, known for its rich aquatic life and beautiful surroundings.
Camping at Lake Balkan
Set up camp near Lake Balkan, where you can enjoy water activities, stunning sunsets, and the serene beauty of nature.
Wildlife Watching
Explore the natural habitats around Ertis and spot various wildlife species, including deer, wolves, and numerous bird species.
Photography Tours
Join guided photography tours that focus on capturing the stunning landscapes, flora, and fauna of the Ertis region.
Horseback Riding
Take a horseback riding tour to explore the rugged terrain and remote areas of the region, experiencing local culture and landscapes.
Cycling Trails
Discover a network of cycling trails that cater to various skill levels, offering a fun way to explore the outdoors.
Kayaking on the Irtysh River
Experience the thrill of kayaking on the gentle waters of the Irtysh River, surrounded by picturesque scenery.
Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the nearby cliffs, perfect for both beginners and advanced climbers.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Ertis with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ertis River Embankment
A scenic area along the Ertis River, offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunset photographs.
Zharma Valley
Known for its stunning natural beauty, this valley provides excellent opportunities for nature photography, including lush green hills and unique rock formations.
Ertis National Park
Home to diverse wildlife and rich flora, this national park features various lookout points ideal for landscape photography, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.
Victory Park
A well-maintained park in Ertis with beautiful gardens and monuments, offering great spots for leisurely photography and capturing city life.
Local Lookout Points
Numerous lookout points around Ertis provide impressive views of the city and surrounding countryside, particularly at dawn or dusk.
Kokshatau Mountain
This mountain offers hiking opportunities with rewarding views from the summit, making it perfect for adventurous photographers looking to capture panoramic shots.
Siberian Pine Forests
These forests surrounding Ertis are perfect for nature lovers and photographers, showcasing stunning landscapes with rich biodiversity, especially during the fall color change.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beshbarmak
A traditional Kazakh dish featuring boiled meat (usually lamb), served with thin flat noodles and often accompanied by onion sauce. Found in traditional Kazakh eateries and local homes.
Must-Try!
Plov
A hearty Central Asian rice pilaf dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices. Available at local eateries and cafes.
Samsa
Savory pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices, baked to golden perfection. Easily found in bakeries and street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ertis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central Food Market
An expansive market offering a variety of fresh produce, local meats, dairy products, and traditional snacks and sweets. Visitors can sample local street food such as kebabs, fried bread (belyash), and sweet treats like chak-chak.
Kazakh Street Food Stalls
Throughout Ertis, street food stalls offer an array of delights, including shashlik (grilled meat skewers), baursaks (fried dough), and various pastries. The streets are alive with the aromas of these delicious treats.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Ertis, it is customary to greet others with a firm handshake, accompanied by direct eye contact. Use titles and last names when addressing someone for the first time to show respect.
Dining Manners
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin the meal. If offered food or drink, it is courteous to accept at least a small amount to show appreciation for the hospitality.
Dress Code
Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and during formal events. Wearing modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is preferred, as it demonstrates respect for local traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ertis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Ertis, Kazakhstan, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount (typically 5-10%) for good service in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi drivers. In more formal settings, such as upscale restaurants, a service charge might already be included.
Payment
Payment methods in Ertis typically include cash in the local currency (Kazakhstani tenge) and credit or debit cards. Most establishments accept card payments, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or markets. Mobile payment options are also becoming more popular, especially among younger residents.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ertis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Ertis is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming nature. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities, as the snow melts and the landscape starts to turn green.
Summer (June to August)
Summer brings warm temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This is the peak tourist season, ideal for hiking, exploring nature, and enjoying local festivals. Expect longer days with plenty of sunshine.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn features cooler temperatures, between 10°C to 20°C, with stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. It's a quieter time for tourism, offering a peaceful experience with beautiful landscapes.
Winter (December to February)
Winter can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, sometimes between -10°C to -25°C. Snow covers the region, making it perfect for winter sports and a picturesque winter landscape, but visitors should be prepared for harsh weather.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dubrava Forest
A serene forest area near Ertis, suitable for hiking and enjoying nature, with marked trails and scenic views.
Kurchum River Trail
A beautiful hiking trail along the Kurchum River, offering lush landscapes and opportunities for bird watching.
Mount Saur
Challenging hikes leading to the summit of Mount Saur, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.
Ertis River Banks
A quieter hiking area along the banks of the Ertis River, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.
Zaisan Lake
A slightly farther hike to Zaisan Lake, known for its stunning waters and surrounding hills, perfect for a day trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ertis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Ertis by plane.
Almaty International Airport (ALA)
The largest airport in Kazakhstan, located in Almaty, approximately 800 km from Ertis. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ)
Located in the capital city of Nur-Sultan, about 800 km from Ertis. It is the second-largest airport in Kazakhstan and serves various international destinations.
Aktobe International Airport (AKX)
Located in Aktobe, approximately 1400 km from Ertis. It handles both domestic and international flights.
Karaganda International Airport (KGF)
Located near Karaganda, around 1100 km from Ertis. This airport supports limited international operations.
Shymkent International Airport (CIT)
Located in Shymkent, roughly 1300 km from Ertis. This airport facilitates international travel to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kazakh
The ethnic group making up the majority of the population in Kazakhstan, known for their nomadic culture and traditions.
Russian
A significant minority in Kazakhstan, often residing in urban areas and known for their cultural influence in the region.
Uighur
An ethnic group with origins in Xinjiang, China, present in Kazakhstan primarily for trade and agriculture.
Ukrainian
A minority group in Kazakhstan, with a history of immigration during the Soviet era, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Korean
An ethnic group with a unique cultural heritage, some of whom moved to Kazakhstan during the Stalin era.
Tatar
A Turkic ethnic group that has a long history in Kazakhstan, contributing to the linguistic and cultural landscape.
Other ethnic groups
Includes various smaller communities and migrants, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the region.
The Soul of Ertis
Discover the essence of Ertis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Ertis, attracting fans and players of all ages. Local teams participate in regional leagues and competitions.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey has a strong following in Ertis, with several clubs and youth programs promoting the sport. It is popular due to the cold climate, allowing for ice-based sports.
Basketball
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Ertis, with schools and community centers offering access to courts and training.
Wrestling
Wrestling holds cultural significance in Kazakhstan, and Ertis has local competitions that encourage participation in this traditional sport.
Track and Field
Athletics, including track and field events, is actively promoted in schools and local sports clubs, encouraging physical fitness and competition.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Kazakh cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, modern eateries in Ertis are increasingly accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus or options.
Gluten-Free Choices
For those with gluten restrictions, many restaurants and cafes in Ertis now provide gluten-free alternatives, especially for staple dishes like plov and traditional breads. However, it's advisable for those with severe gluten allergies to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ertis with these cultural adventures.