Things To Do
in Esil
Esil, Kazakhstan is a small town located in the Akmola Region of northern Kazakhstan. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the nearby Esil River. The town serves as a center for agriculture and is home to several farms producing crops such as wheat and barley.
Esil has a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to visit for those seeking a rural escape.
- "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
- "Rakhmet" - Thank you
- "Keshiriniz" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Iä" - Yes
- "Jok" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby mountains, enjoying the serene landscapes. Don't forget to take your camera to capture the stunning views.
Visit a local park for a picnic lunch, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. You can also engage with the locals and learn about their culture.
Wind down by visiting a local café for a traditional Kazakh meal. Enjoy the warmth of the local hospitality while reflecting on your adventures.
Begin your adventure with a guided tour through the stunning natural reserves around Esil. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora.
Have a packed lunch in the great outdoors before embarking on a fishing trip at a nearby lake. Experience the thrill of catching local fish.
Return to Esil and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a riverside restaurant. Savor traditional dishes while enjoying the sunset view.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local people.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Strategically located for trade and transportation between Europe and Asia.
- Growing economy and opportunities for investment.
- Increasing availability of modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Harsh winters with extremely cold temperatures.
- Underdeveloped public transportation systems in some areas.
- Limited access to certain modern services or technologies in rural regions.
- Challenges related to environmental issues, such as pollution.
- Language barrier for non-Kazakh speakers may present difficulties.
Best Activities in Esil
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore beautiful trails and enjoy stunning views of the natural landscapes, lakes, and diverse wildlife in the park.
Enjoy a relaxing day fishing in the picturesque Lake Zhetybai, known for its clear waters and various fish species.
Participate in guided tours of nearby villages to learn about the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Kazakh people.
Experience camping under the stars at Burabay, where you can hike, swim, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Observe a variety of birds in their natural habitats around the region's lakes, especially during migratory seasons.
Tours
Uncover the best of Esil with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Esil
Visit one of these nice places.
The scenic banks of the Esil River offer stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
This park features well-maintained pathways, beautiful gardens, and a tranquil environment, ideal for capturing vibrant photos of local flora and outdoor activities.
Central Square is the heart of Esil, surrounded by notable buildings and monuments. The large open space is great for wide-angle shots and capturing city life.
The museum's architecture and surrounding area provide a picturesque backdrop to learn about the local culture while capturing beautiful historical views.
Esil's markets are bustling with activity and colorful displays of local goods, offering fantastic opportunities to photograph the vibrant culture and everyday life.
Located in a prominent area, the observation deck provides panoramic views of Esil and surrounding landscapes, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Esil
Esil Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kazakh dish featuring boiled meat, noodles, and onions, served with a flavorful broth. Best enjoyed at local Kazakh eateries.
Must-Try!
A horse meat sausage, often served thinly sliced as a cold appetizer. Can be found at specialty meat markets and traditional Kazakh dining establishments.
A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, dressed with vinegar and sunflower oil. Available at many local cafes and restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Esil better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts, and local delicacies. Don't miss trying samsa (baked pastries filled with meat or vegetables) from the street food vendors.
Located near the city center, these stalls offer an array of street foods including shashlik (grilled meats on skewers), baursaks (deep-fried dough), and traditional drinks like kumis (fermented mare's milk).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone, it is customary to greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. For close friends and family, a light kiss on the cheek is also common. Make sure to greet the eldest person first as a sign of respect.
In Kazakh culture, elders are highly respected. It’s important to show deference to older individuals, including standing up when they enter the room and using formal titles as a sign of respect.
Kazakh people are known for their hospitality. If invited to a guest's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits. Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home and accept food or drinks offered as a gesture of hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Esil with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Esil
Ensure a smooth experience
In Esil, Kazakhstan, tipping is customary but not obligatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small percentage, usually around 10% of the total, especially in restaurants and cafes. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service, and while it is appreciated by service staff, it is not always expected.
Payment methods in Esil typically include cash and credit or debit cards. While larger establishments and international hotels may accept cards, many smaller businesses and markets operate primarily on a cash basis. The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT), and ATMs are available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Esil.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Esil, Kazakhstan, typically runs from March to May. This season experiences mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and a revitalization of nature. Expect pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. Spring is a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer lasts from June to August, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. This is the warmest season, ideal for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscapes. Expect long daylight hours and occasional rainfall. It's a vibrant time with various local festivals.
Autumn spans from September to November. Temperatures gradually decrease from 20°C in September to around 5°C in November. This season features beautiful fall foliage and is a perfect time for photography. The weather is generally mild, but be prepared for cooler evenings.
Winter lasts from December to February and can be quite harsh. Temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower. Expect snow-covered landscapes, making it a picturesque time of year. This is also the low season for tourism, but winter sports and activities such as ice skating become prominent.
Esil at Night
Hiking in Esil
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located northeast of Esil, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.
Located further to the west, this park offers a range of hiking opportunities amidst serene lakes, forests, and picturesque hills.
A mountainous area near Esil, perfect for hiking with trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
A ridge featuring various trails that cater to different skill levels, popular among local hikers looking for day trips.
Well-known for its recreational opportunities, this resort area provides ample hiking trails along scenic routes and is close to Esil.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Esil through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Esil by plane.
Located in Nur-Sultan, approximately 146 kilometers from Esil, this is the main international airport serving the capital city of Kazakhstan.
Located in Almaty, about 600 kilometers from Esil, this is the largest airport in Kazakhstan and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Situated in Karaganda, roughly 250 kilometers from Esil, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Approximately 270 kilometers from Esil, this airport is located in Petropavl and primarily serves domestic flights with some international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Esil, composing a significant majority of the population.
The second largest group, primarily descendants of Russian settlers and their families.
A smaller demographic group in Esil, often with historical ties to both Kazakhstan and Ukraine.
Includes various ethnicities such as Koreans, Tatars, and other smaller communities.
The Soul of Esil
Discover the essence of Esil through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Esil, attracting many local players and fans. The sport is played in schools, community leagues, and local tournaments.
Basketball has a growing presence in Esil, with numerous facilities and teams for youth and adults, fostering a competitive spirit and community engagement.
Wrestling holds cultural significance in Kazakhstan and is widely practiced in Esil. There are various styles of wrestling, including traditional Kazakh wrestling.
Track and field events are popular among schools and athletic clubs in Esil, promoting physical fitness and competition among youth.
Ice hockey is gaining popularity in Kazakhstan, including Esil, with local teams and leagues that participate in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esil.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, many restaurants in Esil offer vegetarian-friendly dishes like vegetable stews, salads, and bean-based soups. Cafes and eateries in the city center are more likely to have these options.
Given the prevalence of bread and pastries in Kazakh cuisine, finding gluten-free options can be a challenge. It's advisable for individuals with gluten restrictions to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out, as some places may be able to accommodate with rice-based dishes or grilled meats.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Esil with these cultural adventures.