Things To Do
in Oral
Oral, Kazakhstan is a city located in the western part of the country along the Ural River. It serves as a major cultural and economic center in the region, known for its diverse population and historical significance. Visitors can explore the city's mix of architecture, including Soviet-era buildings and modern structures.
Oral is also a gateway to the beautiful wilderness of western Kazakhstan, offering opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and fishing.
- "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 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Oral Central Mosque, where you can admire the stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café nearby.
Visit the Great Steppe museum to learn about the region's history and culture. After the museum, stroll through the city park and take in the fresh air.
Dine at a local restaurant serving Kazakh cuisine. End your evening with a walk along the Ural River.
Begin with a hike in the nearby Aktolagay Mountains to enjoy panoramic views of the area. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
Return to the city and visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere. Sample some traditional snacks and purchase local handicrafts.
Join a cultural performance to experience the local music and dance. Wind down with dessert at a cozy café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including traditional music, dance, and art.
- Diverse natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and steppes, attractive for outdoor activities.
- Growing tourism sector, offering opportunities for local businesses and job creation.
- Strategic location as a hub between Europe and Asia, promoting trade and connectivity.
- Limited infrastructure development compared to larger cities, which may affect accessibility.
- Economic challenges, including reliance on specific industries that can lead to volatility.
- Harsh climate conditions, including extreme temperatures that may deter tourists.
- Need for more investment in public services such as healthcare and education.
Best Activities in Oral
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes of the Tien Shan Mountains, offering diverse hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Enjoy a cycling adventure along the picturesque Lake Zaysan, offering serene surroundings and captivating views for cyclists of all levels.
Engage in a relaxing fishing experience at the Ural River, known for its abundant fish species and tranquil waters, ideal for a peaceful angling session.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oral with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oral
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a panoramic view of Oral and is a popular spot for photographers.
Offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes, ideal for photography.
Scenic park with walking trails and picturesque spots for capturing nature and city views.
Food in Oral
Oral Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kazakh dish featuring boiled meat, usually lamb or horse meat, served with thin pasta sheets and accompanied by broth. Best sampled at local eateries like Kishlak Restaurant or Zaman Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A popular dish made with organ meats, such as liver, heart, and kidneys, cooked with onions and spices. It can be found at traditional Kazakh restaurants like Dastarkhan.
A type of deep-fried bread that is a staple of Kazakh cuisine, often served with tea or as a snack. Look for them at local bakeries or food stalls in the city.
A traditional Kazakh beverage made from fermented camel's milk, known for its tangy flavor. Available at specialty beverage shops and some traditional restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oral better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is the perfect place to experience the local food scene, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, dairy products, meats, and traditional Kazakh snacks. Visitors can sample street food like samsa (savory pastries) and various kebabs from the food stalls in the market.
Another vibrant food market offering a wide range of local produce, spices, and culinary delights. This is an excellent spot to taste street food specialties like beshbarmak, shashlik, and baursak from the numerous vendors.
A popular spot for sampling diverse street food options, including international and local dishes. From sizzling kebabs to freshly baked bread, this food court provides an array of culinary experiences in one location.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oral, it is important to greet others with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Men may also nod their head slightly as a form of greeting. It's important to address people using their titles and last names unless given permission to use first names.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Kazakh culture. It's important to show deference and speak politely to older individuals. It's also customary to stand up when an older person enters the room as a sign of respect.
In Oral, hospitality is a central aspect of Kazakh culture. It is common for hosts to offer guests food and drinks as a sign of respect and generosity. Guests are expected to accept these offerings and show appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oral with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oral
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kazakhstan, and it is not expected in most situations. However, it is appreciated in upscale restaurants and for exceptional service.
Cash is widely used for small transactions in Kazakhstan, while credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments. It is also common to pay for services such as taxis and markets in cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oral.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Oral, Kazakhstan is during the spring months when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Expect pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to witness the awakening of nature after the long winter.
During the summer, Oral experiences warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and to explore the local culture and traditions as festivals and events take place during this season.
Autumn in Oral brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a great time for nature walks and enjoying the fall colors. It's also a nice time to experience the local harvest and culinary delights.
Winter in Oral is cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. This season offers a unique opportunity to experience the winter landscapes, engage in winter sports, and partake in traditional winter festivities and celebrations.
Oral at Night
Hiking in Oral
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast desert area offering challenging hiking adventures with stunning views of unique landscapes and local flora.
Located to the north of Oral, these mountains provide several trails suitable for different skill levels amidst beautiful natural scenery.
Hiking along the scenic banks of the Ural River allows for a mix of nature and cultural exploration with opportunities for fishing and bird-watching.
An open area perfect for long hikes and observing local wildlife, especially suitable during spring and autumn.
A smaller yet picturesque mountain offering accessible trails with breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oral through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oral by plane.
The nearest international airport located in Oral, Kazakhstan.
An international airport in Atyrau, approximately 200 km from Oral.
An international airport in Aktobe, about 300 km from Oral.
The largest international airport in Kazakhstan located in Almaty, around 1700 km from Oral.
International airport located in Nur-Sultan, approximately 1700 km from Oral.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Oral, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority, with a long-standing presence in the region.
Includes smaller communities of Ukrainians, Tatars, and others.
The Soul of Oral
Discover the essence of Oral through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Oral, attracting many fans and players of all ages.
Ice hockey is a favored sport in Oral, particularly during the winter months, with several local teams and tournaments.
Basketball is increasingly popular among the youth in Oral, with many schools and community centers offering programs.
Volleyball enjoys popularity as a recreational sport, played both indoors and on the beach during the summer.
Wrestling has a significant following in Oral, with traditional styles being practiced alongside modern competitive wrestling.
Athletics, including track and field events, is promoted through schools and local sports events in Oral.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Oral, with many scenic routes for cyclists of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oral.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kazakh cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Oral offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as vegetable pilaf, salads, and grilled vegetables. Look for dishes labeled as 'nabat' or 'nashar,' which are typically vegetarian-friendly.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable choices at various restaurants and cafes, including dishes like rice pilaf, grilled meats, and dairy-based soups. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oral with these cultural adventures.
