Things To Do
in Qapshaghay
Qapshaghay is a small village located in the East Kazakhstan region of Kazakhstan. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, with mountains and forests surrounding the village. The community is tight-knit, with a focus on traditional Kazakh culture and customs.
Qapshaghay offers a peaceful and serene environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "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): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a thrilling rock climbing session at the nearby cliffs. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you test your skills.
After lunch, head to the Qapshaghay Reservoir for some water sports. You can rent a jet ski or a boat and savor the beautiful landscape.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant by the waterfront. Savor traditional Kazakh dishes while watching the sunset.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby mountains. Breathe in the crisp air and appreciate the stunning natural beauty around you.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature, then continue exploring by visiting local flora and fauna spots. Take photographs of the diverse wildlife.
Visit a local cultural center to learn about the region's traditions. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a family-run eatery with homemade dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Growing economy with opportunities for investment.
- Friendly local population and diverse community.
- Strategic location with access to major trade routes.
- Limited infrastructure development in some areas.
- Harsh climate conditions, particularly in winter.
- Limited access to higher education and specialized services.
- Potential political instability or changes in governance.
- Economic reliance on specific industries, which can lead to vulnerability.
Best Activities in Qapshaghay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and unique rock formations in Bayanaul National Park while enjoying a hike in the fresh air.
Set up a campsite by the tranquil Lake Sabyndykol and enjoy a night under the stars surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Discover a diverse range of bird species while birdwatching in the scenic Kyzylarai Mountains.
Embark on an exhilarating mountain biking adventure through the picturesque landscapes of the Kazakh uplands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Qapshaghay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Qapshaghay
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its breathtaking canyon views and unique rock formations, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Famous for its submerged forest, offering unique and picturesque views perfect for photography.
Food in Qapshaghay
Qapshaghay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, consisting of boiled meat (usually lamb or horse meat) served on a bed of flat noodles, often accompanied by broth and onions. Beshbarmak is a staple of Kazakh cuisine and can be savored at local eateries and Kazakh households alike.
Must-Try!
These steamed dumplings are typically filled with minced meat, onions, and sometimes pumpkin. They are a popular street food and can be found in food stalls and cafes throughout Qapshaghay.
This fermented mare's milk is a traditional Kazakh beverage known for its tangy and slightly effervescent taste. It's widely available and best sampled at local markets or while visiting nomadic settlements in the surrounding area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Qapshaghay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Situated in the heart of Qapshaghay, Zelyony Bazaar offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, cured meats, traditional dairy products, and Kazakh spices. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of street food such as samsa (savory pastries) and shashlik (grilled skewered meat) at the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Qapshaghay, it's important to greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It's also respectful to use proper titles and show deference to elders.
Hospitality is highly valued in Qapshaghay. When visiting someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift or some food. Guests are expected to show gratitude and respect for the host's home.
Qapshaghay culture places importance on maintaining a modest and respectful demeanor, especially in public spaces. It is appreciated to show restraint in behavior and dress conservatively, particularly around older individuals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Qapshaghay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Qapshaghay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Qapshaghay, Kazakhstan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or other service-oriented businesses.
Cash is the most widely used form of payment in Qapshaghay, although some larger establishments may also accept credit cards. It's important to carry cash for most transactions, especially in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Qapshaghay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Qapshaghay, with pleasant weather, wildflowers in bloom, and live nomadic festivals.
Warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding, and the traditional eagle hunting festival.
Beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
Cold and snowy, perfect for experiencing the winter traditions of the Kazakh nomadic culture, such as ice fishing and traditional games.
Qapshaghay at Night
Hiking in Qapshaghay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient petroglyphs and stunning landscapes, Tamgaly Tas offers great hiking opportunities with scenic views of the Ili River.
Located in Almaty, this beautiful wooden cathedral is surrounded by parks and nature trails, offering nearby hiking routes with a combination of cultural and natural exploration.
A popular hiking destination, Chatyr Altyn in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains offers trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, with breathtaking vistas.
Situated in the nearby mountains, Big Almaty Lake is accessible by hiking trails and offers stunning views of the turquoise waters and surrounding peaks.
This hiking route near Almaty provides beautiful panoramas and a chance to explore the alpine meadows while being close to nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Qapshaghay through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Qapshaghay by plane.
The largest airport in Kazakhstan, located in the city of Almaty, approximately 70 kilometers from Qapshaghay.
This is a potential confusion; the nearest major international airport is actually Tashkent International Airport (TAS) in Uzbekistan, which is about 350 kilometers away.
Located in Atyrau, this airport is another international gateway in Kazakhstan, but it is further away, approximately 1,800 kilometers from Qapshaghay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kazakhstan, the Kazakhs make up the majority of the population in Qapshaghay.
A significant minority in Kazakhstan, Russians are one of the major demographic groups in Qapshaghay.
Uzbeks represent a smaller, but notable demographic presence in Qapshaghay.
Uighurs are a minority group in Kazakhstan, with a small population present in Qapshaghay.
Other ethnic groups including Ukrainians, Tatars, and others, make up a smaller portion of the demographic makeup in Qapshaghay.
The Soul of Qapshaghay
Discover the essence of Qapshaghay through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is extremely popular in Qapshaghay, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and local clubs, and the city organizes various tournaments.
Boxing is a well-regarded sport, with many young athletes training in local boxing gyms.
Traditional wrestling has a significant following, with many competitions held throughout the year.
Volleyball is popular among youth and is played in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qapshaghay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kazakh cuisine leans towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Qapshaghay offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as stuffed peppers, vegetable pilaf, and bean stews. It's advisable for visitors to communicate their dietary preferences in advance to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Individuals with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various dining establishments in Qapshaghay, including gluten-free bread, rice dishes, and naturally gluten-free Kazakh delicacies like kumis and airan (strained yogurt). Staff at restaurants are usually receptive to customizing meals to suit dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Qapshaghay with these cultural adventures.
