Things To Do
in Qaskeleng

Wide-open plains at sunrise and sunset provide dramatic light and expansive compositions with grazing livestock and distant hills.

Colorful stalls, local portraits, and food close-ups make the market a lively photographic environment.

Traditional yurts and herds offer cultural and action shots — best captured during morning activity or when herders move animals.

Small streams and nearby gorges provide contrasts of water, rock, and vegetation ideal for landscapes and macro nature shots.

The national dish of Kazakhstan — boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over wide noodles and onions; commonly found in family restaurants or on special occasions.

Must-Try!

A fragrant rice dish cooked with carrots, onions and meat; available at bazaars, chaikhanas and small eateries.

Small fried dough pieces served as a snack or accompaniment to tea, sold at markets and bakeries.

Horsemeat sausages (kazy) and smoked meats common in the region, often available from local butchers or during festivals.

A polite handshake and eye contact are common; older people receive particular respect. Use a simple hello in Kazakh or Russian to show courtesy.

Remove your shoes when entering a private home and bring a small gift or sweets if invited to eat. Accept tea when offered as a sign of respect.

Dress modestly in rural communities, especially near religious sites. Public displays of affection are less common and can attract attention.

Deferential behavior toward elders is expected; greet them first and offer seats when appropriate.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% or rounding up is common; tip guides and drivers when service is personalized.

Cash (Kazakhstani tenge) is king in rural areas; small vendors and markets may not accept cards. ATMs are available in larger towns — carry enough cash for day trips. Mobile payments and cards are increasingly accepted in bigger centers.

Warm to hot days with cool nights, abundant wildflowers and long daylight — best time for horseback riding, hiking, and outdoor stays; bring sun protection and light layers.

Crisp, clear weather with colorful vegetation in the foothills; pleasant for walks and photography but temperatures drop quickly in evenings.

Cold, snowy conditions with subfreezing temperatures possible; rural roads can be icy and some services limited — dress in warm layers and check travel conditions.

Melting snow and early blooms make for muddy trails but lively pastoral scenes; mosquito activity can increase as temperatures rise, so bring repellent.

A range of short to moderate trails cutting through foothills offering panoramic views, wildflowers in summer, and access to traditional shepherding areas.

Small local gorges and river valleys provide scenic walks, streams, and opportunities to see local flora and fauna; trails can be rocky—wear good footwear.

The major international gateway for southeastern Kazakhstan; reachable by road in roughly 1–2 hours depending on exact location and traffic. Offers flights to major regional hubs and international destinations.

A smaller regional airport that can serve domestic flights and regional connections; ground travel times vary and may be useful depending on your itinerary.

The majority population, speaking Kazakh and practicing cultural traditions tied to pastoralism and Islamic customs.

Smaller communities of ethnic Russians and other groups (Uzbeks, Uyghurs, Tatars, etc.) contribute to a multiethnic local culture; Russian is commonly spoken as a lingua franca.