Central Highlands Travel Guide

Travel guide for Central Highlands in Kazakhstan, including its attractions, food scene, accommodations, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Central Highlands

Central Highlands is a region located in the central part of Kazakhstan, in Central Asia. It is known for its natural attractions, such as lakes, mountains, and valleys, as well as its rich history and culture. Central Highlands is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to explore the diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in the local heritage of Kazakhstan.

List of Places to Visit in Central Highlands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Zhastar Park
  • Regional Museum of Local Lore in Karaganda
  • Aysha Bibi Mausoleum
  • Karlag Museum
  • Karkaralinsk State National Natural Park

Natural Attractions of Central Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Karkaraly National Park
  • Bektau-Ata
  • Karazhartas State Natural Reserve
  • Mount Bokty
  • Shabanbai Bi Village National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Highlands

  • Trek to the Bektau-Ata Mountains
  • Hike to the top of Mount Bokty
  • Bike along Karkaraly Lake
  • Trek through the Karkaralinsk National Park
  • Hike to the top of Kokshe Mountain

Best Things to Do in Central Highlands: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Aysha Bibi Mausoleum
  • Take a guided tour of the Karlag Museum
  • Go hiking or biking through the Karkaralinsk National Park
  • Explore the Karkaraly National Park
  • Learn about the local culture at the Zhastar Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Highlands

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Karaganda, visit the Regional Museum of Local Lore
2 Explore the Aysha Bibi Mausoleum and Karlag Museum
3 Hike through the Karkaralinsk National Park
4 Visit the Karkaraly National Park and go hiking or biking
5 Learn about the local culture at the Zhastar Park
6 Trek to the top of Mount Bokty
7 Departure from Karaganda

Food and Drink Scene of Central Highlands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak
  • Kazy
  • Shubat
  • Kymyz
  • Baursaki

Local Beverages

  • Shubat
  • Kymyz
  • Chal

Where to Stay in Central Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Orbita
  • Hotel Zumrat
  • Hotel Cosmonaut
  • Hostel Nomad
  • Guesthouse Ar-Namys

What to Buy in Central Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Kazakh clothing
  • Felt rugs and carpets
  • Handmade jewelry
  • Traditional musical instruments
  • Kazakh honey

Local Culture and Customs of Central Highlands

  • Kazakh people are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors.
  • It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • It is polite to sample some of the offered food and drinks during a meal or celebration.
  • Kazakh culture values respect for elders and guests.

Best Time to Visit Central Highlands

The best time to visit Central Highlands is from May to September when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the natural attractions are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Highlands

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Wear conservative clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Learn a few phrases in Kazakh language.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Take photographs of military buildings or personnel.
  • Touch or remove anything from historical sites or museums.
  • Be disrespectful to elders or locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Highlands

Central Highlands is generally a safe place to visit; however, visitors should take common sense precautions to avoid theft or robbery. It is also advisable to stick to marked trails when hiking or camping in the natural areas.

Health in Central Highlands

Visitors should be up-to-date on their routine vaccinations before traveling to Central Highlands. It is also recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. The region is also prone to tick-borne diseases, so visitors should take measures to prevent tick bites.

Getting to Central Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Highlands

  • Karaganda International Airport

Bus Stations Near Central Highlands

  • Karaganda Bus Station
  • Balkhash Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available in Karaganda.
  • Trains connect Karaganda to other regions of Kazakhstan.

How to Get Around in Central Highlands

  • Taxis are the most common transportation option in Central Highlands.
  • Buses also run between major cities and towns.
  • Renting a car is also an option for those who prefer to travel independently.

Where to Go Next from Central Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan
  • Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan
  • Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest operational space launch facility
  • The Altai Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Conclusion

Central Highlands in Kazakhstan is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions. From its stunning landscapes to its rich history and culture, there is something for everyone to discover and explore. With this travel guide, visitors can plan a comprehensive itinerary that covers the best places to visit, things to do, and local experiences to have in Central Highlands.



    Aktobe
    Balkhash
    Karkaraly National Park
    Semey