Baikonur Travel Guide

Explore the rich heritage and culture of Baikonur with our in-depth travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Baikonur.


Baikonur Travel Guide - Your Ultimate Tourist Companion

Nestled in the Kazakh desert in Central Asia, Baikonur is an exotic destination that boasts of rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure opportunities. If you are planning a trip to this hidden gem, our travel guide has got you covered.

Introduction to Baikonur

Baikonur, the world’s first and largest cosmodrome, is a town in Kazakhstan and home to the Russian’s space program. It is located in the vast flatlands of the Kazakh desert and is a hub of space exploration. Baikonur is a closed city, so you are required to obtain special permission to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Baikonur

Baikonur has a lot in store for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience. Here are some must-visit places in Baikonur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Baikonur Cosmodrome Museum: This is a must-visit museum for history buffs and space enthusiasts. The museum showcases the history of space exploration and offers insights into the Russian space program’s inner workings.
  • Yuri Gagarin’s House-Museum: This museum is dedicated to Yuri Gagarin, the first man to travel to space. It illustrates his life and career and offers a glimpse into his personal belongings and achievements.
  • Cosmonaut Hotel: Located inside the Baikonur Cosmodrome, this hotel has hosted several astronauts over the years. A stay here offers a unique experience of living in a space-adjacent environment.

Natural Attractions of Baikonur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Baikonur’s steppe landscape is a great place to explore the outdoors. Head to Korkyt-Ata Reserve and hike the Terekty Valley Trail for a stunning view of the desert and its unique flora and fauna.
  • The Syr Darya River is also worth exploring for fishing and kayaking enthusiasts.
  • Baikonur’s endless sky and starry nights are a delight for stargazers and photographers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baikonur

Baikonur has some fantastic hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Steppes. Some popular routes to explore include the Terekty Valley Trail, Syr Darya River Trail, and Kyzylarai Nature Reserve Trail.

Best Things to Do in Baikonur: Activities and Tours

Baikonur has plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your visit. Here are a few must-try activities and tours:

  • Space Launch Tour: If you are lucky, you may be able to witness a rocket launch at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Several tour operators offer space launch tours that take you behind the scenes of a rocket launch.
  • Desert Safari: Explore Baikonur’s vast and beautiful desert landscape with a desert safari tour.
  • Star Gazing: The night sky in Baikonur is a sight to behold. Sign up for a night-sky tour to stargaze and learn about astronomy from experts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baikonur

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Baikonur:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in at hotel
2 Baikonur Cosmodrome Museum and Yuri Gagarin’s House-Museum
3 Hiking the Terekty Valley Trail
4 Space Launch Tour, if available
5 Desert Safari Tour and Syr Darya River Trail
6 Kyzylarai Nature Reserve Trail and Star Gazing Tour
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Baikonur

Baikonur’s local cuisine is diverse and delicious. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak: This is Kazakhstan’s national dish and comprises boiled lamb or beef served with noodles and onions.
  • Baursak: This is a deep-fried dough pastry that is often served as a breakfast dish.
  • Shashlik: This is a popular barbecue dish made with grilled meat, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Kymyz: This is a fermented mare’s milk drink that is popular among locals.
  • Shubat: This is also a fermented milk-based drink made from camel or goat’s milk.

Where to Stay in Baikonur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Baikonur has several accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular hotels in the town include the Baikonur Hotel, Hotel Soyuz, and Cosmonaut Hotel. If you are on a budget, you can opt for hostels or guesthouses.

What to Buy in Baikonur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Baikonur has several souvenir shops that sell space-related merchandise such as model rockets, astronaut figurines, and T-shirts. Kazakhstan’s traditional handicrafts, such as pottery and textiles, make for excellent gifts to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Baikonur

Baikonur has a rich culture and history that is heavily influenced by the nomadic tribes and Soviet-era influences. The Kazakh people, who account for a significant portion of the population, have their unique customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Baikonur

The best time to visit Baikonur is during the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is warm and dry. The winter months from December to February can be harsh, with temperatures dipping below freezing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baikonur

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and sensitivities.
  • Obtain the necessary permits and permissions to visit Baikonur.
  • Dress modestly while visiting cultural and religious places.

Don’t:

  • Do not take photographs of people or places without permission.
  • Do not litter the environment.
  • Do not touch or take anything from a historical site.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baikonur

Baikonur is generally safe for tourists. However, travelers should exercise caution when exploring the desert, as it is easy to get lost.

Health in Baikonur

The harsh desert climate and temperatures can take a toll on your health. Ensure that you carry sufficient water and sunscreen with you at all times. It is also advisable to consult your doctor before visiting Baikonur.

Getting to Baikonur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baikonur is well connected by air, road, and rail. Here are the transportation options available to reach Baikonur:

Airports Near Baikonur

  • Kyzylorda Airport: This is the nearest international airport to Baikonur, located approximately 216 kilometers away.
  • Baikonur Airport: This is a military airport that serves as an alternative to Kyzylorda Airport.

Bus Stations Near Baikonur

  • Sary-Kamysh Bus Terminal: This is the central bus terminal in Baikonur.

Other Options

  • Trains are another popular mode of transportation to Baikonur, with several daily trains departing from major cities.

How to Get Around in Baikonur

Baikonur’s main modes of transportation are taxis and buses. However, if you are exploring the outdoors or taking a desert safari tour, it is advisable to rent a car.

Where to Go Next from Baikonur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Baikonur’s wonders, you can head to nearby destinations such as the ancient city of Turkestan, the Kazakh capital city of Nur-Sultan, and the beautiful city of Almaty.

Conclusion

Baikonur is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the world of space exploration and Kazakhstan’s rich culture and heritage. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Baikonur has something for everyone. Be sure to use our comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to this exciting destination!