Burabay National Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and adventure of Burabay National Park in Kazakhstan with this comprehensive guide, from natural attractions and hiking routes to local culture and customs.


Introduction to Burabay National Park

Located in the north of Kazakhstan in Central Asia, Burabay National Park offers a stunning natural landscape of lakes, forests, and mountains. Known to locals as “Kokshetau”, which means “blue mountains”, the park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, Burabay is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation experience.

List of Places to Visit in Burabay National Park

Whether you’re looking for culturally important attractions, natural wonders, or outdoor adventures, Burabay National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places and attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Burabay Ethnographic Museum - Learn about the history and culture of the Kazakh people with exhibits on traditional clothing, music, and crafts.
  • Kenesary Museum - Explore the life and legacy of Kenesary Khan, a Kazakh leader who fought against Russian colonization and became a national hero.
  • Zhumbaktas Mausoleum - Located at the peak of Zhumbaktas mountain, this mausoleum is a sacred site for the Kazakh people and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kokshetau State Nature Reserve - This nature reserve is a protected site that’s home to rare plants and animals, including the Turkmenian wild ass.

Natural Attractions of Burabay National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Burabay - This stunning lake is surrounded by forested mountains and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
  • Lake Kotyrkul - Known for its clear blue waters and picturesque setting, Lake Kotyrkul is a popular spot for picnicking and hiking.
  • Kokshetau Mountain Range - This mountain range features diverse geological formations, including granite rocks and sandy hills, and offers opportunities for hiking and mountain climbing.
  • Kurgaldzhino State Nature Reserve - This reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds, including the pink flamingo and Siberian white crane.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burabay National Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Burabay National Park offers a range of hiking and biking routes with varying levels of difficulty. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Kabanbai to Zhumbaktas - This 5 km trail leads from the Kabanbai river to the Zhumbaktas mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kokshe to Borovoye - This 10 km trail leads from Kokshe village to the Borovoye resort area, passing through forests and meadows.
  • Zheke Batyr to Burabay - This 7 km trail leads from the Zheke Batyr settlement to Lake Burabay, passing through the Kokshetau mountain range.

Best Things to Do in Burabay National Park: Activities and Tours

Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Burabay National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Boating on Lake Burabay - Rent a boat and explore the tranquil waters of Lake Burabay.
  • Hiking in the Kokshetau Mountains - With its diverse landscape and stunning views, the Kokshetau mountain range is a hiking paradise.
  • Horseback Riding - Experience the beauty of the park from a different perspective with a horseback riding tour.
  • Visit Burabay’s Museums - Learn about the history and culture of the Kazakh people with a visit to one of Burabay’s museums.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burabay National Park

For a memorable week-long trip to Burabay National Park, try this itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your accommodation Day 2: Explore the Burabay Ethnographic Museum and Kenesary Museum Day 3: Hike in the Kokshetau Mountains and visit the Zhumbaktas Mausoleum Day 4: Horseback riding tour and visit to Kurgaldzhino State Nature Reserve Day 5: Boating on Lake Burabay and visit to Lake Kotyrkul Day 6: Mountain climbing and hiking in the Kokshetau Mountains Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Burabay National Park

No trip to Burabay National Park is complete without trying the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak - A traditional Kazakh dish of boiled meat with flat noodles, usually served with onions and sour cream.
  • Manti - Steamed dumplings filled with meat, onion, and spices.
  • Kazy - A sausage made from horse meat, a staple of Kazakh cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Kumis - A fermented drink made from mare’s milk, known for its probiotic properties and slightly sour flavor.
  • Shubat - A fermented yogurt drink, similar to kefir.
  • Kvas - A non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented bread, with a slightly sweet and sour taste.

Where to Stay in Burabay National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burabay National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Rixos Borovoe - A luxury hotel with scenic views of Lake Shuchie and the Kokshetau mountain range.
  • Nomad’s Guesthouse - A cozy guesthouse with affordable rooms and friendly staff.
  • BOZZ Resort - A family-friendly resort with a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and horseback riding tours.

What to Buy in Burabay National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home from your trip to Burabay National Park? Here are some local products and souvenirs you won’t want to miss:

  • Traditional Clothing - From colorful scarves to embroidered shirts, traditional Kazakh clothing is a beautiful and unique souvenir.
  • Handicrafts - From woven baskets to wooden toys, the local handicrafts of Burabay National Park make great gifts and souvenirs.
  • Honey and Jam - Made from local berries and fruits, the honey and jam of Burabay National Park are delicious and can be a great way to support local producers.

Local Culture and Customs of Burabay National Park

To fully appreciate the beauty and culture of Burabay National Park, it’s important to understand and respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Hospitality - Kazakh people are known for their hospitality and are likely to offer guests food and drink as a sign of welcome.
  • Dress Code - Kazakh culture places a high value on modesty and respect, so it’s important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect for Elders - In Kazakh culture, elders are respected and honored, so it’s important to show deference to older people.

Best Time to Visit Burabay National Park

The best time to visit Burabay National Park is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the landscape is in full bloom. The peak tourist season is July and August, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May or September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burabay National Park

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Burabay National Park, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when hiking or spending time outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • Disrupt local wildlife or disturb nesting sites.

Safety and Health

While Burabay National Park is generally a safe and welcoming destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your health and safety.

Safety in Burabay National Park

  • Follow all posted signs and warnings, especially when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Stay on designated paths and trails to avoid getting lost or stranded.
  • Keep valuables locked up or secured at all times.

Health in Burabay National Park

  • It’s important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Insect repellent is recommended to protect against ticks and mosquitos.
  • It’s a good idea to bring any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.

Getting to Burabay National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Burabay National Park is located approximately 250 km from the city of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and getting there can be a bit of a challenge. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Burabay National Park

The nearest airports to Burabay National Park are in Nur-Sultan and Kokshetau, both of which have regular flights to other cities in Kazakhstan.

Bus Stations Near Burabay National Park

Buses to Burabay National Park are available from Nur-Sultan and Kokshetau, and there are also private taxi services that offer transportation to the park.

Other Options

If you prefer a more seamless travel experience, consider hiring a private driver or booking a tour that includes transportation to and from the park.

How to Get Around in Burabay National Park

To explore the park and its many attractions, the best option is to rent a car or hire a taxi. Alternatively, some hotels and guesthouses offer shuttle services and guided tours to popular sites and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Burabay National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond Burabay National Park, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Kazakhstan’s Capital City, Nur-Sultan - Known for its striking modern architecture and diverse cultural attractions, Nur-Sultan is an exciting destination with plenty to see and do.
  • Kara-Kozy Canyon - Located just outside Burabay National Park, this natural wonder features giant rock formations and breathtaking views.
  • Kokshetau City - A peaceful city with a charming old town area, Kokshetau is a great place to explore Kazakh culture and history.

Conclusion

From its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine, Burabay National Park is a destination that offers something for everyone. However you choose to experience the park, you’re sure to come away with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and culture of Kazakhstan.