Understand

The Kyzylarai Wildlife Reserve, nestled in the magnificent Kyzylarai mountain massif, is famous for three incredible reasons. Firstly, it boasts the highest peak in the Kazakh Uplands, Aksoran Mountain, standing tall at 1565 meters above sea level. Secondly, nearby, you can explore the ancient Bronze Age necropolis, Begazy, which dates back an astonishing 3000 years. Lastly, at the foothills of the Kyzyalrai mountains, you'll find Shabanbai Bi village, a shining example of successful community-based ecotourism development in Central Kazakhstan. The Kyzylarai Wildlife Reserve is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, witness the towering peaks, and marvel at the ancient history that surrounds you. Whether you want to conquer mountains, delve into the past, or engage with local communities, this reserve offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Come and experience the wonders of Kyzylarai for yourself!

Get in

Heading to Shabanbai Bi village, the gateway to Kyzylarai in Kazakhstan? Here are some options to reach this destination: 1. Public bus from Karaganda: You can take a public bus from the Karaganda bus terminal to Shabanbai Bi. If you're traveling from Monday to Thursday, catch a bus to Aktogai, the district center. From there, you can continue your journey by taxi or take a bus to Balkhash-Kyzylarai. The bus from Aktogai to Shabanbai Bi departs in the afternoon. On Fridays to Sundays, you have the convenience of a direct bus to Shabanbai Bi. 2. Alternative village names: Keep in mind that Shabanbai Bi might be referred to as Shylym or Karatal by locals. This name variation might also be seen in bus schedules. Embrace the local names as you explore this region. 3. Renting a vehicle: If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a vehicle with a driver from Nomadic Travel Kazakhstan in Karaganda. They can arrange transportation for your journey to Kyzylarai and provide assistance for other travel needs in the area. These transportation options give you the freedom to discover the beauty of Shabanbai Bi and Kyzylarai. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Kazakhstan!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kazakhstan's most popular dish is called Plov or Pilaf. It is a hearty rice dish that is cooked with meat, usually lamb or beef, and vegetables such as carrots, onions, and garlic. The dish is flavorful, with a mix of savory spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Plov is often served at special occasions and gatherings in Kazakhstan.

Another popular Kazakh dish is Beshbarmak, which translates to "five fingers." It consists of boiled horsemeat (or sometimes mutton) served with thin noodles and a side of finely chopped onions and herbs. This dish is believed to have originated from the nomadic tribes that once roamed the steppe, and its form - a chunk of meat meant to be eaten with hands - makes it easy to consume on the go.

Rounding out the top three is Lagman, a soup made from handmade noodles and meat, typically served with a side of sour cream. Lagman can feature various types of meat, such as beef, lamb, or chicken, and is often garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. This soul-warming dish is particularly popular in the winter months when comfort food is craved.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing