Things to do & places to visit in Akmola Province, Kazakhstan

Akmola Province #2 destination in Kazakhstan 2023. The average rating score is 4.38 based on 4.446 traveler reviews, of 55 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Aqtobe, current date and time: Friday, May 10, 2024, 3:49.

Akmola Province Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

65°F - 40°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

26%

Chance of rain

69.0 millimeters

Amount

16.4 mph

Wind speed

59%

Humidity

15.8

Daylight length

5:24 AM

Sunrise

9:13 PM

Sunset

49%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (35)

Top destinations in Akmola Province 20

See more 8 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 The State Theatre of Opera and Ballet Astana Opera (151 reviews)
- Purpose built Opera
Ballets • Operas • Theaters

I visited the Opera three- four times and was satisfied with the stage view and quality of sound from the lower floor. If you buy a gallary ticket, then you need to be careful about the seat you choose. From top, some seats do not offer a stage view and once we had to leave in ten minutes, as we could not see anything happening on the stage. See more..
5.0 National Park Burabay (33 reviews)
- Very relaxing, pure nature
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

A quiet place in the springtime with clear, untouched nature. Visiting the Tourist Centre is a must in order to get information on your possibilities, hire a tourist guide e.g. up to the Sinyukha mountain. It's affordable for anyone. See more..
5.0 Kokshetau (Sinyukha) Mountain (21 reviews)
- Mountain hiking
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Hiked up Kokshetau Mountain last week, it was not a really challenging climb for us but very rewarding. Upon arrival at the top you are treated to stunning 360 degree views, lakes, and the mountain range stretching to the horizon. It is impressive and you realize that Kazakhstan is a truly beautiful country. Bring supplies and good footwear and be prepared for some terrific vistas. See more..
5.0 Monument to the Soldiers of World War II (10 reviews)
- A small park in an old park of a city
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues

A little park near two students dormitories of Medical Academy located in an old part of a city on Zheniz Avenue (The Victory Avenue). The park has a monument of two soldiers dedicated to those who fought against fascism during Second World War. The park is populated with students and locals, very peaceful and nice plittle park suitable for short walks. See more..
5.0 Kulanshi (8 reviews)
- Art is near us
Art Galleries

Kulanshi art center, located in the Pyramid, holds exhibitions of Kazakhstan as well as foreign artists and sculptors. In the gallery everyone can see interesting pictures, installations and other things belonging to the world of art. Calm atmosphere and professional employees of the gallery can open you a great world of art. See more..
5.0 Monument to Aliya Moldagulova (7 reviews)
- Monument to a great sniper
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Aliya was a 15 year old orphan in Leningrad (St. Petersburg) when WW2 started. She was credited with 91 kills as a sniper, before she died in battle with the Germans in the Pskov Region (south of Leningrad) and was buried in a mass grave.She is one of only two women from Central Asia to have been awarded the highest medal of bravery by the Soviet Union. We had visited a statue with the two ladies in Almaty a few days before. There are many streets named after Aliya in Kazakhstan, and this monument is actually located at the intersection of Aliya Moldaghulova Street and Zhenghis Avenue. It may be reached by bus, but we walked from the old train station, as it was a 15 minute walk. Aliya's statue is on a pedestal and she has a coat held in her right hand which is hanging over the corner of the pedestal.At the base of the pedestal is a sculpture of a travelling bag, helmet and rose. A few flowers were placed in this area. Behind Aliya, are two walls with reliefs.which seems to relate to periods before WW2, when Aliya fought.This area is accessible 24 hours and free of cost. A statue to Saken Seifullin is a 2 minute walk north of the Aliya statue. If you take a bus for two stops, in a southerly direction, to the intersection of Bogenbay Batyr Avenue and Zhenghis Avenue, there is a statue dedicated to the famous female machine gunner Manshuk Mametova, with whom Aliya shares the monument in Almaty , and on the opposite side of the street a WW2 monument. See more..
5.0 Polyana Abylai Khana (5 reviews)
- Very interesting
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Valleys

This place is not only beautiful but very interesting. Go see the stone throne behind the column,enjoy the views. Visit the museum near the parking, the guide speaks good english and will gladly explain the history of this place. See more..
5.0 Imanayevskiye Waterfall (2 reviews)
- Посетили водопады в этом году.
Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls

Очень интересное место.В 2016 году мы посещали это место с экскурсией.В этом году решили самостоятельно дойти.До этих водопадов можно дойти прямиком по тропинке от поляны Абылай-хана. Место очень красивое. Вода горная, холодная. Ее можно пить. Запаситесь бутылочкой. Можно охладить ноги и умыться. После обильных дождей в Бурабае лучше не ходить, тк вода идет с гор и может быть не совсем чистой и бурной. See more..
5.0 Kobeytuz Lake (1 review)
- A beautiful lake and a must-visit place
Bodies of Water

When I found out that there was a pink lake near Nur-Sultan and this happens extremely rarely, I flew from Almaty to the capital without hesitation. I wanted to catch this disappearing beauty. I'm glad I made the trip — it's worth seeing with your own eyes. I really liked the road to the lake-it was picturesque. We arrived at 11 am — there was no one there but us. The lake is located among the fields. What to do there? Enjoy the peace and nature. See more..
5.0 Bestobe Canyon (1 review)
- Amazing canyon and no less beautiful river
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Canyons

In 230 km northeast of the city of Nur-Sultan there is an amazing natural and geographical object - the Bestobe canyon. An equally unique Sileti River flows along the bottom of this canyon. Among the endless flat steppes of Saryarka, suddenly, the earth opens up, revealing to the attention of a traveler the beautiful rocky green gorge with a river, like an oasis in the steppe. Perhaps in the distant past, the Sileti River was powerful and created this beautiful canyon with its rapid current. Now it is not that big, but it has a significant impact on the geography and economy of the region. The river crosses 30 km from the Seletinsky reservoir, which regulates its flow, before entering the canyon. It is also a source of water for many settlements along its shores. For example, for Seletinskoye and Bestogai villages, the city of Stepnogorsk and even for the Tselinny mining and chemical plant. Flowing along the bottom of Bestobe canyon, Sileti creates favorable conditions for plant growth, making the canyon look green. The river has crystal clear water, in which different types of fish are found: pike, pike perch, large perch, chebak. This attracts ecotourists who want to fish or swim, enjoying the beautiful views of the wildlife. Also, this place is suitable for thrill-seekers. Tourists can go in for extreme rafting, as calm sections of the river give way to rocky rapids. In addition, the edges of the canyon are steep, which poses a danger to climbs, although from there a breathtaking view of the steppe opens. If you go to the Bestobe canyon along the Pavlodar highway, you can also see the statues of "Balbaly". As for the trip, you can go on your own, or take a tour from one of the capital's travel companies. But of course a picture is worth a thousand words, so come yourself and enjoy the beauty of nature! See more..
5.0 BalQaragai (1 review)
- Хорошое место
Game & Entertainment Centers • Beach & Pool Clubs
Зона отдыха хорошая советую, ресторан аура тоже хороша, меню большое, еда вкусная, сервис соответствуещий!! See more..
5.0 Culture Palace Istoki (1 review)
- Дворец культуры с необычной судьбой.
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Civic Centres
Долгое время данный дворец был, местом досуга работников Кокчетавского приборостроительного завода, но после развала СССР над его судьбой сгустились тучи. Однако в середине 90-х дворец превратился в центр досуга славян проживающих в городе, но после его постигла судьба всех региональных дворцов культуры.
Сейчас в нем проходят новогодние мероприятия, выглядят они обычно как полный артхаус, но при этом бывают забавны. See more..
5.0 Ozero Kobeytuz (1 review)
- The Nature Miracle
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bodies of Water

Many people think that Kazakhstan’s beautiful places are located only in the south side of the country although there are more attractive sights in the northern Akmola province. One of them is the Lake Kobeytuz that was discovered in 2019 and has a pink color given by the green alga “Dunaliella salina”. The same alga paints the most famous lakes in Spain, Australia and Canada. I recommend you to visit it in July, so the weather would be sunny and the water would be warm (~25oC). To get to the Kobeytuz from the capital Nur-Sultan you need to find the Nur-Sultan - Pavlodar highway number P4, pass the first tunnel under the road and then continue to drive along. After only 2 hours (177.8 km) you reach the Ereymentau region and see many other blue lakes near the pink one. When you get to the coastline it seems like winter has come and everything is covered with snow. The salt becomes wetter under your feet and then you see the first pools of a gentle peach shade. The lake is shallow, so you can go with children and not be afraid. Also you can lie down on the water and sunbathe. Of course, I should mention the wonderful photos that can be taken. However, the peculiarity of the Kobeytuz is not only in color but also in the healthful properties of mud under a layer of salt. It boosts immunity providing protection against different diseases. Get unforgettable emotions and enjoy the nature with the Lake Kobeytuz! See more..
5.0 Botai-Burabai (1 review)
- Ботай-Бурабай
History Museums
See more..
4.5 Bayterek Tower (1.257 reviews)
- It’s a must when you are in Nur-Sultan
Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Observation Decks & Towers • Monuments & Statues

It’s an amazing experience , think to do when you are in the capital city of Kazakhstan, an excellent view of the newest and most modern city of this lovely country. See more..
4.5 Hazret Sultan Mosque (399 reviews)
- Mind blowing and beautiful
Religious Sites

This place is absolutely stunning. Being newly build and one of the largest in Asia it really is like nothing I have ever seen. See more..
4.5 National Museum of Kazakhstan (364 reviews)
- Time well spent
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Art Museums • History Museums

Brand new museum, absolutely worth visiting if you have an interest in understanding the history of Kazakhstan or Central Asia. Compulsory guided tour in good English was helpful. Lots of displays, well organized and very clear. It is a shame the "glorification of Nazarbayev" is part of this wonderful exhibition. See more..
4.5 City Park (205 reviews)
- A great place to get it done!
Parks

Not just for fitness. The flower gardens and maze-like sidewalks are very nice for escaping the doldrums of the city. This open air park is beautiful in its expanse and placement just outside of the downtown area. If you need to get out and run, this is the best location in Nur-Sultan. One of the best fitness related parks I have been to. See more..
4.5 Nur-Astana Mosque (127 reviews)
- ما شاء الله
Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Beautiful masjid in town. May Allah gives His blessings to the people who worship Him and to prosperous His houses on earth. آمين يا رب العالمين See more..
4.5 Quay Astana (83 reviews)
- Amazing during night
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

Pedestrian zone with lot of restaurants and bars. Very nice visual effects after sunset. One hour is minimum time necessary to visit. See more..
4.5 Astana Arena (76 reviews)
- Kazachstan - Belgium football
Arenas & Stadiums

easy to access stadium, all very well organised, modern mid size stadium ( +/- 35 000 seats ) with all the comfort needed to attend a sportsgame See more..
4.5 Assumption Russian Orthodox Cathedral (74 reviews)
- Opulent work of art
Churches & Cathedrals

Considering that Astana was only built from 1991, this building is definitely not any historical artefact. But that doesn't make this place any less worth visiting. The interior of the church is absolutely magnificent, with gold-leafed wall murals from floor to ceiling. I was impressed partially because this was the first time I had been to a Russian Orthodox Cathedral, and I was just floored by the intricacy and magnificence of the artwork and architecture. The Cathedral also has a second floor where the choir sings from, and a basement intended to replicate the atmosphere when the religion could not be openly practiced. Near the entrance, there is also a shop selling scented candles and images of the religion. A Brother introduced the cathedral and the religion to us, but he speaks no English so it was fortunate we had an acquaintance who translated for us. See more..
4.5 Congress-Centre EXPO (55 reviews)
- Whole day of new knowledge and fun
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Convention Centers

Amazing place full of new knowledge of all types of the energy existing in this world. Each floor of the Exhibition is devoted to a particular type of the energy. You can touch and try many things. Everything is well equipped and quite modern. You can try 3d, VR, 360 planetarium, etc. The territory of the Expo is big and very technological with sculptures and modern buildings. At the Expo itself there is lack of places to eat (there are some cafes but mostly water and shacks). See more..
4.5 Fountain Circus (44 reviews)
- Feeling like you are a child again!
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues • Fountains

One of the most beatiful square in Astana full of sculptures of animals and kazakh national tale heroes. Dont forget to buy a ticket and enjoy the circus perfomance, the price varies from 1000 up to 5000 tenge. In the circus perfomance given by Belorussian guests you can see bears and wolf, goats and dogs, small horses and be a part of clownary show :) See more..
4.5 River Ishim Embankment (44 reviews)
- Nice View
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

You may long walking next to the river. Off course in January it was so cold but also this is a chance to see the different face of the river. See more..
4.5 Nurzhol Boulevard (36 reviews)
- Art installations for kids
Spent 2-3 hours Scenic Walking Areas

Art installations set along the whole boulevard are good for children entertainment. You can also enjoy time with children at fountains and swings (some in Kazakh national style), mounted along the path to Khan Shatyr entertainment center. By the 6th of July "Art Fest" will be organized on the boulevard, which is also worth seeing. See more..
4.5 Alzhir, Memorial Museum of Victims of Political Repressions and Totalitarianism (35 reviews)
- Good review of the GULAG system and repression
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM History Museums

The main building is the only thing really to see. The tours are in Kazakh, but most everything has an english explanation posted. Covers the history of setting up the GULAG system but mostly focuses on the Wives of Traitors to the Motherland. More than 10,000 wives shipped here for 6 to 8 years internment, most did not surivive. Be VERY certain to sign up for the video. It has english subtitles. Very moving. They are not averse to saying that the GULAG system was longer and just has harsh as any Nazi death camp. See more..
4.5 Saken Seifullin Museum (23 reviews)
- Small but historical
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

The photo on the banner is of the Kazakhstan Museum of History. Very good place to visit but not the Saken Seifullin Museum. If you speak English be certain to ask for the brochure that is in English about the history of the poet. There is no guided tour, mostly artifacts, photos, and memorabilia from the time of Seifullin, since very little was spared when he was killed. See more..
4.5 Fountain Drevo Zhizni (23 reviews)
- Beautiful Fountane
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues • Fountains

if you need an inspiration, calm and quiet atmosphere, you should come and walk near this beatiful fountain. Each day I come the square around is full of playing children and doves. The fountain is close to the Russian drama theatre (dont forget to buy a ticket and enjoy a very good play!), you can take a cup of coffee at the nearest coffee shop Coffee-Boom, or visit an exhibition at the museum which is on the opposite side. See more..
4.5 Monument to Khan Kenesary (22 reviews)
- Khan Kenesary – large monument of resistance warrior
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

If you spend enough time in Kazakhstan, you most likely will hear about this resistance warrior and how his body and head are situated in 2 different places. It’s a large monument on the banks of the Ishim River and there are some picturesque sites nearby. See more..