A Guide to Must-Visit Attractions in Konayev
The town of Konayev, formerly known as Kapchagai, is a resort destination and the largest gambling zone in Kazakhstan. Situated on the shore of the Kapchagai Reservoir, Konayev is a haven for beach enthusiasts. Anglers are drawn to Kapchagai for its abundant supply of pike perch, asp, and carp. For those with a penchant for gaming, Konayev boasts several casinos. In this article, we will delve into these entertainment options and explore other activities available in Konayev.
Beach Getaway Awaits
The high season in Konayev spans from June to September. During June, the water temperature hovers around a refreshing 18-20 °C (64-68 °F), gradually warming up to 23-28 °C (73-82 °F) in July and August.
Most of the recreation centers are situated on the northern shore or in Konayev itself. These centers vary in terms of comfort and pricing. Many offer amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, cafes, and bars. Some resorts provide meals, while others offer kitchen facilities for guests to prepare their own meals. Higher-priced resorts often have private beach sections with lifeguards on duty. Kapchagai boasts a diverse range of resorts to choose from. We have curated a list of the top 10 recreation centers, complete with their addresses and contact numbers. You can find the list here.
Kapchagai also offers a variety of activities beyond swimming and sunbathing. Yacht trips, jet ski rides, scooter rentals, and banana boat rides are popular choices among vacationers. Diving and beach volleyball are also favorite pastimes for many visitors.
Explore Casino Wonders
Gambling is prohibited in most areas of Kazakhstan, with the exception of two designated locations: the resort area of Burabay and the town of Konayev. Konayev boasts a higher number of casinos compared to Burabay. Most of them are situated along the Almaty-Ust-Kamenogorsk highway, to the west of the city center. These establishments come alive at night, illuminated by vibrant neon signs and spotlights. For further insight into the gambling scene in Konayev, read this article.
The Sandspit
The Sandspit is the only concert and entertainment peninsula in Kazakhstan. Every year, the renowned rock festival, Family Rock Fest, takes place there. For three days, top rock bands from Kazakhstan, Russia, and beyond take the stage to deliver performances. In 2024, the festival featured headliners such as Splean, Mumiy Troll, Kino, Diana Arbenina, Agatha Christie, and many more.
The Sandspit also boasts a race track where visitors can enjoy rides on ATVs or motorcycles. Those seeking an adrenaline rush on the water should visit the wake park, a sports complex tailored for wakeboarding enthusiasts. Wakeboarding involves riding and executing tricks while standing on a board towed by a motorboat.
Angler's Paradise
Fishing at Kapchagai Reservoir can be done from the shore or from a boat. Smaller fish are typically caught from the shore, but larger specimens can be reeled in from a boat. A boat ride also adds an element of adventure to the activity. Many recreation centers in the area rent out boats and provide equipment for fishing.
One of the most popular fishing spots is near the pumping stations behind the village of Shengeldy, although it can get crowded with other fishermen. For those seeking solitude, more remote locations are also available.
The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including Ili carp, pike perch, asp, bream, perch, catfish, and northern snakehead. A common way to prepare the catch is by making koktal, where the fish is baked on a bed of vegetables. This requires a special grill called a koktalnitsa, which is available at many recreation centers and is usually free to use. Koktal is also served in many cafes in Konaev.
It is worth considering that during the spawning season (from early April to late May), fishing is prohibited. Additionally, temporary bans may sometimes be imposed in certain areas. Before your trip, be sure to check for any restrictions. There is also a limit on the amount of fish you can catch – no more than 5 kg per trip. If you plan to catch more, you will need to obtain permission.
Kapchagai Lighthouse
During the Soviet era, there was a river port that welcomed fishing and cargo vessels. A lighthouse stood on the shore, guiding ships to their destinations. However, the port fell into disuse and the lighthouse was demolished.
Despite the decline of the original port, a new lighthouse has emerged near the hydroelectric power station dam. Built by one of the local recreation centers, it serves no navigational purpose but adds a touch of beauty to the shoreline. To reach this structure, travelers must turn right on the road from Almaty to Taldykorgan before reaching the dam, just past the traffic police post. The lighthouse is situated on private property where a small fee is required for entry.
Lion Mountain
The Lion Mountain is the most scenic hill near Konayev. It is situated in the Old Dachas area between the railway bridge and the dam. Its peak looks like a lion's head when viewed from a specific angle.
From the top of the Lion Mountain, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the railway bridge and the reservoir below. While the ascent to the top is relatively easy, caution is still advised to ensure a safe climb.
What Else to Visit in Konayev?
The main street in Konayev is known as Konayev Street, where the town's main attractions are situated. One of the most beloved spots of city residents is Central Park. This park offers all the typical features found in parks across Kazakhstan, including rides, fountains, and winding pathways.
Adjacent to Central Park is the Kapshagay Water Park, a complex of outdoor swimming pools. The water park boasts two adult pools complete with a waterfall and jacuzzi, as well as two children's pools equipped with slides. One might question the necessity of an aqua park on the reservoir's shore, but it has proven to be a popular destination for over 30 years.
Konayev Street also houses Victory Park. At the heart of the park, stands a stele featuring an image of a Red Army soldier and the years 1941-1945 (years of the war between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany). Additionally, there stands an obelisk in honor of the soldiers who died in the Afghan war.
In the alley between Central Park and Victory Park, there stands a monument to D.A. Kunayev. The town of Konayev was named after him. Dinmukhamed Kunayev was a Soviet communist politician who served as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Kazakh SSR, a role comparable to that of a President.
Tourists should also visit old quarters, where stilt houses have been preserved. They were originally inhabited by hydrological engineers who constructed the Kapchagai hydroelectric power station. The stilt houses were initially slated for demolition upon the completion of the power station. However, they still stand tall today, with some even being inhabited by locals.
At the exit from Konayev towards Taldykorgan, there is a Classic Car Museum. This museum features a collection of USSR-era vehicles such as Volga, Moskvich, Zaporozhets, Soviet police cars, ambulances, motorcycles, and even a Cadillac. The museum also showcases the railway carriage that Kunayev used for his business trips.
How to Get to Konayev from Almaty?
Konayev is situated 70 km (43 mi) away from Almaty. Both cities are connected by a well-maintained highway. To reach Konayev from Almaty, take the Kapchagai highway and head north. Upon reaching the large interchange at the entrance to Konayev, make a right turn if you wish to enter the town.
If you are headed to the northern coast, continue straight ahead. Cross the dam on the Ili River and proceed to the first major junction, where you should turn right. Soon enough, you will spot the various recreation centers in the area. The drive from Almaty to Konayev typically takes about an hour.
You can also reach Konayev from Almaty by bus or taxi. Buses are departing from the Sayran bus station. Additionally, many recreation centers offer transfer services, so be sure to inquire about this option when making your booking.
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