Half-Day Private Tour to Alzhir Camp from Nur-Sultan

Nur-Sultan , Kazakhstan

Half-Day Private Tour to Alzhir Camp from Nur-Sultan

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About this experience

Alzhir - Akmola camp for the wives of traitors of Motherland - one of the largest camps of the Soviet Union and one of the three "islands" of the "Gulag Archipelago". The camp was opened at the beginning of 1938, when it received the first stages of the prisoners - mostly members of the families of traitors. According to incomplete data, the number of repressed exceeded 18,000 convicts. It is located 40km west of Nur-Sultan, so you will have an opportunity to drive through the endless Kazakh steppe.

Today, the museum-memorial complex includes the following objects:
A train carriage from Stalin’s time for transportation of prisoners.
The museum building
The Wall of memory with names of more than 7,000 women spends their term in Alzhir camp.
The barrack – the building, where women prisoners lived.
and other courtyard exhibits

Drive through the village Malinovka - stops can be arranged by request.
Transfer to the hotel.

Available options

Half-Day Private Tour to Alzhir Camp from Nur-Sultan

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

ALZHIR is a colloquial name that comes from the abbreviation АЛЖИР, which stands for “Akmola camp for the wives of traitors to the Motherland” (in Russian). The camp, which was the largest women’s camp in the Soviet Union, operated between 1938 and 1953 and was a place of human tragedy during the period of Stalinist repression. It is estimated that more than 18,000 prisoners passed through the camp, some of whom died there. Today, the site of the camp hosts a museum and memorial to these victims of political repression and totalitarianism. It is located 40km west of Nur-Sultan.
Travel time will be approximately 1 hour each way.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Audio guide

RU EN

Guide guide

RU EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Nur-Sultan

Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a futuristic city blending modern architecture with traditional Kazakh culture. Known for its ambitious skyline and grand boulevards, it offers a unique mix of innovation and heritage.

Top Attractions

Bayterek Tower

An iconic symbol of Nur-Sultan, the Bayterek Tower is a 105-meter tall monument with a golden sphere at the top. Visitors can climb to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (500-1000 KZT)

Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center

A unique transparent tent-shaped shopping and entertainment center, Khan Shatyr offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and recreational activities.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free entry, varying costs for activities

Expo City

The site of the 2017 EXPO, Expo City features futuristic architecture, including the iconic Nur Alem Pavilion, and hosts various events and exhibitions.

Historical 2-3 hours Free entry, varying costs for exhibitions

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat and noodles, often served with a horseradish sauce.

Main Dish Contains meat, not vegetarian

Kazy

A type of sausage made from horse meat, often served as an appetizer.

Snack Contains meat, not vegetarian

Baursaks

Fried dough balls, similar to doughnuts, often served as a snack or breakfast item.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Ice skating Spa treatments Tea house visits Park picnics Museum visits Traditional performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the most popular time to visit Nur-Sultan, with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities. The city hosts several festivals and events during this period.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kazakh, Russian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nur-Sultan is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services.
• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport • 17 km from city center

By train

Nurly Zhol Station

By bus

Sayaran Bus Terminal, Central Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers most of the city's major attractions. It is clean, modern, and easy to navigate.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Left Bank Right Bank

Day trips

Buran

20 km • Half day

A Soviet-era space shuttle prototype, Buran is an interesting historical site for those interested in space exploration.

Kolsai Lakes

300 km • Full day

A stunning mountainous area with three beautiful lakes, offering hiking and scenic views.

Festivals

Astana International Festival of Arts (AIF) • July EXPO City Festival • Summer

Pro tips

Visit the Bayterek Tower at sunset for the best views of the city.
Try traditional Kazakh dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Use the metro system for efficient and affordable transportation around the city.
Book tickets for major attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
Dress warmly in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly.