Discover Authentic Kazakh Experiences: Explore Food, Fields, and Farms with Local Tours in Kazakhstan! – The Astana Times

ASTANA – Have you ever dreamed of wandering through Kazakhstan’s fields and tasting local flavors? The Ken Dala project makes that dream a reality. Founded by Meruert Bizhanova, this initiative takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of rural life. In a chat with The Astana Times, Bizhanova shared how her tours reveal a more authentic side of Kazakhstan.

Launched in 2024, Ken Dala—which means wide steppe in Kazakh—creates memorable experiences that combine food with nature. The tours guide visitors through charming villages and working farms, fostering a deeper connection to the local culture.

From Vision to Reality

Bizhanova didn’t start Ken Dala with a formal business plan. Instead, her inspiration came from her travels in Europe. There, she felt the need to escape the city’s hustle and experience the charm of small towns. Returning to Kazakhstan, she quickly assembled a team and launched a pilot tour. “If I liked it, other people would too,” she thought.

Her approach emphasizes local farmers as the best guides. “They bring more than just food; they embody our cultural identity,” Bizhanova explained. Their stories and experience help build a richer understanding of Kazakhstan’s heritage.

“Farm products shape our culture of consumption, developing our taste from childhood,” she added.

The Journey

Every tour is the result of extensive effort. Bizhanova and her team scout locations through social media and in-person visits. “We invest time and energy because our guests deserve unique experiences,” she said. Each tour typically includes a dinner with a local family, a highlight of the journey.

For example, Bizhanova recalls the time she found a local family with a spectacular view. After knocking on their door and pitching her idea, they agreed to host a dinner. “That’s how we find our spots,” she said.

Spontaneity often plays a role too. Bizhanova once met Dalel Dzhuzbayev, a major wheat producer, in a parking lot. Their conversation lead to an unforgettable visit to his farm, complete with a scenic drive through golden wheat fields.

Expanding Horizons

This year, Ken Dala is expanding its tours to western Kazakhstan, including the stunning Mangystau region. “My visit there was life-changing,” said Bizhanova. The new tour will feature a seaside breakfast, visits to breathtaking landscapes, and an introduction to spearfishing.

Almaty will also see new routes highlighting apple and berry farms. Guests can participate in seasonal harvesting and enjoy home-cooked meals with breathtaking mountain views.

Additionally, the Akmola Region will introduce a mushroom-collecting tour, where visitors will learn to identify local fungi and enjoy a meal prepared by a chef. “Our offerings are diversifying to showcase the varied beauty of Kazakhstan,” she noted.

For International Travelers

Bizhanova believes that international tourists are seeking genuine experiences, stepping away from cliché tourist traps. By this, Ken Dala aims to offer authentic cultural experiences tailored for a global audience.

“We want to bring more Kazakh authenticity to the world,” she stated.

Upcoming programs will include cooking classes for traditional dishes like beshbarmak and bauyrsak. These interactive experiences will not only teach cooking but also provide insights into Kazakh history, fostering a deeper cultural connection.

With Ken Dala, the allure of Kazakhstan awaits, offering flavors, landscapes, and stories that go beyond the ordinary tourist experience.

Check out this related article: How Oaks Sustain Our Food Web and Nourish Our Lives