Konaev

Konaev (also known as Kapshagay) is a city in Almaty Region, situated on the Ili River near the Kapshagay Reservoir. It serves as the administrative centre of Almaty Region since 2022. The city is a popular weekend getaway from nearby Almaty, known for its reservoir beaches, water sports, and casino zone. The climate is continental with hot summers ideal for swimming and boating.

By Plane

Almaty International Airport (ALA) is 80 km to the southeast. A taxi to Konaev costs approximately 8,000-12,000 KZT and takes about 1 hour.

By Train

Konaev has a railway station on the Almaty-Astana line. Regular passenger trains stop here. Tickets available via railways.kz.

By Car / Road

From Almaty, take the A-3 highway north toward Astana, then turn onto the local road toward Kapshagay. The drive takes about 1 hour by car. Minibuses (marshrutkas) depart regularly from Sayran bus station in Almaty.

The city is spread out along the reservoir. Taxis are the most practical transport. Buses connect the main areas. Walking is pleasant along the waterfront in the central area.

• Kapshagay Reservoir — a massive 110 km-long reservoir on the Ili River, popular for beaches and water activities

• Dostar Plaza — entertainment complex with casino, bowling, and restaurants

• Ili River embankment — scenic promenade along the river

• Swimming and beach activities — the reservoir beaches are the main draw in summer

• Water sports — jet-skiing, boat rentals, and fishing on the reservoir

• Kapshagay Casino Zone — gambling and nightlife in the designated entertainment area

• Dostar Plaza restaurants — mid-range dining with Kazakh and European cuisine
• Waterfront cafes — casual dining with reservoir views, specializing in fish dishes

• Waterfront cafes — drinks and refreshments with views of the reservoir
• Bottled water recommended

• Budget: Guesthouse rooms from 8,000 KZT
• Mid-range: Dostar Plaza Hotel — approximately 20,000-30,000 KZT per night
• Upscale: Rixos Water World Aktau (in the casino zone) — luxury accommodation from 50,000 KZT

• Central market — local produce and everyday goods
• Dostar Plaza shops — souvenirs and retail

• Almaty (80 km) — Kazakhstan's cultural and commercial capital
• Ile-Alatau National Park — hiking in the Tian Shan mountains
• Kolsai Lakes (300 km) — stunning alpine lakes in the Tian Shan