Getting around Zhez

Options: Walk, taxi, bus

We were there in Zhezkazgan from late April through early June, so weather was conducive to walking, which is what we did much of the time. (We did have some very hot days, and a few that were cool, windy). We either walked or paid for a taxi. At hotels or restaurants they will call one for you if you ask. Rate was 100-200 KZT. There are a few places where it’s easy to pick them up at least during the day. Taxis in town were primarily older VWs, some Mercedes and Ladas. Did finally get to ride in a Volga taxi one day. Interesting side note – we never saw a car dealership there. It is true that seatbelts are not typically used, and often times not available. As cars are small, there is little room for a carseat.

Tip: have your translator write down a few key places – including the place you are staying – in Russian; that does make it easier for taxi’s to understand where you want to go.

In general, the terrain is pretty rocky, gravel-like. There are some sidewalks and walkways, but primarily paths. Have some good, stable, sturdy shoes for walking around. With regard to traffic as a pedestrian, you do need to be careful, they do drive pretty fast and even though there are times that pedestrians are to have the right-of-way (like in the “zebras” zones at intersections) I wouldn’t trust it – really.

Also note, we did not do much of any walking around at night/after dark, so can’t provide comment on that.