Better, than the Olympics: Why you should come to the World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan

The World Nomad Games 2024 will be held on September 8-15, 2024 in the capital of Kazakhstan - Astana. 

The World Nomad Games are international sports competitions in ethnic sports, based on the national games of the historically nomadic population of Central Asia. The games are held once every two years. In 2022 they took place in Turkey. Then Kazakhstan became their champion, defeating the Kyrgyz team in Kokpar with a score of 4:3.

The games involve not only countries of the region, but sometimes even those that were not traditionally nomadic, for example, the USA, Germany and Singapore.

 “Competitions will be held in such Kazakh national sports as Kazak kuresi (wrestling), kokpar (equestrian sport game), kusbegilik (hunting with falcons), asyk atu (knocking out bones), togyzkumalak (board game on logic), as well as many others, cultivated in foreign countries, but having common roots”.

 Why tourists should attend the games 

See cultural heritage 

Nomad games are part of the cultural heritage and traditions of nomads. Attending the event will allow tourists to immerse themselves in an authentic atmosphere and learn more about the local culture. You might even be able to try yourself in these sports.

Have a lovely time

During the games, not only sporting events take place, but also festivals where national dances, songs, clothes and much more are shown. Scientific round tables, concerts, master classes and conferences are also held. A festive atmosphere accompanies every event, so you are sure to have a good time. 

See natural beauty 

Some sports require competitions to be held not in indoor sports complexes, but outdoors. You will be able to enjoy not only the sports component of the holiday, feeling the adrenaline, cheering for your favorite athletes, but also admire the beautiful steppes of Kazakhstan. 

Learn more about Central Asia 

When you come to the nomad games, you will definitely learn more about the region. At a minimum, about national sports: types, rules and features. Also, during additional cultural events, you will learn about the life, way of life, traditions of nomads, and immerse yourself in the culture of the region. 

Tips:

1. The best way is to buy tours that include visits not only to the games themselves and the city of Astana, but also to other cities along the Silk Road.

2. You can also buy tickets and book accommodation in Astana yourself, but you need to do this in advance, since a large number of people will come to the games: athletes and spectators.

 3. You also need to purchase a ticket for the games in advance. This can be done on the event website (we will inform you about the start of sales in advance). 

4. If you decide to go on your own, plan your route to see amazing sights near Astana, for example, Burabay. 

5. Get to know the local cuisine. Beshbarmak, kurt, zhent and kumys will pleasantly surprise you! They are definitely worth trying!