The guided tour service of the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is one of the key structural divisions responsible for implementing the museum’s cultural, educational, and informational mission. The tour activities are aimed at providing visitors with an in-depth introduction to the historical and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan, offering professional interpretations of the exhibitions, and broadening public cultural awareness.
In addition to historical periods, the tours cover such fields as ethnography, fine arts, folk crafts, archaeology, decorative and applied arts, and other cultural domains. This department ensures a comprehensive presentation of the museum’s collections by offering a wide range of educational programs tailored to different age groups and levels of knowledge.
GENERAL OVERVIEW TOURS
Overview tours are designed to introduce visitors to the museum’s most significant exhibits, systematically present the historical development of Kazakhstan from ancient times to the present day, and enhance interest in the national cultural heritage. During the tour, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of historical information and exhibition materials, become familiar with the architecture of the museum halls, and learn about the main thematic sections.
THEMATIC TOURS
Thematic tours are specialized programs dedicated to a specific historical event, period, commemorative date, or festive event. Unique exhibits from each era enable a thorough exploration of the selected theme related to national values, historical events, and cultural heritage.
Thematic routes are tailored for schoolchildren, students, international visitors, and specialized groups. Each tour is conducted by professional guides who tailor the content to the interests of the audience. In addition, thematic tours may be presented within the framework of the project «The History of One Exhibit». This project provides a detailed account of the origin of an exhibit and its cultural and historical significance, allowing visitors to gain deeper insight into the history of each artifact.
THEATRICAL TOURS
Theatrical tours are a special format designed to vividly present historical and cultural themes. During these tours, events are reenacted through costumes and character portrayals, introducing visitors to historical eras and cultural phenomena. Visitors not only observe the performance but also, through interaction with the characters, gain a deeper understanding of the historical period or cultural context.
TOURS FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
Tours for visitors with special educational needs are designed to present the museum’s exhibitions in an accessible and comprehensible manner. These tours take into account the participants’ abilities and are conducted using specialized methodological tools and adapted guiding techniques. Such programs enable visitors of all categories, including people with disabilities, to perceive and engage with museum materials.
INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITIONS AND OFF-SITE TOURS
The museum organizes traveling tours as part of international exhibitions, as well as tours to other cities and countries. During these events, museum staff and guides provide detailed explanations of the historical and cultural significance of the exhibits and offer specialized informational materials related to the theme. These initiatives make it possible to present the museum’s collections to a wider audience and contribute to the development of international cultural exchange.
EDUCATIONAL TOURS (LESSON-TOURS)
Educational tours are a special format that allows students to acquire knowledge directly through museum exhibitions. Exhibits serve as vivid and illustrative supplements to school curricula, helping students better understand the subject matter and retain information more effectively. Such lessons make the learning process engaging, informative, and inspiring.
«STAR GUIDE» PROJECT
Since 2015, the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan has been implementing the «Star Guide» project, aimed at showcasing the unique features of guided tour services, introducing a broad audience to the museum’s exhibits and historical and cultural heritage, as well as promoting the museum and enhancing its public image. The project involves public figures, artists, athletes, scholars, and celebrities. The event is held on February 21, World Tour Guide Day, and as part of the international initiative «Night at the Museum».
The «Star Guide» project is one of the most significant events attracting the attention of all visitors to the National Museum.
«BALDYRGAN GUIDE» PROJECT
In 2022, as part of the Year of Children, the National Museum launched the «Baldyrgan Guide» project for the first time. The goal of the project is to introduce preschool children to the history of Kazakhstan, spark their interest in history, foster patriotism and love for the homeland, develop creative activity, and familiarize them with guided tour services. Within the framework of the project, children conduct tours of the museum halls and present exhibits to guests.
VISITS OF OFFICIAL DELEGATIONS
The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan provides high-level reception for foreign as well as governmental and political delegations, in accordance with international standards and established traditions. The presentation of the museum’s exhibitions helps showcase Kazakhstan’s historical and cultural heritage and strengthen international cultural ties, thereby enhancing the museum’s global image and playing an important role in promoting the country’s cultural heritage on the world stage.