safe to travel kyrgyzstan

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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The Kyrgyz Republic Travel Advisory

Travel advisory march 8, 2024, kyrgyzstan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review with edits to the area of higher risks in the border region with Tajikistan.

Exercise normal precautions in the Kyrgyz Republic. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel to:

• The border region with Tajikistan due to the potential for  violent border clashes .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Kyrgyz Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Kyrgyz Republic:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Kyrgyz Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Border Region with Tajikistan – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to areas within approximately 30 kilometers of the border with Tajikistan due to intermittent cross-border tensions and violent clashes. Armed violence may occur with little or no warning. Travelers are at heightened risk of injury or death when visiting or transiting that region. 

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, kyrgyzstan map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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Kyrgyzstan Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Kyrgyzstan. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles May 28, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kyrgyzstan.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Kyrgyzstan.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Kyrgyzstan.

If rabies exposures occur while in Kyrgyzstan, rabies vaccines are typically not readily available.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kyrgyzstan, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kyrgyzstan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kyrgyzstan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kyrgyzstan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kyrgyzstan may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kyrgyzstan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kyrgyzstan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Kyrgyz Republic

Latest update.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kyrgyz Republic overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism and violent crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Kyrgyz Republic (PDF 253.97 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 103 or go straight to the hospital.

Call 102 or go to your local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kyrgyz Republic overall.

(See Safety ).

Reconsider your need to travel to the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border area, the Kyrgyz-Tajik border area, and Ferghana Valley.

Reconsider your need to travel to:

• the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border area,
• the Kyrgyz-Tajik border area, and
• Ferghana Valley

due to the security situation including the threat of terrorism and violent crime and the risk of civil unrest and landmines. 

See Safety .

• Terrorist attacks have happened in the Kyrgyz Republic. Targets have included places popular with foreigners. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.
• In September 2022, military clashes in the Batken Region bordering Tajikistan escalated into an armed conflict. The Kyrgyz Republic declared a state of emergency, which was lifted following a ceasefire agreement. The security situation remains volatile and could deteriorate further with little warning. Avoid all non-essential travel to the Kyrgyz-Tajik border area.
• Security is volatile in the Kyrgyz-Uzbek and Kyrgyz-Tajik border areas. This includes the Ferghana Valley. Crime, civil unrest, terrorist activity, clashes, and landmines are risks. Security forces monitor border areas and often conduct operations there.

Demonstrations occur regularly in Bishkek and elsewhere across the country and can turn violent without warning. Avoid large crowds and any demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

• Violent crime, kidnapping, robbery, mugging and pickpocketing occur. Criminals can pose as police or 'meet-and-greet' drivers at the airport. The risk of crime increases at night. Always be alert to your surroundings. Avoid walking at night, especially if you're alone.
• Cases of unauthorised withdrawals are reported after people have used ATMs or EFTPOS machines. Use ATMs in controlled areas, such as in banks or large hotels. Check for skimming devices. Keep your credit card in sight when paying for things.
• Drink spiking is a risk. Don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers. Never leave your food or drink unattended.
• There's a high risk of earthquakes in the Kyrgyz Republic. Tremors, avalanches and landslides are common. People have died in snow-related accidents in recent years. Monitor local media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Full travel advice: Safety

• Insect-borne diseases can occur, including leishmaniasis. Use insect repellent. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. 
• Ticks carrying encephalitis are common in forested areas from spring to autumn. Check your body for ticks during and after visits to forest areas.
• Other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis, meningitis, tuberculosis, brucellosis and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food and unpasteurised dairy products. If an animal bites or scratches you, get immediate medical help.
• Medical facilities in Bishkek are limited. In remote areas, they're basic. Medical equipment and medicines are in short supply.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Severe penalties include lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.
• You need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage if you plan to marry in the Kyrgyz Republic. Contact the  Australian Embassy in Moscow  for information.
• If you plan to live or work in the Kyrgyz Republic or stay for long periods, you'll need an apostille for Australian-issued documents. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of the Kyrgyz Republic  for details.
• It's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol reading over 0%. It's illegal to take photos of military and security establishments. Always carry your passport, or a certified copy, at all times. It's the law, and ID checks by police are common.
• Law enforcement agencies in the Kyrgyz Republic cooperate closely with agencies in other CIS countries. If you commit an offence in a CIS country or have engaged in activities that might broadly constitute an offence in the CIS country, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.
• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative. Displays of affection, even between married couples, can offend. Police may harass or detain you. Take care not to offend. If in doubt, dress modestly and seek local advice.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You don't need a tourist visa to stay up to 60 days. You can apply for an e-visa for tourism and business for up to 90 days. You will need to register your details with the State Registration Service if you stay longer than 60 days. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic to confirm visa and entry requirements.
• There are some HIV/AIDS restrictions for visitors and residents. You'll need an HIV test to apply for a work visa. Check with an  embassy or consulate of the Kyrgyz Republic  before you travel.
• The economy is mainly cash-based. Only a few major hotels accept traveller's cheques and credit cards.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic. Contact the Australian Embassy in Moscow for consular help.

• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation, demonstrations, border areas.

Security is volatile in the Kyrgyz-Uzbek and Kyrgyz-Tajik border areas. This includes the Ferghana Valley.

Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan signed an agreement on their borders in 2023, but local authorities may still close border crossings at short notice. Smuggling and cross-border criminal activity occur, and the security situation can be volatile. Landmines are a risk in uncontrolled areas of the Uzbek-Kyrgyz border. 

In September 2022, military clashes in the Batken Region bordering Tajikistan escalated into an armed conflict, where more than 100 people were killed and 140 000 evacuated. The Kyrgyz Republic declared a state of emergency, which was lifted following a ceasefire agreement. The security situation remains volatile and could deteriorate further with little warning. Avoid all non-essential travel to the Kyrgyz-Tajik border area.

Violent crime and civil unrest occur often. There are frequent reports of terrorist activity.

There have been clashes between security forces and militant and criminal groups.

Security forces from Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan monitor border areas and often conduct operations there.

If you plan to travel to those regions, read the travel advice for  Uzbekistan  and  Tajikistan .

Landmines are a risk in the Kyrgyz-Uzbek, Kyrgyz-Tajik border areas and Batken Oblast near the Kyrgyz-Tajikistan border.

Crime, including violent crime, occurs often.

Criminals can target foreigners.

Kidnapping, pickpocketing,  muggings and robberies  occur. Incidents have been reported near hotels, on public transport and in crowded places, especially where expats gather.

The risk of crime increases at night.

Petty crime

Thieves may target you by posing as:

• off-duty police
• uniformed police
• 'meet-and-greet' drivers at airports

If you think someone is posing as a police officer or official, offer to go with them to the nearest police station. Once there, you can verify their identity and their demands.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking is a risk.

Harmful substances added to alcoholic drinks can cause loss of consciousness, serious illness, blindness, brain injury or death.

To lessen your risk:

• never accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• don't leave your food or drink unattended

Violent clashes

Foreigners can get caught up in violent clashes between criminal groups.

If you get into a dispute with locals, it might result in:

• officials detaining you
• lengthy legal proceedings

To reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime:

• keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• always be alert to your surroundings
• avoid walking at night, especially if you're alone

When using taxis:

• avoid hailing taxis on the street
• book official taxis by phone if you can
• negotiate the price before the trip
• don't get in if there are other passengers

ATM card fraud

There have been cases of unauthorised withdrawals after people have used ATMs or EFTPOS machines.

To reduce your risk:

• use ATMs in controlled areas, such as in banks or large hotels
• check for skimming devices before you insert your card
• keep your credit card in sight when paying for things

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Criminal kidnappings can occur in the Kyrgyz Republic. Criminals can pose as police or 'meet-and-greet' drivers at the airport. 

The risk of crime increases at night. Always be alert to your surroundings. Avoid walking at night, especially if you're alone. 

The kidnapping of local women for marriage occurs in the Kyrgyz Republic. Foreigners could fall victim to such kidnappings. 

If you're female, take care when travelling alone outside major cities. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel, and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

 The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

More information:   

• Kidnapping  

Terrorist attacks have occurred in the Kyrgyz Republic. Targets include public transport and transport hubs and places popular with foreigners.

To stay safe:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• take care around potential targets
• report suspicious activity to the police
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorist threats

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To keep safe:

• monitor the media for possible unrest
• avoid protests and public gatherings

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Climate and natural disasters

The Kyrgyz Republic can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Earthquakes

There's a high risk of  earthquakes . Tremors are frequent.

Avalanches and landslides are common in mountainous areas. 

Severe weather

People have died in snow-related accidents in recent years, including:

• snow falling from roofs
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold
• car accidents

Natural disasters

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers

that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in the Kyrgyz Republic. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor. The documents must be translated into Russian. The letter should state:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Declare all medicine on arrival. Even with a prescription, you could face charges if you either:

• don't declare restricted medicines, or
• carry amounts over the legal limit
• Embassy or consulate of the Kyrgyz Republic

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Ticks carrying encephalitis are common in forested areas from spring to autumn.

Regularly check your body for ticks during and after visits to forest areas.

If a tick bites you:

• remove it from your body as soon as possible
• make sure you remove the whole tick
• monitor the site for any signs of infection

Other insect-borne diseases occur, including leishmaniasis .

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose fitting, light coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Tick prevention

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur. They include:

• tuberculosis
• brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities in Bishkek are limited. Medical equipment and medicines are in short supply.

The standard of medical services in remote areas is basic.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you could need treatment in a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Law enforcement agencies in the Kyrgyz Republic cooperate closely with agencies in other Commonwealth of Independent State (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties are severe for carrying or using illegal drugs. They can include lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

• Carrying or using drugs
• Legalising documents

If you plan to marry in the Kyrgyz Republic, you'll need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI). Contact the  Australian Embassy in Moscow  to find out how to apply.

You'll need an  apostille  for Australian-issued documents.

This includes if:

• you plan to live or work in the Kyrgyz Republic
• you plan to stay long periods

Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of the Kyrgyz Republic  about legalising documents.

• Getting married

Be aware that it's illegal to:

• not carry ID
• drive with a blood alcohol reading over 0%
• take photos of military and security establishments

Always carry your passport or a certified copy. Identity checks by police are common.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

The Kyrgyz Republic doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, dress modestly and seek local advice.

Obvious displays of affection, even between married couples, can offend. Police may harass or detain you.

Same-sex relationships are legal in the Kyrgyz Republic but aren't widely accepted.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in the Kyrgyz Republic. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. 

During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our  Ramadan  page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

You don't need a tourist visa to stay up to 60 days. 

In other cases, you'll need a visa.

You can apply for an e-visa for tourism and business purposes for up to 90 days.

To apply, visit the  e-visa website .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Kyrgyz Republic  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Many flights in and out of the Kyrgyz Republic stopover in Russia. You'll need to meet visa requirements for any countries you'll transit through.

• Travel advice for Russia

Border measures

Entry requirements could change at short notice. 

Contact your airline or the nearest embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic to confirm visa and entry requirements. 

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter the Kyrgyz Republic if you arrive from a country with yellow fever.  

Countries with a risk of yellow fever (DOC 152KB)

There are some HIV/AIDS restrictions for visitors and residents.

You'll need an HIV test to apply for a work visa.

Check with an embassy or consulate of the Kyrgyz Republic  before you travel.

Border crossings

Kyrgyz Republic's borders can close without notice.

Some border crossings may only open for local residents. Others may be open to some nationalities but not Australians.

Strict border controls apply on the road between Bishkek and Almaty in Kazakhstan. Expect delays at the border crossing for customs checks.

If you plan to cross any of Kyrgyz Republic's borders, check with local authorities first. They can tell you:

• the latest conditions for border crossing
• which border crossings Australians can use

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If hotel staff ask to photocopy your passport, make sure they return it promptly.

Losing your passport in the Kyrgyz Republic might be costly and might delay your travel plans. You'll need to get an exit visa and a replacement passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The official currency is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS), but US dollars are widely used.

Currency controls are in place.

The economy is mostly cash-based. Only a few of the major hotels accept traveller's cheques and credit cards.

Carry sufficient cash to cover your needs. Contact your bank to ensure your Australian cards will work overseas.

Local travel

Border regions.

The security situation in the Kyrgyz-Uzbek and Kyrgyz-Tajik border areas is volatile. This includes the Ferghana Valley. Landmines are present. See Safety

Driving permit

To drive in Kyrgyz Republic, you need both:

• an Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

Get your IDP in Australia before you leave.

Road travel

Road conditions and driving standards are poor.

Roads can be very hazardous in winter and at night.

It may be difficult to access service stations in rural areas. Diesel is often unavailable.

To stay safe on the road :

• find out about local traffic laws and practices before driving
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times
• have plenty of petrol when driving in rural areas

If you're planning to travel by road to Kazakhstan, read the travel advice for Kazakhstan .

Motorcycles

Check your insurance policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

It's safest to use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange them through your hotel or resort.

Taxis are often poorly maintained. See Safety

Public transport

Bus and trolley car services operate in Bishkek.

Minibus services operate in regional areas.

Local buses and minibuses are often poorly maintained.

Transport and getting around safely

Flight delays are common. Check your departure time with the airport.

The EU has banned airlines certified by Kyrgyz authorities from operating in EU airspace. The ban is due to safety concerns.

On 11 April 2022, the EU announced that 21 Russian owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns. 

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. If you're flying domestically or internationally, you should research your aviation provider.

Check the Kyrgyz Republic's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok Moscow 119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070 Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au X:  @PosolAustralia Telegram: https://t.me/AusEmbMoscow

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Kyrgyzstan travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: May 23, 2024 08:00 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, kyrgyzstan - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kyrgyzstan due to the possibility of violent crime.

Borders with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the areas within 30 km of the borders with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan due to security concerns.

Back to top

Border areas

South of kyrgyzstan including jalal-abad, batken, osh oblasts (provinces) and borders with uzbekistan and tajikistan.

The southern regions are prone to smuggling activities due to ill-defined and porous borders, making the security situation volatile and dangerous in the south of the country and along the borders with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

Land disputes and tensions between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan have occurred since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. However, in early 2023, Uzbek and Kyrgyz authorities announced that they finally reached an agreement on the delimitation of their shared borders.

Uzbek authorities may restrict access to border crossings with Kyrgyzstan without warning.

You should confirm with local authorities if border posts are open for travel before heading to Uzbekistan.

Tensions and occasional clashes due to territorial disputes have occurred on the border between the Sughd region of Tajikistan and the Batken region of Kyrgyzstan, including near the Vorukh enclave. Conflicts have resulted in numerous casualties, including civilians.

In September 2022, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed a ceasefire agreement, but the situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate without notice.

The passage of persons, goods and vehicles to and from Tajikistan is restricted at certain border checkpoints located at the Kyrgyz-Tajik border until further notice.

Order of the Cabinet of Ministers  – Ministry of Justice of Kyrgyzstan (in Kyrgyz and Russian only)

Marked and unmarked minefields may be present in areas bordering the following countries, especially in uncontrolled areas:

If you are traveling in any of these areas despite the advisory in effect:

• stay on main roads and paved surfaces
• avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
• cross only at official border crossings
• strictly observe warning signs indicating the possible presence of landmines

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as mugging, pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Violent crime

Violent crime is also common. Criminals, including organized gangs, target both locals and foreigners.

Target locations may include:

• areas near major hotels
• public transportation
• currency exchange booths
• shopping centres and markets

The police response is limited.

To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime:

• don’t walk or travel alone, especially at night
• don’t show signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of money

Common criminal strategies

Fraudulent police officers.

Thieves posing as police officers have approached foreign travellers and ask them to pay alleged fines.

If you face with this situation, offer to follow the officer to the nearest police station to pay the alleged fine.

Fraudulent airport facilitators

Fraudulent “meet and greet” airport facilitators have lured travellers into cars and requested money.

• Make prior travel arrangements with your contacts
• Ask for identification upon arrival
• Don’t leave the airport with anyone who doesn’t show you their identification

Entertainment venues

Thieves may also target foreign travellers in tourist entertainment locations such as bars, nightclubs and other drinking establishments.

One or more individuals may propose to go to your hotel room or apartment. The individual will then try to provide access to your accommodation to its accomplices. You could be the victim of robbery, physical assault, and blackmailing.

Foreign travellers on foot, travelling alone or in small groups at night have been followed and robbed.

• Avoid walking or travelling alone, especially at night
• Always use a reputable taxi service in advance before leaving popular restaurants and places of recreation

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Credit card, Internet and ATM fraud is common.

• Pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, military installations and schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Road safety

Roads conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers don't respect traffic laws. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Roads are poorly maintained and inadequately lit.

Roads from Bishkek to Tashkent are hazardous during winter. The road between Almaty and Bishkek is difficult because of the many checkpoints set up between both cities.

Gas stations outside Bishkek and Osh are scarce.

• Make sure you're well prepared
• Plan for sufficient supply of gasoline, water and food
• Always carry a cell phone and chargers
• Keep a list of emergency contact numbers with you

Public transportation

Public transportation is unsafe due to poor maintenance and reckless driving practices.

Avoid using public transportation.

Use only officially marked taxis with meters or a trusted ride-sharing app. Avoid shared taxis and street taxis.

• Ask the driver to use the meter or pre-negotiate the fare
• Don't share a ride with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Kyrgyz authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Kyrgyzstan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 60 days in a 120-day period Business visa: not required for stays of up to 60 days in a 120-day period Student visa: not required for stays of up to 60 days in a 120-day period

If you intend to stay in Kyrgyzstan for longer than 60 days, you must obtain an E-Visa before your arrival in the country.

Once in the country, you must also register with the State Registration Service Passport Desk within 5 business days following your arrival. You will need to show this proof of registration to leave the country.

If you fail to do so, local authorities will prevent you from leaving until you pay the associated fine.

• State Registration Services - Ministry of Justice of Kyrgyzstan
• E-visa - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan

Regional travel

You must obtain a special permission from Chinese authorities if you are travelling onward to China from Kyrgyzstan.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and is common in most parts of the world.

Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is limited in availability. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country and may not be up to Canadian standards, especially in rural areas.

Clinics and hospitals may have limited access to supplies, medication or medical equipment.

The cost of medical services can be significantly higher for foreign travellers. If you don’t speak Kyrgyz or Russian, you should seek assistance from an interpreter to deal with clinic or hospital staff.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of a serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Photographing military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty.

Seek permission from local authorities before taking such photographs.

Identification

Police officers regularly carry out identification checks. You might be detained if you’re stopped and can’t present ID.

You should keep:

• a legally certified copy of your visa, registration and passport with you at all times
• your passport and visa in safekeeping facilities
• digital copies of all your travel documents

Dress and behaviour

Although Kyrgyzstan is officially a secular country, locals closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs, particularly in rural areas.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Kyrgyz law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Kyrgyzstan.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Kyrgyzstan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Kyrgyzstan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Kyrgyzstan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Kyrgyzstan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani som (KGS).

The economy is primarily cash-based. ATMs are limited in rural areas.

Kyrgyzstan is in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur.

Useful links:

• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Safety precautions in case of an emergency situation  - Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kyrgyzstan

Avalanches and landslides

Avalanches and landslides are common in mountainous areas, particularly in the spring.

They can be hazardous and block road access.

• Monitor local media and weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance or:

• 101 in case of fire
• 103 for medical emergencies
• 102 for police

Consular assistance

Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Kazakhstan, in Nur-Sultan, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kyrgyzstan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kyrgyz Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Kyrgyzstan.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting or resident in Kyrgyzstan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can enter Kyrgyzstan as a visitor for stays of up to 60 days without a visa. You must not stay more than 60 days in any 120-day period.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Kyrgyz government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Kyrgyz Embassy . The Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs also has information on visas .

Applying for a visa

Apply for a visa online from the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Travelling through Kyrgyzstan

If you’re travelling through Kyrgyzstan on your way to another country and will be passing through immigration (sometimes known as a layover), you must follow Kyrgyzstan’s entry requirements.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Kyrgyzstan guide .

Registering with the Kyrgyz authorities

If you’re visiting Kyrgyzstan for more than 60 days, you must register online with the State Registration Service (SRS) (in Kyrgyz and Russian). You must register within 5 days of your entry into Kyrgyzstan for the period of your visa’s validity.

Non-Kyrgyz nationals with a permanent residency permit can host visitors to Kyrgyzstan and register them with the State Registration Service. See information on registration in English .

Kyrgyz-British dual nationality

Kyrgyzstan does not recognise dual nationality. If you enter Kyrgyzstan on a Kyrgyz passport and hold British nationality, the British Embassy can only provide very limited consular assistance. If you’re arrested or detained, the Kyrgyz authorities are unlikely to allow you to get help from the British Embassy.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kyrgyzstan (in Russian). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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Kyrgyzstan Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Kyrgyzstan

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Kyrgyzstan from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kyrgyzstan.

Can I travel to Kyrgyzstan if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kyrgyzstan without restrictions.

Can I travel to Kyrgyzstan without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kyrgyzstan without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Kyrgyzstan?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Kyrgyzstan.

Can I travel to Kyrgyzstan without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Kyrgyzstan?

Mask usage in Kyrgyzstan is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Kyrgyzstan?

Restaurants in Kyrgyzstan are open. Bars in Kyrgyzstan are .

Tips and how to travel to Kyrgyzstan (2024)

By Joan Torres 43 Comments Last updated on May 8, 2024

From first-class treks to a very accessible nomadic culture, horse riding and hospitable people, traveling to Kyrgyzstan is the experience, and destination, for those seeking an off the beaten track (but easy) adventure.

After spending two entire months traveling in Kyrgyzstan , I have compiled all the necessary information that will help you plan your trip, from visas and bureaucracy to accommodation, transportation and plenty of cultural facts.

In this Kyrgyzstan travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Travel insurance
• Best time to visit
• How to get in
• Is it safe?
• Top 5 experiences
• The country, people, and culture
• Food and alcohol
• Nomadic life
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Kyrgyzstan

With its Backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Kyrgyzstan.

Read: Packing list for trekking in Central Asia

🪪 Visa for traveling to Kyrgyzstan

The most liberal visa regime in central asia.

Most nationalities get a 60-day free visa on arrival, both at the airport and overland.

If you want to renew it, you just need to cross the Kazakh border (1 hour from Bishkek) and come back on the same day.

These countries are: EU countries (except for Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania), Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Kuwait, Monaco, New Zealand, Oman , Qatar, Saudi Arabia , Singapore, South Korea, United Arab Emirates , United States, Uzbekistan , Vatican City. Japan and Russia can get an indefinite stay. 

The rest of nationalities can apply for a Kyrgyz e-visa

Since September 2017, most of the remaining countries can apply for an e-visa through the official portal . It takes around 1 week and costs 63USD. 

Moreover, if you are in possession of an e-visa, you can travel to Kyrgyzstan both via land and air. 

Be aware that when applying for an e-visa, most nationalities will also need to be in possession of an LOI, EXCEPT for citizens of:

Brazil, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Indonesia, Israel, Macedonia, Mexico, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, South Africa, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela.

If you are not on any of the above lists, read the Kyrgyzstan visa section of Caravanistan  for further information on visas.

Extending your visa does not seem to be possible anymore

We tried to extend our visa and they said that, since May 2017, extensions aren’t possible anymore. We tried to extend it in both Karakol and Bishkek. 

It is easier to  travel to Almaty   and come back. 

Overstaying can be expensive

If you overstayed, you won’t be let to get out of the country unless you are in possession of an exit visa, which you can get at the foreign office located at 58 Kievskaya street in Bishkek, after paying the respective fine.

🚑 Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan

If you visit Kyrgyzstan, travel insurance is a must, as accidents do happen in the mountains. Actually, during a horse trek in Tash Rabat , I fell off the horse and had to stay in bed for nearly 2 weeks.

It was a pretty bad (and scary accident). I had to go to the hospital, all the way to Bishkek, where they carried out different kinds of tests on me which, in the end, turned out to be expensive. Luckily, I was fully insured.

For Kyrgyzstan, I recommend IATI Insurance :

• Different plans for all budgets
• It covers a big bunch of adventure activities, including trekking in high altitudes
• Covers both short-term trips and 1-year long trips.
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

⛅ Best time to visit Kyrgyzstan

My favorite month for traveling to kyrgyzstan: september.

Why? July & August would be the ideal season for trekking, especially if you plan to go high in the mountains as, during these two months, the weather is warmer and the likelihood of rain is lower. However, Kyrgyzstan is becoming a popular destination, which means that some areas may be crowded.

In September, nevertheless, most crowds will be gone, and the weather will still be warm enough for trekking, and that is why I consider September to be the best month for visiting Kyrgyzstan .

Travel in Kyrgyzstan during High season (mid-June to Mid-September)

• Pros: Best season for trekking, loads of nomads
• Cons: Crowded, plus it can be really hot in Bishkek and other low-altitude areas

Read my packing list for trekking in Central Asia

Travel in Kyrgyzstan during Shoulder season (Spring and Autumn)

• Pros: In late spring and early autumn, you can do some cool treks
• Cons: High mountains may be not accessible, unpredictable weather, nomads may not be there

Travel in Kyrgyzstan during Low season (mid-November to March)

• Pros: Winter landscape, snow, no people
• Cons: No trekking, no nomads

🛫 How to get to Kyrgyzstan

How to travel to kyrgyzstan by air.

Getting to the International Airport of Bishkek is fairly easy, as it has quite a few connections with several airports in Europe. Moreover, you should also check Pegasus, a budget airline from Istanbul with daily flights to Bishkek. Alternatively, check out the flights to Almaty, as they are usually cheaper and it is very close to Bishkek. 

How to travel to Kyrgyzstan by land

Kyrgyzstan shares a border with:

• China – There are 2 open borders, Irkeshtam and Torugart. Crossing at Torugart requires having a special, expensive Chinese permit. Crossing via Irkeshtam is fairly easy and you can read the full report here . 
• Tajikistan – There are 6 border crossings and 4 of them are open to foreigners. The most obvious is the  Kyzyl Art border crossing , which is the one that follows the Pamir Highway. For more information, read the   latest Caravanistan updates .
• Kazakhstan – There are like 7 border crossings, but the easiest ones are Karkara and Kordai. For more information, read the latest Caravanistan updates . 
• Uzbekistan – There are nowadays 4 borders but only 3 are open as of 2019. For more information, read the latest Caravanistan updates . 

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan?

Something you need to know is that the term Stan doesn’t mean a place is dangerous, but Stan means land , so Kyrgyzstan means the land of Kyrgyz. 

Kyrgyzstan is a safe destination. Period. 

I mean, just check the FCO advice and you will see that all they say is that Kyrgyzstan is a very safe country, and here you need to take into account that the FCO advice is always absolutely biased, meaning that tends to see danger where there is not, especially in the Middle East .

Solo travelers will be just fine and whereas I can’t speak for women, I know many women who have been there, and all they told me was positive experiences. 

The only potential danger you may hear about is that Bishkek used to be infamous for its after-midnight crime, mainly targeting drunk people on their way home from the bars. The situation, however, has dramatically improved but, if that is a concern for you, just take a taxi when you go back home.  

🛖 Top 5 experiences in Kyrgyzstan

For all the places to visit, don’t forget to check my 1-month Kyrgyzstan itinerary

Stay with Kyrgyz nomads

Experiencing the nomadic life is one of the greatest Kyrgyz experiences. From staying in a yurt to helping them preparing kurut , their local cheese, during our 2-month journey across the country, we met loads of nomads with we had awesome experiences. 

However, with the tourism increase, some nomadic camps have become too commercial, and what I recommend is that you try to find the most authentic ones. How? Well, by getting off the beaten track but also, if you go to Song Kul, instead of staying at the CBT camp where everybody stays, just go across the lake. 

Watch nomad games, but try to find out where the local games happen (don’t go to the touristic ones)

The ancient nomad sports in Kyrgyzstan are just crazy, and bizarre.

From horse wrestling to playing polo with a dead goat instead of an actual ball (Ulak tariysh), the nomadic games of Kyrgyzstan are, definitely, a must-see. 

Every summer, some tourist organizations, like CBT, organize nomad games for tourists, in Song Kul and places like that, but I recommend you find the local ones, as the vibe is just great, plus they do a larger variety of sports. 

To be very honest, I didn’t manage to see a local game in Kyrgyzstan, but I did in Tajikistan, near the Kyrgyz border (where most Tajiks are ethnically Kyrgyz), and it was just awesome.

Go trekking on a horse

Many people may feel bad for riding a horse, but the truth is that Kyrgyzstan is the land of horses and even today, in the rural areas, they are the preferred way of transportation.

Those horses are really used to go over high altitude mountain passes, and you definitely get a different experience, and perspective than going on foot. 

Go trekking in some of the most mind-blowing mountains ever

I truly believe that, in a matter of years, Kyrgyzstan will become the trekking destination of reference, competing directly with Nepal and Argentina, and the reason is that its mountains are absolutely jaw-dropping, plus they are much more accessible than any other destination I know. 

Visit the remotest Silk Road Heritage sites

Kyrgyzstan has only a small bunch of Silk Road Heritage sites, but the few it has are truly epic, remote and placed in the most epic locations. 

Kyrgyzstan is about nature and nomadic life  With very few Silk Road Heritage sites compared to its neighbor Uzbekistan , in Kyrgyzstan, there’s not much to do besides wandering around its gorgeous mountains and experiencing the nomadic life. The truth is that, with the exception of Bishkek and Arslanbob, most towns in Kyrgyzstan are pretty boring as there is no distinctive architecture, soul and social life, as Kyrgyzstan has been a nomadic land for many centuries. When you travel in Kyrgyzstan, you will see that towns are merely used as a base to explore the mountains or take a rest from them.

📚 Books for traveling to Kyrgyzstan

For more books to Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia, check:

The best 28 books on Central Asia

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide by Bradt

By far, the best and most complete book guide to Kyrgyzstan. Bradt writes the most awesome guides, as they are always filled with great cultural insights and personal experiences. I always buy their Kindle version for whatever country I go to.

Central Asia Guide by Lonely Planet

A classic. If you are traveling throughout the region, this might be a more economical option, rather than buying one guide per country but remember that it is not as insightful as Bradt’s.

Don’t forget to check my list of the best books on Central Asia and the Silk Road

🕌 15 facts about Kyrgyzstan, its people and culture

1 – Kyrgyzstan used to be part of the Soviet Union – It acquired its independence in 1991, with the collapse of the USSR.

2 – The origin of the Kyrgyz – Kyrgyz people are an ethnic nomadic group which is believed to have come from a region within Siberia, during the 10th and 15th centuries.

Originally, they used to have red hair but, over the centuries, they have mixed with all kinds of groups, especially Mongols and Turks.

3 – Kyrgyz make up 66% of the population – The biggest minority are Uzbeks (15%), followed by Russians (10%).

4 – It’s a Muslim country. Well, not really – Like in most Soviet countries, religion is not a big deal anymore, especially in the north of the country.

In the south, people tend to be more traditional, so you may see more mosques or men with beard and Muslim hats, but nothing relevant. During Ramadan, I was in Bishkek and didn’t see any sign of people fasting.

Alcohol is available everywhere and there is no sex segregation. You will see that women of all ages will always come to you to start a conversation.

5 – However, Saudi Arabia wants to reverse this – They are funding the construction of mosques across the country.

Read: 35 Tips for traveling to Kazakhstan

6 – Kyrgyz is the national language but Russian is widely spoken – Kyrgyz, a Turkic language, is the country’s official language.

Russian is spoken by most of the population, except in the south of the country, which has a significant Uzbek population who, for some reason, don’t really speak it.

7 – English is a problem – Communicating with people is one of the biggest issues in Kyrgyzstan, as very few people speak English. 

8 – At least, you must learn the Cyrillic alphabet – Extremely useful, especially when it comes to reading restaurant menus and bus directions.

9 – Bishkek is surprisingly Westernized – When you arrive in Bishkek and discover all those restaurants and bars where local people hang out, who dress incredibly well, you realize that this is not what you were expecting.

10 – The rest of the country is more traditional – Outside of Bishkek, most people still live a traditional life, where people’s main life goal is getting married and having children as early as possible. I met several 20-year old women who already had two kids.

11 – Kidnapping brides is still a big deal – And what do I mean by kidnapping brides? In Kyrgyzstan, a man can take a random woman who is just walking on the street to his house and, if both parents agree, he can marry her and the woman can’t say anything.

I know, it’s not a real kidnapping but it’s a crazy tradition and, even today, some locals told me that this is practiced by 20% of the population, especially in small, rural villages.

If you want to know more about, check out this video:

12 – The most hospitable people in Central Asia – In this region, the Kyrgyz are famous for their hospitality. When we went trekking in the mountains, I remember that there was not a single day when someone didn’t invite us to his or her yurt to have some tea and bread with home-made jam and butter.

Traveling in Kyrgyzstan is very pleasant, as the Kyrgyz people, who will always bless you with their smiles, are kind and hospitable by nature.

13 – You can’t believe how clean they are – When you visit Kyrgyzstan , you will realize that these people have a real obsession with cleanliness.

Even in youth hostels, sometimes I could never go to the toilet because there was someone cleaning it. In guest houses and home-stays, women spend the entire day mopping the floor and cleaning the kitchen.

I don’t know whether it’s true or not but, a Russian man told me that, during Soviet times, Kyrgyz people had a bad reputation for being dirty. In order to change this general opinion, they became obsessed with cleanliness.

14 – Girls are pretty, very pretty – Kyrgyz women are stunning, especially in Bishkek. On the other hand, all foreign women say that, in general, Kyrgyz men are not very handsome.

15 – Always remove your shoes – You must always remove shoes when you enter any house, yurt and even hostels and guesthouses.

Read: 70 Tips for traveling to Pakistan

🐪 About nomadic life in Kyrgyzstan

The most accessible nomadic life in the world.

From time immemorial, the ethnic group known as the Kyrgyz have been a nomadic people who tend to move continuously throughout the mountains and valleys of the region with their cattle.

Today, a large proportion of the Kyrgyz population still live a nomadic, traditional life, not very different from their ancestors.

In summer, which is from June to September, you will find hundreds of nomad camps everywhere, either next to the road or in the remotest mountains, where they settle so their horses, cows and sheep can graze freely.

It’s their summer job

During the summer months, Kyrgyz nomads move from cities to the mountains, so their herds of cows, sheep, goats and horses can graze freely.

When the season is over, they sell some of these animals, as well as dairy products and meat. This is the only source of income most of them rely on.

They live in yurts

Yurts are perhaps the most iconic symbol of Kyrgyzstan. These cozy skin-made tents, which can be seen all across the country, can be incredibly warm during the freezing nights.

You can always stay with them, no matter where you go

Whether you just want to get a warm meal or spend the night, wherever you go trekking, the nomads will always welcome you, at least in my experience.

But remember that, even if they don’t ask, they may expect you to pay something.

Get off the beaten track because the touristic areas are too commercialized

If you go to popular places, such as Song Kul for example, most nomad families have spare yurts, which have been built for tourists.

Whereas there is nothing wrong with staying there, the experience won’t be very authentic.

If you have a chance, try to find yurts around the Alay Valley, the Pamirs or even in less popular treks around Karakol . In these yurt camps, you may sleep in the same yurt as the family and even join in with their daily tasks.

🍲 Facts about food and alcohol in Kyrgyzstan

1 – Food is not amazing but it’s OK to fill your stomach – You will not love it but, after traveling in Kyrgyzstan for 2 months, I was not especially bored of it.

2 – The typical food – Lagman (a hearty noodle soup), manty (meat dumplings) and shorpo (meat broth) are the staple food.

3 – But don’t trust mantys – While traveling in Kyrgyzstan, the only day I got slightly sick was after eating some street mantys . Be careful where you order them, as the meat they are filled with may have been outside of the fridge for days.

4 – In small towns and villages, only staple food – In bigger towns, you can easily find more choices, like salads, kebab or Western food. However, in villages, you’ll have to fill your stomach with lagman and mantys.

5 – You are expected to know what to order from the moment you enter the restaurant – It’s your first day in Kyrgyzstan, the first time you enter a restaurant, holding a menu written in an alphabet which you’ve never seen before.

However, they will expect you to know what to order within 10 seconds of giving you the menu. If you tell them to wait for 5 or 10 minutes, they won’t really understand you and will stand next to you. It’s very weird but you’ll get used to it. 

6 – If you are vegetarian, you are fucked – It’s said that Kyrgyzstan is the country with the highest consumption of meat per capita in the world.

At most restaurants, it’s extremely difficult to find vegetarian dishes and, when you ask for something vegetarian, they kind of freak out.

Even sometimes, when I ordered a salad, it came with pieces of cooked beef in it. True story.

7 – Even chicken is difficult to find – If you find chicken on a menu, just order it!

8 – Beer and vodka are available everywhere – Welcome to the ex-Soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan! Despite being a Muslim country, alcohol consumption is present everywhere, even in small villages and towns.

9 – Get used to people being completely smashed at 9am – You’ll definitely meet Kyrgyz men who are massively wasted, who can barely walk, quite early in the morning.

10 – You must try kymys – If you go to the mountains and stay with nomads, ask for kymys , which is fermented milk. Most people don’t like it, as it has a weirdly sour, strong taste.

It has some small percentage of alcohol. However, if you don’t like it the first time, give it another chance. I tasted it in four different places and in two of them it was surprisingly good.

11 – Kyryt is the snack in fashion – Kyryt are some sort of cheese and yogurt balls which are available all across Central Asia but Kyrgyzstan is where they are most prevalent.

Again, some people don’t like them but, like kymys , some of them were good, some of them weren’t.

12 – A fruit paradise – If you come during the season, markets are filled with all kinds of fruits, incredibly tasty and ridiculously cheap. In summer, you will find plenty of nectarines, watermelon, strawberries, raspberries and much, much more!

🐴 Horses in Kyrgyzstan

It’s the land of horses.

Horses are as much part of their culture as the yurts. From epic horse treks over 4,000-meter mountain passes to herds of tens of horses grazing in stunning meadows, if you like horses, you are going to love Kyrgyzstan.

They learn how to ride a horse at the same time as walking

When you are in the mountains, you will see plenty of kids (including little girls) riding big horses.

You must go horse trekking

Trekking over high mountain passes, riding one of those beautiful beasts is one of the highlights of Kyrgyzstan.

Ah, in case you are wondering, no, you don’t need any previous riding experience. A guide will always come with you.

But be careful!

Horses are no joke. They are dangerous so don’t try to gallop if you don’t have any experience.

I actually had a pretty bad accident, felling off a horse in Tash Rabat when I tried to gallop (I am a stupid, inexperienced man). I had to stay in bed for two weeks and fully recovered after one month. I could have been much, much worse, so be careful.

Hiring a horse is cheap

It costs around 700KGS ($10) a day plus 1,000KGS ($15) for the guide, which can be split between several people. If they try to charge you more, they are ripping you off.

But be aware that they eat them!

When you see a herd of horses grazing over a dreamy meadow, don’t get too much in love with them because many of them will end up in a butchery!

Horse games

Horses are so rooted in their culture that they are also main protagonists in their national sports. Among many others,  Ulak Tsrtysh  is the most popular game, which is a form of polo where they play with a dead goat which is beheaded right before the game begins. Violence in any match is more than guaranteed.

For more information on horses, read:  Horse riding in Tash Rabat, Kyrgyzstan

🏔️ Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

Around 90% of the of the country is above 1,500 meters and with that, I’ve told you everything already.

Kyrgyzstan is home to some of the finest world-class hikes. For decades, travelers with a slight sense of adventure, who wanted to savor some first-class hikes, used to go to Argentina, Switzerland, and Nepal. However, just a couple of years ago, the most intrepid travelers quickly realized that trekking in Kyrgyzstan could easily rival Patagonia and the Himalayas.

For more information, check:

Hiking in Kyrgyzstan, everything you need to know

💻 Internet and connectivity in Kyrgyzstan

Esim for browsing, calling and traveling in kyrgyzstan.

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Kyrgyzstan . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Kyrgyzstan has the best internet in Central Asia

High-speed Wi-Fi is available almost all across the country, even in high altitude towns such as Sary-Mogol and Sary-Tash, something I would have never expected.

About getting a SIM Card for traveling around Kyrgyzstan

If you get a local SIM-Card, 3G is also quite fast. Get a mobile company called O! For just a few dollars, they offer weekly deals for both internet data and calls. This mobile company has street stalls all over the country.

Get a VPN for traveling in Kyrgyzstan

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Kyrgyzstan. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 About money, budget and costs

In Kyrgyzstan, they use the Kyrgyz SOM and, approximately:

1 USD = 88.60 SOM

Kyrgyzstan is a very cheap country to travel, the cheapest country in Central Asia, and a budget backpacker’s dream. You can easily find home or yurt stays for 10USD a day, including dinner and breakfast. Meals cost around 1-2USD in local eateries and between 2-4USD in mid-range places.

Expect to pay 10-15% extra for service Except in cheap, local eateries, you will always pay an extra 10-15% for service when the bill comes.

Public transportation within cities costs 15c and buses between nearby towns, less than 1USD.

Budget backpackers can easily travel around Kyrgyzstan on 20USD a day .

ATMs are available everywhere and, in many of them, you can select the option that you want to cash out USD, instead of KGS. In my experience, the maximum I was able to get was 200USD at a time.

Exchanging money

I’ve never seen so many exchange offices, especially in Bishkek, where you find one in absolutely every corner.

Scams, getting ripped-off

I felt that nobody tried to rip me off – except for taxi drivers, of course, perhaps because mass tourism hasn’t arrived here (yet).

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Kyrgyzstan

Staying in a homestay in kyrgyzstan.

Everybody has a home stay. Kyrgyzstan has the peculiarity that, no matter where you go, locals offer their houses to foreigners for home stays. 

Whether it is a remote village or a touristic destination, as soon as you arrive, women will approach you, asking if you want to stay at their house, and they are always superb: comfortable, clean and nicely decorated. You will not want to leave!

However, remember that they always expect you to pay, even if you are in a very remote village and you get randomly invited by someone to stay, even if they don’t ask you for money, they are expecting you to give something.

Price is always per person, not per room so, if you travel alone, Kyrgyzstan can be great

There are homestays all over the country, and you can easily find and book them online.

Staying in a yurt in Kyrgyzstan

A yurt is a round tent typically used by nomads in Central Asia and Mongolia, which is usually covered with animal skins.

In the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, if there are nomads, there will be also yurts, since that’s what they use for shelter.

They are incredibly warm and cozy and staying in one is a must-try experience for anyone traveling in Kyrgyzstan.

Staying in a hotel in Kyrgyzstan

In Bishkek, Osh and pretty much any larger city, you can also find regular hotels.

🛺 How to move around Kyrgyzstan – Transportation

Traveling around kyrgyzstan by public transportation, mashrutka is the way to go.

Mashrutkas are some kind of vans and mini-vans that connect all cities and towns in Kyrgyzstan.

They are extremely cheap and it’s very easy to move around with them, as you can find a station (or more) at every bazaar in absolutely every town. You just need to get on at the station and say which city or town you want to go.

Shared local taxis

Late in the evening, for long distances or in very remote towns, marshrutkas don’t run that often, so you will have to take a local shared taxi.

They are more expensive but, definitely, faster than marshrutkas . However, some drivers are completely nuts and may drive at over 120km per hour along narrow mountain roads.

A few things to keep in mind:

Remember that old women have the power – In any bus, marshrutka or taxi you go, women can choose any seat they want, even if you arrived one hour before them. In city buses, always give up your seat to any women over 40-50 years old. If you don’t, they will tell you to stand up. When I fell off the horse and had to stay in bed for 2 weeks, I was sitting in a marshrutka on the way to the hospital. I could barely stand up and, when a woman entered and told me to move and I couldn’t explain why I couldn’t, I created a lot of trouble until she understood.

At 40ºC, windows are still closed – Kyrgyz are afraid of air currents and no matter what time of the year it is, even if it’s the peak of the summer and 40ºC outside, they like to travel with the windows closed and the AC switched off. Sometimes, you can negotiate with the men but, if there are old ladies, forget about it.

Remember to be patient – Ninety percent of Kyrgyzstan is composed of high mountains which means that, every time you want to go from town to town, you will have to cross them, making your journey particularly slow. In addition, in some more remote destinations, shared taxis and marshrutkas leave once they are full and, sometimes, it takes some time to fill them. Just keep in mind that traveling in Kyrgyzstan can be particularly slow.

Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan

Hitchhiking is extremely easy and common among the locals. However, remember that, in Kyrgyzstan, everybody is a taxi driver so if you are looking for a free ride, you will need an extra dose of patience.

❗ More information for traveling in Kyrgyzstan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

What is CBT?

CBT (Community Based Tourism) is a very popular tour agency in Kyrgyzstan that can arrange any kind of activity you want to, from yurt stays to trekking, taxis, permits and anything you can think of.

CBT has offices all over the country and it is so popular because, despite being a tour agency, they offer very cheap and competitive prices.

However, bear in mind that, of course, it will always be cheaper to arrange things on your own.

Check the best books about Central Asia and the Silk Road

All guides and articles for traveling in Kyrgyzstan destination

• Kyrgyzstan Itinerary
• Horse riding in Tash Rabat
• Trekking in Kyrgyzstan
• Trekking the Ala-Kul
• Trekking in Karakol
• China-Kyrgyzstan border crossing
• Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border crossing
• Reasons to Visit Kyrgyzstan

Travel guides to other countries in Central Asia

• Tajikistan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Uzbekistan
• Travel Guide to Kazakhstan
• Pakistan Travel Guide
• Afghanistan Travel Guide

43 comments

I wouldn’t say that’s all you need to know, but it’s a nice start 🙂

Do come back, you ain’t seen nuttin’ yet!

Hi Caravanistan, nice to meet you online 😉 It’s not all but writing more than 3,500 words would be too abusive 😉 More articles coming soon. Cheers!

Very informative blog, thanks! I’m looking at travelling to Kyrgystan on my bike (the northern half of the country, around Naryn, and wonder how much rain I should expect. The climate charts indicate it’s pretty dry, but most blogs mentions seemingly frequent downpours and rain. Would you say that rain is a serious downside there in July-August?

Hi Christian, July & August is mostly dry, but it can rain of course, especially in high altitudes

From past few posts of your’s i had an imaginary tour of this beautiful country. You have shared very nice things about this country.

You should definitely pay a visit! Cheers.

Thank you for providing such a wonderful list of a new website as I hardly needed them.Thank you so much once again. Keep it up.

Nice article! I never knew much about this country until I read your post. Now I really am curious about exploring this place. Thanks for sharing!!

You totally should put it on your next summer travel list 😉 Thanks!

Looks that all the things that I have heard about this country all are rumors. It looks that this city is very peaceful and beautiful. I will definitely visit this country.

I hope it’s true 😉 You’ll enjoy it!

Excellent article Joan. I appreciate the details you put in there. Few points like you are expected to know what to order from the menu and closed windows at 40ºC left me in splits 🙂 🙂

Thanks! Yeah, these a few curiosities which are important know 🙂 !

This was incredibly useful! Kyrgyzstan has been on my places to go and I will totally refer back to this when I plan to make that trip. Thanks for sharing!

I really hope you go and glad you found it useful 😉

hello is it possible to travel to Kazakhstan from Kyrgyzstan should i need to get transit visa or without visa i can travel ?

Hello, it may be possible but it depends on your nationality.

Completely true. Except #21. That russian man obviously exagarrated on his words saying “long back kyrgyz was dirty” (as if he existed long back). The thing is in kyrgyz culture, women take a main role in house keeping, caring of kids, while men as a main provider. Thats why from the early age mothers guide daughters to be independent and know how to cook, clean, and be a support for parents and her future husband. BTW #71 – as for the simcard, its freely distributed at the exit of the airport (beeline, o, megacom) with few free load inside. Tho u have to approach service senter within a few days along with your original passport and get it registered to continue the service. I advised you to avail megacom it has a fast and cheap internet data (20Gb per month – 3.6$, 50Gb – 5.8$, 100Gb – 8.7$, with free call and sms within a network). Its much better if your phone suports 4G. Thats it 🙂 For any inquires kindly contact my WhatsApp#: +996 700 800 900

Hello! Thank you for your feedback, very much appreciated 🙂 ! As per your first comment, I don’t really know what are the exact reasons, as I am just putting into a few words what some people told me! However, in any case, what you are describing (claiming that women take care of the household) is very generic and happens to almost every culture and country in the world, so it doesn’t really explain why Kyrgyz are so obsessed with cleaning. As per your second comment, I will update my post accordingly as soon as I can!

Thank you for this amazing article. Agree with everything,. If you need any guidance in Kyrgyzstan, I can help you

Tell me how are high crime rate in kyrgyz and how hight rare of safftey??

Hello AIgerim, I am planning a trip from US to either Almat (cheaper & still close to Bishkek) Looking for someone to guide through Nature. trekking, hiking, hot springs, polar plunge, experience falcon hunting, Yurt sleeping with authentic Nomads. On a budget, Waiting for a flight price drop in Aug. So no set time yet , But Aug-Sept.

This was a great read! I definitely want to visit this country! Thanks x

Hi! I am from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and I absolutely love the way you descibed our reality! You definetly noticed unique features of kyrgyzstani life. Shared your post on Facebook, hope you’ll get more view and we’ll get more tourists 😀 Thank you! BTW, there are several really good ski resorts (the best one in Karakol) in Kyrgyzstan, so turists are more than welcome in winter season!

Thanks for for sharing it, really 🙂 and it’s my pleasure to say nice things about Kyrgyzstan. It is actually one of my most favorite countries. Yes, I had heard about the ski resort and heard it’s great!

I had not had Kyrgyzstan on my radar at all, until reading this blog from you! I love to travel and I love to hike, so now you have me excited to give Kyrgyzstan a try this summer. However, I have reached out to each of the three companies that you recommend for guide services, as I am only English-speaking, so I will need a guide to help me navigate the trails and communicate with the locals.

I live in the US, so am trying to communicate with these companies by email, but it’s been over a week, and no reply from them. Do you recommend my going to Bishkek in June and trying to find an English-speaking guide then? Or is that not realistic? I’m a very experienced traveler and hiker, but as a woman, I am also cautious because I travel alone.

I appreciate your advice. Thank you! And thank you for the inspiration to travel to Kyrgyzstan. 🙂

Hey Lyenne! It is actually better if you go to their offices once you are in Bishkek, or even at the destination in particular, like in Karakol. You will definitely find guides and, most importantly, it will be cheaper

Hello Thank you for your detailed information, it looks amazing Last year also I and my boyfriend we visited all this places, it was taken 20 days. Before coming to Kyrgyzstan we contacted with local companies and got all informations. Decided to do it by ourselves. When we land to Bishkek airport it was difficult to communicate with people, because people’s are dont speak English or French. And in Bishkek we changed our plan booked tour for 19 days. Because our friends recommended. Everything was great. Our guide was professional and speaks English very well.

In Kyrgyzstan some places no internet connection where is big mountains. And you need to take warm clothes, during the summer we see some snow 🙂

Hey Joan 🙂 , I’m so glad to have come across your page. Its so exciting and deeply informative. The descriptions are stunning and have given me a Stronger YES to go to Kyrgyzstan already!

I would like to know your advice on the below, -How many number of days (minimum) would you recommend to see around Kyrgyzstan? (Song Kul, Issyk Kul, Ala Kul, Ak-suu, all these gems and horse-treks in my mind) -What time of the year would be ideal to do the visit? -What are the “you can’t afford to miss” things to do and or places to visit in Kyrgyzstan? -Is it safe to travel as a couple or groups traveling is better for safety? Looking forward to your responses; to plan our trip.

Thanks in advance 😀

Hey Fatima, thanks for your comment, here are my responses: – I think you’d need minimum 2 weeks to visit these places – June to September is best and when the weather in the mountains is warmer – Besides the places you mentioned, I loved Alay Vallay and Tash Rabat – Kyrgyzstan is safe for anyone 🙂

I like your style of writing – informative, honest with a sense of humour. I have a plan to visit just one country for a week in Central Asia in 2020. While googling and reading up, I came across your blog and find it has all the info I need in my deciding process. So, the idea I have now is if I’d like to experience a nomadic mountaineous life, go with Kyrgyzstan and if I’d like to explore bazaars and ancient towns/architectures, go with Uzbekistan.

yes, that’s right 🙂 thanks,

Absolutely wonderful descriptions. Very insightful and helpful, especially considering that you made it a point to inform your readers about certain subtler aspects of Kyrgyz culture that would otherwise surprise people when they visit, not knowing what to expect. Reading about all your travels and adventures here has only made me think strongly about visiting Kyrgyzstan this year 🙂

Keep up the good work, and all the best with your other travels and writing as well!

Thank you so much for your kind words, Cyd!

Hi Joan, thank you so much for your interesting and inspiring info on Kyrghystan! Based on that we would like to go there for a 10 days trip first half of September, after a 10 days trip in Uzbekistan. as we only have 10 days, we would like to do it by car with a driver in order not to loose too much time: do you have any suggestions or drivers we can contact?

Hi there, sorry but unfortunately, I don’t personally know of any guide/driver!

I loved Bishkek. I didn’t go to trek just to visit and fell in love with the city, culture, and how inexpensive it was! The clubs are fun, karaoke was incredible, food excellent, and very easy to get around via taxi. The hotel I stayed at was 5 star quality under $40USD a day and the food there was some of the best I had in the country. I went to the mountains as well and saw amazing scenery. Snow on the mountains, wild horses, and wildlife. I was shocked at how western Bishkek was. I honestly felt like I was in an Asian neighborhood in the middle of Los Angeles. The people were extremely friendly, the woman are beautiful, but there is some things as a westerner you have to get used to. Lots of pushing and shoving when its crowded seemed pretty normal and if you are shopping be aware of counterfeit items. Other than that the country was beyond what I expected and I will be back soon!!! Issyk Kul is the next destination for me next time I am there and I would love to visit Osh. My entire 3 week journey including plane ticket, food, going out, and my incredible hotel was less than $2000. Its the biggest hidden secret in the world right now.

Thanks for the article. I have lived in Kyrgyzstan for many years. Mountains, Bishkek, Issyk-Kul. It’s very beautiful there. The people are hospitable.

Is it possible to get visa on arrival? or need to apply thru online (e-visa) before coming to Kyrgyzstan?

what’s your nationality?

Hi I enjoyed your article about Kyrgystan. Most likely we will be going and hopefully this summer! That’s why I searched for the info online. So…. I’m a vegetarian. I was told to take a jar of jam with me but I don’t think this will cut it 😉 We are planning to hike and spend as little time in a city as possible. How f****d i quote :))) do you think I am?

We don’t want to carry our bags all day, we prefer them to be dropped off to the next location. Or maybe we can afford a porter for a day or two. My partner had a shoulder op. So he is still bit vulnerable. I also read that you recommend to book hikes when we get there.

Can you recommend any local tour companies? When I try the online places you mentioned prices are high.

Is it best to fly to Bishkek or other cities have better hikes in the area?

We don’t want to get to high up, I don’t like cold or be in snow.

We would do probably 2-3 weeks.

Can you please recommend me best trails and places, and give me advice on planning? Thanks Kat

Hello, sorry for late answer. Vegetarians may have a hard time, since even the local shorpo (soup) is meat based… Cheese, bread, nuts, jam, fruits… That’s the type of food you find in the mountains. You can also find instant noodles in shops.

I don’t know any specific tour company, but you can easily arrange or find many in specific villages and towns in Kyrgyzstan.

For trails and places, you can check following guides: https://againstthecompass.com/en/trekking-in-kyrgyzstan/ https://againstthecompass.com/en/backpacking-kyrgyzstan/

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52 Tips for Travelling in Kyrgyzstan (Backpacker’s Guide)

April 1, 2020.

Everything you need to know about travelling in Kyrgyzstan. Where to visit, how to get around, safety and more are covered in this comprehensive travel guide.

Thinking of a trip to Central Asia? You can’t miss Kyrgyzstan – it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it’s still undiscovered by most travellers.

I’ve spent over three months backpacking around Kyrgyzstan, and have fallen in love with its snowy mountains, nomadic culture, blue lakes, and friendly locals.

In this post, I’ll go over everything you need to know about travelling in Kyrgyzstan based on my experience.

After reading this guide, you’ll be ready to head out and experience Kyrgyzstan for yourself.

• 1 Backpacking Kyrgyzstan
• 2 Visas For Travelling To Kyrgyzstan
• 3 Safety in Kyrgyzstan
• 4 Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan
• 5 Money in Kyrgyzstan
• 6 Communication in Kyrgyzstan
• 7 Getting to Kyrgyzstan
• 8 People & Culture of Kyrgyzstan
• 9.1 Northern Kyrgyzstan
• 9.2 Issyk-Kul Region
• 9.3 Central Kyrgyzstan
• 9.4 Southern Kyrgyzstan
• 10 Getting Around Kyrgyzstan
• 11 Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan
• 12 Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan
• 13 Internet & SIM Cards in Kyrgyzstan
• 14 Solo Travel in Kyrgyzstan
• 15 Budget for Backpacking Kyrgyzstan
• 16 Kyrgyzstan Backpacking Guide Wrap-up

Backpacking Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is the best Central Asian country for backpackers, in my opinion. It’s beautiful, cheap, and has a ton of stuff to see and do. If you like mountains, hiking, history, and unique culture, then Kyrgyzstan is the destination for you.

Kyrgyzstan is still a bit off the radar to most backpackers (much like Central Asia as a whole), but trust me, this is quite possibly the most incredible travel region in the world. You’ll fall in love with Central Asia, and will definitely want to get back soon.

Visas For Travelling To Kyrgyzstan

1 – You likely don’t need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstan has the most liberal visa policy in all of Central Asia, making it a great place for first-timers to the region. Citizens of most developed countries are able to visit Kyrgyzstan visa-free for stays of up to 60-days.

For those not eligible for visa-free entry, you can easily apply for an e-visa.

To check visa eligibility, check out the official government e-visa site .

Safety in Kyrgyzstan

2 – Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan? Kyrgyzstan is a perfectly safe travel destination, despite the fact that the countries name ends in ‘stan. I’ve never been shown anything but friendliness by the locals.

Of course, you should still exercise normal precautions when visiting Kyrgyzstan. Don’t walk down dark streets, watch your pockets in crowded areas, avoid talking about religion, and just be respectful to people.

Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan

3 – Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan: No matter where you go, you should always have travel insurance – Kyrgyzstan is no exception. Even though Kyrgyzstan is quite safe, accidents can still happen.

I personally use and recommend World Nomads. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities (important if you plan on doing any hiking while in Kyrgyzstan!).

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM WORLD NOMADS HERE

Money in Kyrgyzstan

4 – The Kyrgyz Som is the official currency of Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstan’s official currency is the som or KGS. The current exchange rate is $1 = 70 som as of March 2020. Check XE.com  for the latest rates.

5 – ATM machines can be found in major towns: As a tourist, you’ll typically need to use cash unless you’re at a higher-end supermarket, hotel, or cafe that accepts credit cards.

Banks and ATMs (Bankomat in Russian) are common in Kyrgyzstan, and the ATMs from most large banks accept foreign cards (both VISA and MasterCard), so you can simply withdraw cash after you’ve arrived in Kyrgyzstan.

I’ve successfully withdrawn cash from ATMs including Demir Bank, Kazkommerzbank, and KICB. You will be able to find ATMs in the following cities: Bishkek, Osh, Naryn, Cholpon Ata, Kochkor, Jalal-Abad, and Karakol.

Some ATM machines can even dispense USD instead of KGS if you happen to need it.

6 – You can also convert USD to KGS: If for whatever reason you don’t want to use a Kyrgyz ATM, you can bring USD and convert it to som when you arrive in Kyrgyzstan. However, be careful if you’re travelling with large amounts of cash! Other major currencies are also exchangeable in Kyrgyzstan. Try to bring crisp bills.

I’ve found exchange rates to be very fair in Central Asia, but always double-check to make sure that they’re giving you a good rate.

Planning to visit Uzbekistan as well? Be sure to check out my 2-week Uzbekistan itinerary to help plan your trip!

Communication in Kyrgyzstan

7 – Russian and Kyrgyz are the most prominent languages in Kyrgyzstan: Due to Kyrgyzstan’s history as part of the Soviet Union, Russian is spoken throughout the country.

Russian is used as an inter-ethnic common tongue in Kyrgyzstan (and other former Soviet Central Asian countries). In Bishkek, you’ll hear Russian as the most common language.

Kyrgyz is a Turkic language and is spoken by almost all Kyrgyz people (some Bishkek-born Kyrgyz have never learned it).

8 – Kyrgyzstan has a few minority languages: While Russian and Kyrgyz are by far the most common, there are a few other languages spoken in certain parts of Kyrgyzstan.

In Southern Kyrgyzstan, there are a number of ethnic Uzbek people who speak Uzbek, which is another Turkic language.

Other minority languages include Uyghur and Dungan.

9 – Do you need to know Russian to visit Kyrgyzstan?: No, you don’t need to know Russian (or Kyrgyz) to travel around Kyrgystan. While knowing the local language of a country can provide much deeper experiences, it’s never 100% necessary.

You should try to learn the basics, though. Purchase a  Russian phrasebook and you’ll be set. Google Translate is another lifesaver, especially with its offline option in case you don’t have internet access.

Plenty of people in Bishkek speak English, especially young university students. I found that people were always eager to practice their English with me! Also, most people working in the tourism industry (tour guides, hostel owners, etc) speak great English.

When all else fails, awkward hand gestures are usually able to save the day.

10 – Learn a few words in Kyrgyz to impress the locals!: It’s not very common for foreigners to know any Kyrgyz, so if you can learn a few basic words in Kyrgyz, you’ll make someone’s day. Easy ones are “ rakhmat ” (thank you) and “a s-salaam-alaikum ” (hello).

Getting to Kyrgyzstan

11 – Overlanding into Kyrgyzstan is possible:  Kyrgyzstan shares land borders with China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. There are land borders between all of those countries, and they are open to foreigners.

Popular crossings that travellers use are the Irkeshtam Pass between Kashgar and Osh, the Kyzylart Pass between Sary-Tash and Murghab on the Pamir Highway , the Kordai crossing between Bishkek and Almaty, the Dostyk crossing between Osh and Andijan, and the Batken/Isfara crossing from Osh to Khujand .

12 – Flying to Kyrgyzstan can be a bit expensive:  Kyrgyzstan isn’t the most well-connected by air, so flying to it (especially from North America) can be pricey.

When searching for flights, consider flying into Almaty or Tashkent if it is too expensive to fly into Bishkek.

Bishkek has direct international flights from Istanbul, Moscow, Dubai, Nur-Sultan, Tashkent, Dushanbe, Urumqi, and a number of other cities in Russia.

I recommend using  Google Flights to find the cheapest flights to Kyrgyzstan.

13 – Kyrgyzstan’s flag carrier is Air Kyrgyzstan: Unfortunately, Air Kyrgyzstan doesn’t have many routes and is only really useful for people travelling to or from Russia. It also happens to be on the list of airlines banned in the EU .

People & Culture of Kyrgyzstan

14 – Kyrgyzstan is a majority Muslim country: 88% of Kyrgyzstan’s population is Muslim, with 85% of them being Sunni Muslims. Most of the remainder of the population is Christian (usually the Russians).

While many people are Muslim, they’re not nearly as religious as in places such as Pakistan or Saudi Arabia . Due to the long Soviet rule over Kyrgyzstan, many religious practices were wiped out and are only just now starting to gain any sort of traction again.

Most Kyrgyz people drink alcohol, and in the northern part of the country, hijabs are not very popular.

15 – Southern Kyrgyzstan is more religious than the north: The Ferghana Valley region of Kyrgyzstan (around the city of Osh) is the most religious part of the country. People here follow their religion much more closely than those in Bishkek, so you should be careful to dress appropriately when travelling in this part of the country.

16 – Kyrgyz people are proud of their traditions: Alongside their religious traditions, Kyrgyz people have plenty of other cultural traditions.

Kyrgyz society is very family-oriented, and events such as childbirth and weddings end up resulting in large celebrations. In the countryside, you’ll still see plenty of traditional Kyrgyz clothes and people living nomadic lives in yurts.

Where to visit in Kyrgyzstan

17 – You could spend months in Kyrgyzstan: While it looks tiny on a map, Kyrgyzstan has an endless amount of things to do. There are countless 5+ day treks to go on, plenty of 6,000-meter peaks to climb, and hundreds of little villages to discover.

Trust me, I’ve spent months in Kyrgyzstan and still feel as though I haven’t even scratched the surface of what this country has to offer.

Northern Kyrgyzstan

18 – Bishkek is Kyrgyzstan’s cool capital: While some people consider Bishkek to be a bit of a boring city, I really like it! The city has an interesting Russian-Kyrgyz vibe and is full of awesome little cafes, bars, and restaurants. It makes for a great place to spend some relaxation time after roughing it in the mountains.

19 – Ala Archa National Park – mountains right next to the city!: Another thing I like about Bishkek is it’s proximity to the mountains. Ala Archa National Park is located only an hour south of the city and is perfect for day or weekend trips. It’s got mountains nearly 5,000 meters tall and plenty of hiking trails.

20 – Burana Tower is one of Kyrgyzstan’s best historical sights: Burana Tower is an ancient Silk Road era minaret located only an hour and a half east of Bishkek. It’s easy to visit it using public transport as a day trip from Bishkek.

Check out my guide to visiting Burana Tower for more info!

Issyk-Kul Region

21 – Karakol is a paradise for hikers: Karakol is a medium-sized city located near the eastern end of Issy-Kul, and just south town are the massive peaks of the Tien Shan mountains. Karakol is the perfect place to base yourself and go hiking in the mountains. There are quite a few different trekking options around here – you could do a 2/3-day Ala Kul hike or even the longer 5-day Ak-Suu trek.

For more info on hiking options near Karakol, see the official Destination Karakol site.

22 – Like beaches? Head to the Issy-Kul!: After wrapping up a challenging hike, why not head to the beach? Issy-Kul has a number of different beach towns surrounding it. Cholpon-Ata is where Kyrgyz and Russians go for beach parties, whereas Tosor is a nice quiet place for a relaxing beach experience.

23 – Jyrgalan is a great off-the-beaten-path hiking destination: If you’re up for even more hiking, consider Jyrgalan. This small town near the Kazakh border is Kyrgyzstan’s fastest growing hiking destination – so check it out before everyone else does! See their official site for more info.

Central Kyrgyzstan

24 – Nomadic traditions are strong here: Central Kyrgyzstan is the land of mountains and yurts. It’s very sparsely populated and is a great place to get off-the-beaten-path. In these highlands, many Kyrgyz people still live traditional nomadic lives living in yurt camps and surviving off of the land.

25 – Song Kul is the most popular destination: Song Kul is a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by green pastures. Song Kul is surrounded by a number of different yurt camps where tourists can stay, and the area around the lake is wonderful for hiking and horseback riding.

26 – Endless hiking opportunities: There are plenty of places to go hiking in Central Kyrgyzstan, from the beautiful Kol-Suu lake to the mountains near Toktogul. If you want to get away from everybody else, this is your place.

Southern Kyrgyzstan

27 – Osh is Kyrgyzstan’s southern capital: Osh is the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and a place you’ll definitely pass through if you want to explore the south of the country. It’s a nice place to eat some decent food, although it can get extremely hot in the summertime.

28 – Visit the walnut forests of Arslanbob: One of the most popular destinations in Southern Kyrgyzstan is the town of Arslanbob. It’s located just a few hours away from Osh, and is easily reached by public transport. Spending a few days here and relaxing in the walnut forests should be on everyone’s Kyrgyzstan itinerary.

Community-based tourism in Arslanbob is a fantastic way to stay in a homestay and experience local life, and I recommend looking into it if you’re planning on visiting!

29 – The Alay Valley is incredibly beautiful: The Alay Valley is my favourite place in Kyrgyzstan – it’s a wide valley full of green grass surrounded by massive 7,000-meter peaks. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Consider spending a couple of days in the towns of Sary-Tash or Sary-Mogul to take in the views here.

30 – If you’re into mountaineering, consider climbing Lenin Peak: Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for mountaineers, and one of it’s most popular climbs is the 7,134 meter Lenin Peak. It’s not an easy climb, but for climbers looking to get into high-altitude mountaineering, it is an accessible and affordable option.

Check out my guide to learn more about climbing Lenin Peak .

Getting Around Kyrgyzstan

31 – Marshrutkas go almost everywhere: Marshrutkas (minibus) are the backbone of transportation in Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries. They connect almost all cities and towns and are usually the cheapest mode of transport when there isn’t a train available.

Marshrutkas are cheap – for example, a 7-hour marshrutka ride from Bishkek to Karakol costs 350 som ($4.5). They operate on a fixed-price system, so you don’t need to worry about haggling with the driver.

The main downside to marshrutkas is that they can sometimes be a bit hot and cramped, which can be quite uncomfortable in the summer months.

32 – Here are some of the most useful marshrutka routes:

• Bishkek to Karakol – 7 hours, 350 som
• Bishkek to Naryn – 5 hours, 350 som
• Karakol to Naryn – 7 hours, 450 som
• Bishkek to Cholpon-Ata – 3.5 hours, 250 som
• Osh to Sary-Mogul – 3.5 hours, 240 som
• Osh to Jalal-Abad -2 hours, 120 som

33 – Shared taxis are a more comfortable alternative to marshrutkas: If you’re looking to travel in a bit more luxury, you can opt for a shared taxi.

You can usually find a shared taxi to the same destinations that marshrutkas run (and sometimes even smaller destinations), but you will need to wait until all seats in the car are filled before it departs (unless you want to pay for them all).

Shared taxis are typically a bit more expensive than a marshrutka, but are much more comfortable. You can often pay the driver a bit extra to sit in the front seat so that you’ve got a great window view.

34 – Bishkek to Osh takes an entire day: The journey from Bishkek to Osh is a long one. While just 670 kilometers, the trip can take up to 14 hours due to the windy mountain road that connects the two cities.

Try to travel this route during the daytime – it’s absolutely stunning. There are cheap domestic flights between the two cities if you don’t have enough time to spend an entire day in a car.

35 – There aren’t any useful train routes: Bishkek has a train station, but it is of little use for most travellers. There is a direct train from Bishkek to Moscow that takes 3-days, which could be useful if you want to get back to Europe overland.

There’s only one domestic train route in all of Kyrgyzstan, and it is the Bishkek – Balykchy line that takes about 5 hours. This train takes much longer than a marshrutka on the same route but it would be a nice experience if you’re into rail travel.

36 – Within Bishkek, use Yandex Taxi to get around: I’m sure you’re familiar with ride-sharing apps like Uber at this point. Yandex Taxi is a  Russian ridesharing app that works in Bishkek, and I highly recommend you use it to get around the city. Rides are typically just 70 – 150 som and you can choose your pickup and dropoff locations on the app. It has an English setting, so no need to know Russian.

37 – Domestic flights are cheap: The busiest domestic flight route is between Bishkek and Osh, and one-way tickets are typically around $35 between the two cities.

Consider taking this flight if you’ve already seen the overland route between Bishkek and Osh and want to save some time.

Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

38 – There are hostels in all of the major touristy towns: Kyrgyzstan has a well-developed network of backpacker-style hostels in all of its main cities. They’re a great place to meet other travellers, and they’re also very cheap.

Here are my favourite ones:

• Interhouse Bishkek – A modern and popular hostel located right in the center of Bishkek, this is the perfect place to relax when you’re in Bishkek.
• TES Hotel Osh – I’ve stayed at TES Hotel four times now. It has both private rooms and dormitories, and even a large outdoor area where you can pitch a tent. Breakfast is a tasty buffet. This is by far my favourite place to stay in Osh.
• KbH Karakol Based Hostel – A medium-sized hostel right in central Karakol that’s run by friendly staff. They can help you with any trekking or transportation info that you need. Highly recommend this hostel!

39 – Homestays in Kyrgyzstan are great: There are a ton of fantastic homestays throughout Kyrgyzstan. Do some searching on your destinations and you’ll come across some well-reviewed ones.

One homestay that I really liked was the “Hotel Tatina” in Sary-Tash – 500 som per night including dinner and breakfast, and it was run by a super friendly family.

40 – Stay in a yurt at least once: Yurts are circular white tents that dot the countryside of Kyrgyzstan. They’re the traditional home of the nomadic people across Central Asia, and staying in one is a must-have experience if you’re in Kyrgyzstan.

41 – Airbnb is another good option in Bishkek: Airbnb isn’t super popular yet in Kyrgyzstan, but Bishkek does have a few decent options available. If it is your first time using Airbnb, you can use my referral link to get up to $65 off of your first booking!

GET $65 OFF YOUR FIRST AIRBNB BOOKING

Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan

42 – Kyrgyzstan can be visited year-round: No matter what time of year it is, you can visit Kyrgyzstan. The country is always beautiful, and each season brings a new look to its incredible landscapes. However, depending on your interests, there are certain seasons that are better than others.

43 – Summer is definitely the best time to visit if you’re into outdoor activities: If you want to do any sort of mountaineering or high-altitude hiking when you’re in Kyrgyzstan, then summer is the best time to visit.

Kyrgyzstan has a short hiking season – high-altitude yurt camps are only usually open in July, August, and early September. Outside of these times, conditions will be harsher and you’ll need to bring your own tent.

44 – In Autumn, Kyrgyzstan turns beautiful shades of orange and yellow: Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Kyrgyzstan, as the green mountains turn golden and the temperatures in the cities drop a bit.

If you’re into photography, you’ll love it at this time of year.

45 – Spring is a good time to visit, although many hikes will still be snow-covered: Spring in Kyrgyzstan is fairly warm in the cities, but still cold in the mountains. It’s a nice and quiet time of year to visit.

46 – If you’re into skiing, consider visiting Kyrgyzstan in the winter: Winter in Kyrgyzstan can be cold, especially in the mountains. However, the country has some awesome skiing near Bishkek and Karakol, so consider a winter visit if you want to hit the slopes. There aren’t many other tourists around in the winter, so you’ll likely have the whole place to yourself!

Internet & SIM Cards in Kyrgyzstan

47 – Internet access in Kyrgyzstan is very good: Kyrgyzstan has some pretty amazing internet when you consider that it is a mountainous developing country.

It’s about on par with Kazakhstan in terms of pricing and speeds, and far better than in neighbouring Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

48 – SIM cards are cheap: One of the first things you should do when you arrive in Kyrgyzstan is pick up a SIM card. There are a few major telecom companies, including Beeline, O!, and MegaCom.

My preference is O!, as I’ve found them to have the best signal in mountainous areas (even at Lenin Peak Base Camp!). They have a 40GB data plan available for 350 som – should be enough even for heavy users.

There are telecom branches selling SIM cards all over Bishkek and Osh – just be sure to bring your passport.

49 – WiFi is everywhere: If you don’t want to bother with a SIM card, don’t worry. You won’t have any issues finding WiFi in Kyrgyzstan. Even the tiny homestay I stayed at in Sary-Tash (3,000 meters above sea level) had great WiFi.

Solo Travel in Kyrgyzstan

50 – Kyrgyzstan is a great solo-travel destination: My two months in Kyrgyzstan was spent solo-travelling, and I found it to be a great destination for solo backpackers. It’s easy to meet other people in hostels, and locals are super friendly to foreigners as well.

Budget for Backpacking Kyrgyzstan

51 – Kyrgyzstan is a cheap country to travel in: Typical travel costs in Kyrgyzstan are around $20 – $40 per day , depending on what type of accommodation you choose and what mode of transport you opt for.

52 – This is what typical costs while travelling in Kyrgyzstan will look like:

• Accommodation  – $5 to $10 per night for a hostel dorm or homestay is a typical price. This usually includes breakfast as well. Airbnb and hotels will be a bit more expensive.
• Food  – $5 to $10 per day. Local street food is very cheap, but it’s easy to splurge a bit when you’re in Osh or Karakol. Coffee in a cafe is usually around $2, and a beer at a bar is $2-3.
• Taxis – Taxis around Bishkek don’t usually cost more than $2 for normal trips. Use Yandex Taxi so you don’t need to negotiate with the driver.
• Flights – Flights between Bishkek and Osh start at around $35 one-way.
• Entrance tickets – As most sights in Kyrgyzstan are based around nature, they’re usually free or have a low park entrance fee (just a couple of dollars)
• Visas & Permits – Most nationalities don’t need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan, so this will be $0 for most people. Certain border regions of Kyrgyzstan require permits (easily arranged), and they tend to cost around $10 or $15.

Kyrgyzstan Backpacking Guide Wrap-up

I hope that this backpacker’s guide has helped you plan your trip to Kyrgyzstan! It’s a fantastic country, and I really hope that more people start visiting it.

If you’ve got any questions about Kyrgyzstan, feel free to ask in the comments below this post.

In the meantime, why not check out some of my other posts about travelling in Central Asia?

• 10-Day Pamir Highway Itinerary: A Backpacker’s Guide
• The Perfect 2-Week Uzbekistan Itinerary
• How To Visit Burana Tower From Bishkek
• Useful Tips for Travelling the Silk Road (Backpacker’s Guide)
• The Ultimate Guide to Climbing Lenin Peak
• A Guide To Visiting Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor
• Travel in Afghanistan: The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide

Yay transparency!  There are affiliate links in this guide. If you book or buy something using my links, I’ll make a bit of money at no extra cost to you.

21-year old Canadian dude who loves to visit off-the-beaten-path places, climb tall mountains, and try delicious foods.

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TRAVEL to KYRGYZSTAN – Tips and Information Guide [2024]

Everything you need to know to travel to Kyrgyzstan, from the best things to do, places to visit, budgeting, travel itineraries and plenty more!

This beautiful landlocked country, formerly part of the Soviet Union is probably most popular travel destination in Central Asia. Kyrgyzstan tourism is growing year on year, so take the chance to visit one of the worlds most spectacular countries.

Travels to Kyrgyzstan has increased dramatically in recent years as travellers come to hike, camp and horse trek through Kyrgyzstan’s stunning scenery.

As first of the Central Asian nations to relax their visa policies, (it’s visa-free for most western and developed nations) a strong tourism network has developed.

From Community Based Tourism (CBT) operating all over the country to guesthouses and independent guides there are plenty of ways to access the stunning scenery for which this country is famed.

Hikers marvel at stunning treks from Karakol, Kochor, Arslanbob and even the countries capital Bishkek. Since hiking makes a huge part of travelling here it should be assumed that you will need a reasonable level of fitness to access them.

Whilst some are naturally easier than others, it’s safe to assume you will be dealing with something more than a Sunday afternoon stroll. The vast majority of treks are between 1 and 5 days, however, there are some that are longer.

If you fancy saving your legs then jump on the back of a horse and take on the countries most spectacular horse trek to Song Kol. You could spend a few days relaxing and swimming at Issyk Kul.   

With plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations, treks and trails the opportunities to explore are limitless.

For more specific information on what to see and do, how to get there and around and other Kyrgyzstan travel tips be sure to read through our Kyrgyzstan travel guide.

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

If you’re planning to travel to Kyrgyzstan make sure to read this guide to prepare you for visiting one of the world’s stunning countries.

General Info

• Capital: Bishkek
• Other Main Cities/Towns: Osh, Karakol and Jalalabad
• Currency: Kyrgyz Som
• Language: Kyrgyz and Russian
• Population: 5,849,296
• Area: 199,951 sq km
• Electricity Voltage: The standard voltage is 220V at 50 Hz frequency
• Electricity Sockets: Type C and F

Looking for an adventure?  Check out our incredible small group Kyrgyzstan tours !

How to Travel to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is serviced by two main airports; Bishkek and Osh. The vast majority of international flight will land in Bishkek.

If you’re looking at flying into Osh from overseas then you will either have to transfer in Bishkek or the regional hubs of Almaty in Kazakhstan or Tashkent in Uzbekistan.

Flights to Kyrgyzstan can be pricey depending on where you’re flying from. I would recommend researching across a number of platforms and book your flights as early as possible. 

Although Kyrgyzstan is well connected to its neighbours, if you’re flying from outside of the region it’s very likely you will need to transfer.

If flying from Asia, Chinese Airlines may be among the cheapest, however, you will have to transfer in China. Flying from the west the choices are far more varied.

As the majority of international flights require a layover, it’s wise to check if there are any visa requirements in the country you are transferring in.

It is also a good idea to browse for flights in incognito mode, or alternatively you can clear the cache in your browser periodically.

Many travel sites will charge higher fares if they know you are visiting their sites frequently to search for flights.

Google Flights also offers some of the best initial research for fares from your destination, from there it’s worth doing more detailed research.

However, be sure to check fares directly with the airline as there may be unspecified fees and regulations not listed in the Google Flights results.

If you find a flight on a site like Skyscanner or Kayak check the cost of booking the flight directly with the airline. It’s not uncommon for the flight to be much cheaper when booking directly through the airline.

5 Interesting Facts About Kyrgyzstan

• The hero at the centre of the “Epic of Manus”, an epic 500,000 line poem, is celebrated all over the country with statues, airports, roads universities and even a planet.
• 40 is a lucky number. It’s a reference to the 40 clans of the great Manas. The country’s flag features a sun with 40 rays as nod to the country’s luckiest number.
• Only 36% of the country’s residents live in an urban location. Yurts and a nomadic lifestyle are still central to Kyrgyz culture.
• Mountains cover 80% of the country – Get ready hiking, camping and breath taking scenery.
• Horse milk, “kumyz,” is the national drink. It’s certainly an acquired taste.

Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan 

Travelling to Kyrgyzstan is limited to the warmer months if trekking is your goal. The ideal time is June to early September. However, even in June, you may find some routes and passes are closed especially if the preceding winter was a long and harsh one.

Do be aware that July and August are peak months to travel to Kyrgyzstan so whilst it may be slightly riskier weather-wise to visit in June or early September you can expect to see fewer travellers and enjoy cheaper accommodation.

If skiing is your game , February and March are particularly good months to travel to Kyrgyzstan.

The best places to carve the slopes are at Karakol Ski Resort, and in the backcountry of Jyrgalan, Boz Uchuk and Jalpak Tash. There are also some mellow ski resorts close to Bishkek.

Those planning longer trips to Central Asia may want to spend the hotter summer months travelling in Kyrgyzstan and its mountainous neighbour, Tajikistan and spring or autumn in Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan or Uzbekistan.

This allows you to access to the best weather in each country. You do not want to find yourself in Turkmenistan or Uzbekistan in the middle of the summer!

Travel Itinerary Suggestions

• Bishkek 1-2 Days: A great place to start or end your Kyrgyz adventure. With plenty of Soviet Architecture and parks to explore it’s certainly a great place for some downtime. There are some hiking trips into the nearby mountains; Ala-Archa being particularly stunning. Here’s our Bishkek article to help you plan your trip.
• Karakol 4-5 Days: There is ample hiking here, whether it’s hiking to Altyn Arashan , Jeti Oguz or the Jyrgalan Valley there are oodles of treks of varying difficulty and length. Jeti Oguz is probably the most stunning single day trek in the area. However, head to Altyn Arashan or the Jyrgalan Valley for some awesome multi-day treks.
• Kochkor 5-7 Days: Kochkor itself is a pretty nondescript town consisting of one main high street, a market and plenty of taxi drivers. However, it’s what can be accessed from here that draws people. Firstly there is the stunning Song Kul, possibly one of Kyrgyzstan’s top horse treks. In addition, there are stunning hikes to Kol Ukok and beyond.
• Naryn 2 Days: This is the starting point for a road trip to Kyrgyzstan’s stunning south-east, culminating in a hike to Kol Su.
• Osh 1 Day: Kyrgyzstan’s second city is home to a famous bazaar and the rather stunning Suleiman Too. You may stay longer if venturing out to some of the area’s hiking trails. 
• Arslanbob 2-3 Days: Home to stunning treks through the world’s largest walnut forest, Arslanbob is justifiably popular thanks to excellent home-stays and spectacular scenery.

Budget for Travelling in Kyrgyzstan

Travelling in Kyrgyzstan is reasonably easy on your wallet, however doing horse treks, rafting and 4×4 trips out into the wilderness can rack up the costs quicker than you may imagine. However, there are a few little tips to help you save a few pennies here and there.

Accommodation: Guesthouses and Yurts are the name of the game in Kyrgyzstan. A private room in a guesthouse is usually between $19-25 which usually includes breakfast. Prices for accommodation in Bishkek is usually more expensive than other parts of the country.

Yurt stays vary depending on how many meals you are getting, but it’s fair to budget between $10 and $15 dollars per person including breakfast and dinner. These rates may go up in depending on location and time of year.

Food: Cheap and cheerful. You won’t spend more than a few dollars for local classics like manti, shashlik and Lagman. However, outside of the Central Asian staples it’s more pricey.

Alcohol: Cheap, but stick to beer as spirits can sometimes contain fake alcohol and there have even been stories of anti-freeze being used in some vodkas (not too dissimilar to parts of Russia).

Tours: For any hike check if you need a guide. For many you DON’T but check online otherwise some tour agents will encourage you to book a guide that you don’t need. Politely inform them if you don’t need one. However, there are some routes where a guide is a must. Tour operators of your guest house are usually the best places to book yurts for multi-day hikes.

For horse treks and 4WD trips expect to spend between $40-70 per person, per day. This price includes yurt accommodation options and is based on 4 people. Naturally the fewer the people, the more expensive it will be.   

Kyrgyzstan tourism is very well suited for backpackers. Staying in family-run guesthouses, your own tent or yurts will certainly save you plenty of money. Limiting how much you eat out and how much you drink are always solid options for saving a few pennies when travelling.

For hikes and treks, not using a guide and staying in your own tent are great ways to save money. However, you should only avoid using a guide if you are sure the trails are clearly marked and you are a confident hiker.

In addition, utilising marshrutkas (shared minivans) as opposed to private taxis can lead to some substantial savings on the transport front. 

To account for everything a healthy budget is $30-$50 per person for a single traveller and $40-$80 per couple per day. Remember it is always better to budget slightly more than you need to cover for accidents and emergencies, so I would recommend budgeting for slightly more than this.

If you are looking to take some of the tours mentioned above then you will need budget a little more than I’ve suggested here. 

Naturally staying in a tent, cheap guesthouses and taking advantage of hiking trails where guides are not necessary will naturally lead to a lower budget. 

Flashpacker

Staying in boutique guesthouses and taking private taxi’s for the majority of your trip will be a 20-50% increase on a backpacker budget. Instead of eating at local restaurants you occasionally opt for a taste of home and a couple of cheeky beers.

This can be as expensive as you want it to be. Maybe you want a guide for your entire time, or want to horse trek across the country. Although the latter is not luxury, the price will certainly be.

Outside of Bishkek 5 star hotels are certainly not common, however hiring private guides and transportation will certainly add to your bill.

It is just about impossible to have a purely luxury holiday in Kyrgyzstan, as the infrastructure just isn’t there for it. That’s not to say you can’t have a very comfortable time, just don’t expect to be staying in world-class resorts.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan

Every traveller who has been to Kyrgyzstan will have their own favourite place. Usually a particular spot, on a particular hike where a combination of exhaustion and snow-capped mountains combine to leave you in awe.

Here are my top 5 places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

Jyrgalan:  After 7 visits to Kyrgyzstan and now running adventure tours in the country, the owners of this website, Alesha and Jarryd, can honestly say that Jyrgalan is the best place to visit in Kyrgyzstan. This little village just outside of Karakol is a trekker’s paradise, and is worth spending a few days in town anyway. Click here to see why they love it so much .

Song-Kul: One of the countries most popular destinations, Song Kul is truly spectacular. Whether you’re hiking or on the back of a horse it’s hard not to be completely overwhelmed, especially as you cross the pass down to towards Song-Kul. Here it’s as much about the journey as it is the destination.

Kol-Ukok: This awesome two-day hike from Kochkor offers spectacular views, but you certainly have work for it. Once you have your eyes on the prize, stunning mountain scenery will unravel in front of you.

Ala-Archa: For those that don’t have a lot of time in Kyrgyzstan, but still want to experience its epic mountain scenery Ala-Archa is an awesome option. Only an hour from Bishkek it is an easy escape.

Sary Mogol:  If you head to the southern part of the country past Osh you’ll enter the Alay Mountains, which are some of the wildest, most untouched peaks in the entire country. The little dusty village of Sary Mogol is right near the base of Peak Lenin, a 7134m high mountain which can be climbed as part of an expedition and is an excellent launch point for trips along the Pamir Highway . It’s a lovely town.

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Kyrgyzstan

Hiking – Naturally this is one of the top travel experiences in Kyrgyzstan. With awesome hiking trails all over the country , you are spoilt for choice. With everything from day hikes to multi-day treks available, there is something for every hiker. 

Sleeping in a yurt – A quintessentially Kyrgyz experience and unless you have your own tent, it’s an essential one when undertaking a multi-day hike. As the temperature drops at night yurt’s remain warm and comfortable.  We highly recommend checking out Feel Nomad Yurt Camp on the south shore of Issyk Kul.

Swimming in lake Issyk Kul – Swimming in one of the world’s highest alpine lakes is an awesome thing to tick off your bucket list. Taking a dip surrounded by stunning mountain vistas is fantastic, if a very chilly, experience. Check out our guide for things to do in Issyk Kul .

Taking a Horse Trek – Horse treks are a highlight when travelling Kyrgyzstan. Whilst your legs get a break, your backside will certainly feel the pain. However, hanging on for dear life as your horse goes galloping across mountain pastures is a once in a lifetime experience that certainly makes up for the aches and pains.

Sunsets and Star Gazing – After a long day of hiking and a home-cooked meal, watching the sunset set followed by a spot of stargazing is a great way to round off the day.

Kyrgyzstan Travel Tips

Travelling in Kyrgyzstan is getting easier every year, but it still requires an adventurous spirit and a bit of patience due to the lack of infrastructure outside of Bishkek.

To help you make the most of your trip, I’m going to share with you some of my best Kyrgyzstan travel tips.

What is Community Based Tourism?

One of the reasons that travel to Kyrgyzstan has developed so quickly is because of the community-based tourism network in existence throughout the country.

In effect, this allows the money that comes from tourism to reach more of the population. It connects herders, guides and drivers with tourists and helps them to receive the benefits of hosting, guiding and driving tourists. 

The main hub for this network is the CBT office that exists in almost every major town in the country. However, this is not the only agency doing such work.

There are a number of smaller independent agencies offering community-based tourism through a different name.

In addition, there are a number of guesthouses that have connections with local guides, herders and yurt camps and can also arrange everything for you.

There are also a number of former guides that are starting up their own tourism companies utilising their own network and knowledge. 

Do your research and find out which organisation offers what you are looking for. Here’s the main website .

Language Issues

Travelling in Kyrgyzstan does not have the same language challenges as travelling in China for example. However, it is important to remember that English is not widely spoken, save for tour agents and some guesthouse staff (certainly not all).

Outside of this it can be very hit and miss, and in truth, it’s usually more of a miss. Knowing a small amount of Russian is extremely useful for guesthouses, transport and general communication.

Money Changing

You will be able to access ATMs that accept foreign cards in Bishkek however it can be hit and miss outside of the capital, Karakol and Osh. It’s best to bring some additional US dollars in cash just in case.

These can be converted to Kyrgyz Som at any bank in the country, however, do be aware that the dollars have to be in excellent condition.

Transportation In and Around Kyrgyzstan

The best way to get around Kyrgyzstan is by marshrutka or private taxi. Internal flights are most reliable between Bishkek and Osh and there is a limited train service but it’s unreliable and inconvenient and in truth is best avoided.

Kyrgyzstan’s Geography

Before going into detail about the transport options in an around Kyrgyzstan it’s important to understand a little about the countries geography.

With 80% of the country covered by mountains and some roads in a poor state of repair, some journeys will take much longer than you would think. For example, expect it to take between 6 and 8 hours to get from Bishkek to Karakul by marshrutka.

Another thing to bear and in mind is the challenges of travelling across the centre of the country, for example from Kochkor to Osh, can be unreliable.

The main reason for this is the stretch of road that goes from Naryn to Jalal-Abad. This is a 4WD road that is closed in winter, however, do not be surprised to see some old Ladas taking on the terrain.

The road is in poor shape and it is closed in winter. Mudslides are a risk, but not as much as in Tajikistan. In addition, you may have to take two taxis to get all the way along this stretch of road.

Speak with your accommodations staff, the local CBT (who can also help to arranged a private taxi) and check online to keep up to date.

A convenient and affordable way of travelling between Bishkek and Osh, but outside of the two main cities, it’s not really a viable option.

By far the most convenient way to travel in Kyrgyzstan and indeed Central Asia and the Caucasus. These converted transits ferry people all over the country.

If you’re stopping off at a smaller destination, then take a marshrutka that passes it and let the driver know where you want to get off. However, do be aware that you are likely to be charged the full fare.

One of the best things about marshrutkas is that they are cheap, sometimes a tenth of the price of a private taxi. In major towns, prices are usually clearly printed on a sign and the money will be collected by a driver or there will be a ticket office with a price list.

Knowing a little bit of Russian is extremely useful as it is very unlikely anyone will speak English.

Often marshrutka stations are a bit of a free for all, there seems to be no clear order or logic as to where they park.

There will be a card behind the windscreen with the final destination, which more often than not will be written using the Cyrillic alphabet (the alphabet used to write both Kyrgyz and Russian).

If you can’t read Cyrillic’s then you will need to go and ask someone. Even if they cannot understand you people are extremely accommodating and will often go out of their way to help you. 

It can be a squeeze inside and some will only leave when full. I would recommend getting to the station a bit earlier to make sure you can get a seat. There were plenty of times when I visited that our marshrutka left full to bursting leaving a large crowd behind.

If you have large luggage that cannot be stored in the back you may be charged extra as they may need to put your luggage on the seat. Another reason to get there early. 

Private Taxi

More expensive than a marshrutka and generally more reliable, private taxi’s are a good option. Sometimes they may be the only option you have. The route across the centre of country springs to mind.

The cost they give is usually per seat and they won’t leave until their car is full. This means you may be waiting a while for them to fill up the remaining seats.

However if you pay for these empty seats they will be on their way, however, they may stop and pick up people on the route, and still charge them full price, without giving you any money back. 

Rental Vehicles

This is a very new market, so you will need to do some very detailed research. Be warned, it is very expensive.

Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

Whilst there is a lot of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan there is not a huge variety. The vast majority are family-run BnB’s and guesthouses. These are often excellent value for money and give you the opportunity to build up a great relationship with the owner.

Generally, luxury accommodation is limited to Bishkek or the northern shore of Issyk Kul for the Russian tourists the descend in the summer months

Hostels are mainly clustered around Bishkek and Osh. These are a great place to connect with other travellers and get travel tips from the staff and other guests. These are generally rarer outside of the countries two main cities, but they can be found.

Guesthouses and BnB’s

This is probably the main accommodation option in Bishkek. Many families have taken advantage of the increased tourism to Kyrgyzstan by renting rooms in their homes to weary travellers.

The vast majority will include breakfast and in some more rural areas, they will also offer dinner, however, do be aware that this is usually an additional charge. Expect an extremely warm welcome and lots of conversations through google translate and hand signals.

Staying in these family-run BnB’s will leave you with some wonderful memories.

Unless you have a tent this will be your only option for multi-day treks. Very often you will book through your guesthouse or CBT and then pay upon arrival. More often than not the price includes dinner and breakfast the next morning.

Shared Apartments and Houses

There are a few of these floating around on booking sites in Bishkek and they are an excellent option. However, do be aware that it is likely you will need to register with the police if you entered the country on an E-visa.

For the majority of people who do not need an e-visa though, then Airbnbs are cheap and plentiful in Bishkek. Sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first stay on Airbnb.

Western-style hotels are rare outside of Bishkek and Osh and more often than not are probably not worth the extra costs. However Soviet-era hotels are not uncommon, but may not be what you’re looking for.  

Food in Kyrgyzstan

The Central Asian staples can be found all over Kyrgyzstan and as good as some of it is you may crave something else after a while.

Bishkek has a wide variety of restaurants serving everything from western fast food to Italian, Chinese and Japanese cuisine. So if you want a break from the local delicacies then this will be the place to get your fill.

Shashlyk – One of the meals that define the region – grilled meat kebabs. Usually lamb, although chicken and beef can also be found here and there. Usually served with a scattering of red onions on a huge skewer.

Manti – These steamed dumplings come in a variety of styles with fillings both meat and vegetarian options available.

Samsa – More often than not they are wrapped in crispy, flaky pastry and have a taste similar to that of a cornish pasty (for those that know this delicious English snack). These can be found in restaurants, bazaars and from carts on the street. Like manti, they come in both meat and vegetarian varieties.

Lagman – A thick noodle dish covered in vegetables and meat in a spicy, vinegary sauce.

Beshbarmak – This literally translates as 5 fingers, since that’s what you eat it with. It consists of horse meat (occasionally beef or lamb) boiled it’s own broth and served over boiled noodles.

Safety in Kyrgyzstan

Generally speaking, Kyrgyzstan is quite safe, however, normal precautions should be taken. Avoid unlit streets and parks at night if possible. Also, keep your valuables safe and locked away especially if staying in a dorm.

In the past plain-clothed “policeman,” looking to shake down tourists were a big problem. They would ask to check your passport and occasionally would rifle through your possessions and wallet.

Strangely enough, this would usually end with some of your money disappearing or maybe even a fine for some unknown reason.

However this has dropped off in recent years, but it’s still a problem, especially around Osh Bazaar in Bishkek. If this happens to you try and offer them a copy of your passport and do not sign anything that you do not understand.

Drink driving in Kyrgyzstan is a problem, particularly at night. If taking a taxi, be sure that the person driving is not drunk.

All of this aside, Kyrgyzstan is generally safe and it’s very unlikely you would come across this.

Packing list for Kyrgyzstan (Men and Women)

• Travel towel
• Hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Hiking trousers x2
• Thick socks
• Shorts/Leggings x2
• Trainers/Casual Shoes
• T-Shirts x4
• Fleece/Hoody x2

Miscellaneous items

• Sleeping bag
• Mosquito repellent
• An unlocked smartphone so you can place a Kyrgyz SIM card in it
• Sanitary products (it may be hard to find them outside of Bishkek)
• Plasters and cream for blisters

Final Tips for Travel in Kyrgyzstan

Learn a little bit of Russian – It will make your life a lot easier. Phrases around transport and money are most useful and for such basic phrases google translate is usually pretty accurate.

Get a local SIM card – This will make it easier to contact drivers and guesthouses in advance. Everyone there has WhatsApp and often this is how they prefer to communicate. Megafon, Beeline and O! are the main companies. We use Megafon on our own trips there, as they have the best coverage.

Compare CBT with other options – The CBT network is awesome for sure but sometimes other companies may have something available that is more in line with your interests. Sometimes guesthouses may offer their own tours and guided horse treks so they are definitely worth consulting as well.

Don’t expect a horse trek to be pain-free – If you have ridden a lot before then you’ll know what to expect. However if not, be prepared for horse treks to leave you backside and thighs in agony. They are definitely worth the pain though!

Travel Time and Distance – Very often journeys take longer than advertised, plan this into your itinerary. A safe bet is to budget a journey from one town to another to be an all-day affair.

Seasons – Even in early summer, some hiking trails may still be closed if the winter was a particularly long one. If you do end up going in June do be aware that there is a good chance that some trails will still be closed.

Read Our Kyrgyzstan Blog Posts

The 23 best things to do in kyrgyzstan, 14 awesome things to do in issyk kul, kyrgyzstan [2024], the 23 best things to do in bishkek, kyrgyzstan (2024 guide), 24 incredible places to visit in kyrgyzstan (2024 edition), 23 awesome things to do in osh, kyrgyzstan (2024 guide), the ultimate guide to the bulak-ashuu lakes trek in kyrgyzstan, should you travel to kyrgyzstan in winter (2024 guide), the ultimate guide to mountain biking in jyrgalan, kyrgyzstan (2024 guide), peak lenin base camp trek – kyrgyzstan hiking guide [2024], the ultimate travel guide to sary mogol, kyrgyzstan (2024), the ultimate guide to skiing in kyrgyzstan (2024 edition), the ultimate guide to the truly nomadic land trek in kyrgyzstan.

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Home » Asia » Kyrgyzstan » What to Know Before Traveling to Kyrgyzstan – Tips, Tricks, and Answers

What to Know Before Traveling to Kyrgyzstan – Tips, Tricks, and Answers

Kyrgyzstan is becoming one of the most hyped-about travel destinations in 2020. Many travelers have heard stories about how breathtaking the landscape is, how friendly its natives are, and how untouched the country is by mass tourism.

Perhaps you’ve already heard something similar and have been planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan for a while now. Where do you start though? What do you need to organize before visiting?

There are definitely a few things to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan. Where to stay, what to do, who to contact; these will all need to be considered before you actually make your way.

Below, I’m going to talk about some crucial things that everyone should think about before visiting, from dos and don’ts to tips and tricks to general questions. By the end of this article, you should have a clearer picture of what it takes to organize a trip to Kyrgyzstan and how to have the best adventure possible.

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Do and Don’ts When Travelling to Kyrgyzstan

Commonly asked questions about kyrgyzstan, extra tips and tricks when visiting kyrgyzstan.

So let’s take a look at the yes and no’s, the oui’s and the non’s and the do’s and don’ts of visiting Kyrgyzstan.

DO : Try the local food and drink

If you are visiting Kyrgyzstan , then you MUST try the food. Kyrgz cuisine is mostly a mishmash of Russian, Central Asian, and nomadic cuisines. It involves a lot of meat, a lot of bread, and a lot of sweets. Many people have remarked that the cooking in Kyrgyzstan is quite similar to that in the Caucuses.

In addition to these foreign cuisines, there are some really, really interesting local dishes in Kyrgyzstan that should not be missed. 

Manta , a Kyrgyz version of dumplings, is absolutely phenomenal especially with a bit of yogurt. Also be on the lookout for shorpa : slow-cooked beef that literally melts off the bone.

You also have to try that most iconic drink in Kyrgyzstan: kumis . It’s fermented mare’s milk that has turned semi-alcoholic and, whilst you probably won’t be able to drink much, it’s still good to try at least once.

If you’d like to try a unique delicacy in Kyrgyzstan, horse is consumed regularly and is actually quite nice when cooked properly.

DON’T : Worry if you’re a vegetarian

Kyrgyzstan is a very carnivorous country but there are still plenty of vegetarian options to find. 

Salads, mostly of the Russian kind with tomato, slaw, and/or cucumber, are very common. Eggs are served regularly for breakfast and the local bread is so tasty and filling that one could probably live off it alone.

Fried rice ( plov ) and noodles ( lagman ) are also very common in Kyrgyzstan. Whilst they’re usually made with some kind of meat, you may be able to order these dishes without it. Be sure to ask whoever’s cooking if this is possible. Say “YA ne yem myaso” which is “I don’t eat meat” in Russian.

DO : Spend a few days in Bishkek

Bishkek gets a bad reputation for being a depressing, post-Soviet city with nothing to do besides GTFOing. 

Whilst Bishkek is not as interesting as other Central Asian cities like Almaty or Samarkand, I find calling it skippable a little unfair. 

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For one thing, Bishkek offers a lot of natural beauty. There are lots of parks in the city. Also Ala Archa National Park, which features several 4700+ meter peaks and alpine trails, is only 45 minutes away from the city.

Bishkek also has a surprisingly good nightlife. There are lots of great bars around town, like Save the Ales and Blonder, and a couple of speakeasies as well. For those of you you’d like to know the location of one, leave a comment and I’ll get back to you 🙂 

Due to its combination of outdoor opportunities and burgeoning bar scene, Bishkek actually reminds me a lot of Denver, Colorado. Granted, it’s not as big or as bustling as Denver but it could be one day.

DON’T : Expect a dry country

Kyrgyzstan is a Muslim nation but that does not mean it is a strict Muslim nation. Alcohol is still consumed in the country and sometimes in large quantities.

Vodka is the drink of choice in most parts and it is often offered to guests. When drinking with Kyrgyz, it is best to oblige them when they toast and to finish your shot of vodka in one go. The toast is an important part of Kyrgyz culture.

Local brandy is also popular in Kyrgyzstan and it can lead to a pretty gnarly hangover. Beer is also quite common and pretty damn good too. There are lots of great craft beer bars in Bishkek, like Save the Ales, Brewster, and Blonder Pub. 

DO : Consider renting a private vehicle

Kyrgyzstan is a big country with a ton of epic places to visit . It is possible to see many places just by relying on public transport as well. Marshrutkas or minibusses connect almost every major Kyrgyz settlement and where they don’t go, private taxis are available. These are relatively cheap, although not so cheap.

If you REALLY want to experience Kyrgyzstan to the fullest though, you need to have your own set of wheels. With the freedom to go where you want, when you want, you’ll be able to see as much of the country as you want without having to worry about schedules or the hassle.

You’ll need a 4×4 when driving in Kyrgyzstan and anything less would be a total waste. Kyrgyzstan is a rugged country and requires a rugged car to get around. Iron Horse Nomads is the first and probably the best place to start looking for a rental car in Kyrgyzstan.

DON’T : Feel the need to drive yourself

If you decide to hire your own car in Kyrgyzstan, you should also consider hiring a private driver along with it. The roads in Kyrgyzstan, whilst good overall, can deteriorate quickly and the best parts are usually completely off-road. An experienced, local driver will be best at handling both of these.

Drivers can also serve as translators, which in Kyrgyzstan would be extremely useful since hardly anyone speaks English. They can also help arrange accommodation, tours, and maintenance should the car break down, which would be bad if you were in the middle of nowhere.

Hiring a private driver in Kyrgyzstan might actually cost less than hiring a car without one. Daily rates are about the same and some drivers will cover gas themselves. So if you’re paying the same amount, why not just have someone else do the work for you?

DO : Spend a couple of nights in yurts

Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan comes in all shapes and sizes but none as iconic as the Yurt. The yurt is a traditional nomadic dwelling made from felt and wooden beams. It is one of the most important aspects of Kyrgyz culture and a true sign of their nomadic heritage. To not sleep in one of these while visiting would be an enormous shame. 

Yurts kind of resemble large tents, albeit they are much sturdier and much more spacious. They are very warm as well, especially when the stove inside is lit, and keep the cold out even in the middle of a snowstorm. 

There are lots of places to stay in yurts around Kyrgyzstan. They are mostly found around the most popular destinations in the country, like Issyk Kul and Altyn Arashan. The best place to stay in a yurt though is hands down Song Kul. They’re usually located right next to the lake and the entire scene truly feels like a nomadic paradise.

DON’T : Forget to bring your own tent anyways

Camping really is the most convenient way to sleep in Kyrgyzstan. There is just so much open space and so many great campsites spread throughout the country – campers dream of this kind of situation. Surrounded by mountains, no one in sight, your loyal steed nearby, and a cup of camp coffee brewing; heaven. 

Camping is also generally one of the cheapest ways to travel anywhere in the world. Kyrgyzstan can be expensive after taking transportation and guiding into account and your wallet will need a respite every once in a while. 

A lot of guesthouses will allow you to pitch your own tent on the property for only $5-$10. Plus, you’ll still be fed and have access to the bathroom and whatnot. 

If you’re going deep into the wilderness as well, there may not even be yurts or guesthouses around. In this case, you’ll definitely need a tent.

DO : Visit the South of Kyrgyzstan

Southern Kyrgyzstan is like a completely different country compared to the northern part. It is more traditional, more arid, and is not really on the usual tourist trail. 

For backpackers, this should be an irresistible call to action. 

Visiting Southern Kyrgyzstan is an awesome experience. Aside from the fact that it has a richer history than the north, the food is also better and there are some very unique things to do here. 

Osh is the capital of the South and is one of the oldest cities in the world. It serves as the starting point for not only the epic Pamir Highway but also ascents of Peak Lenin and excursions into the remote Pamir-Alai Mountains. The Pamir-Alai Mountains and the surrounding Batken region are among the most untouched and ripe parts of Kyrgyzstan for travel. 

TLDR: the South is where it’s at.

DON’T: Just visit the top attractions in Kyrgyzstan

Whilst the likes of Issyk Kul, Ala-Kul, and Song Kul are all amazing destinations and totally worth visiting, there’s more to do in Kyrgyzstan . There are a TON of hidden gems spread throughout the country just waiting to be found.

The Ak-Sai Valley is becoming a very popular place to visit but further up is the still virgin Kakshal-Too Mountains. Knorcheck Canyon offers arguably the best desert landscapes in Kyrgyzstan, not Fairytale Canyon. As we just discussed, Southern Kyrgyzstan is also full of untapped potential.

Definitely allocate enough time in your Kyrgyz itinerary to include the most talked-about places in the country. But also spend some time exploring the lesser-known corners of the country. You’ll be glad you did.

DO : Try horseback riding

Kyrgyzstan is probably the best place in the world to ride a horse. They are integral to Kyrgyz culture, ubiquitous, and very well trained. Just about anyone can ride a horse here, regardless of previous experience; they just need to be comfortable around the animals.

Local horsemen organize long-distance rides all the time for tourists. These are like multi-day treks except you’ll be riding a horse most of the time as opposed to walking. These treks often follow common Kyrgyz migration routes and you can even join a seasonal ride from the jailoos (high pastures) back to the valleys.

If you intend on organizing a horse trek in Kyrgyzstan , don’t underestimate how sore you will be. Riding a horse all day can be murder on your hips, thighs, and ass, and isn’t always comfortable. Don’t bite off more than you can chew and ride for too long.

DON’T : Underestimate the weather

The weather in Central Asia can be harsh. It can snow any time of the year – it snowed on us four times in JUNE – and the heat can be unbearable in the lowlands. You never really know what you’re going to get when you travel to Kyrgyzstan weather-wise, so it pays to be prepared.

Be sure to pack the proper gear when you plan a trip to Kyrgyzstan. Bring a good jacket, lots of layers, good boots, plus the usual equipment for any alpine adventure. 

At the same time, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit either – there are lots of great hot springs in Kyrgyzstan that are great to soak in after a long hike. It’s also possible to swim in Issyk Kul although it’s still pretty cold in the summer. 

DO : Try and witness a nomadic game

One way that Kyrgyz people celebrate their culture is through nomadic games. These range from the awesome i.e. Er Enish (wrestling while riding a horse) to the downright strange i.e. Kok-boru (a game that involves dumping a goat carcass in a tire while riding a horse).

Games like this are organized on several occasions. The World Nomad Games, which happens in Kyrgyzstan every two years, is probably the biggest occasion. Outside of this, locals still play these games in their free time. Foreigners are of course welcome to watch.

Note that Kyrgyz usually participate in nomad games in the winter, when they’re in the valleys and have nothing else to do. Summer is usually the time for pasturing and work, not so much fun. Most nomad games that take place in the summer are organized specifically for tourists.

DON’T : Rush through the country

Kyrgyzstan is a wonderful country and it should be enjoyed at the right pace. Trying to do too much in too little time is going to leave you disappointed. You will also need to consider that getting around the country and planning anything on the ground is going to take up some time as well. 

Plan on spending at least two weeks in Kyrgyzstan. This will leave enough time to organize activities and to see the best of the country.

If you don’t have two weeks – perhaps you’re on a short holiday or have a tight schedule – then you should consider heading to Kyrgyzstan with an organized tour. Having someone else plan your trip will help maximize the time you have there!

Is it Safe to Travel to Kyrgyzstan?

A lot of people think that Kyrgyzstan is a dangerous place to visit for various different reasons. Here is a couple I’ve heard in the past:

• “Kyrgyzstan is close to the Middle East and thus it is violent.”
• “It has the name ‘stan’ in it; terrorists live in the stans (like Afghanistan or Pakistan).”
• “I’ve never heard of Kyrgyzstan, so it must be a chaotic, third-world country.”

These are all ignorant, unkind and could not be farther from the truth. 

In reality, Kyrgyzstan is a very safe place to visit. 

There is very little in the way of terrorism here and, in fact, the locals are VERY opposed to any sort of radicalism.

Whilst the country has had its fair share of political problems in recent years – the Tulip Revolution of 2010 was a hectic time – these are rare and even more rarely affect tourists. 

Ultimately, Kyrgyzstan is one of the safest countries I have ever visited. I never felt threatened while I was there, outside of the occasional pissed off horse.

If you’d like to learn more about what to expect when visiting, then be sure to read our Kyrgyzstan safety guide.

Where is Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan is one of the 5-6 countries that comprise Central Asia*. As the name implies Central Asia lies in the middle of the Asian continent between China, Russia, India, and the Middle East. Kyrgyzstan shares borders with every other Central Asian nation besides Turkmenistan. 

Because of its unique geographic location, Kyrgyzstan is a very eclectic place. The geography is unlike anything else in this world and the culture is totally novel. Those who visit Kyrgyzstan are in for a real treat.

Because of its central location in the region, Kyrgyzstan is a great gateway to the exploring rest of Central Asia. From here, backpackers can start the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, visit the Fergana Valley in Uzbekistan, and go big in the Kazakh metropolis of Almaty aka the “New York City of Central Asia.” 

Pakistan and China are also within striking distance, though you’ll need to arrange special permits/visas to visit those.

*Some people consider Afghanistan to be a part of Central Asia.

What Language do They Speak in Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyz is officially the native language of Kyrgyzstan although Russian is probably more commonly spoken. 

Kyrgyz is a Turkic language that is similar to other regional languages like Kazakh but not so not close to the Turkish of Turkey. Although it’d be quite a feat to become fluent in the language, it would still pay to learn a phrase or two; the locals will appreciate this and be more receptive. 

First, you should know rahmat , which means “thank you” in Kyrgyz.

Thanks to the former Soviet influence, Russian is the unofficial language of Kyrgyzstan and is mostly used for business and foreigners. If you know a little Russian already, it will pay off when you’re in Kyrgyzstan. 

Note that there is very little English spoken in Kyrgyzstan and this could be the most frustrating part of traveling here. If you’re concerned about communicating clearly with the locals, consider hiring a local guide or joining an organized tour.

When is the Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan has four seasons: 

• A brief and rainy spring (April-May)
• A hot and dry summer (June-September)
• A short and pleasant autumn (October-November)
• A long and frigid winter (December-March)

The seasons and climate can really vary depending on where you’re going in Kyrgyzstan though. 

For example, Southern Kyrgyzstan is generally warmer than the North and the autumn is a bit longer. The mountains also have a climate all their own.

If you want to do a lot of trekking then July-September is really the only time to visit Kyrgyzstan. Depending on the year, June and October sometimes are okay. Otherwise, the Issyk Kul region and Osh are nice during the spring and fall.

You can visit Kyrgyzstan in the winter and there still are plenty of things to do at this time. There’s a ski resort at Karakol and crossing-country skiing is becoming very popular these days, especially around Song Kul. Avoid Naryn though: it is considered one of the coldest places in the world during the winter.

Is Kyrgyzstan a Religious Country?

Islam is the official religion of Kyrgyzstan although it’s not what I’d call strict Islam. Kyrgyzstan’s brand of Islam (majority Sunni) is pretty lax compared to other hardline Islamist countries, like neighboring Uzbekistan or the countries of the Middle East. 

For one thing, drinking is not illegal in Kyrgyzstan and many people take part in it (maybe too much sometimes). 

Women are not nearly as cloistered as other Islamic countries either. You will not see many hijabs while traveling in Kyrgyzstan. Sometimes, women even have bare shoulders and knees (more so in the north).

Kyrgyzstan is also firmly against any sort of jihadism and the country has taken many steps to avoid this sort of radicalization, although some of these have been counterproductive . 

That being said, Kyrgyzstan does take faith seriously so it is important to remain respectful. Have an open mind and be aware of Islamic practices and you’ll be fine.

1. Change your money before leaving Bishkek

Aside from Osh and maybe Karakol, Bishkek is the only real city in Kyrgyzstan. Most if not all of the country’s financial centers are located here, which means you should be changing your money here as well. Outside of Bishkek, currency changers are pretty rare.

Before heading out into the rest of Kyrgyzstan, you should definitely be changing your money in Bishkek. Most people will suggest going to the local banks but these don’t always offer the best deals. The best place to look is inside the GUM Shopping Mall. There are a few on the bottom floor that offer good rates and ask no questions.

2. Stay at local accommodation

Regardless of where I go, I always recommend staying in local accommodation over larger businesses. Staying in guest houses or homestays is a much better experience in my opinion and offers more opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

The Community Based Tourism group, or CBT, is a pioneering association in Kyrgyzstan that connects local hosts with travelers. The group has existed since 2003 and by now they have a network over 15 different destinations around the country.

Using community-based tourism in Kyrgyzstan is not only a way to further enhance your own experience; it’s also a way to improve the lives of the locals themselves. By cutting out big business, you can be sure that your money goes directly into the hands of the people and not into a corporate bank account. This way, the common Kyrgyz has a better opportunity to support themself and their family.

3. Buy a local SIM card

Chances are, you probably won’t need to make a lot of calls or surf the internet while you’re traveling in Kyrgyzstan. For one thing, you should be out exploring the wilderness! For another, the connection is pretty shit outside of Bishkek and the larger towns. 

But having the ability to call ahead and confirm accommodation or connect with a local guide is still very useful. Considering the fact that SIM cards are so cheap in Kyrgyzstan – they’re around $10 – it really does hurt to pick one up anyway. I suggest using O! but Beeline and Megacom are also fine. 

If you choose O!, you can also buy a USB dongle that when plugged in gives you WiFi anywhere that there is data. We found it more convenient to use than searching for WiFi in cafes and offered a pretty strong connection as well.

4. Do your research beforehand

There are certain countries where you can just shoot from the hip and visit without making any plans whatsoever. Places like Thailand, India, and Peru are a couple of places where you can just show up without any sort of guide or booking and you’ll be fine.

Kyrgyzstan is not really one of these places. 

For one, tourism in Kyrgyzstan is very underdeveloped compared to many other destinations in the world. Things like hotels, tour operators, and transportation for travelers are much less frequent and much less apparent. You’ll have to go looking first before you find any of these. 

This means it pays to have a plan before visiting. Knowing where there’s accommodation, where you can find guides, and where to catch the bus beforehand will make your trip to Kyrgyzstan much more enjoyable.

We’ve written a pretty extensive backpacking guide for Kyrgyzstan that contains all of this info and more. Be sure to give it a good read before heading out.

5. Ditch the hostels

Hostelling is not really a thing in Kyrgyzstan at this point. Maybe it will be one day when the country becomes more well-known with travelers (and it will be) but right now the pickings are pretty slim. 

Instead, stay in alternative forms of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan. Staying in a yurt is an unmissable experience and there are plenty of guesthouses/homestays spread throughout the country as well. 

If you wanted to travel on a backpacker budget in Kyrgyzstan, the best way to do so would be to bring your own tent. Camping is by far the cheapest form of accommodation you can use while visiting.

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6. Don’t ride a horse if you don’t feel confident

Whilst the horses used to carry trekkers and tourists are generally very well trained in Kyrgyzstan, it’s important to remember that they’re still animals. They are sensitive creatures and can easily sense if you’re nervous or uneasy. 

If you’re afraid, the horse will be afraid and a fearful horse can be problematic.

If you’re unsure about riding a horse, then don’t do it. You need to be confident when riding one so you can properly control it. A horse requires stern directions and they will do whatever they want otherwise. 

7. Practice your handshake

The key to making a good first impression with the local Kyrgyz is with a firm grip and good eye contact. Kyrgyz shake each other’s hands when greeting each other and different kinds of handshakes indicate different levels of respect. 

A standard handshake with one hand is usually reserved for new acquaintances and strangers. If someone takes their other hand and grips the arm they’re using to shake, it means that they’re showing respect. The closer this grip is to their own hand, the greater the respect is shown.

After shaking hands, some Kyrgyz will also touch their heart with the hand they used to shake. This is an additional gesture and is pretty easy to adopt (it looks freakin’ cool). If you’re in the south, some people will also move their hands over their faces like they were washing it – this is a Muslim gesture and means good luck and health to you.

8. Learn a bit of history before visiting

The history of Kyrgyzstan has been pretty uneventful up until the last few decades. For most of its existence, Kyrgyzstan has mostly been a place where nomadic tribes roamed and only a few great dynasties have left their mark here.

But the history of the greater region, that of Central Asia, is very fascinating. This is where the Silk Road was born, where empires rose and fell, and where many of the world’s greatest leaders were born, like Barbur, Tamerlane, and Al-Khwarizmi. The history of Central Asia may take a back seat compared to Western Civilization but it has been no less influential. 

I suggest learning a bit about the history of the region before visiting. The Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan gives a very comprehensive overview of Central Asia in relation to the Middle East and Europe. I also recommend checking out Peter Hopkirk’s The Great Game , which concerns the shadowy war fought between the Russian and British Empire in Central Asia in the 19th century.

9. Visas are super easy to get

Unlike some neighboring  countries, it is very easy to get a visa for Kyrgyzstan. Many nationalities qualify for a 60-day visa-on-arrival. 

To check and see if your nationality qualifies for a free visa, be sure to visit the official website for the Kyrgyz embassy.

10. Be ready to have your mind blown

Kyrgyzstan is one of the most amazing countries that I have ever visited. The landscape is mindblowing, Kyrgyz people are super welcoming, and the culture is unlike any other. Travelers are starting to catch onto this as well.

Kyrgyzstan, and all of Central Asia for that matter, is set to be the next big adventure destination. It won’t be long before people from all over the world start flocking here in search of epic mountains, fresh experiences, and unbridled hospitality. Get here before Kyrgyzstan is discovered!

Travel Insurance For Kyrgyzstan

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Kyrgyzstan is a very safe country to visit. However, no matter where you go in the world disaster and illness can strike so it is better to have travel insurance. We use World Nomads who are dedicated to covering adventure backpackers like us.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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Traveling in Kyrgyzstan: Why visit Kyrgyzstan

The Kyrgyz Republic – or simply Kyrgyzstan –  is a small landlocked country in Central Asia. The country is defined by the beautiful Tien Shan mountain range which occupies 90% of the country, lush valleys, and hundreds of crystal-clear alpine lakes!

Kyrgyzstan is a land of nomads who still strongly value their centuries-old nomadic traditions. If you like being in the wilderness and you’re interested in learning more about the nomadic lifestyle in Central Asia, then you’ll have to travel to Kyrgyzstan. It’s one of the few off-the-beaten-path countries where you can still get a taste of the authentic nomadic culture.

In the comprehensive travel guides below, you’ll find all the information you need to know about traveling in Kyrgyzstan: from how to prepare yourself to the best places to visit, top things to do, the best trekking and horse riding experiences, travel itineraries and plenty of more practical travel info!

Kyrgyzstan Travel Essentials

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Kyrgyzstan Visa

Visa-free or e-visa for most nationalities (60 days).

Getting there

Fly into Bishkek, bus/shared taxi from Kazakhstan , Uzbekistan or Tajikistan

Travel Insurance

Find the best travel insurance for your trip to Kyrgyzstan.

Getting around

Travel in Kyrgyzstan by minibus (mashrutka), shared taxi or rental car.

Where to stay

Stay in a yurt camp, homestay, guesthouse, hostel or hotel

Kyrgyzstan Tours

Adventure Tours, Cultural Tours, Private customized tours

Everything you need to know before traveling in Kyrgyzstan

Prepare your trip to kyrgyzstan.

• Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide: 20 things to know before you go
• Kyrgyzstan Itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Kyrgyzstan
• Kyrgyzstan Packing List
• Kyrgyzstan Safety Guide
• Kyrgyzstan Money Guide

How to get to and around Kyrgyzstan

• How to get from Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Bishkek
• How to get from Tashkent (Uzbekistan) to Bishkek
• How to get from Tashkent (Uzbekistan) to Osh

Where to go in Kyrgyzstan

• The 25 most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
• Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in Spring and Autumn
• Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in Winter (10-day itinerary)
• The 8 most beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan
• Bishkek City Guide
• Osh Bazaar Guide

8 Best Day Trips from Bishkek

• Karakol City Guide
• Osh City Guide
• Burana Tower Travel Guide
• Tash Rabat Travel Guide
• Issyk Kul Travel Guide
• Ala Kul Travel Guide
• Kel Suu Travel Guide
• Sary Chelek National Park Travel Guide
• Arslanbob Travel Guide
• Naryn Travel Guide

Hiking in Kyrgyzstan

• The 14 best hikes and treks in Kyrgyzstan
• Hiking in Bishkek
• Hiking in Karakol and Jyrgalan
• Hiking to Ala Kul
• Hiking at Issyk Kul
• Hiking at Son Kul
• Hiking in Naryn
• Hiking at Kel Suu
• Hiking at Tash Rabat
• Hiking in Arslanbob
• Hiking in Sary Chelek
• Hiking in Osh
• The Best of Alay Mountains Trek

Experiences in Kyrgyzstan

• Top 28 Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan

7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Kyrgyzstan

• How to visit the Golden Eagle Hunters of Kyrgyzstan
• An Insight into Kok Boru, Kyrgyzstan’s Dead Goat Polo

Celebrating Nowruz in Kyrgyzstan

• 6 Reasons to Visit Kyrgyzstan in Winter
• The Complete Guide to Skiing in Kyrgyzstan

horse riding in Kyrgyzstan

• The 9 best horse riding trips in Kyrgyzstan
• Horse Riding at Son Kul
• Horse Riding at Tash Rabat
• Horse Riding at Kel Suu
• Horse Riding in Sary Chelek
• Horse Riding in Arslanbob

Would you love to go on an epic adventure on foot, on horseback or by 4×4 to the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan with a small group of adventurous travelers?

Check out my 6 Fantastic Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

Explore Kyrgyzstan

All posts and guides about traveling in Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan Money Guide: Costs of Living and traveling in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

The best way to get from Tashkent to Osh and from Osh to Tashkent, crossing the Dostyk border (Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan)

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

8 beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan

9 places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in spring and autumn, including best hikes

Hiking in Kyrgyzstan: The 21 best Jyrgalan and Karakol Trekking Trails

15 Best Things to do in Karakol Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Horseback riding: Everything you need to know about horse riding in Kyrgyzstan+ the 9 best horse Riding destinations

How to visit Kel Suu Lake Kyrgyzstan – The Complete Travel Guide

How to visit Tash Rabat Caravanserai in Kyrgyzstan – The Complete Travel Guide

The best way to renew your travel visa for Kyrgyzstan in 2024 and Kyrgyzstan border crossings

How to Hike to Ala Kul Lake Kyrgyzstan: The Best Day-by-Day Ala Kul Trekking Itinerary

The 14 Best Things to do in Osh Kyrgyzstan -The Complete Osh City Travel Guide

How to get from Almaty to Bishkek by public transport in 2024: Best way to Cross the Kazakhstan – Kyrgyzstan border

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide: 20 Useful Things you should know to visit Kyrgyzstan in 2024

The 28 Best Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan – culture, nature, history, and sights

How to get from Bishkek to Almaty by public transport: crossing the Kyrgyzstan – Kazakhstan border.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe? 15 Useful Things to Know before you go in 2024

How to get from Bishkek to Tashkent by bus – Travel from Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

13 Top Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in 2024- The Complete Bishkek City Guide

How to get from Tashkent to Bishkek by bus – Travel from Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Trekking – The Complete Guide to hiking in Kyrgyzstan including 14 of the most beautiful hikes of the country!

The Complete Travel Guide to Arslanbob: Walnut Forests, Waterfalls, and Outdoor Adventures

How to visit Sary Chelek lake and Nature Reserve in Kyrgyzstan – The Complete Travel Guide

7 Best Hikes in Osh and the Alay Mountains – Hiking Guide

Best of Alay Mountains Trek – Complete 7-Day Hiking Itinerary of one of the best treks in Kyrgyzstan

Hike Independently to Song Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan with these 2 Great Itineraries

Top things to do around lake Issyk Kul – 1-week Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

Horse Riding in Song Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan – Everything you Need to Know about Going on a Horse Trek to Song Kul

Ready Steady Goat! An insight into Kok Boru (Dead Goat Polo), the unusual National Sport of Kyrgyzstan

10-Day Kyrgyzstan Itinerary for Winter

6 Reasons why You should Absolutely Visit Kyrgyzstan in Winter!

Everything you need to know about Skiing in Kyrgyzstan – A Comprehensive Guide

Tips to Visit the Osh Bazaar in Bishkek

Hiking near Osh in Kyrgyzstan – Be a Nomad Hike

Eagle Hunting in Kyrgyzstan – About the ancient tradition and where to visit the Golden Eagle Hunters in Kyrgyzstan

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Kyrgyzstan
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com July 6, 2022

By Kiwi.com | July 6, 2022

Last update: October 31, 2022

This article was published on July 6, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan is open for tourism to travelers from all countries. Nevertheless, please be aware that several COVID-19 restrictions are in place, and all foreign arrivals must follow them. 

Can I enter Kyrgyzstan if I am vaccinated?

You can enter Kyrgyzstan if you are fully vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated if you have had both doses of a double-dose vaccination or one dose of a single-dose vaccination at least 14 days before entering Kyrgyzstan.

As of April 2022, six vaccine drugs are approved in Kyrgyzstan:

• AstraZeneca
• Sputnik Light

Travel documents if you are vaccinated

• A vaccination certificate

Can I enter Kyrgyzstan if I am unvaccinated?

Presently, unvaccinated travelers can enter Kyrgyzstan.

• A PCR negative test result issued no more than 72 hours before arrival

Can I leave Kyrgyzstan?

There are no specific COVID-19 regulations when it comes to leaving Kyrgyzstan. 

Can I leave Kyrgyzstan if I am vaccinated?

There are no restrictions for vaccinated travelers leaving Kyrgyzstan.

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

In addition, a COVID-19 test result may also be required by certain countries. Please check the rules at your destination in advance. 

Can I leave Kyrgyzstan if I am unvaccinated?

Unvaccinated travelers can leave Kyrgyzstan.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country) or
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country )

COVID-19 situation in Kyrgyzstan currently

At present, the COVID-19 situation in Kyrgyzstan is moderate.

Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan right now?

Travel to Kyrgyzstan is safe providing you follow local COVID-19 regulations:

• Wearing masks is mandatory indoors
• Public transport, restaurants, cafes, and bars operate at a reduced capacity

Is Bishkek open to travelers?

Bishkek is open to travelers. COVID-19 regulations in the capital are the same as in the rest of the country. 

Do I have to go into quarantine if I go to Kyrgyzstan?

At present, arrivals do not have to undergo any quarantine or self-isolation in Kyrgyzstan.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Kyrgyzstan?

Please, be aware that, in addition to apps used in your origin country, carrying paper copies of your Covid documents may be useful while staying in Kyrgyzstan. 

Useful links:

• Kyrgyzstan COVID-19 updates  

Visit our   Travel Restrictions section at Kiwi.com Stories   to read   more travel restrictions articles.

COVID-19 Kyrgyzstan

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Is Kyrgyzstan safe to visit in 2022?

• February 5, 2022

Table of contents

1. kyrgyzstan is economically growing country, 2. kyrgyz people are mostly friendly, especially for travelers., 3. kyrgyzstan is mountainous country.

Yes, it is safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan with us!

According to the Global Peace Index in 2021, Kyrgyzstan ranked 76th out of 163.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide. It depends on the intention of experiencing Kyrgyzstan and how. So in this post, we will tell from the point of the local tour operator.

Among local people, crimes and violence happen regularly and most of it takes place in big cities like Bishkek and Osh. Usually, it is related to smuggling or small mafias. But on villages and up mountains. It is so rare to face.

As Kyrgyzstan growing country and you can think if it is poor, less safe. Most of the local people are living a good life, But the government’s financial support to people is so weak. So traveling around Kyrgyzstan takes place mostly in remote places like Son-Kul lake or Ala-Kul lake . So 80% of your meeting people will be from villages and remote places who are by themself interested in tourism and who are living their peaceful life.

As mentioned above, the government is poor. So the people who are on governmental jobs like police or forest guards can cheat you and earn some money. Journalistic research, showed that international guests have issues with police more than local people. But it is not an issue that all travelers will face. It is who comes and organizes travel by themselves or let’s say, independent travelers.

But recently, organized a new touristic police who will take care your safety in cities. Tel number to call anytime. (0312) 26-60-66

Past 4 years, most of our local people understood that tourism is a nice field to earn additional money. And some other people did as the main income. Time by time people are aware and trying to make Kyrgyzstan a safe country.

So if you are a traveler, want to visit Kyrgyzstan and check places to visit. You will anyway choose destinations which are looking better and which have information. So in such places, local people already have known the value of travelers. But in case you want to visit very remote and unknown places, it is better for you to make sure everything in advance.

From ancient times, the Kyrgyz people are being appreciated for their hospitality. And this thing still lives in our current life. For example, if someone comes to your house, you have to treat with tea or with a piece of bread. Otherwise, it is shame for the house owner.

So above, we told about situations that can happen among people. So there are also people and nature.

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country. Here you will find high snow-capped mountains with beautiful landscape views. Not everywhere is connection. On nature can be everything and unpredictable. Avalanche, land slide and more. Or you can be lost on your path. Be aware with all this things.

We are always ready to consult. Help you to build an itinerary.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Kyrgzstan

Located in a remote area of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan (kɪəɹ.ɡɪˌstɑːn) is a destination that many seasoned and new travellers, alike, would be thrilled to explore. Kyrgyzstan embodies authenticity and heritage, plus it offers the serenity of remote settings. Still, as a country, it is not widely talked about nor a frequently visited site. But there’s much to fall in love with when visiting this beautiful country, including its landscapes (which is ninety-four percent covered in mountain ranges) and hospitality.

Travelling to this remote part of the world can prove challenging. Further, its location and proximity to the Middle East can lead to questions for tourists asking, "Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan." The short answer is yes. However, there are some obstacles that may pose to be difficult for new visitors to navigate. For instance, a large portion of this country is still nomadic and untouched, therefore, it doesn't boast developed tourist accommodations and infrastructure. It's best to find a tour guide, like Wild Frontiers, to help you make the most of your holiday in Kyrgyzstan. 

If you speak to anyone who has been to Kyrgyzstan they will probably tell you that it's one of their favourite places in the world. Exactly why this is can be difficult to narrow down because there are so many reasons why you should be adding this amazing country to your bucket list. That said, I've managed to whittle it down to the five below…

Before we give you the list, let’s celebrate a recent change to this countries travel restrictions. Now, Britons can now enjoy a trip to Kyrgyzstan up to 60 calendar days visa-free ! Keep reading to find out the answer to the frequently asked question, "Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan?"

Check Out All Kyrgyzstan Tours & Holidays

Unexplored Kyrgyzstan Lands - Off the Beaten Track

Despite hosting the World Nomad Games in 2018 and a gradually increasing reputation in travel circles, Kyrgyzstan is still relatively unknown to most travellers - perhaps unsurprising considering it has only been an independent nation for 28 years. This means if you go in the next few years, you'll manage to avoid the overtourism that is starting to plague many of the world’s most iconic sites. You can trek for days in the Tian Shan, or 'Mountains of Heaven', without seeing another soul and spend time with some of the last remaining nomadic people of the Central Asian Steppe. It's the perfect place for a little technological detox.

Similarly, Kyrgyzstan is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. In fact, there are around 29 residents per square kilometer of land. For travellers, this means fewer crowds, more adventure!

Kyrgyzstan’s landscape makes it a beautiful country to visit . Here are some quick facts to note:

• Landmass consists of 94% mountain ranges
• The highest peak reaches 7,439 meters
• China borders on the East, Uzbekistan on the West, and Tajikistan to the South

This landlocked country is every mountain explorer’s dream.

Breathtaking Scenery

It would take a writer far better than me to describe the natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan in words alone. The soaring ‘Mountains of Heaven’ live up to their billing, while the ruggedness of Son Kul - one of the world's highest lakes - is quite something to behold. Not to mention the largest walnut forest in the world at Arslanbob, or the picturesque beauty of Issyk Kul, once a popular beach resort for well-to-do Soviets. As we travelled from place to place the desire to take photos of the ever-changing, but always impressive scenery was replaced by an attempt to just sit back and take it all in while we could.

The beauty of this country extends through the mountain ranges and small towns. It’s located along the ancient Silk Road of Central Asia and has an incredible variety of its landscape . In addition to its impressive mountain ranges, it also boasts valleys and basins, positioned below expansive skies, which still remain untouched by pollution. Some of the regions are inhabited by nomadic shepherds. There is also an abundance of turquoise lakes with soaring wild eagles overhead and beautiful roaming horses. The land is also rich in uniquely rare flora and fauna, which remains unobstructed. 

Things of note:

• Wide-ranging climate from 43°C in Summer to -30°C in Winter
• 63% of the six million residents live in the countryside
• Common lodging and housing for nomads is a yurt

Action & Adventure

There is so much to do in Kyrgyzstan for the adventurous traveller who likes to get their heart racing. The country’s horses are rightly famed and provide an excellent way to see the country in the same way countless generations of nomadic people have done for millennia. We were also fortunate enough to be spectators at a demonstration of expert local horsemanship which included picking up a bank note from the ground at full gallop, kok-boru (sheep carcass polo) and horseback wrestling. There’s also the opportunity to enjoy stunning views in some of Central Asia's best trekking, particularly in the mountains (which make up 95% of Kyrgyzstan's landscape) where we traversed the epic 4100m Ton Pirival Pass.

One of the most celebrated climbs by expert mountain climbers is Peak Karakol, which has an altitude of 5,200m (17,000ft). There are also a number of other outdoor activities to enjoy in Kyrgyzstan including cycling tours, which offers a great way to explore the country. You can also enjoy exploring the country via Jeep and Motorbike tours. 

Old Customs & Tradition

An old tradition still regularly practiced in Kyrgyzstan is jailoo. As summer comes, thousands of shepherds bring their livestock to summer pastures called jailoo. It’s a centuries-old tradition that is still celebrated now. Tourists can bare witness to this passing season and they have the chance to participate, as well. Drinks like koumiss (mare’s milk) are served, along with beshbarmak (a famous national dish). 

Like its surrounding landscapes, Kyrgyzstan also has unique cuisine . While there’s some nod of influence to its Chinese and Indian neighbors, the cuisine is mostly dominated by meat and dairy. More specifically, mutton, beef, and horse meat. The beshbarmak staple is made from finely cut boiled sheep meat mixed with homemade noodles and broth. Traditional dairy products comprise of kaimak (cream), sary mai (melted butter), airan (sour yoghurt), byshtak (cottage cheese), and kurut (salted cheese). 

• The best season has been named June through October
• Jailoo event/tradition is generally not recommended for travellers in poor health or with young children
• The cuisine mostly consists of meats and dairy

It's Easy to Go

So you're wondering, "Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan?" Because the country borders some of the more prevalent middle eastern areas, it can certainly be an apt question. The short answer is, yes, it's entirely safe to visit this beautiful area of the world. Additionally, despite being a relatively little-known country, Kyrgyzstan is actually a fairly straightforward destination to visit. Flights from Western Europe are around 8hrs and usually come via Istanbul or Moscow. As a bonus, visitors from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and much of the EU can enter without a visa for up to 60 days.

Nomadic Hospitality

The traditional nomadic culture of the steppe is still an important part of Kyrgyz national culture and although many have left their rural lives behind, the nomadic principle of hospitality remains. I can’t count the number of times members of the groups were invited into homes or to parties often with the promise of vodka, tea or food. Everybody was so friendly and despite the language barrier – my Russian and Kyrgyz needs a lot of work – you could tell that you were genuinely being welcomed.

Guests have always been welcomed and honored among the Kyrgyz people. Travellers are often referred to as kydaly konok (God’s guests). Historically, Kygyz families were obligated to provide shelter and food for those travelling, especially those who were travelling near their home at sunset. It’s important for them to preserve their good name of their clan and avoid “evil gossip” by lack of hospitality. For this reason, outside visitors have plenty of opportunities to stay with residents of Kyrgyzstan to experience their nomadic lifestyles living in yurts. 

Josh Hansen

View josh hansen's latest blog posts, related tours.

"Situation in Bishkek calm": Kyrgyzstan Foreign Ministry after India issues advisory

Bishkek [Kyrgyzstan], May 18 (ANI): Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that the situation in Bishkek is calm and under full control and all necessary measures have been taken to ensure security and maintain peace and stability.

The Kyrgyzstan Ministry said that destructive forces are deliberately disseminating untrue and false information about the situation in the country in foreign media outlets and social networks, particularly in Pakistan.

In a statement, Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic informs that destructive forces are deliberately disseminating untrue and false information about the situation in the Kyrgyz Republic in foreign mass media and social networks, especially in the territory of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan."

"The Ministry informs that the situation in the city of Bishkek of the Kyrgyz Republic is calm and under full control, and all necessary measures have been taken to ensure security, maintain peace and stability," it added.

Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged journalists and the blogger community to publish only official and confirmed information from the competent authorities of the country.

"Therefore, the Ministry urges public information media, bloggers, community representatives, as well as foreign experts to take only official and confirmed information from the competent authorities of the Kyrgyz Republic," Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Reportedly, there have been several incidents of mob violence against foreign students in Bishkek since Friday evening, the Pakistan embassy in Kyrgyzstan said in a social media post, adding that the situation heated up.

"There have been a number of incidents of mob violence against foreign students in Bishkek since last evening. According to the Kyrgyz press, the matter boiled over yesterday due to sharing online of videos of a fight between Kyrgyz students and medical students from Egypt on May 13," the Pakistan embassy in Kyrgyzstan stated.

Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan advised the Indian students to stay indoors and to get in touch with the Indian embassy. The Indian embassy also shared a helpline contact number for the students.

"We are in touch with our students. The situation is presently calm but students are advised to stay indoors for the moment and get in touch with the Embassy in case of any issue. Our 24x7 contact number is 0555710041," the Indian embassy in Kyrgyzstan posted on X. (ANI)

Highlighting that the situation is reportedly calm now, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday emphasized that they are monitoring the welfare of Indian students in Bishkek .

"Monitoring the welfare of Indian students in Bishkek . Situation is reportedly calm now. Strongly advise students to stay in regular touch with the Embassy," he stated in a post on X.

Moreover, a few hospitals of medical universities in Kyrgyzstan's capital and private residences of international students have been attacked, the Pakistan embassy in Kyrgyzstan stated.

"The hostels are inhabited by students from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. There have been reports of light injuries to a number of students from Pakistan," it added. "So far, the violence appears to be directed against all foreign students and not specific to Pakistanis," the Pakistan embassy stressed.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared a post on X, highlighting that they have directed Pakistan's Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance.

"Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek , Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan's Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance. My office is also in touch with the Embassy and constantly monitoring the situation," Shehbaz Sharif said.

After Pakistan advised students in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors as mob violence continues against international students, Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Baloch said that a demarche has been made with Kyrgyzstan on the instructions of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.

"At the instructions of DPM @MIshaqDar50 a demarche has been made with the Kyrgyz Republic. They have been impressed to take all possible measures to ensure the safety and security of Pakistani students and citizens residing in the Kyrgyz Republic," Mumtaz Baloch said in a post shared on X. (ANI)

Travel | Here’s how to stay safe when visiting…

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Travel | here’s how to stay safe when visiting national parks this summer.

At Death Valley National Park, summer temperatures can reach as high as 130 to 134 degrees.

For some travelers, that would be reason enough not to visit. But for others, it’s the exact motivation for a trek to Death Valley during the summer: The novelty of experiencing temperatures you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere around the globe.

“Some folks are seeking out what they consider to be a rare experience,” Nichole Andler, a park ranger with the U.S. National Park Service, said during a media briefing.

But it should go without saying that when heat is that extreme, it can easily be a life-or-death situation.

“This time of year, when you’re preparing for coming to Death Valley, it’s important to know what you’re getting into,” emphasized Andler, who stressed not only having enough water on hand all times, but staying near your vehicle.

In fact, in extreme heat conditions, it may even be best to stay in your vehicle amid the comfort of air conditioning and explore the park by car, said Andler.

Her comments were part of a larger National Park Service media conference call, during which officials from parks across the country shared tips for safely visiting this summer.

If one of the 400-plus national parks is on your radar for the months ahead, here are the tips NPS officials would like you to keep in mind.

5 safety tips for national park explorations this summer

1. Select activities that align with your capabilities

There’s all manner of activities available across the U.S. National Park system — from hiking and rock climbing to boating and swimming. The national parks also allow for engaging in challenging and extreme sports including canyoneering, hang gliding and whitewater rafting.

During the planning phase for your visit and during your time onsite, it’s important select activities that are appropriate for your experience and physical limitations.

“Pick activities that meet your skills and fitness level,” said Cynthia Hernandez, a national park spokesperson. “That might mean being honest if you haven’t prepared for that 15-mile hiking trip.”

2. Bring suitable equipment

In addition to focusing on activities that are appropriate for your abilities, it’s critical that you arrive at a national park prepared with the right equipment for your visit.

Bring the “right shoes for your activity, water, a compass or a map or a life jacket, if you’re going on the water,” continued Hernandez.

It’s also worth noting that weather in many of the wild spaces that make up the national park system can change quickly, so it’s important to bring additional clothing.

“What can start out as a beautiful and sunny day can pivot quickly into rain and sleet,” said Jen Newton, with Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, of conditions in that park. “Extra layers and a rain jacket can be helpful.”

3. Communication is critical

While this tip is especially critical for solo travelers, it really holds true for anyone visiting national parks, including families and groups: Communicate your plans to others.

“Make sure to leave a trip plan with a friend back home,” advises Hernandez, who also suggests telling someone who’s not on your trip how long you intend to be gone and when you can be expected to return.

This type of communication is especially critical for remote hikes or other far-flung excursions and explorations.

4. Keep away from wildlife

The thrill of seeing wildlife while exploring national parks is unforgettable. But that doesn’t mean it’s open season on taking selfies with wildlife, or engaging with the animals in any way. It’s a rule that should be followed for the safety of the animals and visitors alike.

“Keep a safe distance from wildlife, don’t startle wildlife,” Hernandez explained. “Do not pick up wildlife and do not feed wildlife.”

“Be bear aware,” said Newton. “Be alert and have good situational awareness.”

When hiking in places like Grand Teton or other national parks, it’s important to make at least some level of noise in order to alert animals in the area of your presence.

“That’s not necessarily singing and clapping, but even just normal conversation can be helpful to let all creatures know you are out and around,” Newton continued.

Newton also recommend carrying bear spray when in Grand Teton (a tip that could apply to other national parks as well that are home to bears). Additionally, know how many seconds of bear spray you have and how far it will go.

5. Review park safety tips in advance

Every national park in the country has its own website and that website includes safety guidelines that visitors need to follow in order to have a good experience at the park in question, said Hernandez.

Be sure to spend some time reading the website for your intended national park and reviewing the safety tips before you arrive on location.

“Even if you visited a park before or have been going to this park for awhile, follow all park recommendations and safety guidelines,” stressed Hernandez, who added that it’s also important to “follow guidelines from park rangers on site.”

The National Park Service has also created a Trip Planning Guide that includes “key tips, links, and tools to help” visitors “Plan like a Ranger” for a national park adventure. The guide can be downloaded  here .

Ultimately, Hernandez said, it’s important for visitors to make what she described as “informed decisions” about their behavior and activities when visiting a national park, in order to help ensure a fun and safe visit.

©2024 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at  travelpulse.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Air travel has gone to the dogs — literally. Here’s what to know about BARK Air

Rachel Treisman

BARK Air officially launched this week, completing its first flight from New York to Los Angeles on Thursday. It also flies to London and aims to add more routes in the coming months. Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

Flying with your dog in first class may sound like a far-fetched dream for many pet lovers. But a new boutique airline launching this week aims to make the “white paw experience” a reality.

BARK Air describes itself as “the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second.”

“BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches – from booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience,” it said in an announcement last month .

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BARK Air officially got off the ground on Wednesday afternoon, when its inaugural flight ferried six dogs of varying breeds — from Chihuahuas to a Golden Retriever — and 11 humans (both passengers and crew) from New York to Los Angeles.

The Very Important Pups were treated to chicken-flavored puppuccinos, special cupcakes and a shoe — on a platter — to snack on, according to BARK Chief of Staff Katharine Enos. She told NPR over email that there was “no drama on board.”

“Brooklyn (dachshund) and Eddy (golden) [were] friends and played and the little dogs took nice long naps most of the way,” she added. “After lunch it was nap time for everyone. No potty accidents on board or stolen food either! Everyone felt connected in the way we were obsessed with our dogs.”

Introducing BARK Air: A 100% totally real airline for dogs. We're dog people, and we are tired of there being no truly dog-friendly options when it comes to air travel. Now booking the best-in-class dog focused flight imaginable at https://t.co/eZqVYMC5W3 pic.twitter.com/bzcY2rSO4h — BARK (@bark) April 11, 2024

The airline is a subsidiary of BARK, the company behind dog-focused brands like the subscription service BarkBox. Co-founder and CEO Matt Meeker says he’s been working towards this idea for over a decade.

He was inspired by his late Great Dane Hugo, who traveled with him often but could never fit on a plane — like many non-lap dogs, Hugo would have had to fly in the cargo area rather than the cabin. (Meeker even flew from Florida to New York in a cargo crate to show how disorienting that experience can be, as part of Bark Air’s promotional campaign.)

Many airlines have tightened restrictions for emotional support animals on board in recent years. The logistics and cost of travel can be a highly emotional issue for many families who don’t want to leave their dogs behind when relocating, let alone vacationing, Meeker says.

“We don't think of ourselves as selling dog toys or seats on an airline,” Meeker told NPR in a phone interview. “We think of ourselves as selling awesome emotional experiences with your dog.”

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It’s also an expensive one: BARK Air flights between New York and LA cost $6,000 for one dog and one human (or one human and two dogs collectively under 50 pounds) in each direction, and one-way flights between New York and London go for $8,000.

Potential customers were quick to bemoan the cost, with one social media user joking that her pup would need to start selling “paw pics” to make it work.

Meeker acknowledged that “the price is high, and it’s too high.” But he said innovations, especially related to transportation, often become less expensive over time — and he hopes that will be the case with BARK Air, too.

“We have pretty clear ways of bringing those prices down if the demand is there, and that’s what we aim to do,” he added. “We want to make this affordable and accessible for as many dogs as possible.”

The airline aims to pamper passengers, both pups and people

The airline doesn't have dog size or breed restrictions but only allows humans over age 18 (or 126 in dog years). Joe Gall/BARK hide caption

On BARK Air, the drinks come in bowls, leashes replace seat belts, champagne is made of chicken broth and the bathroom is, well, anywhere.

“When they feel they need to go, they go,” Meeker said of the dog. “And then we clean up after them. And then we clean the plane between every turn.”

It’s one of the many unique perks — and logistical challenges — of an airline for dogs. BARK has partnered with a New York-based charter company called Talon Air, which provides the pilots, flight crew and plane, a Gulfstream V.

The jets accommodate 14 human passengers, but BARK is capping them at 10 to offer extra space. Meeker says it aims to make the experience as comfortable as possible for dogs, starting “even before the flight.”

BARK Air will do a “pup intake” to learn about the dogs’ temperament and preferences. On the day of the flight, humans are advised to show up an hour early to the terminal, where they’ll present their ID and walk straight onto the plane.

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“And so what we've bypassed there is a busy commercial airport and a very rigid TSA environment, and treating the dog as just another piece of luggage,” Meeker said.

Dogs and humans get served their meals — and stow away their toys — before the flight takes off to avoid potential territorial disputes. Once in the air, dogs are offered perks like a spa treatment and blankets covered with pheromones for extra comfort. Meeker says the in-flight crew is trained in dog CPR and “fear-free behavioral practices.”

The airline has no dog size or breed restrictions, but humans must be over 18 (aka 126 in dog years). Once on board, humans are advised to keep their dogs leashed as much as possible and ask before approaching others’.

Meeker, who traveled with his dog on two recent test flights between Florida and New York, says people hoped the dogs would misbehave for purposes of the experiment — but they did anything but, even during moments of “pretty significant turbulence.”

“They calmed everyone down, they floated around, they'd take someone’s seat,” he said. “A strange dog, like, not your dog, would wander up, sit on the couch next to you, put their head in your lap, and it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s great.’ ”

He added, “I don’t know why I’m surprised by this, but the dogs made it magical.”

Demand already appears to be taking off

BARK Air is partnering with charter company Talon Air to offer several flights per month. Some are already sold out for June and July. BARK hide caption

Meeker said the initial reaction to BARK Air’s launch has been “really overwhelming and positive.”

BARK Air is offering about four round-trip cross-country flights a month, with several already sold out for June and July. It’s already planning to expand its routes, starting with a New York to Paris trip beginning in the fall.

“About a third of people apparently buy their air travel six months in advance,” he said. “So we just published our schedule through the end of the year in order to serve that crowd better.”

The airline is soliciting requests for additional destinations, and Meeker said it received over 15,000 in the first week alone.

How to keep your pets cool and safe during a heat wave

They’ve heard from military families who are moving, people who travel for business and New Yorkers spending summers outside the city — all of whom want their dogs there too. Meeker also noted significant demand from snowbirds who want to go south with their dogs for the winter and many requests for flights in and out of Chicago.

“We're just processing that information and choosing the dates, and we're learning a lot,” he added.

He hopes the forthcoming data will allow the company to make more cost-effective decisions soon.

“We’re probably doing this the most expensive way we could, which is chartering a private plane from a private owner,” he explained.

The next step would be to make a longer commitment with the charter company, leasing the plane for a month or even a year to bring down costs. Even better would be buying and outfitting a plane. Meeker has his eye on a Boeing 747 model with a back half dedicated to cargo that could serve as an additional source of revenue.

He says this team already has a design that would feature private cabins with lay-flat beds, a central “dog park” and a bar, for dog and human socializing, respectively.

“That’s the dream,” he added. “But it’ll take a little bit of time to get there.”

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New Texas rest areas near Van Horn seek to improve I-10 road trips, safety

Highway travelers crossing a long, lonely stretch of West Texas desert have a new spot on Interstate 10 to take a break with the opening of modern new rest stops outside of Van Horn.

The new Culberson County "safety rest areas" are on I-10, both east and west, nine miles east of Van Horn and will replace the old rest areas four miles outside of Van Horn, the Texas Department of Transportation said.

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The new 24-hour rest areas — which opened to the public on Saturday, June 1 — took into account location, design and amenities in an effort to entice drivers to stop and rest to help fight off road fatigue, TxDOT said in a news release.

"Driver fatigue is a major cause of serious traffic crashes across the state," Brent Johnson, TxDOT roadside facilities section director, said in a statement.

Driver fatigue can be a challenge on the more than 500-mile drive across long stretches of desolate desert between El Paso and San Antonio.

Texas safety rest areas seek to improve road trips

New "safety rest areas" across Texas feature air-conditioned and heated restrooms, wireless internet, indoor exhibits, a tornado shelter, office space for law enforcement and enhanced security, including surveillance cameras, the state transportation department said.

There will be parking spaces for 58 commercial trucks and 27 cars at each of the Culberson County rest sites, which also has a shaded playground and walking paths, officials said. Visitors can stay up to 24 hours at a rest stop per state law.

The Culberson County Safety Rest Area will be similar to the Pecos County Safety Rest Area on I-10, which opened in 2018 located 26 miles west of Fort Stockton.

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The Culberson County safety rest areas "not only will help make for safer trips with state-of-the-art amenities, but also highlight the historical regional importance to everyone that stops by," El Paso District Engineer Tomas Trevino said in a statement.

The facility has educational exhibits on the Guadalupe Mountains, the 1850s' Butterfield Overland Mail Coach Trail and Blue Origin space travel rocket launches near Van Horn, Trevino said.

The Culberson County sites are the newest of 76 safety rest areas along the roads and highways of Texas, TxDOT said.