Grand mountain landscapes may draw you in, but it’s the warm local hosts that make you want to stay.

It’s a land made wild by mountains and valleys, but the Kyrgyz call this place their home. Their customs have set them up for survival as they herd their flock on verdant hillsides and camp by idyllic mountain lakes. Just moments away from such splendors as Son-Kun Lake and Barskoön Gorge, the villagers rest in their yurts, humbled by the vastness of their surrounds. 

Kyrgyzstan travel highlights

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Kyrgyzstan holiday information

Kyrgyzstan facts

Local culture of Kyrgyzstan

Geography & environment

Shopping guide to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan festival calendar

Food & drink in Kyrgyzstan

Further reading

Kyrgyzstan travel FAQs

Nationals of the following countries do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90-days in Kyrgyzstan. 

  • Australia: Not required
  • Belgium: Not required
  • Canada: Not required
  • Germany: Not required
  • Ireland: Not required
  • Netherlands: Not required
  • New Zealand: Not required
  • Switzerland: Not required
  • United Kingdom: Not required
  • United States: Not required
     

Tips of about 10% are expected at restaurants and for other services

You’ll be able to access internet cafes in Bishkek and some major towns. 

Mobile phone services are available in major centres but may still be unreliable at times. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling. 

You’ll have western-style toilets in places like hotels, but most places have basic drop toilets. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.

  • Bottle of soft drink = 25 KGS
  • Beer in a bar or restaurant = 40 KGS
  • Cup of coffee = 45 KGS
  • Three-course meal = 1000 KGS
  • Short taxi ride = 80 KGS

Drinking tap water is not considered safe in Kyrgyzstan. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you. 

You’ll be able to use your credit card at places like hotels and large shops in Bishkek but be prepared to pay cash when dealing with local businesses. 

Bishkek has ATMs but they are hard to find outside this area. 

Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.

For a current list of public holidays go to: 
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Kyrgyzstan/public-holidays