23 Jan Everything You Need to Know About Your First Trip to Kyrgyzstan
If Kyrgyzstan isn’t already on your radar, it’s time to fix that. This landlocked Central Asian country is a treasure trove of jaw-dropping landscapes, nomadic traditions, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re into hiking, yurt stays, or just soaking up incredible views, Kyrgyzstan has you covered. Here’s everything you need to know before you pack your bags.
Where is Kyrgyzstan located?
Tucked in between Kazakhstan, China and Tajikistan, you’ll find Kyrgyzstan. It’s a destination we cannot compare to anything else. This Central Asian country got its independence from the Soviets in 1991. And while many of us Europeans look back at the Soviet era as something rather terrible, many locals – especially the older generation, are sad about its ending. It gave Kyrgyzstan schools, free education, prosperity, and jobs. Across the country, you can still find many Soviet monuments.
Furthermore, the people of Kyrgyzstan are some of the nicest we’ve met. Comparable to South-East Asia; friendly, polite, and somewhat closed, yet they’ll open up eventually. Tourism is something that is slowly starting to evolve, yet you can travel across the country without seeing a traveler for a few days. To emphasize; not too long ago the New York Times even listed Kyrgyzstan as one of the least known destinations in the world! Times are changing though, and with that, we can tip Kyrgyzstan as your next go-to destination. This article will mention the famous highlights and some hidden gems, so get ready!
When Should I Go to Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan shines bright in summer (May to September). The mountain trails are snow-free, yurt camps are open, and the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures. If you’re planning to trek or visit Lake Son-Köl, this is the time.
That being said, winter (December to February) offers a completely different vibe. Think snow-covered peaks, skiing in Karakol, and cozy evenings in traditional yurts. Whether you’re chasing summer or winter fun, Kyrgyzstan delivers. Now, it get’s cold, really cold. Expect below 15 degrees Celsius, and in the mountains it get’s even worse. However, this also means less travelers, and a more unique experience to tell your friends about when you return! Did you know that Dutch travel organization De Verdwaalde Jongens organize special winter editions?
How Much Time Should I Spend in Kyrgyzstan?
Honestly, we saw a lot in just eight days: explore Bishkek, take a day trip to Ala-Archa National Park, and spend a few nights at Issyk-Köl or Son-Köl. Got two weeks? Great! Add in a southern loop to Osh, the Alay Valley, or more off-the-beaten-path hikes. With three weeks or more, you can go all out—trekking remote valleys, immersing yourself in nomadic life, and uncovering hidden gems. Go here for our 8-day trekking through Kyrgyzstan.
How Do I Get to Kyrgyzstan?
Most visitors arrive by air at Manas International Airport near Bishkek. Flights from hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or Almaty make it easy. Prefer an overland journey? Border crossings from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are popular (and scenic). Check Skyscanner for the cheapest and most convenient flights.
Extra tip: Double-check visa requirements for your nationality—most visitors get a free visa on arrival or an e-visa. You will be warmly greeted, even at customs!
How to travel around in Kyrgyzstan
The only way to travel around in Kyrgyzstan is by car. Together with a healthy dose of adrenaline, you need a 4×4 drive car − preferably a car you can go off-road with. Be aware that not every rental car can drive through the hidden gems mentioned in this article. If you’re heading into the mountains, you’ll probably need a private driver who can also help you guide though, which is surprisingly affordable if you’re splitting costs with friends.
In Bishkek however, Kyrgyzstan’s capital, you can walk or take taxis as they are very affordable. In terms of accomodation, you can sleep in homestays, or bring your own tent. That being said, the best way to experience to life of a true nomad, you should stay in a traditional Yurt Camp. This is where you’ll find some of the best yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan!
Kyrgyzstan is a one-of-a-kind adventure
What to Do in Bishkek?
Bishkek is a cool mix of Soviet-style architecture, modern cafes, and bustling bazaars. Start with Ala-Too Square, check out the local arts scene at the State History Museum, and dive into Osh Bazaar for fresh fruits, nuts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss Ala-Archa National Park, just a short drive away – it’s a hiker’s dream. Discover the best places to visit in Bishkek.
How Much Money Do I Need to Travel in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is a budget traveler’s paradise! Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Accommodation: Hostels start at $8, yurt stays around $15–20 per night.
- Food: A hearty meal will cost $3–10 at local restaurants.
- Transport: Marshrutkas (vans) are cheap ($1–3), while private drivers might cost $50–100 per day.
- Guided tour: With De Verdwaalde Jongens, depending on how many days.
Plan for $30–50 per day, and you’ll live like a king (or queen)!
What should I pack for Kyrgyzstan?
Personally, we tend to scroll past this piece of text, but in Kyrgyzstan, you must come a little prepared so stop and read. There are a few essentials you must bring on your adventure, so here it goes:
- Aspirin or altitude sickness pills: (aspirin thins the blood which will release the pressure to your head.) It’s a must if you stay in the camps or visit the places we mention in this article. Headaches will happen, but it would be a bummer if your trip is put to hold due to altitude sickness.
- Warm clothes: You will need them in the mountains. A windbreaker jacket is also good, long trousers and a jumper or two.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Trainers are fine, but if you are going to hike far, bring those boots
- A book: with no wifi around for many hours, sometimes days, this is the time to read a good book.
- Sunscreen: UV protect yourself, the sun is stronger than you may realise!
- Powerbank: You can charge your phone or devices in the car, but it’s a good idea to bring a solar power bank.
- Hot Water Bottle: If only we knew…Bring this baby! Light to pack but a lifesaver.
Pack your bags—it’s time to explore Kyrgyzstan!
Best Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan
In no particular order, we want to highlight a few must-visit spots in Kyrgyzstan. Not one place looks the same, and the more you drive, the more the scenery will keep on changing. From snowy mountain passes to green lush hills, rivers, dry desert-like locations, and villages.
Issyk Kul lake
The largest lake in the country and perfect for a swim between June and September! You can find several Yurt Camps around the lake, but our favorite has to be Feel Nomad Yurt Camp. Read more about the Best Yurt Camps in Kyrgyzstan.
Karakol Valley
Most likely one of the prettiest valleys in Kyrgyzstan. It’s a favourite for hikers and independent trekkers who sleep in tents along the way. Beware of bears though, there have been sightings, so don’t leave any food outside your tent!
Karakol Valley *by De Verdwaalde Jongens
Ala Kul
If you like hiking, bring your boots for this trail, as it’s stunning, to say the least. The reward for the 3 to 4-day long hike is a rock-dammed lake in the Ak-Suu District of the Issyk-Kul Region in Kyrgyzstan. It lies at an altitude of 3,532 m. If you start in Karakol, you can combine both hikes.
Kel Suu
This region is tucked in between the mountains and has a mountain lake that goes by the same name. From the yurt camps that are located in this region, you can hike or horse ride towards Kel Suu Lake. It goes without saying that horse riding is more fun and a bit easier, so our advise is to take on the horsepower and experience it, nomad-style.
Jeti-Ogüz
This area gives you one of the most famous natural landmarks in Kyrgyzstan. The Red rock formations remind us of the outback in Australia. These rocks give the Jeti-Ogüz region its name and you will most likely see these red rocks on the local postcards.
Best Yurt Camps Kyrgyzstan
Spending a night in a yurt is a must. Some of the best camps are in Jyrgalan, Song-Köl, and the Suusamyr Valley. You’ll enjoy starry skies, hearty Kyrgyz meals, and unbeatable views. Discover the best yurt camps here.
Lake Son-Köl
At over 3,000 meters above sea level, Son-Köl is breathtaking. Horse treks, hiking, and living like a nomad in a yurt—it’s the ultimate Kyrgyzstan experience.
Issyk-Köl
One of the world’s largest alpine lakes, Issyk-Köl is ringed by beaches, mountains, and hot springs. Relax by the shore or hit the trails for some epic hiking.
Loop Around the South of Kyrgyzstan
Southern Kyrgyzstan feels like a different world. From the ancient city of Osh to the dramatic Alay Valley, this region is packed with adventure and history.
Tosor Pass
Hardcore Kyrgyzstan at its best. You’ll reach the highest point at almost 4000 meters, so take your altitude pills and enjoy glaciers, valleys, and wild horses. Experience the sound of silence – apart from the occasional hawk, or rocks falling from a cliff. We drove around here for hours without seeing anyone.
The Tosor Pass
The road to Tash Rabat
Tash Rabat isn’t that special in our opinion (even though, every tourist folder mentions it), but the road towards it…wow. On your lefthand side, you will see the Tian Shan mountains, which divides Kyrgyzstan from China. With the current Chinese borders closed for tourists, you will find an empty road, that used to be part of the silk road. We even stopped the car to take some pictures on the highway.
On the Silk Road
Kyrgyzstan is full of places where you will not easily meet anyone
Go Off the Beaten Path Kyrgyzstan
However, if you really want to go off the beaten track, head to Lenin Peak Base Camp. A plateau at 3500 meters altitude, surrounded by amazing mountain peaks of up to 7000 meters high, in all kinds of colours. Or trek through the mountain passes and valleys between Naryn and the border of China, where you will not easily meet anyone. Online information about this area is scarce, but it is fairly easy to travel and rewards you with a new amazing view every turn.
You can also enjoy fantastic hiking or horseback riding in the region east of Karakol. You can also go free-ride skiing or snowboarding (skiing down mountains that no person on earth has ever gone before!). Another lesser-known spot is the abandoned mine city Enil Chek. When the mine closed, the village shrunk from 20.000 people to 140! The way here is very off-road, so make sure you don’t go here by yourself in case you get stranded. We advise you to book your self-drive adventure with De Verdwaalde Jongens, as they know all of these spots.
Naryn region
Good to Know before you visit Kyrgyzstan
First of all, this trip is for the adventurous traveler, so don’t expect luxury. Instead, get ready for a thrilling ride from the moment you start driving away from Bishkek.
At Kynda you’ll come across a Military Checkpoint. You need to request your permit at least one week beforehand otherwise you may not enter and continue your route. Although China is about 90KM away, they want to control who passes here. We think it has something to do with the Uyghurs and the camps the Chinese have set up nearby…As expected, no photographs are allowed near this point.
What Languages Are Spoken?
Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages, but English is on the rise, especially in tourist spots. Learning a few Kyrgyz basics will win you some smiles:
- Salam (Hello)
- Rakhmat (Thank you)
- Jakshy kalynyz (Goodbye)
Whatever you decide, travel to Kyrgyzstan, soon. You won’t regret it!
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