{"id":7661,"date":"2022-08-23T06:56:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-23T04:56:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=7661\/"},"modified":"2026-01-19T14:23:59","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T12:23:59","slug":"traveling-to-kyrgyzstan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips and how to travel to Kyrgyzstan (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-landscape.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-landscape.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-landscape.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan travel tips\" class=\"wp-image-7699\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After spending two entire months <strong>traveling in Kyrgyzstan<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"convertkit-form wp-block-convertkit-form\" style=\"\"><script async data-uid=\"b182b9783d\" src=\"https:\/\/exceptional-creator-2216.kit.com\/b182b9783d\/index.js\" data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" data-no-defer=\"1\" nowprocket><\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/visit-kyrgyzstan-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/visit-kyrgyzstan-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/visit-kyrgyzstan-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Visit Kyrgyzstan\" class=\"wp-image-7679\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:474px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Kyrgyzstan travel guide you will find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#1\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Visa<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel insurance<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Best time to visit<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#20\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">How to get in<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#4\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is it safe?<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#5\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Top 5 experiences<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#6\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Books<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#7\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">The country, people, and culture<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#11\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Food and alcohol<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#8\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Nomadic life<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#9\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Horses<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#10\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Trekking<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#15\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Internet<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#12\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Money<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#13\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Accommodation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#14\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Transportation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#16\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">More information<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fe9900\">our recommended travel insurance for Kyrgyzstan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:20px\">With its Backpacker plan, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Kyrgyzstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-text-align-center has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Read: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-central-asia\/\">Packing list for trekking in Central Asia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\"><span class=\"efont\" id=\"copy-emoji\">\ud83e\udeaa<\/span> Visa for traveling to Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The most liberal visa regime in Central Asia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most nationalities get a 60-day free visa on arrival, both at the airport and overland. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">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, <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-oman\/\"><strong>Oman<\/strong><\/a>, Qatar, <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-saudi-arabia\/\"><strong>Saudi Arabia<\/strong><\/a>, Singapore, South Korea, <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/united-arab-emirates\/\"><strong>United Arab Emirates<\/strong><\/a>, United States, <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/\"><strong>Uzbekistan<\/strong><\/a>, Vatican City. Japan and <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/russia-travel\/\"><strong>Russia<\/strong><\/a> can get an indefinite stay.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The rest of nationalities can apply for a Kyrgyz e-visa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Since September 2017, most of the remaining countries can apply for an e-visa <strong><a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/evisa.e-gov.kg\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"rank-math-link\">through the official portal<\/a><\/strong>. It takes around 1 week and costs 63USD.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, if you are in possession of an e-visa, you can travel to Kyrgyzstan both via land and air.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be aware that when applying for an e-visa, most nationalities will also need to be in possession of an LOI, <strong>EXCEPT<\/strong> for citizens of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Brazil, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Indonesia, Israel, Macedonia, Mexico, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, South Africa, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are not on any of the above lists, read the <strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"http:\/\/caravanistan.com\/visa\/kyrgyzstan\/\" target=\"_blank\">Kyrgyzstan visa section<\/a><\/strong> of <strong>Caravanistan&nbsp;<\/strong>for further information on visas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Extending your visa does not seem to be possible anymore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We tried to extend our visa and they said that, since May 2017, extensions aren&#8217;t possible anymore. We tried to extend it in both Karakol and Bishkek.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is easier to&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelsofabookpacker.com\/blog\/almaty-city-guide-kazakhstan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">travel to Almaty<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>and come back.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overstaying can be expensive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you overstayed, you won&#8217;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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7721\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/alay-valley-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/alay-valley-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/alay-valley-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan tourism\" class=\"wp-image-7721\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><em><span style=\"color: #808080;\">A horse grazing in the middle of the Alay Valley &#8211; Kyrgyzstan travel guide<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\">\ud83d\ude91 Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">Kyrgyzstan is an adventurous destination, so we recommend going there with proper travel insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">I recommend <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en_own\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong> because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Their backpacker plan covers all types of adventure activities, including trekking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Very competitive prices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Readers of this blog can get a <strong>5% exclusive discount<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/products\/iati-backpacker-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en_own\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong><strong>BUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR 5% DISCOUNT<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\">\u26c5 Best time to visit Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">My favorite month for traveling to Kyrgyzstan: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">September<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Why? July &amp; 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In September, nevertheless, most crowds will be gone, and the weather will still be warm enough for trekking, and that is why I consider <strong>September to be the best month for visiting Kyrgyzstan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel in Kyrgyzstan during High season (mid-June to Mid-September)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong> Best season for trekking, loads of nomads<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong> Crowded, plus it can be really hot in Bishkek and other low-altitude areas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Read my <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-central-asia\/\">packing list for trekking in Central Asia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel in Kyrgyzstan during Shoulder season (Spring and Autumn)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong> In late spring and early autumn, you can do some cool treks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong> High mountains may be not accessible, unpredictable weather, nomads may not be there<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel in Kyrgyzstan during Low season (mid-November to March)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong> Winter landscape, snow, no people<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong> No trekking, no nomads<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter wp-image-6743 size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/climbing-aracha-tor-pass.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/climbing-aracha-tor-pass.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/climbing-aracha-tor-pass.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-6743\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>This was during the first week of July \ud83d\ude2e (Archa T\u00f6r Pass)<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"20\">\ud83d\udeeb How to get to Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to travel to Kyrgyzstan by air<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to travel to Kyrgyzstan by land<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kyrgyzstan shares a border with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>China &#8211; <\/strong>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 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/china-kyrgyzstan-border-crossing-irkeshtam-pass\/\">full report here<\/a><\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tajikistan &#8211; <\/strong>There are 6 border crossings and 4 of them are open to foreigners. The most obvious is the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/kyzyl-art-pass-kyrgyzstan-tajikistan-border\/\">Kyzyl Art border crossing<\/a><\/strong>, which is the one that follows the Pamir Highway. For more information, read the<strong>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/caravanistan.com\/border-crossings\/tajikistan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">latest Caravanistan updates<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kazakhstan &#8211; <\/strong>There are like 7 border crossings, but the easiest ones are Karkara and Kordai. For more information, read the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/caravanistan.com\/border-crossings\/kyrgyzstan\/#kyrgyzstan-kazakhstan-border-crossings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">latest Caravanistan updates<\/a><\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uzbekistan &#8211; <\/strong>There are nowadays 4 borders but only 3 are open as of 2019. For more information, read the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/caravanistan.com\/border-crossings\/kyrgyzstan\/#kyrgyzstan-uzbekistan-border-crossings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">latest Caravanistan updates<\/a><\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-8139\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/kyzyl-art-pass-e1549969508579.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/kyzyl-art-pass-e1549969508579.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/kyzyl-art-pass-e1549969508579.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-8139\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Kyzyl Art Pass, between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\">\u26a0\ufe0f Is it safe to travel to Kyrgyzstan?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Something you need to know is that the term <em>Stan<\/em> doesn&#8217;t mean a place is dangerous, but <em>Stan<\/em> means <em>land<\/em>, so Kyrgyzstan means the land of Kyrgyz.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kyrgyzstan is a safe destination. Period.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I mean, just check the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/foreign-travel-advice\/kyrgyzstan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">FCO advice<\/a><\/strong> 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 <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/best-places-visit-middle-east\/\"><strong>in the Middle East<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Solo travelers will be just fine and whereas I can&#8217;t speak for women, I know many women who have been there, and all they told me was positive experiences.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The<strong> only potential danger<\/strong> 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. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-7703\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/burana-tower.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/burana-tower.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/burana-tower.jpg\" alt=\"Burana tower\" class=\"wp-image-7703\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\">Burana tower, one of the few Silk Road heritage places in the country<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\">\ud83d\uded6 Top 5 experiences in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">For all the places to visit, don&#8217;t forget to check my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kyrgyzstan\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>1-month Kyrgyzstan itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stay with Kyrgyz nomads<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Experiencing the nomadic life is one of the greatest Kyrgyz experiences. From staying in a yurt to helping them preparing <em>kurut<\/em>, their local cheese, during our 2-month journey across the country, we met loads of nomads with we had awesome experiences.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-21473\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/DSC_9788.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/DSC_9788.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/DSC_9788.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-21473\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">A really offbeat nomad camp, somewhere in the southern Pamirs<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch nomad games, but try to find out where the local games happen (don&#8217;t go to the touristic ones)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The ancient nomad sports in Kyrgyzstan are just crazy, and bizarre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be very honest, I didn&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cXKdxMz22mY\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\"><\/iframe><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Go trekking on a horse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter wp-image-7829 size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/tash-rabat-pass.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/tash-rabat-pass.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/tash-rabat-pass.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-7829\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Climbing the Tash Rabat pass &#8211; 4,000 meters<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Go trekking in some of the most mind-blowing mountains ever<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit the remotest Silk Road Heritage sites<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter wp-image-18196 size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Kyrgyzstan-2-Tash-Rabat.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Kyrgyzstan-2-Tash-Rabat.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Kyrgyzstan-2-Tash-Rabat.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-18196\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080; font-size: 10pt;\"><em>The most epic Silk Road Heritage site in Kyrgyzstan: Tash Rabat<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fcc3b7;font-size:18px\"><strong>Kyrgyzstan is about nature and nomadic life&nbsp;<br><\/strong>With very few Silk Road Heritage sites compared to its neighbor <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/uzbekistan\/\">Uzbekistan<\/a><\/strong>, in Kyrgyzstan, there\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\">\ud83d\udcda Books for traveling to Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">For more books to Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia, check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/books-central-asia\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">The best 28 books on Central Asia<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide by Bradt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1784776262\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1784776262&amp;linkId=3ea8f98e8222b8aec4707f54fd1187da\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>&nbsp;CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1784776262\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1784776262&amp;linkId=3ea8f98e8222b8aec4707f54fd1187da\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/9781784776268_119.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/9781784776268_119.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/9781784776268_119.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-21364\" style=\"width:194px;height:310px\"><\/picture><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Central Asia Guide by Lonely Planet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">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&#8217;s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1786574640\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1786574640&amp;linkId=b3d4e06710adbd0e55e3307c0895f4ef\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#ff9900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>&nbsp;CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/1786574640\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=joantow-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=1786574640&amp;linkId=b3d4e06710adbd0e55e3307c0895f4ef\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/61-cujrpflL._SX324_BO1204203200_.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-21366\" style=\"width:182px;height:278px\"><\/picture><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Don&#8217;t forget to check my list of the <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/books-central-asia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>best books on Central Asia and the Silk Road<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\">\ud83d\udd4c 15 facts about Kyrgyzstan, its people and culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1 &#8211; Kyrgyzstan used to be part of the Soviet Union &#8211; <\/strong>It acquired its independence in 1991, with the collapse of the USSR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2 &#8211; The origin of the Kyrgyz &#8211; <\/strong>Kyrgyz people are an ethnic nomadic group which is believed to have come from a region within Siberia, during the 10th and 15th centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> Originally, they used to have red hair but, over the centuries, they have mixed with all kinds of groups, especially Mongols and Turks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3 &#8211; Kyrgyz make up 66% of the population &#8211; <\/strong>The biggest minority are Uzbeks (15%), followed by Russians (10%). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4 &#8211; It\u2019s a Muslim country. Well, not really &#8211;<\/strong> Like in most Soviet countries, religion is not a big deal anymore, especially in the north of the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019t see any sign of people fasting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5 &#8211; However, <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/saudi-arabia\/\">Saudi Arabia<\/a> wants to reverse this &#8211; <\/strong>They are funding the construction of mosques across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Read: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-kazakhstan\/\">35 Tips for traveling to Kazakhstan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7713\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/people-in-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/people-in-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/people-in-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan people\" class=\"wp-image-7713\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\">A very Muslim, nomadic man, which is very rare to see. His wife wears a niqab<\/span><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6 &#8211; Kyrgyz is the national language but Russian is widely spoken &#8211;<\/strong> Kyrgyz, a Turkic language, is the country&#8217;s official language. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019t really speak it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>7 &#8211; English is a problem &#8211;<\/strong> Communicating with people is one of the biggest issues in Kyrgyzstan, as very few people speak English.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>8 &#8211; At least, you must learn the Cyrillic alphabet &#8211; <\/strong>Extremely useful, especially when it comes to reading restaurant menus and bus directions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9 &#8211; Bishkek is surprisingly Westernized &#8211; <\/strong>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>10 &#8211; The rest of the country is more traditional &#8211; <\/strong>Outside of Bishkek, most people still live a traditional life, where people\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>11 &#8211; Kidnapping brides is still a big deal &#8211; <\/strong>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\u2019t say anything. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I know, it\u2019s not a real kidnapping but it\u2019s a crazy tradition and, even today, some locals told me that this is practiced by 20% of the population, especially in small, rural villages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to know more about, check out this video:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/VD-cVDsv1C4\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\"><\/iframe><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>12 &#8211; The most hospitable people <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\">in Central Asia<\/a> &#8211; <\/strong>In this region, the Kyrgyz are famous for their hospitality. When we went trekking in the mountains, I remember that there was not a&nbsp;single day when someone didn\u2019t invite us to his or her yurt to have some tea and bread with home-made jam and butter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traveling in Kyrgyzstan is very pleasant, as the Kyrgyz people, who will always bless you with their smiles, are kind and hospitable by nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>13 &#8211; You can\u2019t believe how clean they are &#8211; <\/strong>When you <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/reasons-travel-kyrgyzstan\/\">visit Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong>, you will realize that these people have a real obsession with cleanliness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I don\u2019t know whether it\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>14 &#8211; Girls are pretty, very pretty &#8211; <\/strong>Kyrgyz women are stunning, especially in Bishkek. On the other hand, all foreign women say that, in general, Kyrgyz men are not very handsome. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>15 &#8211; Always remove your shoes &#8211;<\/strong> You must always remove shoes when you enter any house, yurt and even hostels and guesthouses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">Read: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-know-before-trip-to-pakistan\/\">70 Tips for traveling to Pakistan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7734\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-girl-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-girl-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/kyrgyzstan-girl-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan girl\" class=\"wp-image-7734\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>A cute, nomadic girl<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\">\ud83d\udc2a About nomadic life in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The most accessible nomadic life in the world<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, a large proportion of the Kyrgyz population still live a nomadic, traditional life, not very different from their ancestors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">It\u2019s their summer job<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During the summer months, Kyrgyz nomads move from cities to the mountains, so their herds of cows, sheep, goats and horses can graze freely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">They live in yurts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter wp-image-7228 size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/yurt-camp-kyrgyzstan.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/yurt-camp-kyrgyzstan.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/yurt-camp-kyrgyzstan.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-7228\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">A yurt camp in Song Kul<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You can always stay with them, no matter where you go<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But remember that, even if they don\u2019t ask, they may expect you to pay something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get off the beaten track because the touristic areas are too commercialized<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you go to popular places, such as Song Kul for example, most nomad families have spare yurts, which have been built for tourists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whereas there is nothing wrong with staying there, the experience won\u2019t be very authentic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a chance, try to find yurts around the Alay Valley, the Pamirs or even in less popular<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-in-karakol\/\"> treks around Karakol<\/a><\/strong>. In these yurt camps, you may sleep in the same yurt as the family and even&nbsp;join in with their daily tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7711\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/nomads-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/nomads-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/nomads-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-7711\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\">Enjoying some shorpo with a nomadic woman &#8211; Kyrgyzstan travel guide<\/span><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11\">\ud83c\udf72 Facts about food and alcohol in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1 &#8211; Food is not amazing but it\u2019s OK to fill your stomach &#8211; <\/strong>You will not love it but, after traveling in Kyrgyzstan for 2 months, I was not especially bored of it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2 &#8211; The typical food &#8211; <\/strong><em>Lagman<\/em> (a hearty noodle soup), <em>manty <\/em>(meat dumplings) and <em>shorpo<\/em> (meat broth) are the staple food. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3 &#8211; But don\u2019t trust <em>mantys<\/em> &#8211;<\/strong> While traveling in Kyrgyzstan, the only day I got slightly sick was after eating some street <em>mantys<\/em>. Be careful where you order them, as the meat they are filled with may have been outside of the fridge for days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4 &#8211; In small towns and villages, only staple food &#8211; <\/strong>In bigger towns, you can easily find more choices, like salads, kebab or Western food. However, in villages, you\u2019ll have to fill your stomach with<em> lagman <\/em>and<em> mantys.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5 &#8211; You are expected to know what to order from the moment you enter the restaurant &#8211; <\/strong>It\u2019s your first day in Kyrgyzstan, the first time you enter a restaurant, holding a menu written in an alphabet which you\u2019ve never seen before. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019t really understand you and will stand next to you. It\u2019s very weird but you\u2019ll get used to it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6 &#8211; If you are vegetarian, you are fucked &#8211; <\/strong>It\u2019s said that Kyrgyzstan is the country with the highest consumption of meat per capita in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At most restaurants, it\u2019s extremely difficult to find vegetarian dishes and, when you ask for something vegetarian, they kind of freak out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even sometimes, when I ordered a salad, it came with pieces of cooked beef in it. True story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>7 &#8211; Even chicken is difficult to find &#8211;<\/strong> If you find chicken on a menu, just order it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>8 &#8211; Beer and vodka are available everywhere &#8211; <\/strong>Welcome to the ex-Soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan! Despite being a Muslim country, alcohol consumption is present everywhere, even in small villages and towns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9 &#8211; Get used to people being completely smashed at 9am &#8211; <\/strong>You\u2019ll definitely meet Kyrgyz men who are massively wasted, who can barely walk, quite early in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>10 &#8211; You must try <em>kymys<\/em> &#8211;<\/strong> If you go to the mountains and stay with nomads, ask for <em>kymys<\/em>, which is fermented milk. Most people don\u2019t like it, as it has a weirdly sour, strong taste. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It has some small percentage of alcohol. However, if you don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>11<em>&#8211; Kyryt<\/em> is the snack in fashion<\/strong> &#8211; <em>Kyryt<\/em> are some sort of cheese and yogurt balls which are available all <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-central-asia\/\"><strong>across Central Asia<\/strong><\/a> but Kyrgyzstan is where they are most prevalent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, some people don\u2019t like them but, like <em>kymys<\/em>, some of them were good, some of them weren\u2019t. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>12 &#8211; A fruit paradise &#8211; <\/strong>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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7715\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/food-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/food-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/food-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan food\" class=\"wp-image-7715\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>Some very nice girls selling kyryt, the national snack in Kyrgyzstan<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\">\ud83d\udc34 Horses in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">It\u2019s the land of horses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">They learn how to ride a horse at the same time as walking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you are in the mountains, you will see plenty of kids (including little girls) riding big horses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You must go horse trekking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Trekking over high mountain passes, riding one of those beautiful beasts is one of the highlights of Kyrgyzstan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ah, in case you are wondering, no, you don\u2019t need any previous riding experience. A guide&nbsp;will always come with you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">But be careful!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Horses are no joke. They are dangerous so don\u2019t try to gallop if you don\u2019t have any experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I actually had a pretty bad accident, felling off a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/horse-riding-kyrgyzstan-tash-rabat\/\">horse in Tash Rabat<\/a><\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter wp-image-7701 size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/horse-trekking-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/horse-trekking-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/horse-trekking-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Horse riding Kyrgyzstan\" class=\"wp-image-7701\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Riding a horse in Tash Rabat<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hiring a horse is cheap<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">But be aware that they eat them!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you see a herd of horses grazing over a dreamy meadow, don\u2019t get too much in love with them because many of them will end up in a butchery! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Horse games<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Horses are so rooted in their culture that they&nbsp;are also main protagonists in their national sports. Among many others,&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buzkashi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ulak Tsrtysh<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\">For more information on horses, read:&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/horse-riding-kyrgyzstan-tash-rabat\/\">Horse riding in Tash Rabat, Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-18198\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/horse-wrestling.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/horse-wrestling.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/horse-wrestling.jpg\" alt=\"Horse wrestling\" class=\"wp-image-18198\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Horse wrestling<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\">\ud83c\udfd4\ufe0f Trekking in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Around 90% of the of the country is above 1,500 meters and with that, I&#8217;ve told you everything already.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information, check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-in-kyrgyzstan\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\">Hiking in Kyrgyzstan, everything you need to know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7725\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lenin-peak-base-camp-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lenin-peak-base-camp-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lenin-peak-base-camp-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Lenin peak base camp\" class=\"wp-image-7725\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>On my way to the advanced base camp of Lenin peak<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15\">\ud83d\udcbb Internet and connectivity in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical card, with the added benefit that you can buy it online before or during your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it in a local store.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/kyrgyzstan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Airalo<\/a><\/strong>, you can get an eSIM for a wide range of destinations, including <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airalo.com\/kyrgyzstan-esim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kyrgyzstan has the best internet in Central Asia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">About getting a SIM Card for traveling around Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong> <\/strong>If you get a local SIM-Card, 3G is also quite fast. Get a mobile company called <strong>O! <\/strong>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get a VPN for traveling in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Your connection will be much safer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">I recommend <strong>ExpressVPN<\/strong> &#8211; Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/go.expressvpn.com\/c\/2203603\/1481117\/16063?subId1=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#dd3333\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Get a vpn<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">If you want to learn more about VPN, check: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/vpn-travel\/\"><strong>Why you need a VPN for traveling<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12\">\ud83d\udcb0 About money, budget and costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In Kyrgyzstan, they use the Kyrgyz SOM and, approximately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-vivid-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>1 USD = 88.60 SOM<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kyrgyzstan is a very cheap country to travel, the cheapest country in Central Asia, and a budget backpacker&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\"><strong>Expect to pay 10-15% extra for service<\/strong><br>Except in cheap, local eateries, you will always pay an extra 10-15% for service when the bill comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Public transportation within cities costs 15c and buses between nearby towns, less than 1USD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Budget backpackers can easily <strong>travel around Kyrgyzstan on 20USD a day<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ATMs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exchanging money<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve never seen so many exchange offices, especially in Bishkek, where you find one in absolutely every corner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scams, getting ripped-off<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I felt that nobody tried to rip me off &#8211; except for taxi drivers, of course, perhaps because mass tourism hasn\u2019t arrived here (yet).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7707\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/song-kul-lake-kyrgyzstan8-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/song-kul-lake-kyrgyzstan8-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/song-kul-lake-kyrgyzstan8-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Song Kul\" class=\"wp-image-7707\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080; font-size: 10pt;\"><em>Song Kul at sunrise<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13\">\ud83c\udfe8 Accommodation: where to stay in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Staying in a homestay in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Everybody has a home stay. Kyrgyzstan has the peculiarity that, no matter where you go, locals offer their houses to foreigners for home stays.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">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\u2019t ask you for money, they are expecting you to give something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e8e8e8\">Price is always per person, not per room so, if you travel alone, Kyrgyzstan can be great<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">There are homestays all over the country, and you can easily find and book them online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/homestay\/country\/kg.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Staying in a yurt in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">A yurt is a round tent typically used by nomads in Central Asia and Mongolia, which is usually covered with animal skins. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">In the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, if there are nomads, there will be also yurts, since that&#8217;s what they use for shelter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">They are incredibly warm and cozy and staying in one is a must-try experience for anyone traveling in Kyrgyzstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Staying in a hotel in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">In Bishkek, Osh and pretty much any larger city, you can also find regular hotels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/country\/kg.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=kyrgyzstan_travelguide_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7719\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/homestay-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/homestay-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/homestay-kyrgyzstan-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Kyrgyzstan homestay\" class=\"wp-image-7719\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"color: #808080; font-size: 10pt;\"><em>A woman preparing our dinner at her house<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14\">\ud83d\udefa How to move around Kyrgyzstan &#8211; Transportation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling around Kyrgyzstan by public transportation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Mashrutka<\/em> is the way to go<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Mashrutkas<\/em> are some kind of vans and mini-vans that connect all cities and towns in Kyrgyzstan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are extremely cheap and it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shared local taxis<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Late in the evening, for long distances or in very remote towns, <em>marshrutkas<\/em> don\u2019t run that often, so you will have to take a local shared taxi. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are more expensive but, definitely, faster than <em>marshrutkas<\/em>. However, some drivers are completely nuts and may drive at over 120km per hour along narrow mountain roads. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A few things to keep in mind:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Remember that old women have the power<\/strong> &#8211; In any bus, <em>marshrutka <\/em>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\u2019t, 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 <em>marshrutka <\/em>on the way to the hospital. I could barely stand up and, when a woman entered and told me to move and I couldn\u2019t explain why I couldn\u2019t, I created a lot of trouble until she understood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>At 40\u00baC, windows are still closed &#8211; <\/strong>Kyrgyz are afraid of air currents and no matter what time of the year it is, even if it\u2019s the peak of the summer and 40\u00baC 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Remember to be patient &#8211; <\/strong>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 <em>marshrutkas <\/em>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-7709\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/yurts-kyrgyzstan-1024x576.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/yurts-kyrgyzstan-1024x576.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/yurts-kyrgyzstan-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"yurt kyrgyzstan\" class=\"wp-image-7709\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #808080;\"><em>A yurt camp in Song Kul<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16\">\u2757 More information for traveling in Kyrgyzstan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is CBT?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/cbtkyrgyzstan.kg\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"rank-math-link\">CBT (Community Based Tourism)<\/a><\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, bear in mind that, of course, it will always be cheaper to arrange things on your own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/books-central-asia\/\">best books about Central Asia and the Silk Road<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">All guides and articles for traveling in Kyrgyzstan destination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-kyrgyzstan\/\">Kyrgyzstan Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/horse-riding-kyrgyzstan-tash-rabat\/\">Horse riding in Tash Rabat<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-in-kyrgyzstan\/\">Trekking in Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/ala-kul-trek\/\">Trekking the Ala-Kul<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trekking-in-karakol\/\">Trekking in Karakol<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/china-kyrgyzstan-border-crossing-irkeshtam-pass\/\">China-Kyrgyzstan border crossing<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/kyzyl-art-pass-kyrgyzstan-tajikistan-border\/\">Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border crossing<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/reasons-travel-kyrgyzstan\/\">Reasons to Visit Kyrgyzstan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel guides to other countries in Central Asia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-tajikistan\/\">Tajikistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/uzbekistan-travel-guide\/\">Travel Guide to Uzbekistan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-kazakhstan\/\">Travel Guide to Kazakhstan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-know-before-trip-to-pakistan\/\">Pakistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-afghanistan\/\">Afghanistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tsaatan-nomads\/\">How to visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders in Mongolia<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan.-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan.-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/traveling-to-kyrgyzstan.-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Traveling to Kyrgyzstan\" class=\"wp-image-7683\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:512px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7699,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_wp_convertkit_post_meta":{"form":"1499537","landing_page":"","tag":"0","restrict_content":"0"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[203,208],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7661","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-kygyzstan","category-central-asia"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7661","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7661"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7661\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":56670,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7661\/revisions\/56670"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7699"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7661"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7661"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7661"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}