Kyrgyzstan

Know before you go:

Kyrgyzstan has straightforward visa policies for many travelers, with visa-free access or easy visa-on-arrival options for many nationalities. Always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements.

Kyrgyzstan has a long and diverse history, stretching back thousands of years. Originally, the area was inhabited by nomadic tribes who lived across the steppes and mountains of Central Asia. These tribes developed their own unique way of life, greatly influenced by the Silk Road trade routes that crossed through the region.

In terms of getting around the country, you can sue public transportation for your travels. There are busses that run along the main routes across the country. However, if you value the possiblity to stop whenever you see a beautiful sight and to also explore very remote areas (e.g. the Tian Shan mountains), consider renting a car.

What is the best time to travel to Kyrgyzstan?

Travel in summer (June to August) to enjoy the best outdoor activities such as hiking and lake visits. Autumn (September to early October) is perfect for experiencing the golden hues of the landscape with cooler, comfortable weather.

What languages are spoken in Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages spoken. English is increasingly common in urban areas and among younger people, particularly those involved in tourism. That being said, as soon as you venture out a bit further from the increasingly touristy parts, a few basic sentences of Russian will come in very handy.

We downloaded a Russian translator app and that helped us in a lot of situations. Be aware that while many people speak Russian, we were in quite some situations where people could not read the language - better use the playback function of your app.

What is the currency and money situation in Kyrgyzstan?

The Kyrgyzstani som (KGS) is relatively stable. While ATMs and credit card machines are widely available in cities, you should be prepared to pay cash in the remote mountain areas. More and more businesses also in more rural areas are accepting cards, though cash remains king outside the major urban centers.

Is it safe to travel through Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan is safe for tourists, with locals known for their hospitality, friendliness and eagerness to help visitors. Urban areas are very safe, though of course you should adhere to the usual precautions when travelling.

Nomad Score:

Major cities like Bishkek and Osh have reliable internet connectivity. Outside of these two hubs, internet is still scarce and when traveling, we spent several days without any signal at all. That being said, if you are looking or a destination in which to combine breathtaking nature and adventure with work, you could consider basing yourself in Bishkek or Osh.