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Practical information about Kyrgyzstan
Your trip
You can visit Kyrgyzstan from May to October. These are the most popular months because the weather is pleasant and many mountain roads are accessible. Winters can be very harsh and snowy, especially in the mountains. For trekking and staying in yurts, summer is ideal.
Everyone must take out travel and health insurance before leaving for Kyrgyzstan. Whether Kyrgyzstan is covered by your policy differs per insurance policy. In most cases this will not be a problem. At CultureRoad we recommend: IATI Travel Insurance, a reliable company that has different insurance options that fits your personal needs. Book now to get a 5% discount!
Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays up to 30-60 days. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel.
Kyrgyzstan is in the time zone UTC +6. There is no difference between summer and winter time.
The currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS). ATMs are available in bigger towns and cities but can be unreliable in remote areas. So bring some USD or EUR in cash as a backup. You can exchange money with the guide at a similar rate that you see at the bank. For the most recent exchange rate, visit www.xchange.com.
As a guideline, we suggest budgeting about €20 to €30 per day for daily expenses like food and drinks. Souvenirs like traditional felt hats can cost around €30, handmade crafts around €20 to €40. Drinks are about €1 and a meal costs between €5 to €10. Tipping local guides and drivers is appreciated, they don’t earn much and tips make a real difference.
We are always available to advise you when booking a flight. However, most customers prefer to book the flight themselves. Often this is cheaper in terms of price and you can pick your own preferences.
Practical information
The electricity supply is 220 Volt / 50 Hz, and Kyrgyzstan uses the same plugs as Europe (types C and F). A universal adapter can be handy, especially in remote areas. Power cuts sometimes happen, so keep devices charged when you can.
Most hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi. You can also buy a local SIM card, which has quite good connection. Your guide can help arrange this.
Local culture
Kyrgyzstan is known for its warm hospitality and nomadic traditions. A few rules to keep in mind:
– Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
– Always greet people with a smile.
– When staying in yurts, respect your hosts’ traditions and customs.
– Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects.
– It’s polite to accept offered food and drink: even just a small taste.
Kyrgyzstan is generally a safe country for travellers. Petty theft can happen in bigger cities and busy bazaars, so keep valuables secure and avoid showing expensive jewellery or electronics. When travelling with us, we always stay in areas where we feel it’s safe for our guests. If the situation changes, we adapt immediately and ask for flexibility from our travellers.
Some tips:
– Don’t show off your most beautiful jewellery and watches, leave them at home.
– We do not discuss the itinerary or the name of the hotel with anyone. While it will of course only be out of curiosity that someone asks, we don’t share this information with others purely as a precaution.
In general, you can take photos freely (including with drones). However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
– Always ask before taking photos of people, especially nomads and locals in rural areas.
– Do not take pictures of military personnel, military installations, police officers or government buildings.
Kyrgyz cuisine is hearty and based on nomadic traditions. You’ll find dishes like plov (rice with meat), shashlik (grilled meat skewers) and manti (dumplings). Meals often include bread, salads and tea. Vegetarian options are possible but limited in remote regions: please tell us your preferences so we can plan accordingly. Alcohol like beer and vodka is available.
Bring light, comfortable layers for warm days and a warm jacket for chilly mountain evenings. Good walking shoes are a must. A rain jacket is useful too. In summer, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is important. You can usually do laundry in guesthouses or hotels if there’s time.
Medical facilities outside major cities are basic. Bring any needed medication, plus hand sanitiser, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Check with your government’s health advice for recommended vaccinations and the latest travel health info before departure.
We advise you always to the last (health) risk programs for the region where you’re going to visit. Check with your own government for the latest info about your destination.