Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide
By Jessie Festa. This guide to Kyrgyzstan travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners.
Looking for an in-depth Kyrgyzstan travel guide?
Then you’re in the right place!
Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this mountainous country offers a unique blend of untouched natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Bishkek to the ancient Silk Road cities of Osh and Karakol, Kyrgyzstan promises a journey through time and tradition.
Hike through the stunning Tian Shan mountains, relax by the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul Lake, or explore the historical Burana Tower and its ancient ruins.
The warm hospitality of the Kyrgyz people, combined with their nomadic traditions, creates an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a new adventure, Kyrgyzstan’s diverse attractions and awe-inspiring scenery are sure to captivate and inspire.
Come and discover why this enchanting destination is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Central Asia.”
Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan in Asia.
Kyrgyzstan Map
Use this Kyrgyzstan travel map to begin planning your trip!
Click here for an interactive version of the above Google map.
Kyrgyzstan Travel Guides
Use these guides to plan the perfect trip to Kyrgyzstan!
Asia Travel Tips
This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip.
Top Kyrgyzstan Tours
Book a Kyrgyzstan tour and get to know the culture through a local. A few top-rated Kyrgyzstan tours, each departing from Bishkek, include:
🐎 3-Day Horseback Riding Trip to Song-Kul Lake
⛰️ Bishkek City Tour & Ala-Archa National Park
🦅 3-Day Tour Around Issyk Kul Lake with Yurt Stay & Eagle Hunting Show
🥘 4-Hour Private Bishkek Food Tour
🌊 Issyk-Kul Lake with Canyons & Waterfalls
➡️ Click here for a full list of Kyrgyzstan tours.
Kyrgyzstan Hotels
➡️ Click here to browse hotels in Kyrgyzstan!
Prefer self-contained stays?
➡️ Click here to check out unique local rentals!
You can also use this map to search for local stays. It’s currently set to Bishkek, but you can easily change it to your preferred Kyrgyzstan destination:
Kyrgyzstan Travel Insurance
It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Kyrgyzstan tour. When visiting Kyrgyzstan—or any other country in the world—make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.
For this, I have a few recommendations:
SafetyWing. If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).
Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.
World Nomads. For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.
Additionally, if you’ll be trekking in Kyrgyzstan, it’s recommended to get a Global Rescue Plan, which offers air evacuation services in case you get hurt or there is an emergency. At checkout, they also offer a travel insurance add-on.
Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide FAQ
Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Kyrgyzstan.
Q) What is Kyrgyzstan best known for?
Kyrgyzstan is best known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, particularly the Tian Shan range, and its rich nomadic culture, which is deeply intertwined with the country’s history and traditions.
Q) Is Kyrgyzstan safe?
I felt very safe traveling Kyrgyzstan, though consider avoiding the border with Tajikistan, which is prone to conflict.
Q) Is Kyrgyzstan an expensive country?
No, Kyrgyzstan is generally considered an affordable destination, offering budget-friendly accommodations, meals, and transportation options.
For example, you can easily order a filling meal at a restaurant for $2-$4, and a guesthouse or yurt stay including room and board is about $20-$35 per night per person (shared with one other person). In the largest city of Bishkek, a room at a 4-star hotel was about $70 per night.
Q) What is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?
The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan is from June to September when the weather is warm and dry, ideal for trekking, horseback riding, and exploring its stunning natural landscapes.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan?
Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union, and several other countries, can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for stays of up to 60 days; however, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements for your specific nationality before planning your trip.
Q: How do you get to Kyrgyzstan?
To get to Kyrgyzstan, most travelers fly into Manas International Airport in Bishkek, which has direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Alternatively, you can travel overland from neighboring countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, or China via buses or shared taxis.
Q: Are credit cards accepted in Kyrgyzstan?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted throughout Kyrgyzstan, though it’s still wise to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors.
Q: What is the local currency in Kyrgyzstan?
The local currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani som (KGS).