Welcome to Kyrgyzstan

Timing is everything when you are visiting Kyrgyzstan – this naturally stunning Central Asian country is known for its high-altitude attractions, so you will want to aim for the summer months.

From unspoiled alpine landscapes to rolling meadows, the country brims with hiking, swimming (in icy cold water), yurt stay options and more. There are urban adventures and wellness treats, cultural opportunities and new cuisines to try. Hike through the Karakol region or Jyrgalan Valley, meeting local shepherds and their families (the hospital Kyrgyz people will likely ask you to stay awhile and have tea with them).

Mingle with Uzbek and Kyrgyz residents in Osh, where you can shop for spices and dried fruits at the ancient Osh Jayma Bazaar. Cozy up under a heavy blanket in a remote yurt, enjoying the moonlight streaming in through the top. Ancient, mesmerizing and proud – let Kyrgyzstan surprise you.

Unique Facts

• Mountains make up more than 70 percent of Kyrgyzstan’s territory. There are more than 88 major mountain ranges. Bring your hiking boots!
• Embrace the tea culture. In Kyrgyzstan, it’s offered as a replacement for water, and served with every meal. Tea is served in small bowls, instead of cups. The Kyrgyz almost always order traditional bread with their tea.
• Who’s Manas? You’ll see the name of this popular folk hero, the warrior who united Kyrgyzstan, everywhere – from streets to statues, the international airport to national parks.
• The Tian Shan region is the most popular tourist area in the country. Visit its huge Grand Canyon, watch traditional horse racing and take part in nomadic Kazakh folk customs.

Language

Kyrgyzstan’s official languages are Russian and Kyrgyz.

When To Go

The best time to go to Kyrgyzstan is June to September in the north and March to October in the south. With its Central Asian location, you can expect hot, dry summers and very cold winters. July and August are extremely hot, but this is when you will find the liveliest bazaars and the best hiking and trekking conditions.

Airports

Manas International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Visa required for stays longer than 60 days.

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Kyrgyzstan: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Rabies and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Som.

Getting Around

Due to hazardous road conditions and unsafe driving, traffic accidents, drunk driving and hit-and-run accidents are common. City roads are littered with potholes and uncovered manholes and have poor lighting. Pedestrians commonly ignore oncoming traffic. Use defensive driving techniques, particularly at night.

Bus service is available, but is generally very crowded, unsafe and unreliable. Avoid private and unmarked taxis. Instead, order a taxi by telephone. Negotiate a fare prior to entering the cab.

Driver’s License

A valid driver’s license from your country of residence must be accompanied by an international driving permit.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Bishkek
171 Prospect Mira
Bishkek 720016
Kyrgyz Republic
Telephone: +(996)(312) 597-000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(996)(312) 597-733
Fax: +(996)(312) 597-744
ConsularBishkek@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Visitor Center
22 Gagarin Street
Karakol
info@destinationkarakol.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 103
Police: 102
Fire: 101

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Bishkek, where street crime, mugging, auto theft and pickpocketing take place in the downtown area, the markets, internet cafes and on public transportation. Travel in a group for safety.