FAQ

Do I need a Visa for Kyrgyzstan?

Each tourist needs a valid passport with empty pages. Before booking your travels check the visa requirements for your nationality. Citizens of many countries do not require a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan for short stays (usually up to 60 days) or they qualify for visa-on-arrival. However, visa requirements can change, so it’s essential to check the most up-to-date information from official sources. eVisa

High Season runs from April until October, during this period the snow in the mountains is at its lowest levels, facilitating access to higher-elevation areas via trekking trails and roads. Destinations such as Son-Kul and Kel-Suu are typically accessible from June to mid-September, while Tash Rabat welcomes visitors from May until the end of September. Cities like Bishkek, Osh, and Lake Issyk-Kul remain accessible year-round, thanks to their lower elevations and well-established transit routes. Additionally, for winter enthusiasts, ski resorts offer a range of snow activities during the colder months.

Kyrgyzstan experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The climate can vary significantly depending on the region. Overall, it’s essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions when visiting Kyrgyzstan, especially if you plan to explore mountainous areas. Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, and it’s wise to pack waterproof clothing, especially during the spring and autumn months when rainfall is more likely.

We recommend you suitable clothing for trekking. A backpack, hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat but also warm clothes and a raincoat should be essential. Tent and mats are included to your trip. Sleeping bags can be rented but it’s recommended to bringt it.

Many of our activities can be done under rain. So be prepared and bring suitable clothing. 

In case we can’t guarantee a safe tour because of weather issues our guide will decide with you to change/adapt the tour or book a new tour.

You are responsible for carrying your own personal belongings, if you want/need you can hire a porter

Always carry warm clothing in mountainous areas where temperatures can fluctuate. In the northern regions (Issyk-Kul, Chui, Naryn), casual attire is acceptable, but avoid short and provocative clothing. In the southern regions (Jalal-Abad, Osh, Batken), a more conservative dress code is advisable due to the religious nature of the local population. When visiting religious sites, such as mosques or churches, wear long pants, and women should cover their shoulders and head with a scarf for cultural respect.

It is advisable to bring medication  for allergies, pain, diarrhea or minor infections.

If you take regularly prescribed medication, be sure you have enough for the duration of the tour. It is also necessary to have the original recipe and packaging. 

Common medications can be purchased in larger cities.

The official currency of Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS). While larger establishments may accept credit cards, cash is often preferred for smaller transactions, markets, or more remote areas. It’s a good idea to have a mix of cash and cards.

Karakol may have ATMs where you can withdraw local currency. International credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger cities and towns. Check with your bank before traveling to ensure your card will work in Kyrgyzstan, and be aware of any potential fees. Before traveling to Karakol, inform your bank about your travel plans. This helps prevent any issues with your credit or debit card while abroad.

You may find currency exchange services in banks, exchange offices, or hotels. It’s advisable to compare rates to get the best deal, and banks often provide more secure options.

While Kyrgyz and Russian are the primary languages spoken in Karakol and throughout Kyrgyzstan, English is not as widely spoken but is becoming more common. You may find restaurants which only offers menus in Cyrillic. Having a translation app or russian-english phrasebook can be helpful.

It’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian to help with communication, especially in more local or rural settings.

Many accommodation providers or restaurants offer free wifi. You can purchase a local SIM card (bring your passport) to one of the main providers (Beeline, Mobicom,…) to have access to local mobile networks. This will allow you to make calls, send text messages, and use data service while you’re in the country.

Travel insurance can provide coverage for various unforeseen situations, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen belongings, and other travel-related issues. While it may not be a mandatory requirement, having travel insurance can offer you financial protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Before purchasing travel insurance, carefully review the policy to understand the coverage it provides and ensure that it meets your specific needs. Consider factors such as coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellations or interruptions, and coverage limits.

Additionally, check with your travel insurance provider to confirm that Kyrgyzstan is covered under the policy, and if there are any specific conditions or limitations. Insurance requirements and recommendations can vary, so it’s a good idea to consult with your insurance provider or a travel advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your individual circumstances.

Payment should be made not less than 30 days before your trip is starting. 

 

Cancellation before 45 days – no charges

Cancellation before 44 – 30 days – 30% charge of the tour price

Cancellation before 29 – 15 days – 50% charge of the tour price

Cancellation before 14 days – 100% charge of the tour price