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Kyrgyzstan FAQ

Is tipping customary in Kyrgyzstan?

Tipping is becoming more common in Kyrgyzstan. 10% should be sufficient.

What is the internet access like in Kyrgyzstan?

There are internet cafes available in the main towns.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Kyrgyzstan?

Mobile phone coverage is fairly limited, even in major centres. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Kyrgyzstan?

Toilet facilities may be very basic. Expect drop toilets outside of hotels and bring your own toilet paper as there may be none.

What will it cost for a…?

Bottle of soft drink = 25 KGS
Beer in a bar or restaurant = 40 KGS
Cup of coffee = 45 KGS
Three-course meal = 1000 KGS
Short taxi ride = 80 KGS

Can I drink the water in Kyrgyzstan?

Drinking tap water in Kyrgyzstan isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Kyrgyzstan?

Credit cards are accepted in major shops and hotels in Bishkek.

What is ATM access like in Kyrgyzstan?

ATMs are available in Bishkek but harder to find outside of the capital.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Kyrgyzstan?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Kyrgyzstan?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 7 Russian Orthodox Christmas Day
Mar 8 International Women’s Day
Mar 21 Nowruz (Persian New Year)
May 1 Labour Day
May 5 Constitution Day
May 9 Victory Day
Aug 8 Orozo Ait (End of Ramadan)
Aug 31 Independence Day
Oct 15 Kurban Ait (Feast of Sacrifice)

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Kyrgyzstan/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Kyrgyzstan?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • KYRGYZSTAN - SILK ROAD
    Australia: No - not required
    Belgium: No - not required
    Canada: No - not required
    Germany: No - not required
    Ireland: No - not required
    Netherlands: No - not required
    New Zealand: No - not required
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: No - not required
    United Kingdom: No - not required
    USA: No - not required

    The Kyrgyz government recently changed its laws to allow citizens of many countries to visit Kyrgyzstan without a visa for a duration of up to 60 days.

    Citizens of the following countries require a visa (maximum stay up to 90 days) which can be obtained at the Embassy without an invitation letter - Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Cyprus, Indonesia, Israel, Macedonia, Mexico, Montenegro, Oman, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, South Africa, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela.

    Foreign nationals of other countries not listed should check their requirements at their nearest embassy.

    If you do require a visa we strongly advise that you obtain your visa in advance. Visas are valid for 3 months prior to the arrival date. Some nationalities may need to present an invitation letter - please contact us should this be required.
  • KYRGYZSTAN (DRAGOMAN OVERLAND):
    Australia: No - not required
    Belgium: No - not required
    Canada: No - not required
    Germany: No - not required
    Ireland: No - not required
    Netherlands: No - not required
    New Zealand: No - not required
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: No - not required
    United Kingdom: No - not required
    USA: No - not required

    The Kyrgyz government recently changed its laws to allow citizens of many countries to visit Kyrgyzstan without a visa for a duration of up to 60 days.

    Citizens of the following countries require a visa (maximum stay up to 90 days) which can be obtained at the Embassy without an invitation letter - Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Cyprus, Indonesia, Israel, Macedonia, Mexico, Montenegro, Oman, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, South Africa, Serbia, Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela.

    Foreign nationals of other countries not listed should check their requirements at their nearest embassy.

    If you do require a visa we strongly advise that you obtain your visa in advance. Visas are valid for 3 months prior to the arrival date. Some nationalities may need to present an invitation letter which can be obtained from Intrepid/Dragoman.

Shortlist

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Kyrgyzstan at a glance

  • 17
  • Bishkek (population 835,000)
  • 5.5 million
  • Kyrgyz, Russian
  • KGS
  • (GMT+06:00) Almaty, Novosibirsk
  • Type C (European 2-pin)
  • +996

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