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So, you’re planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan and want to know how to fit horse trekking, multi day hikes, city exploration, silk road wandering and more into one trip? You’re in the right place.

Kyrgyzstan is one of my all time favourite countries, with memories of alpine blue lakes, yurt dinners and horse treks, it’s a country i cant shake from mind, and for good reason!

However, with it being a lesser travelled country, it can be hard to plan everything in advance. English isn’t widely spoken and public transport timetables are almost non-existent. Plus, there are so many incredible spots, it can be difficult to know which order to visit in.

That’s why I’ve put together a one, two and three week Kyrgyzstan itinerary, combining the best adventures of my trip, lessons I learnt along the way, and everything I wish I knew before I went.

kyrgyzstan song kul lake
Let’s dive into all things Kyrgyzstan

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    Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan

    Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful destination all year round; however, to complete everything on your list, you’re going to want to avoid winter, when roads are blocked with snow, yurts are closed, and mountains are not hikable.

    June – September are typically the best months to ensure access to everything; however, later in the year is still great for non-altitude adventures!

    Let’s get into this..

    1-Week Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

    2-Week Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

    3-Week Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

    1-Week Itinerary in Kyrgyzstan

    This one-week itinerary is the perfect action-packed adventure for anyone looking to get a taste of the country, but doesn’t have too much time.

    Covering a good radius of the country, this one-week itinerary shows you the new, the nature and the nomadic, whilst ensuring you’re spending your days soaking in the country rather than journeying between locations. If you’re figuring out where to stay in Kyrgyzstan on a whistlestop tour, this’ll give you the run-down of the basics.

    Day 1 in Bishkek

    It’s arrival day – but don’t be fooled, this arrival day is not to be messed with. We’re jumping right in and spending the day exploring the capital city of Bishkek. This full day in the city is going to give you the perfect introduction to Kyrgyzstan, blending landmarks with green spaces, and soviet Bazaars.

    Bishkek
    Bishkek is PERFECT for a wander around to see what you can find
    Photo: @solowithel

    Here’s how to spend a day in the city whilst covering the must-see spots:

    Start at Ala-Too Square, formerly known as Lenin Square, which is the largest square in the city and is home to the State History Museum, Manas statue, and a large Kyrgyz flag, as well as being in close proximity to the parliament building.

    After this, you can head to Osh Bazaar to experience the lively markets before stopping off at Victory Square, where you can see the eternal flame.

    If you’re after a change of scenery, you can visit Bishkek Central Mosque before taking in some green views at Oak Park.

    The evening allows you to experience the city at night, wander around and take in the small streets and watch daily life, whilst grabbing some local food.

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    Day 2 in Ala Archa National Park

    Ala Archa
    Well worth the commute!
    Photo: @solowithel

    Kyrgyzstan is a country with mountains in every corner, so it really doesn’t take much to get into nature and breathe in the mountain air. Ala Archa is a national park just outside of Bishkek, and is one of the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan. It makes the perfect spot for a day trip outside of the city.

    How to get there:

    Lying only 40KM away, you can jump on a local marshrutka (minibus) to the park entrance, which takes around one hour. Alternatively, you can book a Yandex (taxi) to drive you there, which will be quicker but comes at a higher price point.

    What to do:

    Ala Archa offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an avid hiker and want to spend the day trekking as far as possible, after a more casual hike where you can visit Ak-Sai waterfall, or simply want to sit and enjoy a picnic with mountain views, Ala Archa is a spot for everyone. Once the sun starts to set, you can head back to the city and spend your second night in Bishkek.

    Day 3 in Issyk Kul

    Today is going to start with a four-hour drive to reach your next location: Issyk Kul, the second largest alpine lake in the world, directly translating to warm (Issyk) lake (Kul), this lake makes the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, all year round!

    A four-hour drive may seem long, but every drive in Kyrgyzstan is part of the adventure. It will be filled with mountain views, traffic in the form of sheep and horses, and stops along the way with breathtaking views. You can reach the lake by Marshrutka or taxi.

    Once you’ve reached the lake, you’re going to want to take the day to relax and do some light exploring around the lake, taking in the natural beauty of the area.

    But where will you sleep? Well.. that’s just another part of today’s adventure! Tonight, you’re getting a glimpse into traditional nomadic life, sleeping in a yurt under the stars, one of my personal favourite memories from my road trip.

    Day 4 in Skaska Canyon (Issyk Kul)

    How was that yurt life treating you, good, right? No need to be sad yet, yurt life continues! Today will be another day at the lake, exploring the surrounding areas.

    Skaska Canyon, also known as fairytale canyon, is an incredible naturally made canyon sitting on the outskirts of the lake. No guide is needed here, and your best way to explore is to simply wander and get lost. You will find yourself spending hours wandering amongst the orange peaks of the canyon, exploring new areas and formations.

    You can reach the canyon in a couple of different ways, depending on what area of the lake you have stayed in, but it’s best to ask your yurt camp to help arrange transport!

    Day 5 in Karakol

    It’s time for another one of those scenic Kyrgyzstan drives, as we head onwards from the lake, towards the city of Karakol, our next stop. Karakol is a small city close to the Chinese border, and is a great hub for hiking. You can reach Karakol from Issyk Kul by taking a local Marshrutka or taxi.

    Once you’ve arrived in the city, take the time to wander around and experience the smaller city vibe and slower pace of life here. One Kyrgyz travel tip is to make sure not to miss the Russian Orthodox Trinity Cathedral, built in 1895!

    Day 6 in Altyn Arashan/Karakol Gorge

    Day six is all about hiking, and where better to be?

    Karakol has an array of hikes you can do, but my top two recommendations are Karakol Gorge or Altyn Arashan. To reach the start point of these hikes, you’ll want to jump in a local marshrutka – a popular way to reach the trail heads for locals and tourists alike.

    Altyn Arashan is a hike through an alpine valley, best known and visited for the natural hot springs on the route. This is a full-day hike, taking around 4-5 hours each way, covering a distance of 25 KM and around 1000M of elevation gain. You will be hiking amongst snow-capped peaks, past waterfalls, along rivers and (season depending) through lush green meadows home to horses. When you picture hiking in Kyrgyzstan, this is most likely the picture you have in mind!

    altyn arashan hot springs near issyk kul kyrgyzstan
    Quintessentially Kyrgyz
    Photo: Ralph Cope

    If you’re after a less intense hike, Karakol Gorge is the one for you! Around 6 KM each way, this hike will take you through fir forests and along alpine streams. Taking considerably less time to hike (5 hours average loop), you will also have much less elevation gain at around 500M, meaning no sore knees in the morning!

    Day 7 in Karakol

    The final day, how do you want to spend it? Waking up in Karakol gives you plenty of options on how to fill your final day in Kyrgyzstan. Perhaps you aren’t quite ready to give up those mountain views and want to head back to the mountains for another hike, or maybe your first day in Bishkek didn’t quite cover as much as you’d have liked to see, so you’re heading back to the city to explore some more.

    However you choose to spend your final day, it’s sure to be the perfect end to an action-packed week!

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    2-Week Itinerary in Kyrgyzstan

    So… You have two weeks to spare, and are planning a Kyrgyzstan trip? I’ve got you covered with this itinerary filled to the brim with adventure, culture and incredible sights.

    Day 1 & 2 in Bishkek

    If you read the one-week itinerary, then this might sound familiar, but we are starting off the journey in the capital city of Bishkek, and for this two-week itinerary, we are scheduling two full days to truly explore the city. Here’s how to spend two days in the city:

    We are starting at Ala-Too Square, formerly known as Lenin Square, which is the largest square in the city and is home to the State History Museum, Manas statue, and a large Kyrgyz flag, as well as being in close proximity to the parliament building. After this, you can head to Osh Bazaar to experience the lively markets before stopping off at Victory Square, where you can see the eternal flame.

    sunset in bishkek kyrgyzstan
    Photo: Ralph Cope

    After, you can visit Bishkek Central Mosque, before taking in some green views at Oak Park. Spend the evening experiencing the city at night, wandering around and taking in the small streets and watching daily life, whilst grabbing some local food.

    On day two, we’re swapping out bigger landmarks and must-see spots for local life and hidden alleyways! Start the morning with a stroll around Panfilov Park, before heading over to the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic Hall, a great spot to see even if you don’t catch a performance there!

    The afternoon is all about Bazaars, as you head to Dordoi Bazaar. Due to its location slightly further from the centre, it’s much less visited by tourists, and a great spot for day two! Erkindik Boulevard is a spot to wander by after, and grab some food before calling it a day.

    Day 3 in Naryn

    After two jam-packed days in the city, today is slightly slower in preparation for the adventure ahead. Grab a local Marshrutka down to Naryn, taking approximately 5-6 hours. Once you’ve arrived, you can explore this small town surrounded by incredible nature!

    Naryn is a great spot to refuel on everything you need for another remote adventure, such as water, snacks and medical supplies.

    ala kul lake best things to do in kyrgyzstan
    Fuel up for the adventure ahead
    Photo: Chris Lininger

    Day 4 in At-Bashy (Kel Suu)

    Early morning alarms today! We’re heading to the At-Bashy region, one of the main reasons I came to Kyrgyzstan, for some incredible mountain peaks and a taste of yurt life.

    You will need a car for the next section of your trip, so either rent a car or a driver and continue on! It’s around a four-hour drive from Naryn, and as usual, the journey is filled with stunning views and traffic jams in the form of livestock.

    Once you arrive, you’ll check into your yurt, explore the area and be absolutely speechless at the views in front of you, but that’s only a tease of the day ahead of you…

    Day 5 in Kel Suu

    At-Bashy (Kel Suu)
    Holy crap, this IS beautiful
    Photo: @solowithel

    How did the yurt treat you last night? Hopefully you got a good night’s sleep because you’re about to head out for an adventure! Today, you’ll be going to one of the best places to visit in the country, a crystal blue lake tucked away in the mountains. And you have two options on how to reach it: hike or horse.

    Depending on the location of your yurt camp, and how often you stop to take photos and say ‘holy crap, this is beautiful!’ It will take around 1-3 hours to hike to the lake, or you can opt to rent a horse from your yurt camp and head on up on horseback! Either way, you’re in for a treat.

    Whilst it may not take all day, you can easily spend the day here exploring, hiking, or simply taking in the views – and don’t forget you have that traditional Kyrgyz dinner awaiting you at the yurt!

    Day 6 in Kochkor

    Today we’re taking it slower. After enjoying yurt breakfast and saying goodbye, we’re heading on another scenic journey towards Kochkor. This is the base for the starting point of tomorrow’s next adventure!

    Spend your afternoon here wandering the area and resting up.

    Day 7 & 8 in Song Kul

    What’s a trip to Kyrgyzstan without a horse trek? Today, we start the multi-day horse journey to Song Kul. Say goodbye to the car, and hello to your new four-legged friend! Over the next few days, you’ll spend time on horseback trekking to the lake, stopping along the way to stretch your legs, enjoy the views, and, of course, have lunch with some locals at their yurts.

    On route, you’ll stay at yurts (or camp if you are feeling like it!).

    This is one of those moments of travelling where the journey may be better than the destination. Of course, once you reach the lake, you are treated with beautiful views and a hot dinner, but what beats a multi-day horseback adventure?

    Day 9 in Issyk Kul

    Your horse trek can end in a few different places, none better than others, and often dependent on the company. After you return, you’ll need to make your way to Issyk Kul, the next spot on the road trip. From here on, everything is accessible by public transport, so it’s up to you if you keep your car/driver.

    traditional yurt at song kul snowy meadow
    What would a night in Issyk Kul be without a yurt?!
    Photo: Solo With El

    Once you’ve reached the lake, you’re going to want to take the day to relax and do some light exploring around the lake, taking in the natural beauty of the area. Issyk Kul is the second largest alpine lake in the world, directly translating to warm (Issyk) lake (Kul) – this lake makes the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, all year round!

    Of course, it wouldn’t be a lake in Kyrgyzstan without a yurt stay, so you will also check into your yurt for the next two nights.

    Day 10 in Skazka Canyon

    Still loving that yurt life? I thought so. And don’t worry, it’s not over yet. You’ve got another full day at the lake, with plenty of time to soak in your surroundings and explore nearby landscapes.

    Traffic on way to Kel Suu
    A usual traffic jam…
    Photo: @solowithel

    One unmissable stop today is Skazka Canyon, or Fairytale Canyon, as it’s often called. This surreal, otherworldly landscape lies just off the shores of Issyk-Kul and is famous for its vivid red-orange rock formations shaped by wind and time.

    Depending on where you’re staying around the lake, getting there may involve a walk, a taxi or a quick drop off from the yurt owners.

    After a visit to the Canyon, it’s time to experience the greatest Kyrgyz tradition – eagle hunting. Taking place around the lake, you can meet with a local and watch them in action whilst hearing about their lifestyle and traditions. Of course, no visit to an eagle hunter is complete without the chance to hold the eagle yourself (spoiler alert, they’re heavier than they look!) This was one of the top moments on my bucket list, and it definitely lived up to expectations!

    Day 11, 12 & 13 in Karakol

    It’s time for another adventure! This time, it’s a multi-day hike – feeling ready?

    From Issyk Kul, grab a marshrutka or taxi to the nearby city of Karakol, but no time to stop as we are in a time crunch. Get any luggage stored at a hotel or luggage storage, grab your walking poles and head to the trailhead of Karakol Gorge, where you will start your hike to Ala Kul.

    This round-trip hike is most commonly done in three days and two nights, but can be done quicker if you’re fit. It involves around 45 KM and reaches an altitude of 3900M – making for the perfect final adventure in Kyrgyzstan!

    A glacial river flowing down a valley next to some large mountains in kyrgyzstan with some tents by the side of the river camping
    You gotta rush to get to these views!!
    Photo: Ralph Cope

    On route, you have the option to camp or stay in a yurt, as well as options to eat meals with local families in yurt camps, or cook on your way up!

    The pinnacle of this hike is the alpine lake you’re hiking to, sitting between mountain passes at 3500M above sea level.

    Day 14 in Bishkek

    How is day 14 here already? You can spend the day doing what best fits you. Perhaps you want an extra night in a yurt on your hike, or maybe you’re after some more city sightseeing. It’s fair game, but bound to be a great final day to a great trip.

    And that’s a wrap on your two-week trip!

    3-Week Itinerary in Kyrgyzstan

    So you’ve read the one and two-week itineraries, but still after more adventure? Strap in – this one will leave you needing a week’s vacation to recover.

    Day 1-5: Bishkek, Nyrn & At-Bashy

    Days one to five are going to start the same as the two-week Itinerary, taking you through the streets of Bishkek for two days, onto a night in Naryn, and then onwards to At-Bashy to visit Kel Suu.

    Bishkek
    Once again, we’re starting in Bishkek
    Photo: @solowithel

    Day 6 in Tash Rabat

    One of the most historic sights in the country, Tash Rabat is a Silk Road caravanserai often visited by tourists. There is a small entrance fee, but well worth it to explore the historical area.

    Of course, no day in Kyrgyzstan goes without a yurt, or a horse, so today you are having both! Tonight you will stay in a yurt and will have the chance to go for a horse ride through the lush green meadows.

    Day 7 in Kochkor

    After enjoying breakfast in your yurt, you’ll take a short drive to Kochkor, which will be your base for the next day’s adventure. Spend your afternoon here wandering the area and resting up.

    Scenic Drive Stop
    Don’t forget to stop at those scenic pit stops
    Photo: @solowithel

    Day 8 & 9 in Song Kul

    Today marks the beginning of your multi-day journey on horseback to one of the most stunning places in Kyrgyzstan, the alpine lake of Song Kul. It’s time to swap your wheels for hooves and get acquainted with your new four-legged travel buddy.
    Over the next couple of days, you’ll wind your way through rolling hills and mountain passes, stopping to stretch your legs, soak in the epic scenery, and enjoy meals with local nomadic families along the way.
    Each night, you’ll settle into a yurt camp or pitch a tent if you’re feeling adventurous.

    This is one of those travel moments where the journey itself might just outshine the destination. That said, arriving at Song Kul is still pretty unforgettable: sweeping lake views, traditional Kyrgyz dinners, and the peaceful rhythm of life at 3,000 meters.

    Day 10 in Kyzyl-Tuu

    A slower day today to recover from your horse trek, making your way to the next stop on the trip, Kyzyl-Tuu, aka the home of yurts.

    mountainous open landscape kel suu
    Mist or shine: it’s a beauty
    Photo: Solo With El

    Kyzyl-Tuu is a small village located on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul and makes the perfect spot to stop off on your way. The village is home to around 1,800 people, most of whom are skilled artisans specialising in crafting traditional Kyrgyz yurts. An annual highlight in Kyzyl-Tuu is the Kiiz Duino Festival, a celebration of Kyrgyz traditions.

    Day 11 in Issyk Kul

    The next stop on the road trip is Issyk Kul. Issyk Kul is the second largest alpine lake in the world, directly translating to warm (Issyk) lake (Kul) – this lake makes the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, all year round!

    Today is all about exploring the lake and relaxing at your yurt camp, whilst tomorrow will take you around exploring the surroundings.

    Eagle Hunter
    Getting stuck in with eagle hunting
    Photo: @solowithel

    Day 12 in Skazka Canyon

    Today, you’ll meet with a local eagle hunter, part of a centuries-old tradition where golden eagles are trained for hunting in the highlands. You’ll hear firsthand about the bond between hunter and bird, witness an eagle demonstration, and if you wish, hold one yourself.

    Up next is Skazka Canyon, or as it’s often referred to as Fairytale Canyon. True to its name, this maze of wind-sculpted formations feels like something straight out of a storybook, with jagged ridges and wave-like hills in hues of deep rust and ochre. The canyon lies close to Issyk-Kul’s southern shore and is easy to reach.

    Day 13 in Jeti-Ögüz

    One of Kyrgyzstan’s greatest landscapes, translating to ‘Seven Bulls’. These seven towering red rock formations are a great way to spend the afternoon. Here you can take in the views, explore the area, and of course ride horseback through the meadows around.

    You can reach here via taxi, hitchhiking or season-dependent, local marshrutka. This is the perfect spot for wild camping; however, yurts are available if you’re after more comfort.

    Day 14 in Karakol

    Today’s drive is to Karakol, a laid-back city nestled not far from the Chinese border, and it will only take you 45 minutes to reach. Known as a gateway to some of the country’s best trekking routes, Karakol is the perfect base for your next outdoor adventure. You can get there easily by Marshrutka or taxi if you don’t have a car.

    Once you arrive, take the afternoon to explore the calm streets and soak up the relaxed pace. Be sure to stop by the beautiful Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, and visit a Bazaar.

    baazar in kyrgyzstan
    I hope you like bread
    Photo: Ninara (Flickr)

    Day 15, 16 & 17 in Karakol

    flowing river at karakol gorge
    This hike is all about taking your time
    Photo:Solo With El

    It’s time to hit the trail for a multi-day hiking adventure – make your way to the trailhead of Karakol Gorge.
    This popular loop hike typically takes three days and two nights to complete, covering around 45 kilometres and reaching heights of up to 3,900 metres. If you’re experienced and in great shape, it can be done in less time, but most prefer to soak it in at a steady pace, plus, why rush such an incredible experience?

    Accommodation along the way ranges from camping under the stars to staying in cosy yurts, with the chance to share meals with local families or cook your own as you go.

    The highlight of the trek? Ala Kul itself, an alpine lake nestled between rugged peaks, sitting at 3,500 meters above sea level. The journey there is challenging, but the views at the top? Absolutely worth every step.

    Day 18 in Jyrgalan Valley

    Around a two-hour drive from Karakol, you will find yourself in a picture-perfect valley. Whether you’re after a picnic in a field full of flowers overlooking the mountains or want to head on a hike, there’s something here for everyone!

    You can stay the night here in yurts or guesthouses.

    kyrgyzstan in summer
    Aaaaand relax

    Day 19 in Bishkek

    Back to Bishkek for the day! You may want to do some more sightseeing around the city, or take it slow, ready for a long travel day ahead of you tomorrow!

    Day 20 & 21 in Osh

    Today, you’ll head to Kyrgyzstan’s second-largest city, a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history stretching back over 3,000 years. Travelling from Bishkek to Osh can be done by plane, car, or bus. The quickest way is to catch a domestic flight from Bishkek’s International Airport to Osh Airport, which takes about 1 hour. If you prefer overland travel, expect a long but scenic journey by shared marshrutka or private car, taking approximately 8-10 hours.

    Start your exploration at the iconic Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site right in the city centre. Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s largest and liveliest markets. Sample local delicacies, from freshly baked bread to spicy kebabs, and shop for traditional crafts.

    kids playing in osh kyrgyzstan
    Who wouldn’t want neighbours like this?
    Photo: Ralph Cope

    Dedicate this day to exploring the nearby Archa-Bashy region or take a short drive to the Uzgen Minaret and Mausoleum, significant medieval monuments that showcase the region’s Islamic heritage. If you prefer nature, consider a day trip to the Fergana Valley, visiting traditional villages and enjoying the stunning mountain scenery.

    How to Get Around Kyrgyzstan

    Getting around Kyrgyzstan isn’t flashy, but it gets the job done, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of chaos, some elbow-to-elbow marshrutka rides, and the occasional “where the hell are we?” moment. It’s a country built for slow, scenic travel, not tight timetables.

    Travelling by Marshrutka in Kyrgyzstan

    The most common way to travel within Kyrgyzstan is by marshrutka, which are minibuses that run set routes between cities, towns, and even smaller villages. You can catch them at bus stations, known locally as avtovokzals, or flag them down on the side of the road if you know the route. They’re cheap, fairly frequent, and absolutely everywhere, though comfort is not part of the deal.

    Is public transportation in Kyrgyzstan safe
    A traditional city bus
    Photo: KK70088 (Flickr)

    Expect cramped seating, stuffy air in summer, and no English signs, just a lot of guesswork and, if you’re lucky, some help from fellow passengers. Marshrutkas work best for short-to-medium-length journeys like Bishkek to Cholpon-Ata or Karakol.

    Travelling by shared taxi in Kyrgyzstan

    Shared taxis are the next step up in comfort and price. These are regular cars that leave from bus stations and only depart once they’ve filled up, usually with four or five passengers. They’re a bit more expensive than marshrutkas but tend to be quicker and slightly less crowded.

    marshrutkas kygyzstan
    Making some friends will definitely cut costs down
    Photo: Ralph Cope

    The departure times are vague at best; you’re on the road when the car is full and not a second sooner. Shared taxis are a solid option for getting between cities or heading somewhere a little off the tourist track, without having to deal with the bumpier ride of a minibus.

    Renting a car in Kyrgyzstan

    For maximum freedom, you can rent a car and either drive yourself or hire a local driver to do the heavy lifting. Driving in Kyrgyzstan isn’t for the faint-hearted, though; it involves potholes, wandering livestock, erratic local drivers, and very little signage, especially outside the cities. If you’re sticking to main roads and confident behind the wheel, a rental opens up a lot of possibilities. If you’re heading into the mountains, you’ll want a 4WD and ideally someone who knows the roads.

    Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan

    Hitchhiking is surprisingly common and socially acceptable in Kyrgyzstan. Locals do it regularly, especially in rural areas, and travellers can usually get a lift fairly quickly if they’re standing in the right spot. That said, it’s not always free, in fact, some drivers often expect a small payment, even if it starts out casual. This works well in places like the Issyk-Kul region or along the south toward Osh, where traffic flows consistently and the distances aren’t too extreme.

    Two people with a baby stand at the side of the road hitchhiking
    Hitchhiking works well if you’re willing to have a lil patience!
    Photo: The Backpacking Family

    Staying Safe in Kyrgyzstan

    Kyrgyzstan is generally safe and low-stress for travellers. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can happen in crowded places like markets or minibuses. So keep your valuables tucked away and stay aware. Police checks are common, especially near borders. Carry ID, stay polite, and avoid confrontation.

    Roads are the main risk. Driving is chaotic, mountain routes are rough, and the weather can turn fast. If you’re hiring a car, go for a 4WD and avoid night drives. Altitude sickness is also a factor so take it slow in high places like Song-Kul, drink water, and wear sunscreen.

    horses games in Kyrgyzstan
    Keep your horse from fighting and you’ll be grand!

    When trekking, the weather can shift suddenly. Your Kyrgyz packing list should include layers, waterproofs, and extra supplies. Solo hikes are best kept to marked trails or done with a local guide. Phone signal is unreliable, especially in remote areas. Nature is stunning but wild, so watch for stray dogs, unstable trails, and remote routes without backup. Let someone know your plans if heading off-grid.

    FAQs about Kyrgyzstan Itineraries

    Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan

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    Final Thoughts on the Best Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

    I hope this breakdown of the best Kyrgyzstan itineraries helps you to plan the most magical trip to this beautiful country.

    No matter how many weeks you have to explore Kyrgyzstan, it will never be enough, and you will leave with the desire to return again, and again, exploring new areas, sleeping in yurts, and exploring more mountains.

    Song Kul
    Came for the mountains, stayed for the mountains <3
    Photo: @solowithel
    Looking for more info on visiting Kyrgyzstan?

    Buy Us a Coffee!

    A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links, since we’ve decided to keep the site ad-free. So here it is!

    You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

    the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
    Thank you <3