Bordering Uzbekistan, China and Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan is a remote and mysterious land of remarkable beauty, which until a decade ago was strictly off limits to foreigners.

Renowned more for the beauty of its mountain scenery than for the historical attractions, nature lovers will find several mountains over 7000 metres, glaciers, deserts, alpine meadows, forests and over 2000 lakes.

Weather
The climate in Kyrgyzstan is extremely continental with very cold winters and particularly hot summers. It is an extremely mountainous region with all year snows in the upper reaches. You can expect sub-zero temperatures crossing the Torugart Pass at any time. Once you are out of the mountains the temperature becomes much warmer. The best times to visit are May to October.

Local Customs
When visiting any foreign country it is always polite to respect the local customs and if you can manage a few words of the local language or Russian, this will be very much appreciated.
Ladies should carry a headscarf for use when visiting mosques and shoes should be removed before entering. Shoes should also be removed when entering a private house. If you are invited to someone’s house you will be overwhelmed by hospitality. Always take a present with you.

Visas
British passport holders must obtain a Kyrgyzstan visa before arrival. The consular fee for a single entry tourist visa is currently £45.00. Most other nationalities also require a visa, visas cost change frequently, please check with your consular office. Please contact us regarding the visa application process.

Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend that your protection against Tetanus, Typhoid, infectious Hepatitis and Polio is up to date. If you are trekking in the mountains in early summer, you should contact your doctor about immunisation against tick-borne encephalitis. It is your responsibility to check all relevant recommendations and also to get the most up-to-date health information for the destinations being visited. You can contact your GP or any of the following organisations:

MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight Duration
Flight time to Bishkek from London is 9hrs 20mins with British Airways.

Accommodation and Transport
In the main cities of Kyrgyzstan, there is a selection of good quality hotels, from four to five stars. For our tours in Kyrgyzstan we use 4 star accommodation in Bishkek and traditional Yurts and Guesthouses depending in some other regions.

A variety of transportation will be used on tour: cars, 4 wheel drive vehicles, minibuses or coaches, depending on the size of the party.