Road Trips in Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek is one of the best spots to start your journey around the country. Even the most experienced art fans will be taken aback by the fine selection of interesting art galleries and museums in Bishkek, including the State Museum of Fine Arts, Gallery M, or Nissa Art Salon. Dubovy Park and Dorodi Bazaar may also become of interested to a number of travellers.

Southern Kyrgyzstan remains a largely unexplored area and is home to the local farmers and traders. Among the most interesting places to visit in this part of the country, you’ll find Sary-Tash, Daroot-Korgon, Jalal-Abad, and Osh, the capital and the most popular town in the region.

In order to pursue the opportunity to admire beautiful jailoos and dramatic valleys, visit one of the cities located in Central Kyrgyzstan. Among the most intriguing towns and villages, you’ll find Kazaram, Naryn, Arslanbob, or Karajigan.

Kyrgyzstan is full of beautiful spots and natural gems dotting its landscape. Travellers seeking some tranquillity should definitely direct their steps to such places as Lake Issyk, along with the peaceful towns of Balykchy and Karakol, Lake Song Köl, or the magnificent Ala Archa Canyon.

Suggested Road Trips in Kygyzstan:

• Bishkek to Lake Issyk-Kul Starting from the capital city of Bishkek, this road trip takes you through picturesque villages and stunning landscapes to reach the breathtaking Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Along the way, you can stop at historic sites such as the Burana Tower, explore the natural beauty of the Chon-Kemin Valley, and even take a dip in the hot springs at Altyn Arashan.

• Song-Kul Lake Circuit For a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path road trip, head out to the Song-Kul Lake Circuit. This journey takes you through rugged mountain passes and valleys to reach the pristine and remote Song-Kul Lake, which sits at an altitude of 3,000 meters. Along the way, you can experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people, stay in yurts, and even go horseback riding.

• Osh to the Pamir Highway If you're looking for a truly epic road trip, head to the southern city of Osh and embark on a journey along the legendary Pamir Highway. This route takes you through some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in Kyrgyzstan and neighboring Tajikistan, crossing high mountain passes and visiting traditional villages along the way. The Pamir Highway is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding road trips in the world, with spectacular scenery and unique cultural experiences.

These are just three of the many road trips you can take in Kyrgyzstan, each offering a unique perspective on the country's culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Kyrgyzstan has plenty to offer for a memorable road trip experience.

Many travelers choose public transport as their main mode of moving around Kyrgyzstan. At your disposal, you’ll have buses, minibusses, and taxis. The main problem while traveling around the country is that most buses and minibusses don’t follow any type of timetables and depart only when full. What’s more, they won’t reach Kyrgyzstan’s more distant recesses. Some travelers opt for hitch-hiking; however, bear in mind that most drivers will expect some sort of payment at the end of their journey.

In order to have full independence, some travellers simply opt for rental vehicles which are available in major cities and at international airports. While travelling in a car, it’s important to have a smart approach to your planning as petrol stations are pretty scarce in Kyrgyzstan. Also, it is very difficult to find petrol stations offering diesel fuel. 

Stay extra careful while covering long distances and don’t take hitch-hikers as they are frequently the causes of robberies and assaults. It’s best to stick to main roads which offer moderate surfaces and are considered safe.

Here are some things to be aware of when taking a road trip in Kyrgyzstan:

• Roads in Kyrgyzstan can be rough and unpaved in some areas, particularly in rural and mountainous regions. Be prepared for uneven surfaces, potholes, and potential hazards such as landslides.

• Driving in Kyrgyzstan can be challenging due to the lack of road signs and traffic lights, as well as unpredictable driving behavior from other motorists. Be cautious when driving, especially on narrow roads and around blind corners.

• Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country, and many roads involve steep inclines and hairpin turns. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and has sufficient power to handle these conditions.

• Kyrgyzstan experiences extreme weather conditions, with very hot summers and very cold winters. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially if you plan to travel in the mountains.

• Kyrgyzstan is a predominantly Muslim country, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection.

• Kyrgyzstan is a safe and welcoming country, but it's still important to take precautions. Keep your valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

• Kyrgyzstan has a relatively low level of infrastructure development, especially in rural areas. This means that you may have limited access to amenities such as petrol stations, restaurants, and accommodation.

• If you plan to explore remote areas or undertake outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, make sure you have the necessary equipment and supplies. It's also a good idea to inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.

• Kyrgyzstan is a bilingual country, with both Kyrgyz and Russian spoken widely. It's a good idea to learn some basic phrases in either language to help with communication.

Overall, with proper preparation and awareness, a road trip in Kyrgyzstan can be a safe and enjoyable experience, allowing you to explore the country's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage at your own pace.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Kyrgyzstan is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, with long daylight hours that allow for more time to explore the country's natural beauty and attractions.

Additionally, the summer months in Kyrgyzstan are known for their festivals and cultural events, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

However, it's worth noting that the summer months can also be quite crowded, particularly in popular tourist areas such as Lake Issyk-Kul. It's important to book accommodation and transportation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

On the other hand, the winter months in Kyrgyzstan, from December to February, can be quite harsh with heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, making travel more difficult and potentially dangerous. However, winter road trips can still be rewarding for those who enjoy winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Overall, the best time to take a road trip in Kyrgyzstan is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is favorable and there are plenty of cultural events and festivals to enjoy. However, travelers should be prepared for crowds and book in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you're planning a road trip in Kyrgyzstan, it's important to budget accordingly to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

One of the main expenses to consider when planning a road trip in Kyrgyzstan is transportation. Renting a car is a popular option, with prices ranging from around $20-$50 USD per day, depending on the type of car and rental location. It's worth noting that some roads in Kyrgyzstan can be rough and unpaved, so it's important to choose a vehicle that can handle these conditions.

Accommodation costs in Kyrgyzstan can also vary depending on your preferences and budget. You can find budget-friendly options such as guesthouses and yurts for around $10-$20 USD per night, while more upscale hotels and resorts can cost upwards of $80-$100 USD per night. It's worth noting that accommodation prices may be higher during peak travel seasons.

Food costs in Kyrgyzstan can be quite affordable, especially if you opt for local cuisine such as laghman (noodle soup), plov (rice dish), and shashlik (grilled meat). A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost around $3-$5 USD per person, while higher-end restaurants can cost upwards of $20-$30 USD per person. It's also worth noting that you can save money by buying groceries and cooking meals in your accommodation.

Additional expenses to consider include admission fees for attractions such as national parks and cultural sites, as well as activities such as trekking and horseback riding. Souvenirs and other items may also add to your expenses.

Overall, the cost of a day/week/month per person on a road trip in Kyrgyzstan can vary greatly depending on your preferences and budget. As a rough estimate, you can expect to spend around $25-$50 USD per day for two people, including car rental, accommodation, food, and other expenses. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a memorable and affordable road trip in Kyrgyzstan.

Here are some popular guidebooks and road maps that you might find useful for planning your road trip in Kyrgyzstan:

• Lonely Planet Kyrgyzstan: This guidebook covers all the major cities and regions of Kyrgyzstan and provides detailed information on accommodation, restaurants, attractions, and practical travel tips. It also includes suggested itineraries, maps, and cultural insights.

• Bradt Guide Kyrgyzstan: This guidebook offers comprehensive coverage of Kyrgyzstan's major cities and regions, as well as practical information on travel logistics and cultural customs. It also includes maps, photos, and recommendations for dining, lodging, and sightseeing.

• Kyrgyzstan Road Map: This map is designed specifically for road trips and covers the entire country of Kyrgyzstan. It includes detailed road information, tourist attractions, and suggested itineraries, as well as maps of national parks and other recreational areas.

• Central Asia Travel Map: This map covers the entire region of Central Asia, including Kyrgyzstan, and includes detailed information on roads, highways, and major attractions. It also features insets of major cities and landmarks, making it a useful tool for planning your road trip.

• Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide: This guidebook focuses on Kyrgyzstan's history, culture, and people, offering in-depth information on the country's past and present. It includes maps, photos, and recommendations for sightseeing and cultural experiences, as well as practical travel tips.

These are just a few examples of the many guidebooks and maps available for planning a road trip in Kyrgyzstan. Be sure to research and compare different options to find the ones that best suit your needs and preferences.