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HomeRoad TripsAsiaCentral AsiaKyrgyzstanKyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan countryside

Kyrgyzstan Road Trip

Bishkek - Balykchy - Karakol - Kochkor - Naryn - Kazarman - Osh - Daroot Korgon - Sarytash - Jalal-Abad - Karajigan - Suusamyr

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Wildlife Wildlife
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Urban life Urban life
Kyrgyzstan Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages12 km2,608 h/stage3.4

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Kyrgyzstan Road Trip in Kyrgyzstan?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,872EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 517EUR eat & more 624EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,491EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,363EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,574EUR drive & more 475EUR sleep & more 1,034EUR eat & more 936EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,445EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,019EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 5,148EUR drive & more 638EUR sleep & more 3,091EUR eat & more 1,248EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,977EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 10,125EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,925EUR drive & more 700EUR sleep & more 715EUR eat & more 624EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,039EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,964EUR
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Kyrgyzstan Road Trip Itinerary

Take a journey to Kyrgyzstan and embark on a road trip that will take you to some of the most beautiful places in the country. The Kyrgyzstan Road Trip starts in the capital city of Bishkek and takes you through the towns of Balykchy, Karakol, Kochkor, Kazarman, Daroot Korgon, Sarytash, Jalal-Abad, and Karajigan, covering a distance of approximately 2608 km. This 13-day trip is best taken between the months of June and September, when the weather is most pleasant. The Kyrgyzstan Road Trip provides an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of mountain peaks, lush green valleys, and rolling hills. Along the route, you will also have the opportunity to visit some of the country’s UNESCO Heritage Monuments such as the Burana Tower and the Sulayman Mountain. Although the road conditions in Kyrgyzstan are generally poor, the journey is manageable with some preparation and a fair budget. The roads are mostly curvy, but the spectacular scenery will make the drive worthwhile. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and offers a unique opportunity to explore the country in an unforgettable way. So, pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey in Kyrgyzstan!
number of days 13 number of days
route length 2,608 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for explorer good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level high accident level

START Bishkek

Distance 2,608 km Driving time 41.2 h Pace: fast 782.3 kWh Airports FRU
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Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is the perfect starting point for the road trip named "Kyrgyzstan Road Trip". It is a vibrant city with a great combination of Soviet-era architecture and modern amenities. Here you can find a great variety of attractions, including the Ala-Archa National Park, the State Historical Museum, the Central Mosque, and the Victory Square. The city is also a great place to enjoy traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, with many restaurants and cafes throughout the city. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Manas International Airport (FRU), located just 30 km from the city center. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to get to Bishkek and start the Kyrgyzstan Road Trip. On the Road Trip, you can explore the beauty of Kyrgyzstan, including its stunning mountains and lakes. In Bishkek, you can also visit the Osh Bazaar, the largest market in Central Asia, where you can find traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious food. With its great combination of natural beauty, culture, and cuisine, Bishkek is the ideal starting point for the Kyrgyzstan Road Trip. Here you can find a great variety of attractions and activities to make your trip truly unforgettable.

1 Bishkek - Balykchy

Distance 194 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 58.2 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Bishkek to Balykchy! This 194 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, so you can expect to be in Balykchy in no time. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the Kyrgyzstan countryside. You will pass through the picturesque mountain ranges, as well as the beautiful Issyk-Kul Lake. Be sure to take a few stops along the way to explore the historical sites, such as the Burana Tower and the Ak-Beshim Fortress. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also take a detour to the Ala-Archa National Park or the Ala-Kul lake. At the end of your journey, you will arrive in the city of Balykchy, where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are plenty of attractions to explore here, such as the Balykchy Museum, the Kyrgyz-Kazakh Friendship Monument, and the Balykchy Fish Market. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a safe trip!

2 Balykchy - Karakol

Distance 222 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: fast 66.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on a road trip adventure through the captivating landscapes of Kyrgyzstan! Starting in Balykchy, take a 222 km drive through Issyk Kul to Karakol. This journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, but you will be captivated by the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. Along the way, you can find attractions such as the Issyk Kul lake, the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan, and the Karakol Historical Museum, which showcases the culture and history of the Kyrgyz people. Be sure to take in the magnificent views of the mountains, rivers, and valleys that you will pass on your way. Don't forget to take some pictures to remember your journey! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So get ready to explore the beauty of Kyrgyzstan and have an unforgettable journey!

3 Karakol - Kochkor

Distance 251 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: fast 75.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Karakol to Kochkor? This trip is 251 km long and takes less than 4 hours to complete. Get ready to witness some of the most beautiful views Kyrgyzstan has to offer! Starting in Karakol, you can visit the Dungan Mosque and the Przhevalsky Museum, which are must-see attractions. Then, you’ll drive through the mountains and past stunning lakes, so make sure you keep your camera handy! Once you reach Kochkor, you can explore the Kochkor Mosque and the Kochkor Folk Art Museum. You can also visit the local bazaar to get a taste of traditional Kyrgyz culture. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey. You can take a break at one of the many scenic spots along the way and take in the breathtaking views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great trip!

4 Kochkor - Naryn

Distance 120 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 36.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road attractive landscape
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kochkor to Naryn, Kyrgyzstan! This 120 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you'll witness some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. As you drive, take in the picturesque views of the Son-Kul Lake and its surroundings. Make sure to pay attention to the winding roads as you pass through the mountains. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the petroglyphs near Son-Kul and the historical buildings in Naryn. Don't forget to stop and take some photos of the breathtaking scenery! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

5 Naryn - Kazarman

Distance 213 km Driving time 4.4 h Pace: modest 55.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Naryn to Kazarman! This 213 km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete, and will be one of the many stages of your larger tour. Start your trip in Naryn, a city known for its beautiful mountain views and traditional Kyrgyz architecture. Don't forget to take a picture of the stunning Naryn River, the longest river in Kyrgyzstan. Then, take a break at the picturesque Tokmok Village, a place known for its peaceful atmosphere and amazing views of the nearby mountains. As you continue your journey, make sure to stop by the Uzgen Historical and Cultural Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Uzgen Tower, a monument that dates back to the 11th century. Finally, you'll arrive in Kazarman, a small town with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of attractions. Visit the ruins of the ancient Koshoi-Ata Mosque and take a stroll through the breathtaking Koshoi-Ata Nature Reserve. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

6 Kazarman - Osh

Distance 254 km Driving time 5.7 h Pace: modest 66.2 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Kazarman to Osh! This 254 km drive will take you less than 6 hours and will offer you a unique opportunity to explore some of the most stunning landscapes and UNESCO Heritage sites in Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, you will be able to admire the picturesque views of the rolling hills and emerald valleys, take in the fresh mountain air and take a break at the most scenic spots. The winding road offers plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos and capture the beauty of the landscapes. Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites that you will encounter along the way. You can find more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing journey and enjoy the beauty of Kyrgyzstan!

7 Osh - Daroot Korgon

Distance 278 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: fast 83.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Take a road trip from Osh, Kyrgyzstan to Daroot Korgon and explore the wonders of Pamir! This 278 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, and you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the mountains, winding roads, and plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos. As you drive, pay attention to the scenic views and winding roads in some sections. Be sure to visit the ancient city of Khorog, the Khargush Pass, and the stunning Lake Karakul, all of which are must-see attractions. Don't forget to check out the beautiful villages of Langar and Karakul and the stunning Wakhan Valley. Finally, make sure to take a break in the beautiful town of Murgab and take in some of the spectacular views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

8 Daroot Korgon - Sarytash

Distance 95 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: fast 28.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Daroot Korgon, Kyrgyzstan, and head towards the Pamir region. On the way, you will be mesmerised by the scenic road and stunning views of the mountains. You will cover a distance of 95km in less than two hours and reach Sarytash. Along the way, you will visit some of the most interesting places, including the picturesque lake of Sary-Chelek, the magnificent valleys of Arslanbob and Chatkal, and the breathtakingly beautiful mountain passes of Alay and Taldyk. Don't forget to take some time to admire the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Pamir Mountains. You will also have the opportunity to explore the ancient city of Osh, the second largest city in Kyrgyzstan. All the information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

9 Sarytash - Jalal-Abad

Distance 273 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 81.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Sarytash to Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan. This route is only 273 km long and can be completed in less than 4 hours. Get ready to be mesmerized by the views of the mountains and valleys, and the endless fields of wildflowers in full bloom. Start your journey in Sarytash, where you can explore the ancient ruins of the ancient city of Suyab. Make sure to check out the nearby Sarytash Mosque, built in the 18th century. Continue your journey to Jalal-Abad, located on the banks of the Karadarya River. Be sure to visit the historical sites of the city, including the 19th century Ak-Mosque and the ancient fortress of Jelal-Abad. On your way, make sure to stop at the picturesque Arslanbob village. This village is known for its walnut groves, and you can take a walk in the forest and enjoy the breathtaking views of the majestic mountains. Your journey will come to an end in Jalal-Abad, where you can find numerous restaurants and accommodation options. You can also visit the nearby Uzgen Tower, built in the 12th century and a great example of the ancient architecture of the region. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey from Sarytash to Jalal-Abad!

10 Jalal-Abad - Karajigan

Distance 356 km Driving time 6.2 h Pace: modest 92.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Jalal-Abad to Karajigan! This 356 km journey will take you less than 7 hours to complete and will take you through some of the most scenic roads in Kyrgyzstan. Start your journey in Jalal-Abad and make your way to Arslanbob, a beautiful town known for its walnut forests and stunning mountain views. From here, you will continue your journey to Karajigan, a small village situated in the foothills of the Fergana Range. Along the way, you will encounter some sections of winding roads, so be sure to pay attention to the signs and drive safely. Once you reach Karajigan, you can take some time to explore the area and enjoy the local culture and cuisine. For more information about attractions, accommodations, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip!

11 Karajigan - Suusamyr

Distance 183 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 54.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Karajigan to Suusamyr! This 183km drive is filled with stunning views and winding roads, taking you through some of Kyrgyzstan's most beautiful landscapes. Along the way, you can admire the breathtaking views of the Kyrgyzstan mountains, lush forests, and meadows. The drive is estimated to take less than 3 hours, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery! Start your journey in Karajigan and make sure to take a few pictures of the beautiful mountain views. As you drive through the winding roads, take a break and visit the Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve. This stunning reserve is home to many species of plants and animals and is a perfect spot for a picnic. Continue your journey to Suusamyr and enjoy the views of the rolling hills and lush meadows. You will also pass by the Tash-Rabat Caravanserai, a 15th century stone fortress, and the Chon-Kyzyl-Suu Valley, which is known for its beautiful meadows and stunning views. At the end of your journey, you will arrive in Suusamyr. Here, you can explore the picturesque village and take a stroll through the alpine meadows. Make sure to take a few pictures of the stunning mountain views and the crystal clear waters of the Suusamyr River. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

12 Suusamyr - Bishkek

Distance 167 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 50.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Suusamyr, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek, along the Ala Archa Canyon, one of the most picturesque routes of the country. This 167 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, but the sights and attractions along the way will make it an unforgettable experience. Starting from Suusamyr, you will pass through the Ala Archa Canyon, a stunning canyon with a river running through it. The canyon is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, making it a great spot for photos. As you drive through the canyon, keep an eye out for the historical sites and monuments that dot the landscape. Once you pass through the canyon, you will arrive in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Here you will find a variety of attractions, including museums, parks, and monuments. Take some time to explore the city and get to know its culture and history. Along the way, you will have plenty of opportunities to take in the sights and sounds of the Kyrgyz countryside. From the Ala Archa Canyon to the bustling streets of Bishkek, this road trip will give you a unique glimpse into the beauty and culture of Kyrgyzstan. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

  Bishkek

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Bishkek is the perfect ending point for a Kyrgyzstan Road Trip. Located in the northern part of the country, it is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan and the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. Bishkek is a vibrant city offering plenty of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the many monuments, parks, and museums in Bishkek. They can admire the beautiful Ala-Too Square, visit the State History Museum, and explore the National Museum of Fine Arts. Other attractions include the Manas Ordo Ethnographic Complex and the Osh Bazaar, which is a great place to pick up souvenirs. Bishkek is also home to several natural attractions, including the Ala-Archa National Park, and the amazing Ala-Kul Lake. These sites are perfect for hiking and camping trips. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Manas International Airport (FRU). For travelers arriving by car, Bishkek is the perfect ending point for a Kyrgyzstan Road Trip. You can explore the city’s attractions and take in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. From the majestic Ala-Too Square to the captivating Ala-Kul Lake, you won't be disappointed by what Bishkek has to offer.

Kyrgyzstan Road Trip at a glance

Hopefully, our Kyrgyzstan Road Trip has inspired you.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a template that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original highlights.
If you are planning on travelling by car in Kyrgyzstan, there are a number of vital road rules to follow and a list of elements to remember to make your road trip smooth. These tips will surely become useful for tourists who opt for renting a vehicle or camper rental in Kyrgyzstan.
In Kyrgyzstan, there are a number of road regulations to be followed while travelling. When moving around Kyrgyzstan in a car, it is best to avoid alcohol at any expense. Holidaymakers ought to remember that the permitted level of alcohol in blood is extremely low and equals only 0.5‰. In order to avoid speeding offence, it is best to never exceed 60km/h, which is the maximum allowed speed when travelling around the urban areas. When it comes to non-build-up areas, the maximum speed is 90km/h. When driving along motorways, you can travel at the allowed speed of 110km/h. In order to stay safe, we recommend equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit and driving with your headlights on at daytime.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. The budget option of your choice determines the amount of money that you have to pay during the whole itinerary. A wide range of budget options is described below.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 2,608km while travelling around Kyrgyzstan may cost roughly 350 EUR. Economy accommodation options can cost you roughly 517 EUR. Holidaymakers should also take into consideration the fact that they will spend roughly 624 EUR for food and restaurants in this option. Travellers will have to pay approximately 1,872 EUR if they go for the budget car hire offer as well. Thus, you can expect the travel expenses to be around 1,491 EUR without vehicle hire and 3,363 EUR with car rental.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 475 EUR on the gasoline needed to cover the tour. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should keep in mind that the costs can amount up to more or less 1,034 EUR. On food and restaurants within the standard range of services, you will have to spend around 936 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental car should expect a cost of more or less 2,574 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay approximately 5,019 EUR for the whole tour, whereas those who are not interested in car rental will spend roughly 2,445 EUR.
The available premium offer has been prepared for the most demanding tourists. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 10,125 EUR for travellers who are considering vehicle hire and 2,445 EUR for those who do not need a rental vehicle. Travellers who want to cover the road trip in a premium hire vehicle can expect a cost of about 5,148 EUR. If you are interested in the highest comfort of the tour, you should expect the average cost of about 638 EUR when it comes to gasoline. Travellers who are considering top services in all aspects of their road trip should expect to pay roughly 3,091 EUR for overnight stays and about 1,248 EUR for restaurants and food.
Our itinerary will also be excellent for all camper lovers, as it can be easily adjusted to their requirements. When it comes to this travel means, the costs will be up to approximately 2,925 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole trip, they will amount to approximately 700 EUR. Travellers who are considering camper hire should expect to pay about 715 EUR for overnight stays and approximately 624 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs shows all the mentioned details in a straightforward way.
The months between April and June offer the greatest opportunities when it comes to travellingthis part of the Kyrgyzstan. If Kyrgyzstan Road Trip has inspired you, our website is rife with thrilling adventures. Hopefully, the wide spectrum of ideas will definitely match up the expectations of the most demanding drivers.

Facts for safer driving in Kyrgyzstan

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 110 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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