Out of all the Central Asian countries, Kyrgyzstan is a favorite among travelers, and for good reasons. Its open borders, forward-thinking locals, stunning mountains, and community-based tourism projects make it a must-visit destination.
1. Community-Based Tourism: Kyrgyzstan is the perfect place to experience local culture up close. Companies like CBT and Shepard’s Life help connect visitors with local communities. When you’re in Kyrgyzstan, join a CBT or Shepard’s Life project to enjoy adventures at reasonable prices while supporting the local economy. It’s a win-win!
2. Scenic Beauty: If you’re a nature lover, Kyrgyzstan’s rugged landscapes will amaze you. With 94% of the country being mountainous, you’ll find tourist information centers, CBT, and Shepard’s Life to help guide you to summer pastures, alpine lakes, and soaring peaks.
3. Trekking: Kyrgyzstan offers hundreds of pre-planned and marked trekking routes, with many more waiting to be explored. The areas around Karakol are a trekker’s paradise, offering everything from day hikes to week-long adventures, suitable for all skill levels. Some treks even connect major destinations, allowing trekkers to explore on foot instead of relying on public transport.
4. Horse Treks: Horses are a popular mode of travel in Kyrgyzstan for exploring its scenic routes. You can easily rent a horse and even hire a guide through CBT or Shepard’s Life to take you on breathtaking journeys. One recommended trek is the 3,800-meter pass to Song-Kol Lake.
5. Fellow Travelers: In Central Asia, you’ll meet adventurous, culturally aware travelers. The people you encounter here are often trekking enthusiasts, and the stories exchanged at hostel dinner tables are sure to be entertaining and insightful.
6. Homestays: Homestays are a fantastic way to live with local families instead of staying in hotels and hostels. Through CBT or Shepard’s Life, you can ensure a personalized experience, often being the only tourist with the family. They offer home-cooked meals and a glimpse into their daily lives, enriching your travel experience.
7. Scenic Drives: In Kyrgyzstan, the journeys between destinations are spectacular. Traveling through mountain passes, past alpine lakes, and through rock tunnels transforms every drive into an adventure. Local transport is affordable, and shared taxis offer great views with just a slight price increase over buses.
8. Beaches: Yes, Kyrgyzstan has beautiful beaches along Lake Issyk Kul’s shores. Issyk-Kul is the largest lake in the country and the second largest alpine lake in the world. While the northern shores, like Cholpon-Ata, can be crowded, the southern shores like Tamga offer a quieter and more authentic experience.
9. Off the Beaten Path: Kyrgyzstan is perfect for those with a thirst for adventure. It offers genuine experiences and cultural richness. The ease of travel in Kyrgyzstan makes exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations feel easy and enjoyable.
10. Ease of Travel: Despite its low tourist numbers, Kyrgyzstan is very traveler-friendly. Free visas at borders and airports, cheap public transport, and excellent homestay options make it easy to navigate and enjoy this incredible country.
We spent three fantastic weeks in Kyrgyzstan, but we could have easily stayed for three months. This small, mountainous nation offers endless adventures and unforgettable experiences, making it a perfect travel destination. We’ll definitely be returning to this mesmerizing country soon. Kyrgyzstan is truly outstanding!