Kyrgyzstan is the land of mountains, nomads and untamed beauty. With over 90% of its territory covered by mountains, this is a dream destination for travellers who crave wilderness, adventure, and authentic cultural encounters. Tucked away in the heart of Central Asia, this rugged and little-visited country offers everything from alpine lakes and remote yurt stays to horseback treks through sweeping jailoos.
Here, you can sleep under the stars beside Song-Kul, hike to the foot of Lenin Peak in the Pamirs, or ride a horse through high mountain passes like the nomads have done for centuries. Life still moves slowly in the villages and valleys and hospitality is deeply rooted in tradition.
Whether you’re drawn to the raw landscapes, the vibrant bazaars, or the unique blend of Turkic and Soviet heritage, Kyrgyzstan rewards those who venture off the beaten path with unforgettable experiences and soul-stirring scenery. I spent two and a half months exploring the country, and the only reason I left was because winter was closing in.
Visa
Most nationalities can get a 60-day free visa on arrival.
Others can apply here for an e-Visa.
Quick Facts
Capital: Bishkek
Population: 6 million
Language: Kyrgyz (Turkic language) but Russian is widely spoken
Currency: Kyrgyz Som
Area: 199,951 km2 (85th)
Best Time to Visit
Summer, June to September is the best season for trekking in higher altitudes.
Spring and Autumn is better to explore lower altitudes.
In Winter, it gets extremely cold and the country gets covered in snow.
Highlights
Transportation
Most of the main places are accessible by public transport, either marshrutkas (mini-buses) or shared taxis.
Budget
I solo travelled in Kyrgyzstan for 2.5 months in 2022 and spent an average of $20 per day. Check the full travel guide for more information on how to travel Kyrgyzstan on a budget.
Safety
Kyrgyzstan is an incredibly safe country and I always felt safe, even as a solo female traveller. Locals are extremely friendly and hospitable and will always help you with a smile.