There are no compulsory immunisations for travellers to Kyrgyzstan however you must be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus Polio and Hepatitis A. It is recommended that you seek guidance from your local GP or travel clinic for the right immunisations and preventative measures.

Food and drink

The food offered in Kyrgyzstan is usually centered around meat and rice but the vegetables and salads available are varied. You’ll be able to taste local cuisines as you travel, which often overlap with other ethnicities.

For alcohol, your options are usually limited to vodka and beer. Those who want something different – Scotch or Gin for instance – ought to purchase it duty-free and bring it out. Mixers, such as tonic water, are difficult to find in Central Asia.

Cultural Sensitivity

You are likely to meet localswho have their own particular customs and practices. You’re asked to pay respect and consideration to local people. Your tour-guides and tour-leaders are always able to guide you in the right direction.

One thing to note about travelling through Central Asia is that most areas, including the cities and towns, take a more relaxed approach to Islam than their neighboring areas to the south of Afghanistan as well as Pakistan. In areas like Bishkek you’ll be shocked at the length of women’s skirts! This is a Muslim zone, therefore it is essential to be careful in certain areas. Both genders are allowed to wear shorts and T-shirts. However, when visiting mosques, women should cover up their shoulders with pants or skirts. Men should avoid wearing shorts.

With only a little over 15% of the population following Islam, over 80% of the people are Islamic.

Russian Orthodoxia.

Language & Religion

Kyrgyzstan is one of two former Soviet Republics in Central Asia to retain Russian as an official language. In the 1990s, Kyrgyzstan was declared to be a bilingual country adding Kyrgyz as a second official language. Additionally, you will find Uzbeks of ethnic origin and Tajiks in certain areas of Kyrgyzstan because of previous Soviet policy.

Check out about Kyrgyzstan Tours see our resource.