There aren’t any mandatory vaccinations for travellers to Kyrgyzstan but you must be current on Typhoid, Tetanus Polio and Hepatitis A. We recommend you seek guidance from your local GP or travel center on the proper vaccinations and preventative treatment.
Food and drinks
Kyrgyzstan’s food is usually based on meat and rice. However, there are other choices for salads and other vegetables. You can experience local cuisines when you travel, and often overlap with those of other cultures.
For alcohol, your options are generally limited to vodka or beer so anyone wanting something different like Scotch or Gin for example – should purchase it duty-free and take it home. Mixers like tonic water are very difficult to find in Central Asia.
Cultural Sensitivity
You are likely to meet locals, each with their own distinct customs and customs. We ask you to be courteous and treat them with respect. You can always rely on your tour-leaders or guides to help you.
One thing to note about visiting Central Asia is that most regions, especially the cities and towns have a more laid-back approach to Islam than their neighbors to the south in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In areas such as Bishkek you’ll be shocked by the length of women’s skirts! It’s a Muslim location, and it’s crucial to be aware in certain places. T-shirts and shorts can be worn for both genders. But if going to mosques, women must be sure to cover their shoulders, and wear pants or skirts with a length that falls below the knees, and the male should not wear shorts.
With around 15% of the population embracing Islam, the majority of the population is Islamic.
Russian Orthodoxy
Language & Religion
Kyrgyzstan is one of two former Soviet Republics located in Central Asia to retain Russian as their official language. Kyrgyzstan was declared an official bilingual state in the late 1990’s, and added Kyrgyz as its official language. Also, there are ethnic Uzbeks and Tajiks in some areas of Kyrgyzstan due to the prior Soviet policies.
For more information about Kyrgyzstan Tours see our web site.