Kyrgyzstan: main airports
Kyrgyzstan, a mountainous country in Central Asia, is served mainly by Manas International Airport in Bishkek, the capital, and by Osh Airport, in the south of the country.
Kyrgyzstan is known for its Tian Shan mountains, high-altitude pastures (jailoo) and Lake Issyk-Kul, among the largest alpine lakes in the world.
Kyrgyzstan: recommended activities
Kyrgyzstan: visa and entry requirements
Citizens of the EU, UK, US and many other nationalities can enter without a visa for tourist stays of up to 60 days.
Always check the updated requirements before departure; the passport must have sufficient remaining validity for the length of the stay.
Kyrgyzstan: safety
Kyrgyzstan is generally considered a safe and welcoming country for visitors, with violent crime against tourists rare.
The usual precautions apply in crowded urban areas. If mountain trekking, always check weather conditions and, where possible, rely on experienced local guides given the remote nature of many areas.
Kyrgyzstan: health situation
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry from Europe or North America. Travel insurance covering any high-altitude or trekking activities, very popular in the country, is recommended.
Tap water is generally not considered safe to drink: prefer bottled water, especially outside Bishkek.
Kyrgyzstan: currency, payments and connectivity
The currency is the Kyrgyzstani som (KGS). Credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants in Bishkek, but cash remains essential outside the capital and in rural areas.
The official languages are Kyrgyz and Russian; English is spoken to a limited extent outside tourist circuits. A tip (5-10%) is appreciated but not always expected.
