Kyrgyzstan

All other travelers entering Kyrgyzstan must have a valid passport. Here’s a guide to the visa policies:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries can enter Kyrgyzstan without a visa for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the country:

• Russia
• Kazakhstan
• Turkey
• United States
• European Union countries
• Japan
• South Korea

Visa on Arrival and eVisa

Kyrgyzstan offers a visa on arrival or eVisa for citizens of many countries. This visa allows stays for up to 30 or 60 days, depending on the nationality. You can apply online for an eVisa prior to your trip.

Visa Required

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival must apply for a visa in advance at a Kyrgyz embassy or consulate. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.

Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as visa regulations can change.

Citizens of select countries, primarily within the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), such as Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Belarus, can enter Kyrgyzstan with a national ID card. Travelers from other countries must present a valid passport.

Toll Roads in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan does not have toll roads or a vignette system for road use. Major highways, including those between Bishkek, Osh, and Issyk-Kul, are toll-free. However, some mountain roads may have informal fees for maintenance or access.

Driving Tips in Kyrgyzstan:

• Right-Hand Driving: In Kyrgyzstan, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 60 km/h, rural roads: 90 km/h, highways: 110 km/h.
• Road Conditions: While highways between major cities are decent, rural and mountainous roads may be in poor condition with limited signage.

Weather in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The weather varies significantly depending on the region and altitude, with mountainous areas being cooler year-round.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Kyrgyzstan are warm and dry, with temperatures in the lowlands ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). In the high-altitude regions, temperatures remain cooler.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as 14°F to -4°F (-10°C to -20°C), especially in the mountains. Snow is common, particularly in the higher elevations.

Spring and Autumn

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer moderate temperatures, making these the best times to visit, especially for trekking and outdoor activities.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Kyrgyzstan, especially for trekking and sightseeing in the mountains.
• Prepare for Cold: If traveling in winter, pack warm clothing, especially if you plan to visit mountainous areas.
• Summer Travel: Summer is great for hiking in the mountains, but temperatures can get hot in the valleys, so stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Currency in Kyrgyzstan

The official currency of Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS), symbolized as С̲ or sometimes KGS.

Banknotes and Coins

Som banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 KGS. Coins are available in 1, 3, 5, and 10 Som, and smaller denominations in tyiyn.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available in major cities, especially in Bishkek and Osh. ATMs are widespread, and you can withdraw Som from your bank account. USD and EUR are the most commonly exchanged foreign currencies.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas and smaller towns.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions in Kyrgyzstan.
• Carry Cash: Keep some cash on hand, particularly when visiting rural areas where cards are less commonly accepted.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or licensed exchange offices for the best rates.