https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstanKyrgyzstanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/kyrgyzstan-getting-around-and-local-customsPlanning a road trip around Kyrgyzstan? Find out about transport safety, plus tips on local customs before you go.2019-12-09T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/kyrgyzstan-getting-around-and-local-customshttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Getting Around in Kyrgyzstan</h2> <h3>Driving in Kyrgyzstan</h3> <p>If you are planning to drive across Kyrgyzstan yourself, be ready for a&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;when navigating the underdeveloped roads and dealing with aggressive drivers who are largely ignorant of traffic laws. Accidents occur often, and are serious enough to&nbsp;cause injury or death.</p> <p>Most roads here are two-lane and they often lack lighting and lane markings. Repairs don't happen often and drivers may encounter potholes and manholes without covers, uneven pavement and open drains. It is recommended you avoid driving at night, as the inadequate street lighting makes it almost impossible to see these hazards. </p> <p>Driving in winter&nbsp;is a serious risk as well, as ice and snow are left to accumulate on unplowed roads. Roads may be completely blocked by snow, and there are not always signs indicating road closures. The mountain roadways will be especially dangerous in winter, but pose risks all year-round thanks to their narrowness and landslide possibility. There are few barriers to buffer your car from falling rocks. Traveling between Bishkek and Almaty, Kazakhstan is particularly treacherous at night or in bad weather.</p> <p>As you get further away from the major cities of Bishkek and Osh, you will have a hard time finding service stations. Fuel and water shortages occur, and you should take supplies of both on your trip in addition to other safety items in case you get stranded. You should take extra care when driving in Kyrgyzstan, as many cars are not safely maintained and lack rear seatbelts.</p> <p>Drivers throughout Kyrgyzstan ignore red lights and illegally pass other cars. Some drivers may be intoxicated. If you are a driver, watch out for people walking in the road at night. They often wear dark outfits and are very difficult to see.</p> <p>Some foreign travelers who drive around Kyrgyzstan report harassment by traffic police, who may try to bribe drivers or insist upon payment for some vague traffic offense. You are not supposed to pay these officials by law -- traffic fines are to be paid at local banks. Also remember that you are allowed to ask for a police officer's identification to prove he is legitimate.</p> <p>There are no legal requirements for drivers in Kyrgyzstan to be insured and the foreigner is always going to be the one to blame in any road traffic accident, so always carry emergency cash if you are driving. Avoid large crowds, even when traveling in a vehicle.</p> <h3>Public transport in Kyrgyzstan</h3> <p>You do have public transportation options in the Kyrgyz Republic in the form of buses, a few intercity trains and taxis. However, buses may be in disrepair and can be unreliable. They are also crowded and rife with pickpockets, so know the risks if you board one. Keep your valuables with you and be especially cautious of falling asleep. While there are advertised timetables, generally buses will wait until they are full before they depart from the bus station, so be prepared to wait.</p> <p>The five hour train journey Bishkek and Balychy may be worth it for those who want to experience a different form of transport in Kyrgyzstan, but most people will eschew the train for a two hour bus ride joining the towns instead. There is also a twice weekly service connecting Bishkek to Moscow which takes three days.<br /><br />"Gypsy" taxi cabs can also be dangerous, as drivers have been known to rob or attack foreign travelers. Any cab that already has passengers in it is one to avoid, as these may be criminals waiting to rob you while the driver takes you to a remote location. Try to a book taxi service beforehand if at all possible to avoid hailing cabs from the street. Also, make sure to settle upon a fare with the driver before you start your journey. The cabs are usually without meters and many drivers will attempt to charge a traveler an inflated fare.</p> <p>Shared taxis wait for passengers at most bus stations. If you pay the cost for all four seats, they will also act as a private one way taxi. Be sure to haggle over the cost. It should be roughly half of what you would pay at an agency as they most cover the cost of returning empty journey. However, if safety is paramount then agences offer better vehicles and a more reliable journey, but an English speaking driver is still not guaranteed.</p> <p>Cycling around Kyrgyzstan has become a popular method of transport for a few intrepid adventurers. While this can be an amazing way of experiencing the country's natural beauty, there are few places that can cater to touring bicycles, so it's worth bringing your own tools and spare parts where possible. Traveling in more remote places can also be slightly dangerous, so it is best not to cycle alone especially through mountain passes.</p> <h2>Local customs</h2> <p>Kyrgyzstan might seem extra foreign in its customs depending on your home country. You will encounter differences in cuisine and mannerisms during your stay.</p> <p>If you are vegetarian, bring some vitamins, as they might provide the bulk of your nutrition when on the road. The Kyrgyz people are big on meat... like really big. It is reported that the closest vegetarian dish you will be able to find is chicken, no joke. You can find fresh produce at food stands or bazaars; do make sure to wash it with clean water first. You will be happy that the country's proximity to China has shown in its array of Chinese eateries, which normally always have some selection of meatless fare.</p> <p>If you are looking for a drink to accompany any of your meals, you will have no problem finding a handle of vodka. The drink is everywhere, but many a traveler has fallen ill trying to keep up with the rate at which the Kyrgyz drink it. There is a customary way to imbibe, especially if you are invited to a Kyrgyz person's home, that may help you ward off a hangover. You drink the vodka while noshing on zakushkas, which are usually small dishes of salty or fatty foods, like bread, fish and cucumbers. If you have brought the vodka yourself, it should be the most expensive kind. And if you are a guest, share it around!&nbsp;Ask someone to drink it with you, open it and pour everyone a drink. But before you actually knock it back, it is the Kyrgyz (thank the Russian influence) way to toast. You can toast to anything, really, but your lovely party or dinner hosts are a good start.</p> <p>Don't like vodka? No worries -- there are plenty of other alcoholic drinks to choose from. Bozo is not just the name of a clown, it's the name of a Kyrgyz drink brewed from millet. It is said to have an interesting taste and texture somewhere between beer and yogurt. Yum. What makes it even more palatable is that bozo is served at room temperature, and it is not uncommon for locals to drink as many as six cups of it on really cold winter days. You will be certifiably smashed if you follow suit.</p> <p>Once the spring thaw approaches, you and your Kyrgyz pals can drink jarma or maxim (not the men's magazine). Jarma is made from wheat and tastes like beer, but finishes rather grittily. Maxim is wheat- and corn-based and carries a zestier flavor. The Kyrgyz will drink this brew very cold. Cognac and imported beers are also available, especially in Bishkek and the bigger cities.</p> <p>If you do party a little too hard and feel like death the next day, it is recommended you slurp some tang (not the American breakfast drink) to cure your hangover. Its contents include gassed spring water mixed with souzmu, salted creamy yogurt. If you are truly a teetotaler, you will delight in the fact that the Kyrgyz also like their tea. It is usually very strong.</p> <p>Other interesting drinks you can try during your stay in Kyrgyzstan include kymys, which is fermented mare's milk. A note on this last part; the milk is actually fermented inside the mare's stomach. Thirsty yet? This is one traditional country drink, as it is literally served in barrels carried down from the mountains. No subtly here -- the taste is very strong and there is a smoky finish as you gulp it down.</p> <p>After you've had a literal taste of the Kyrgyz culture, you may want to get in on the fun and games. A word of advice: stay out of the way of the mounted riders who play Kok Boru. The ball used in this game is the dead body of a headless goat. Football, anyone?</p>Getty Images/helovi 1935503704 Getty Images Hiking up to the Lake Ala Kol in Kyrgyzstanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/health-and-natural-hazards-in-kyrgyzstanDiseases, natural hazards and limited medical facilities make Kyrgyzstan the type of destination you don't want to get sick or injured.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/health-and-natural-hazards-in-kyrgyzstanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Diseases and health concerns in Kyrgyzstan</h2> <p>There are a few diseases that can be found in Kyrgyzstan: malaria, brucellosis, tuberculosis, meningitis, hepatitis A and rabies. Malaria is endemic in the western and southern areas of the county.</p> <p>Some insect-borne illness to watch out for include tick-borne encephalitis and leishmaniasis, which comes from sand fly bites. Naturally, hiking or traveling in forests, especially from the spring to the autumn months, will up your risk of these conditions.</p> <p>You can minimize the risk of being bitten by insects by applying a DEET based repellent and covering up with long sleeved clothing.</p> <p>Make sure you're up to date with all routine vaccinations such as tetanus, typhoid, diptheria and polio. You may consider being vaccinated against: hepatitis A, hepatitis B and rabies &ndash; speak to your travel doctor to get the best advice for you.</p> <p><a href="https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/135661/kyrgyzstan-anthrax-outbreak-reported-in-jalal-abad" target="_blank" title="Anthrax">Outbreaks of anthrax have been reported</a> in the southwestern region of Kyrgyzstan, and is likely spread by animals who were never inoculated against it.</p> <p><a href="https://www.rferl.org/a/Kyrgyzstan_Moves_To_Ban_Smoking_In_Public_Places/1883364.html" target="_blank" title="Smoking ban">Smoking is banned in public places</a>.</p> <h2>Medical treatment in Kyrgyzstan</h2> <p>Medical facilities are limited in Kyrgyzstan, and some medicines that are easier to get in other countries will be difficult to come by here. You may need to be evacuated via air ambulance for serious illnesses or injuries. Should you need medical treatment while in Kyrgyzstan, you will need to pay cash up front.</p> <p>It is also advised to bring medications with you, as they might not be easy to find or impossible to get when you are traveling there.</p> <p>Some medications such as codeine may be restricted, so bring copies of your prescription plus a letter from your doctor (ideally translated into Russian). Declare all medications upon arrival.</p> <h2>Water and food safety</h2> <p>The water in Kyrgyzstan is generally safe to drink, there is still a high metal content according to the US Center for Disease Control and there have been reports of the water treatment plant going a bit crazy with the chemicals, so it is best to drink filtered water or boiled water if you end up stuck for options.</p> <p>If you are traveling to rural areas, purify your water unless locals advise you of which mountain streams or springs are safe to drink from.</p> <p>To minimize the risk of contracting traveler's diarrhea or food poisoning, eat only well cooked meat, fish and vegetables. The array of Kyrgyz delicacies can pose a challenge for vegetarians and vegans, so bring supplements and vitamins with you.</p> <h2>Natural hazards in Kyrgyzstan</h2> <p>Anyone venturing into the mountains should be aware of risks from landslides and avalanches. In April 2017, 24 people were killed by a landslide in southwestern Kyrgyzstan. People can easily get trapped and entire villages are sometimes left cut off from help for weeks, as their extreme isolation and situation on rugged terrain makes it hard for rescue services to get to them. Always seek out official warnings and follow official safety advice.</p> <p>Earthquakes are another natural disaster possible in Kyrgyzstan. The country is in an active seismic zone, and an earthquake occurred in Osh Oblast in October 2008 that measured 6.6 magnitude on the Richter scale. It destroyed the village of Nura, killed upwards of 60 people and injured more than 100.</p> <p>The snowy winter months can also cause injuries and accidents. Car accidents increase during this time, but more freak incidents, like snow falling from rooftops, have also killed or injured people. Some have also died from exposure to extreme cold. If doing something outdoors in extremely cold temperatures, you should carry the proper supplies, clothing and warming items.</p>Getty Images/Jason Jones Travel Photography 11134103578 Getty Images A view of the village of Jeti Oguz with famous red rock formations in the background in Kyrgyzstanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/crime-in-kyrgyzstanKyrgyzstan is still relatively off the beaten track, but just how safe is it for travelers? Here are our top tips.2024-07-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/crime-in-kyrgyzstanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Kyrgyzstan is a&nbsp;<a href="/stories/connection/life-changing-friendships-forged-in-kyrgyzstan">welcoming and family-friendly destination</a> known for its hospitable people and stunning landscapes ripe for adventure. It&rsquo;s still a relatively unpopular destination among backpackers, which makes it enticing for anyone wanting to get off the beaten path. However, travelers should be aware of several safety concerns to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Here&rsquo;s what you need to know before you go.&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><a href="#health-and-hygiene">Travel health and hygiene in Kyrgyzstan</a></li> <li><a href="#airport-scams">Airport scams in Kyrgyzstan</a></li> <li><a href="#is-bishkek-safe">Is Bishkek safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#pickpocketing">Pickpocketing in Kyrgyzstan</a></li> <li><a href="#police-troubles">Trouble with police in Kyrgyzstan </a></li> <li><a href="#womens-safety">Women's safety in Kyrgyzstan </a></li> <li><a href="#crime">Crime statistics</a></li> <li><a href="#safety">So, how safe is Kyrgystan for travelers? </a></li> </ul> <h2><strong>Travel health and hygiene in Kyrgyzstan</strong>&nbsp;<a id="health-and-hygiene"></a></h2> <p>Travelers to Kyrgyzstan should firstly be aware of health and hygiene standards in the country, which varies between urban and rural areas. In the capital city of Bishkek and other larger cities, healthcare facilities are available, but they may not meet the standards you&rsquo;re used to back home.</p> <p>Here are some handy things to keep in mind when it comes to your health:&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Pack a basic medical kit and any necessary prescription medications, as pharmacies might not stock all the prescription medication you need.</li> <li>Tap water is generally not safe to drink, so drinking bottled water is recommended. When selecting somewhere to eat, aim for reputable restaurants to avoid foodborne illnesses.</li> <li>Before you go, see your doctor to find out if you&rsquo;re up to date on routine vaccinations, and ask if they recommend any specific travel vaccinations suited to your needs. Vaccinations generally recommended before visiting Kyrgyzstan include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies.&nbsp;</li> <li>In rural areas, healthcare may be limited and less reliable. Hygiene standards might be lower, with varying sanitation facilities. Practice good personal hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and carrying hand sanitizer with you.&nbsp;</li> <li>Be cautious consuming street food and avoid raw or undercooked foods.</li> <li>If you&rsquo;re trekking or enjoying outdoor activities, be prepared and carry sufficient supplies of clean water and food.</li> </ul> <p>In the case of a medical emergency, consider&nbsp;<a href="/travel-insurance/">travel insurance</a> that covers evacuation to a country with better medical facilities.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Airport scams in Kyrgyzstan</strong>&nbsp;<a id="airport-scams"></a></h2> <p>At Manas International Airport, some taxi drivers are known to overcharge foreign passengers. There have been reports of airport staff identifying foreign visitors to help taxi drivers identify targets. To avoid this, pre-book transfers from the airport with a reputable company or arrange for your accommodation to organize a transfer. This is the safest way to reach your accommodation.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Is&nbsp;Bishkek</strong>&nbsp;safe?<a id="is-bishkek-safe"></a></h2> <p>Downtown Bishkek can be unsafe after dark, with violent muggings reported. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Be cautious near bars, clubs, hotels, and parks, as these are common targets for criminals. There have been incidents of drink spiking, so <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/drink-spiking">always watch your drink and avoid accepting drinks from strangers</a>.&nbsp;</p> <p>Serious crimes, including rape, assaults, robbery, and kidnapping, have involved tourists in the past. Thefts by uniformed police and criminal gangs are also possible. Keep your belongings secure, particularly in public transport and crowded places like markets.&nbsp;</p> <p>One traveler suggested staying in internationally-owned accommodations, as they perceived local accommodations might have been complicit in crimes against them. Always read reviews before booking to ensure safety.&nbsp;</p> <p>If you need to call for help, in Kyrgyzstan you should <strong>dial 102 for police</strong> and <strong>103 for ambulance services</strong>.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Pickpocketing in Kyrgyzstan</strong>&nbsp;<a id="pickpocketing"></a></h2> <p>Pickpocketing is a common issue in Kyrgyzstan, especially in crowded areas and markets like Osh Bazaar. Use the same precautions you would in any urban area: keep wallets and bags secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering help. Stay vigilant when using ATMs, currency exchanges, and banks.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Trouble with police in Kyrgyzstan</strong>&nbsp;<a id="police-troubles"></a></h2> <p>Unfortunately, some police officers in Kyrgyzstan may solicit bribes from travelers. Criminals may also pose as police officers. Genuine police officers are required to show identification when asked. Do not hand over your passport unless you are at an official police station. If you encounter issues, contact your country&rsquo;s embassy, as no victims&rsquo; assistance services are available locally.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Women's safety in Kyrgyzstan</strong>&nbsp;<a id="womens-safety"></a></h2> <p>Solo female travelers should exercise caution, particularly in rural areas. While rare, bride kidnapping has occurred in the past. Women are advised to dress conservatively, especially outside urban centers, to avoid unwanted attention.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Crime statistics</strong><a id="crime"></a></h2> <p>As of 2024, the <a href="https://www.visionofhumanity.org/maps/#/">crime rate in Kyrgyzstan</a> shows a mixed picture. Violent crime has seen a slight decrease, but petty crimes like pickpocketing remain prevalent. According to recent data, reported incidents of theft have increased by 10% compared to the previous year, particularly in tourist hotspots. The local police force has improved response times, but the issue of corruption persists.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>So, how safe is Kyrgystan for travelers?</strong>&nbsp;<a id="safety"></a></h2> <p>Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful and culturally rich destination, but travelers should remain cautious and informed. By taking sensible precautions and staying aware of the local safety landscape, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to this up-and-coming Central Asian destination.&nbsp;</p>Photo by Irene Strong on Unsplash 0ITB-8j8ozGc Unsplash An old lady working in the bazar making Lepioshka (bread)https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/kyrgyzstan-the-political-situationKyrgyzstan has suffered periods of political violence in the past. Learn about terrorism threats, border crossing tensions and civil unrest.2024-07-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/kyrgyzstan-the-political-situationhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Kyrgyzstan, located in Central Asia, has experienced significant political turbulence over the years. The nation has seen periods of violence and instability, particularly marked by several uprisings and changes in government since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 .&nbsp;</p> <p>The political scene has stabilized in recent years, but tensions can still surface. So what does this mean for travelers?</p> <ul> <li><a href="#current-political-climate">Recent developments and current climate</a></li> <li><a href="#border-areas">Border area tensions</a></li> <li><a href="#terrorism-threats">Terrorism threats</a></li> </ul> <h2><strong>Recent developments and current climate</strong>&nbsp;<a id="current-political-climate"></a></h2> <p>It's important to note that while Kyrgyzstan has made strides towards democracy, issues such as corruption and limited press freedom persist. The government has been working on reforms, but these challenges remain significant.&nbsp;</p> <p>For travelers, this means exercising caution when discussing politics or engaging in political activities. It's advisable to <a href="/usa/help/insurance/buying-travel-insurance/civil-unrest">avoid participating in demonstrations or protests</a>, as these can sometimes turn volatile. Staying up to date with the news (possibly sources available outside the country) and following the advice of local authority and your embassy can help ensure a safe and informed visit to Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;</p> <p>The country&rsquo;s progress is evident in its growing tourism sector, which has brought positive changes and increased international attention.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Border area tensions</strong>&nbsp;<a id="border-areas"></a></h2> <p>Particular caution is necessary in border areas such as the Kyrgyz-Uzbek, Kyrgyz-Tajik, and the Fergana Valley. These regions have historically unstable security situations. Although there has been little significant action since 2014-2015, the Kyrgyz-Tajik border can close unpredictably, and the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border remains volatile. Additionally, unexploded landmines pose a risk in these border areas, so it is essential to use only official crossing points.&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Terrorism threats</strong>&nbsp;<a id="terrorism-threats"></a></h2> <p>While terrorist attacks are not common in Kyrgyzstan, they cannot be entirely ruled out. A notable incident occurred in August 2016 when a suicide bomber attacked the Chinese Embassy in <a href="/stories/connection/life-changing-friendships-forged-in-kyrgyzstan">Bishkek</a>, injuring three security staff. This attack was reportedly carried out by the Turkestan Islamic Party. Kyrgyz authorities have issued warnings about potential terrorist threats to foreign embassies, including risks of kidnapping and hostage-taking.&nbsp;</p> <p>Security forces continue to monitor and act against potential threats from extremist groups such as al-Qaeda, the Islamic Jihad Union (IJU), the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), and the Turkestan Islamic Party. These groups have been involved in various violent activities, including car bombs and IEDs in urban areas.&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/central-asia/kyrgyzstan/crime-in-kyrgyzstan">Is Kyrgyzstan safe for travelers? Read our travel safety tips.</a>&nbsp;</p>Getty Images/Pixelchrome Inc 1905564394 Getty Images Bishkek and the mountains behind the city