There are no mandatory immunisations for those traveling to Kyrgyzstan however you must have up-to date vaccinations for Typhoid Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. It is advised to speak with your local GP for advice on the most effective vaccinations as well as preventative measures.
Food and drinks
Kyrgyzstan’s cuisine is mostly based on rice and meat. However, there are many other options for salads and other vegetables. If you travel around, you’ll be able to taste local dishes from the region, which often overlap with the different cultures that have existed and changed over the years.
With regard to alcohol, options are generally limited to vodka or beer. Those who want something different, like Scotch or Gin for instance – must buy it duty free and then bring it to the bar. Mixers like tonic water are very difficult to find in Central Asia.
Cultural Sensitivity
While on our trips, you will often interact with locals, each with their own unique customs and practices. We ask you to be respectful and treat them with respect. The tour guides and tour guides are always able to guide you in the right direction.
The first thing to mention about traveling in Central Asia is that most areas, including the cities and towns, have a much more relaxed view of Islam than their neighbours to the south of Afghanistan and Pakistan. In places such as Bishkek you’ll be shocked at the length of women’s skirts! However, it should be remembered that it is technically classified as a Muslim region and therefore a little bit of caution must be taken in certain locations. T-shirts and shorts are acceptable for both genders. However, if attending mosques, women should be sure to cover their shoulders, and wear trousers or skirts that fall to the knee. men should not wear shorts.
With just over 15% following Islam, 80% of the population is Islamic.
Russian Orthodoxy
Language & Religion
Kyrgyzstan was one of the two former Soviet Republics located in Central Asia that retained Russian as their official language. Kyrgyzstan became an official bilingual state in the late 1990’s, and added Kyrgyz as its official language. You will also find ethnic Uzbeks as well as Tajiks in some parts of Kyrgyzstan because of previous Soviet policies.
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