Kyrgyzstan travel information

Guide:

Directory

Time: Local time is GMT +5.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. European plugs with two circular metal pins are in use.

Language: Kyrgyz is the official language followed closely by Russian, which is understood and spoken by almost everyone.

Health: There is a risk of malaria from June to November, mainly in the areas bordering Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, but cases have also been reported from Bishkek. There have been outbreaks of anthrax, and travellers are advised to avoid buying meat from local markets and should ensure that all food is well cooked before eating. Visitors are recommended to drink bottled water only. Medical care and medical supplies are limited and it may be difficult to find someone who speaks English. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised, which should include air evacuation.

Safety: Visitors are often a target for muggings and theft, mainly in the cities, but also occurring in the rural areas. It is therefore not advisable to display wealth, take unofficial taxis or public transport, or walk in unlit areas at night. There is a threat of terrorist activity particularly in the south west. The political situation is tense due in part to continuing high levels of corruption and crime, and all demonstrations should be avoided. Tensions also exist over recognition of the Kyrgyz-Uzbek borders and most governments advise against travel to the Ferghana Valley area, as well as along the Tajik-Kyrgyz border. Avalanches and mudslides in mountainous areas are common in the spring with the snow melt, and this leads to frequent road closures and disruption to transport.

Customs: Identification should be carried on person at all times. Although Kyrgyzstan is a secular state, most Kyrgyz people are Muslim and visitors should respect local customs, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Dress is conservative. It is bad etiquette to take photos of people, particularly women, without their permission. Shoes must be removed when entering a yurt (nomad's tent), and refusing an offer of kumys (fermented horse milk) might cause offence. Homosexuality is frowned upon.

Business: Generally most people speak Russian and most business is carried out in Russian; translators are available. Business hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 1pm (March to October).

Communications: The international dialling code for Kyrgyzstan is +996. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the UK). City codes for Bishkek and Osh are (0)312 and (0)322 respectively. Mobile coverage is limited.

Duty Free: Adults over 16 may bring the following into the country without paying duty: 1,000 cigarettes or 1,000g tobacco products, 1.5 litres of alcohol and 2 litres of wine, and perfume for personal use.