Destination: Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan tours for seniors

Immersed in the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country dominated by the Tian Shan mountain range, allures adventurous explorers with its astonishing natural charm and captivating culture. Encompassing an impressive 90% of mountainous terrain, Kyrgyzstan boasts a dramatic landscape of imposing peaks and lush valleys, offering an ideal setting for immersing oneself in nature and discovering awe-inspiring panoramas. From traditional yurts to experiencing the nomadic way of life, engaging in horseback riding, and delving into the historical legacy of the Silk Road, Kyrgyzstan presents a plethora of opportunities for intrepid travelers seeking unique adventures.

Kyrgyzstan Tours

Tours for Mature Aged and Senior World Travellers

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Mizdakhan Cemetery, Nukus, Uzbekistan

28 days

May, Aug

The Stans Small Group Tour: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan

Visiting Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan

This journey is crafted for the adventurous traveller—whether solo or as a couple—seeking a small group tour through Central Asia. Be prepared for a variety of accommodations, scenic walking excursions, and a few full travel days. The itinerary blends stunning landscapes, a mix of ancient and modern history, as well as authentic encounters with local families and dramatically different ways of life.

From A$17,650 AUD

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Silk Road specialist small group history tours for mature travellers

31 days

May, Aug

Travel on the Silk Road of Central Asia | Small Group Tour for Seniors

Visiting Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan

The Silk Road is an ancient trade route linking China and Imperial Rome through Central Asia. Few areas in the world remain as unexplored or offer such richness in terms of ancient and modern history, culture, and scenic diversity as Central Asia. Our Small group Silk road tours itinerary explores the Road through remote deserts and mountainous environments as we visit key sites between Almaty and through to Samarkand over 31 days.

From A$22,985 AUD

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Silk Road specialist small group history tours for mature travellers

29 days

Aug, May, Sep

Travel on the Silk Road with Odyssey Traveller | Small Group Tour for Seniors

Visiting China, Kyrgyzstan

The Silk Road is an ancient trade route linking China and Imperial Rome through Central Asia. Few areas in the world remain as unexplored or offer such richness in terms of ancient and modern history, culture, and scenic diversity as Central Asia. Our Small group Silk road tours itinerary explores the Road through remote deserts and mountainous environments as we visit key sites between Xi'an and Bukhara.

From A$19,685 AUD

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Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, emerges as a bustling metropolis set against a backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains. The city boasts picturesque tree-lined boulevards, vibrant markets, and captivating Soviet-era murals waiting to be explored. In the enchanting city of Osh, the second-largest in the country, visitors can immerse themselves in the renowned and expansive bazaar, delving into over 3000 years of rich history.

For those not inclined towards skiing or snowboarding, the optimal seasons to visit Kyrgyzstan are summer and spring. These months offer an ideal opportunity to revel in the natural beauty of the country and marvel at its breathtaking alpine landscapes without braving the harsh winter chill.

Articles about Kyrgyzstan

A yurt in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan

Questions about Kyrgyzstan for Senior Travellers

Explore and learn about on a senior travellers small group tour of Kyrgyzstan and its pastoral, cultural and historic settlement.

26 Jul 19 · 2 mins read
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Transmongolian Transiberian

Trans-Siberian Railway: Travel advice

The Trans Siberian rail journey, often a must do for many travellers. Join a small group package tour travelling on the Trans Siberian for mature and senior travellers, couples and solo travellers. Vladivostok, Krasnoyarsk, St Petersburg, Irkutsk all feature on this unique rail journey.

4 Jul 20 · 9 mins read
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A Map of the Ancient Silk Road

Books to read about the Silk Road | Guide for Senior Travellers

Best books to read about the Silk Road – a list for senior travellers The linking of Asia to Europe via Eurasia for conquest and trade since at least 120BC is a unique part of…

30 May 18 · 2 mins read
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Persian carpet

History of Persian Carpets

History of Persian Carpets: From the Nomadic Tribes of Iran to Europe’s Richest | Small group tours Iran In addition to its gardens and mosaic tiles, Iran (formerly Persia) is famous the world over for…

10 Oct 19 · 10 mins read
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Touring Kyrgyzstan

The need to know

Getting around

When embarking on an Odyssey travel experience, your journey includes a blend of coach travel and local transport like trains and ferries, with detailed arrangements provided in your tour itinerary. The coach services offer reliable connections between Bishkek and various significant towns across Kyrgyzstan. However, the availability of train services is somewhat restricted, potentially making them less optimal for transportation within the country. Utilizing taxis, which are widely available and cost-effective in most major towns, is a convenient option, but it is advisable to establish the fare beforehand for a smooth travel experience.

Accommodation

In urban hubs, Odyssey selects centrally positioned 3-4 star hotels, ensuring convenient proximity to public transportation. In more remote locales such as small towns or rural settings, our preference leans towards family-operated hotels or cozy guesthouses for an authentic and intimate experience.

Tour Guides

Odyssey prioritizes immersive experiences by enlisting local guides equipped with deep regional expertise. This approach guarantees an authentic journey, allowing you to delve deeply into the rich history and cultural tapestry of the destinations you explore.

Geography, Environment, & Weather

Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country spanning 199,951 square kilometres, is predominantly mountainous, with the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain systems encompassing roughly 65% of its land. The nation’s terrain is characterized by elevations exceeding 1,500 metres above sea level, averaging around 2,750 metres. Kyrgyzstan boasts significant glaciation, with glaciers blanketing 8,048 square kilometres and lakes occupying an additional 7,000 square kilometres.

The climate in Kyrgyzstan is diverse, featuring temperate, dry continental, and polar climates across different regions. Winters, especially in mountain valleys, can experience frigid temperatures well below freezing. To prepare for your travels, it is advisable to monitor weather forecasts and dress accordingly based on your planned location and time of visit.

World Heritage sites

Kyrgyzstan boasts three distinguished properties inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List. These sites encapsulate the rich history and cultural significance of the region. They comprise the Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor, a vital link between China and Central Asia facilitating trade and cultural exchange. Additionally, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain is a revered site hosting 17 places of worship and more than 100 archaeological sites adorned with ancient petroglyphs. Lastly, the Western Tien-Shan mountain range stands as a majestic presence defining Kyrgyzstan’s breathtaking landscape. Each of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyrgyzstan holds a unique story and embodies the country’s historical and cultural heritage.

Festivals & Events

Kyrgyzstan hosts a variety of vibrant festivals and events that magnificently showcase the nation’s rich culture and customs. Given its status as a predominantly Muslim nation, Kyrgyzstan faithfully observes Ramadan with fasting and prayer, culminating in the joyous Eid al-Fitr holiday characterized by familial gatherings and indulgent feasting. Embracing their nomadic heritage, Kyrgyzstan commemorates traditions through engaging events like the Bird of Prey Festival, a captivating showcase of falconry skills amongst falconers and their magnificent birds. Additionally, the Kyrgyz Kochu Festival pays homage to the nomadic lifestyle through spirited national games, exhilarating horse races, captivating music, traditional dancing, and jubilant celebrations, symbolizing the annual migration of nomadic herders and their livestock.

Reading List

  • Roaming Kyrgyzstan: Beyond the Tourist Track by Jessica Jacobson
  • The Silk Road in World History by Xinru Liu
  • Inside Central Asia by Dilip Hiro
  • The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan

Eating & Drinking

The culinary landscape of Kyrgyzstan intricately weaves together nomadic and pastoral traditions, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to meat in the local diet. Notably, noodles feature prominently alongside meat in various Kyrgyzstani dishes, such as besh barmak, a delicacy of shaved lamb served with onions and noodles, laghman, a savory combination of meat, vegetables, and noodles drenched in a zesty vinegary sauce, and ashlyam fu, a refreshing cold soup infused with spiciness and a medley of meat, vegetables, and noodles. Embracing a common thread with the wider Central Asian region, paloo, a flavorful rice dish cooked with carrots, onions, and shredded meat, holds a cherished place in Kyrgyz cuisine. Complementing these hearty fare are breads and pastries that stand out, with samsa, delectable pastries stuffed with a delectable mix of meat and onions, and borsok, small dough pieces fried to golden perfection.

Despite being a predominantly Muslim nation, Kyrgyzstan displays a nuanced approach to alcohol, as it is consumed and readily available. Among the favored alcoholic beverages are arak, akin to vodka, and kymyz, a unique fermented concoction made from mare’s milk. A customary gesture in Kyrgyz hospitality is the ubiquitous presence of tea, a ubiquitous fixture at meal times, symbolizing warmth and hospitality extended to guests.

Health & Safety

At present, smartraveller.gov.au cautions travelers about the situation in Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing the need for vigilance. The advisory highlights the risk of civil unrest in specific regions, advising against participation in demonstrations and street protests. Additionally, travelers are urged to reassess their travel plans to the Kyrgyz-Uzbek and Kyrgyz-Tajik border regions as well as the Ferghana Valley, given the potentially unstable security conditions in these areas.

Electrical Supply

When traveling abroad, it is crucial to be well-prepared with the right travel adaptor to ensure seamless use of electrical devices. Kyrgyzstan operates on a voltage of 220V at 50Hz and predominantly utilizes Type C and Type F electric plugs. Therefore, it is highly recommended to have the appropriate adaptor on hand to facilitate easy access to power sources during your stay in Kyrgyzstan.

Tour Reviews

Your chat-operator was informative and helpful. We have covered quite a few countries and seasons to travel. Full marks for that!

Philip Lee

Discovering Myanmar | Small Group Tour for Seniors

The tour was fantastic and well organised and well managed. · I have travelled expensively but have not with a travel organisation that comes anywhere near Odyssey's attention to detail and the comfort of its travellers. · The tour was fantastic and well organised and well managed. The transport provided was always very good and where the seats were a little narrow, the bus was big enough for us to 'spread out' for more comfort. · Our accommodation was excellent as was our local guide.I would highly recommend a trip to this beautiful country with many treasures to explore and learn about. Discover Myanmar Nov ‘15

info@odysseytravel.com.au

Discovering Myanmar | Small Group Tour for Seniors

We did this tour in 2011. Wonderful, extraordinary experience. Loved every minute.

Rex and Maree

Journey through Mongolia and Russia small group tour

Loved: National Institute of traditional medicine hike to Wanyditse Goemba Punakha festival – definitely a highlight Hanging the prayer flags at the pass! The outdoor picnics! Archery competition! Dumtse Lhakhang – went to heaven!!! Dzong Drak Kha (mini tigers nest) amazing views and climb Sanga Choekor Shedra (Bhuddist College) Drakpa and his team (Nima and Karma) were just amazing. Drakpa was very knowledgeable, friendly, caring and cheerful. He went out of his way to provide us with information and experiences to help our understanding of the culture and religion, he was funny and entertaining and very professional under pressure.Nima was a very competent driver, and I have never felt in safer hands in the difficult driving conditions we were in.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

The trip to the Tang valley and the Ogyencholing museum were a highlight. Beautiful scenery, wonderful people and one of the best museums I've seen. That night and all next day it snowed - what a buzz. Made everything look magical and improved the scenery for the next few days

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

The local guide, Drukpa, was exceptional value. When I was ill for a couple of days his care for me, assisted by Len, was way beyond my expectation.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

I wish to sincerely thank Len for his amazing care, good cheer and flexibility ! Len has that great combination of simultaneous organisation and flexibility, which is so very necessary on a small trip such as this. In his stride, he was able to re-design the program at short notice due to weather conditions (working closely with Drakpa) and the end result was better than the original plan in my opinion!!! It was clear from day one, that Len cared and payed attention to each and every one of us at every step of the way – going out of his way to assist those who needed it. The trust and camaraderie we developed with Len made the trip that much more special! I miss our laughs.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

FAQs

What is the time zone?

Kyrgyzstan has a single time zone, Kyrgyzstan Time (UTC+6). Daylight savings are not observed in Kyrgyzstan.

Is tipping customary in Kyrgyzstan?

When traveling with Odyssey tours, tipping is conveniently taken care of for you, alleviating the need for extra consideration. However, during independent travels or leisure time, it becomes crucial to tip appropriately for services rendered. While tipping is not compulsory in Kyrgyzstan, it is commonly appreciated when given to drivers, guides, and hotel personnel. Remember that these gestures of appreciation can go a long way in showing gratitude and respect for the services provided.

What is the internet access like in Kyrgyzstan?

When traveling in Kyrgyzstan, it is common to find WiFi available in numerous hotels, cafes, and restaurants; however, the connection speeds may vary.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Kyrgyzstan?

Confirm with your mobile service provider about your ability to make calls and use data while in Kyrgyzstan. Some providers offer daily fees that enable standard call and internet usage. It’s essential to notify your provider in advance of your international travel to avoid service interruptions due to flagged unusual activities, similar to how banks operate.

Articles relating to Kyrgyzstan published by Odyssey Traveller

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link.

External articles to assist you on your visit to Kyrgyzstan

Responsible travel tips for Kyrgyzstan

  • To enhance your experience when visiting Kyrgyzstan, it’s valuable to familiarize yourself with local greetings. Even though English is spoken by some locals, knowing basic phrases in the native language can greatly enrich your interactions in the country.
  • Carrying a business card from your hotel in your wallet can be a lifesaver if you find yourself lost during your travels. It provides a reliable point of reference for local directions and helps ensure a smooth return journey.
  • One essential aspect of travel preparation is securing travel insurance coverage. It is imperative to have the necessary protection in place, and if you require guidance on this matter, feel free to reach out to Odyssey for assistance.
  • For independent travelers, checking the operating hours of shops and museums is crucial to fully maximize your exploration without missing out on key experiences. Additionally, be proactive in identifying any public holidays that may overlap with your trip to effectively plan your itinerary.
  • Before embarking on your journey, inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any potential disruptions in financial transactions. Furthermore, it is advisable to ascertain which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards to facilitate seamless cash withdrawals with minimal fees.
  • Prior to departure, ensure you have a selection of som in various denominations. While carrying excessive cash is unwise, having adequate local currency on hand enables smooth transactions in places that may not accept credit cards. This practice not only simplifies payments but also streamlines the tipping process for a hassle-free experience.

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