The 6 best things to do in Kyrgyzstan: Here's what you can do

Your trip is coming up and you are looking for the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan? Kyrgyzstan is still largely unknown and totally underrated as a tourist destination, as it is a true gem for all visitors who want to experience adventure and love outdoor activities. The country is still largely undiscovered and tourism is still relatively in its infancy. Therefore, you can look forward to mighty mountains, rugged canyons, beautiful mountain lakes, picturesque villages and an incomparable hospitality of the Kyrgyz.

Hiking and trekking

If you love trekking and hiking, you won't want to leave Kyrgyzstan, as the country is a paradise of hiking routes and beautiful landscapes. Breathtaking mountains and ideal hiking weather, as well as a wide range of hiking routes for everyone, from beginners to professionals.

The Ala Acha National Park is located only 40 km from the capital Bishkek and offers many of the most popular hiking routes. The proximity to the city makes it ideal for planning day trips and gives you the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can hike past waterfalls or choose the popular 115km Ak-Suu Transverse route, which is best done in stages as a week-long trip. It takes you past mountain lakes and exciting viewpoints that offer great views through the countryside.

Horse riding in Kyrgyzstan

The national animal of the Kyrgyz is the Achal Tekkiner, a breed of horse that is their pride and joy. In Kyrgyzstan they also say: "the wings of a Kyrgyz are his horse" and so horseback riding tours in Kyrgyzstan are definitely a must-do to get an authentic impression of the life of the locals. The horses usually know the landscape very well and are extremely sure-footed and a guide accompanies you on all tours, so you can always feel safe.

Popular regions for horseback riding:

• Tian Shan Mountains
• Pamir Mountains
• Jyrgalan Valley

Ski & Snowboard in Kyrgyzstan

The winters in Kyrgyzstan are very cold and snowy and thus offer optimal conditions for enthusiastic winter sports enthusiasts. Due to the continental climate and the altitude you will find optimal snow here. In recent years, the country has become the most popular destination for ski trips in Central Asia and offers slopes for beginners and professionals. Freeriders can also get their money's worth here, as the areas are by no means as crowded as ski slopes in Europe, despite their increasing popularity. The prices for lift tickets are also comparatively affordable.

Best ski resorts in Kyrgyzstan:

• Karakol
• ZiL
• Orlavka
• Too Ashu
• Chunkurchak

Rafting and kayaking

Kyrgyzstan is a true paradise for all water sports fans. The country offers 2,000 lakes and 40,000 rivers. Among them there are many mountain rivers that are perfect for rafting or kayaking. The country offers the best conditions for different levels of difficulty.

Popular rivers for kayaking and rafting in Kyrgyzstan are:

• Chon-Kemin River
• Chu River
• Sary-Jaz River
• Grand Naryn
• Lesser Narynian

Mountain biking and bike trekking

The Silk Road runs through Kyrgyzstan and is a beautiful route to explore the most beautiful corners of the country by bike. The route leads from the capital Bishkek over breathtaking mountain landscapes, through ancient cities, wide valleys and deep gorges. For those who prefer to go off-road, there are also numerous mountain bike trails.

Camping in a Kyrgyz yurt

The Kyrgyz nomads have been living in yurts for 1000 years and an overnight stay is definitely a must-do when you visit Kyrgyzstan. The yurts are usually very cozy and spacious. Cooking is done outside and the typical food, which is cooked authentically on an open fire, is a real treat. The showers and toilets are also outside and are limited to the bare necessities.

The most beautiful areas for an overnight stay in a yurt are at Lake Songköl and Lake Yssykköl. From there you can also ideally start hiking or horseback riding tours.

If you're curious to see more of the country and try out some of Kyrgyzstan's activities for yourself soon, check out our Kyrgyz adventure and discover the land of the nomads together with us!