Highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

• Are there any health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities. Our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• Are there any exceptions to having my own room or shared accommodation?

  Yes, on Night 3, accommodation is in a traditional yurt, which is multishare for up to 4 people per yurt. Therefore, the 'My Own Room' option does not apply for this night.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 14.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• How much spending money is recommended for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by traveller. Please consider your own habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Specific recommendations are to be considered when planning your trip.

• What is the minimum age to join this tour?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting, light clothing appropriate for hot weather, covering knees, shoulders, and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, especially for visits to religious sites like mosques.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions like the yurt stay.

• Is tipping customary, and what are the guidelines?

  In Central Asia, tipping service providers like waiters is not customary but is appreciated (3-5% is recommended). For local guides and drivers, $3-$4 USD per person per day is a guideline. For your CEO, $4-7 USD per person per day is a guideline, entirely at your personal preference.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include hiking in Song Köl (free), hiking in Kolsay Lakes National Park (free), and visiting the Zelyony Bazaar in Almaty.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include learning about Central Asian cultures, soaking in breathtaking mountain scenery, connecting with locals during yurt and village guesthouse stays, exploring Bishkek's Soviet streets, experiencing the beauty of Song Kul Lake and Kaindy Lake, trekking to the sunken forest, and learning how yurts are built.

• What types of transportation are used on this tour?

  Transportation on this tour includes private vans and walking.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving valuable jewellery at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety. Exercise good judgment during free time, especially at night in cities, and be aware of potential protests.

• What should I do if I encounter problems upon arrival?

  If you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, contact your starting point hotel to speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you cannot reach them, refer to the emergency contact details provided in your dossier. If you have a pre-booked airport transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to the hotel and seek a refund later.

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to the tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating positive impact through tourism by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They support community-owned businesses and integrate their projects into tour itineraries. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, meaning 100% of your donation goes directly to projects.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 5 dinners.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also strictly against our philosophy of respect. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and money exchange?

  Central Asia is generally a cash-operating region; traveller's cheques are not recommended. Only banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition can be exchanged. Bring about USD $70 in small denominations. Local currency (Som in Kyrgyzstan, Tenge in Kazakhstan) is preferred. ATMs are available in larger cities, and currency exchange offices are common for EUR, USD, and other major currencies.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for this trip?

  Visas are the individual traveller's responsibility. Requirements vary by nationality and destination. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from departure. Letters of Invitation (LOI) may be required for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan visas; a $50 USD processing fee applies for a Kyrgyzstan LOI. Two blank passport pages per country are needed for stamps.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes Hotels (3 nights), village guesthouses (3 nights), a traditional yurt (1 night, multishare up to 4 people per yurt), and a village homestay (1 night).

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  In an emergency, first call the local representative or local office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. For airport transfer issues, contact Mr. Arlan (+996700602090) or Mrs. Asel (+996777202888). General emergency numbers include the Central Asia Operations Manager (+99890 963 4779) or your regional sales team.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour. The CEO provides information, suggestions, and introduces you to local culture.