Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan: Colourful Canyons & Nomadic Living - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the travel style and age range for this tour?

  This tour is specifically designed for '18-to-Thirtysomethings', with a minimum age of 18 and a maximum age of 39.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size for this tour ranges from 1 to 18 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this trip?

  Accommodation includes 4 nights in hostels (multi-share), 5 nights in guesthouses (multi-share), and 2 nights in yurt camps (multi-share).

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 6 dinners.

• What is the physical rating for this trip?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating an active experience that includes hiking through varied landscapes.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Colourful Canyons & Nomadic Living' tour?

  Highlights include marveling at the colorful rock formations of Skazka Canyon and Charyn Canyon, experiencing the unique Singing Dunes of Kazakhstan, staying with local families in Saty, enjoying a home-cooked Dungan lunch in Iskra Village, learning to build a traditional yurt, and soaking up the local culture in the cities of Bishkek and Almaty.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this tour involves a mix of private vehicles, walking, train travel, and 4x4 vehicles to reach various destinations.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited, so it's essential to consult your travel doctor well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Be aware that the tour may visit remote areas with limited medical facilities, and tour leaders are prohibited from administering any medication. Please assess your ability to cope with the physical demands of the trip.

• What are the safety recommendations for this tour?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Utilize hotel safety deposit boxes and secure your luggage with a lock. Always check your government's latest travel advice. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment, especially at night in cities by staying in small groups and taking taxis. Be aware that protests and demonstrations can turn violent, and you should leave such areas immediately. Water-based activities carry an element of risk and should only be undertaken with a guide; swimming is at your own risk.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this trip. It must include a minimum of USD 200,000 coverage for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage and personal effects is also highly recommended.

• What are the guidelines for dressing to respect local customs?

  Central Asian dress is conservative. Travelers should pack loose-fitting, light clothing that covers knees, shoulders, and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, which can also be purchased locally.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation costs?

  Solo travelers do not incur an extra cost for accommodation, as group trips are designed for shared living. Single travelers will be paired with someone of the same sex in twin or multi-share rooms for most of the trip, with exceptions for nights 4, 5, and 9.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities include a Bishkek City Tour, Kyrgyz dumpling making, visits to the Dungan Mosque and Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral in Karakol, trips to Ak-Suu Kench Hot Springs and Jety Oguz, and an Almaty City Tour.

• What is the local currency and how should I handle money?

  Central Asia is primarily cash-based, and traveler's cheques are not recommended. You should bring banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition, with about 70 USD in small denominations recommended. In Kazakhstan, the preferred currency is Tenge, and in Kyrgyzstan, it's Som. While larger cities have ATMs and currency exchange offices for major currencies (EUR, USD, Roubles, some GBP, CNY), credit cards are rarely accepted in local establishments in smaller towns or remote areas.

• Is there an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, which can be used in unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route, such as a natural disaster.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  In Central Asia, tipping service providers like waiters is not customary but is appreciated (recommend 3-5%). Tipping for drivers and local guides typically ranges from $3-$4 USD per person per day. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, a tip of $4-$7 USD per person per day is a suggested guideline.

• What kind of support is provided if I have arrival issues or an emergency?

  Should you face arrival issues or a dire emergency, first contact the local representative or local office. Emergency contact numbers are provided, including specific numbers for airport transfer complications and international sales teams, who can assist if local contact is not immediately possible.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the entire tour.

• Are there laundry facilities available on the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It is recommended to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal hand-washing during times when facilities are not available.

• 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. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donation goes directly to projects. Travelers can choose to donate $1/day to support these community initiatives.