Adventure FAQs

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Manas International Airport (BSZ)

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

We recommend booking a flight that lands by 9am on Day 1 of your adventure in order for you to be at the hotel in time for your welcome meeting.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.

However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer. 

Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Departure transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader: 50 USD total per person
• Driver: 50 USD total per person
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, porters, waiters, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

We recommend budgeting around 5-10 USD per day for food, drinks and extra activities.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice– including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
• Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

• UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
• US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
• Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

Will there be any long drives on this trip?

Yes — Kyrgyzstan is a land of vast, open landscapes, so some longer drives are part of the journey. Most driving days are between 3–5 hours, with plenty of stops to stretch, enjoy the scenery, and break up the journey. The drives are an important part of the adventure, offering a chance to soak up the wild mountain and steppe views that make this country so special.

What is the Salburuun activity, and is it animal-friendly?

Salburuun is an ancient nomadic tradition that combines eagle hunting, archery, and horseback skills. On this trip, you’ll meet expert falconers and see how these practices have been passed down for generations. Flash Pack only partners with local practitioners who care deeply for their animals, and we’ve checked that the birds and horses are treated with respect and proper care. This experience is designed to be educational and culturally enriching, not exploitative.

What's the accommodation like in yurt camps?

Staying in yurts is a highlight of the trip — a chance to experience nomadic life up close. These are traditional felt tents used by Kyrgyz families for centuries. The yurts we use are comfortable but rustic: you’ll usually share with 2–4 fellow Flashpackers, with simple beds and plenty of blankets to keep you warm. Facilities are basic, and bathrooms are shared at one of the camps, but this is part of the charm — it’s about stepping into the rhythm of nomadic living and embracing the experience.

Why isn’t Kok Buru (traditional horseback polo with a goat carcass) included?

While Kok Buru is a popular Kyrgyz sport, we’ve chosen not to include it on our itinerary. The game involves the use of a dead goat carcass, and it can also be physically demanding on the horses. For both animal welfare reasons and traveler comfort, we felt it wasn’t the right fit for our ethos. Instead, we’ve curated immersive cultural and adventure activities that showcase Kyrgyz heritage in a way that’s inclusive, ethical, and enjoyable for everyone.

Will the itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.