Adventure FAQs

What should I expect from travelling in Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan is a country where traditional ways of life remain strong, and part of its magic lies in just how untouched and authentic it feels. Compared to the West, infrastructure and services are less developed, and you may find some aspects of travel here more “rough and ready” – from bumpy roads to basic facilities in certain places. But this is exactly what makes the experience so rewarding.

Rather than polished or predictable, this is a destination where the reward comes from embracing the unexpected. You’ll meet local families, experience centuries-old nomadic traditions, and spend time in places that remain largely untouched by mass tourism.

Traditional Kyrgyz cuisine is also an important part of the experience. Menus are often seasonal and based on locally available ingredients, so you may notice some repetition in dishes throughout your journey, particularly in more remote areas. As a nation with a rich nomadic heritage, traditional Kyrgyz cuisine is heavily centred around meat, which means vegetarian and other dietary options can be more limited in rural regions. That said, we’ll always work closely with our local partners to cater for dietary requirements.

Traveling here is about embracing simplicity, slowing down, and connecting with the landscapes, people and traditions that make Kyrgyzstan unlike anywhere else.

Are flights included?

Flights to and from your destination aren’t included in the trip price — you’ll need to book these independently. You’ll find recommended arrival and departure airports, along with suggested timings, in the FAQs below.

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 2pm on Day 1 of your adventure in order for you to be at the hotel in time for your welcome meeting.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is approximately 45 minutes away from your final hotel, depending on traffic. Your Pack Leader can help you book your transfers the night before if needed.

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.

If I pay for a single supplement, will I have my own room throughout the adventure?

You’ll have your own room in hotels and guesthouses if you book a single supplement. However, please note that for the nights spent in yurt camps, all Flashpackers – including those with a single supplement – will share a same-gender tent with 2-4 other people. This is due to the camp’s unique layout and group-based experience.

Will there be any long drives on this trip?

Yes – Kyrgyzstan is a land of vast, open landscapes, and due to the country’s mountainous geography, some longer drives are an unavoidable part of the adventure. We’ve carefully designed the route to minimise driving wherever possible, while still ensuring you experience the very best of this remarkable destination. Driving days can vary between approximately 3–5 hours, with regular stops to stretch your legs, take in the scenery and explore places along the way. These scenic drives are all part of discovering one of the world’s last truly nomadic countries, taking you through dramatic mountain passes, remote villages and spectacular landscapes that few travellers ever experience.

To balance things out, you’ll also spend two consecutive nights in both Bokonbayevo and on the shores of Son-Kul Lake, so you won’t be packing up and moving accommodation every day.

Are there weight limits for activities on this trip?

Yes – some activities on this trip do have weight limits to ensure safety and comfort:

• Horse riding: maximum 100kg per rider
• Rafting: wetsuits available up to 120kg

To make sure we can organise these options smoothly, we kindly ask that you let us know your weight in advance of the tour via the Flash Pack app.

What is the eagle-hunting activity animal-friendly?

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 real highlight of this trip – a chance to step into the rhythm of Kyrgyz nomadic life. These traditional felt tents have been used for centuries, and the locally run camps we stay in have been adapted for travellers while keeping their rustic charm. Across four nights of the tour, you’ll stay in yurts shared with 2–4 fellow Flashpackers, with simple beds, stoves and plenty of blankets to keep you warm at night.

Electricity is available at the camps with charging points for devices (mostly solar powered), and there’s WiFi until 10pm. Facilities are basic and shared, with access to toilets and hot showers. As with any remote destination, facilities can vary slightly between camps, but each has been carefully selected to offer an authentic experience of Kyrgyz nomadic life.

This isn’t luxury glamping – think comfortable, authentic camping in spectacular surroundings. The reward is the opportunity to experience genuine Kyrgyz hospitality, spend time with local families, and wake up immersed in some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What equipment will be provided for activities?

For rafting, wetsuits will be provided. Water shoes are not provided or necessarily required, but you can bring these if you prefer.

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.