Central Asia That Steals Your Heart: A Look Back at Our Unforgettable Polish-Group Tour Across Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

We just wrapped up one of the most inspiring and rewarding journeys of the season: an incredible guided expedition through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, specially organized for our Polish-speaking travelers!

Kyrgyz youth

From the moment we set off, this trip exceeded all expectations. Together with an extraordinary group of adventurers, we discovered Central Asia from a whole new perspective: wild, majestic, culturally rich, and deeply welcoming.

A yurt, a portable, round tent made of a collapsible wooden frame covered with felt or fabric, traditionally used as a dwelling by nomadic peoples.

Highlights of the Journey: From the red walls of Charyn Canyon and the Kolsai Lakes in Kazakhstan to the shores of Issyk-Kul and a night in a yurt camp in Kyrgyzstan

• We traveled through dramatic canyons, endless mountain steppes, turquoise alpine lakes, and the towering snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan range. Every day brought a complete change of scenery.

  
  

• Our Polish-speaking travelers got to experience nomadic traditions firsthand, sample authentic local cuisine, and connect deeply with the heritage of the Silk Road.

  
  

• Beyond the views, it was the people who made this journey so meaningful. The genuine warmth of local communities and the dedication of our regional partners ensured that every step of the route was seamless, safe, and comfortable.

A Heartfelt Thank You

A huge thank you goes out to our incredible Polish-speaking group! Your energy, curiosity, and fantastic team spirit made every day on the road truly unforgettable.

We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to our local partners, expert guides, and driver teams. Thanks to your flawless organization, navigating this ambitious multi-country itinerary was completely smooth and effortless.

This Is Just the Beginning!

Central Asia has a magical way of staying with you long after you return home. For us at Oriento Travel, this successful journey is just the start of many more extraordinary adventures in the region.

Stay tuned for our upcoming tour dates and announcements, our next great journey is just around the corner!

Oriento Travel - Exploring the World Together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan safe for tourists?

Yes, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are generally very safe for international tourists. Violent crime against travelers is extremely rare. Local culture is deeply rooted in nomadic hospitality, and locals are very welcoming to foreign guests.

• Safety tips: Exercise standard caution in busy markets (like Osh Bazaar in Bishkek) to prevent pickpocketing. If you're hiking or trekking in remote mountain areas (Tian Shan, Ala-Kul, Song-Kul), always go with a guide or registered group and follow local weather forecasts, as mountain conditions can change rapidly.

  
  

Do EU citizens need a visa for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan?

No, EU passport holders do NOT need a visa for short-term tourist visits to either country:

• Kazakhstan: Visa-free entry for up to 30 days.

• Kyrgyzstan: Visa-free entry for up to 60 days.

  
  

Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date. Border control may also ask to see a return ticket and comprehensive travel insurance.

What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan?

The ideal season depends on the focus of your trip:

• May to June & September to October (Best Overall): Great for sightseeing in cities (Almaty, Bishkek), scenic road trips through canyons (Charyn Canyon), and mild outdoor activities without extreme heat.

  
  

• July to August (Peak Mountain & Trekking Season): The only time high-mountain passes and alpine lakes (like Song-Kul and Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan) are fully ice-free and accessible. Yurt camps operate at full capacity, and mountain meadows (jailoo) are bright green.

  
  

• November to March: Winter sports season (skiing in Shymbulak, Kazakhstan or Karakol, Kyrgyzstan). High-altitude mountain passes are closed to regular transport due to heavy snow.

  
  

What currency should I bring, and are credit cards accepted?

Both countries have their own currencies: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) and Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS).

• Cash vs. Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in big cities (Almaty, Astana, Bishkek) at hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. However, cash is absolute king in rural areas, yurt camps, local bazaars, and mountain valleys.

  
  

• Exchange: Bring crisp, undamaged USD or EUR banknotes (printed after 2013 with no marks or tears) to exchange locally. ATMs are readily available in major cities.

  
  

What language is spoken, and can I get by with English?

Kazakh/Kyrgyz (official state languages) and Russian (widely spoken for interethnic communication) are the main languages.

• English proficiency is growing among younger people, hotel staff, and tour guides in cities.

  
  

• In rural villages and mountain camps, English is rarely spoken. Joining a guided group tour or using a translation app with offline Russian/Kazakh/Kyrgyz dictionaries makes navigation completely hassle-free.

  
  

Is Central Asian cuisine suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

Traditional Kazakh and Kyrgyz cuisine is heavily centered around meat (beef, mutton, horse meat), dairy products, and dough.

• For Vegetarians/Vegans: While iconic dishes like Beshbarmak or Plov contain meat, most restaurants and yurt camps offer alternatives if requested in advance—such as fresh salads, grilled vegetables, Laghman without meat, lentil soups, and local fried bread (Bortsook).

  
  

• In big cities like Almaty and Bishkek, there are plenty of modern cafes with dedicated vegetarian and vegan options.

  
  

How physical/demanding is a tour across Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan?

Most standard sightseeing and group itineraries require moderate physical fitness.

• Expect long driving days over varying road conditions (from paved highways to dirt tracks in the mountains).

  
  

• Light hiking or walking over uneven terrain is common around canyons (Charyn Canyon), lakes (Kolsai, Kaindy, Song-Kul), and national parks.

  
  

• If your itinerary includes multi-day trekking or horse riding in high-altitude mountain passes, higher stamina is recommended.

  
  

Do I need any vaccinations or special travel insurance?

No specific mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan.

• Insurance: Standard comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, high-altitude trekking/adventure sports (if visiting areas above 2,500 meters), and emergency evacuation, especially for rural mountain regions.