Karakoram Highway
Cycle the legendary Karakoram Highway from Pakistan to Kyrgyzstan, crossing high passes and vast mountain landscapes in three epic countries.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Key Places
- Essential Info
- Accommodation
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13 Day Tour
From: £2295
Kyrgyzstan Cycling Holiday
The redspokes Kyrgyzstan Shepherd’s Way cycling holiday is a rare opportunity to explore one of Central Asia’s most remote and mountainous landscapes. Beginning at Lake Issyk-Kul in the Tien Shan range, the route climbs high passes above 3,000 metres, follows winding gorges and crosses vast alpine meadows framed by snowy peaks and glacial rivers. With minimal traffic and mainly unsurfaced tracks, this is true off-road adventure riding.
Cycling through Jalpak Bel and Kara Keche passes, along Son Kul Lake and into the Suusamyr Valley, the journey combines physical challenge with deep cultural encounters. Staying close to nomadic traditions, riders experience authentic hospitality from shepherd families in summer yurts and explore landscapes that remain largely untouched by tourism. This is an expedition-style tour for adventurous cyclists seeking raw wilderness and genuine connection.
Bishkek
Bishkek is a city characterised by bazaars, leafy parks, Soviet era statues and monuments. Ala-Too Square is a concrete central city square formerly ‘Lenin square’ is the scene both of frequent political demonstrations and cultural festivals. City landmarks include the State Historical Museum a three floor museum featuring seasonal exhibits, Soviet-era material and the history and culture of the Kyrgyz people. The M Frunze Museum was the home of General Mikhail Frunze, the World War I and civil war general born in Bishkek. The city bore his name until it was renamed after independence. The museum has photos and displays from the Slavic era. The Osh Bazaar is Bishkek’s principal food market. From fresh sheep’s heads to Korean pickled salad, and a variety of Kyrgyz snacks you will find a whole host of products on sale especially in spring and summer when local farms have their produce on sale.
Karakol
Karakol is the fourth largest city in Kyrgyzstan. Located at the eastern tip of Lake Issyk-Kul it is a major tourist destination for those heading into the area for hiking trekking skiing and mountaineering.
In Karakol centre there are a few historic buildings of interest such as an impressive wooden mosque, built entirely without nails by Chinese artisans for the local Dungans between 1907 and 1910 and equally engaging, a wooden Russian orthodox church.
There is a regional museum exhibiting Issyk Kul Lake petroglyphs, Scythian bronze artefacts, and a short history of the geology and mineral excavation in the area.
Lake Issyk Kul
Known in Kyrgyzstan as ‘pearl of the Tien Shan’ Lake Issyk-Kul is classified as one of fewer than 20 ancient lakes in the world and estimated to have been in existence for 25 million years. 180 km long and 60km wide it covers an area of 6,236 square km and is the world’s second largest high altitude lake after Lake Titicaca. As it has mild salinity it never freezes.
The Teskey Ala-Too Range of the Tien Shan Mountains runs along the Southern shore and the Kyungey Ala-Too of the Tian Shan runs parallel to the north shore. The Lake was a stopping point for traders following the ancient Silk Road from the Far East to Europe and, it is thought that Issyk Kul may have been the source of the Black Death when travelling merchants unknowingly transported infected vermin amongst their wares. Archaeologists have discovered the remains of a 2500-year-old advanced civilization at the bottom of the Lake
The lake is a popular tourist spot in summer and there are many warm, sandy beaches, and thermal mineral radon springs around the lake. The surrounding area is alpine meadow, coniferous forest with an imposing backdrop of peaks and glaciers.
Son Kul
After Issyk Kul Lake, the alpine Son Kul is Kyrgyzstan’s second largest lake and the largest fresh water lake in the country. Its name, meaning “following lake”, is generally thought to reflect this.
Surrounded by summer pastures and mountains in its remote splendour it is considered an area of outstanding natural beauty. The surrounding area is a treeless plain but hosts a rich variety of fauna and flora from herbs (such as chamomile, sagebrush, lichen, friar’s cap and golden root) many of which are reputed to have healing properties. There is an abundance of flowers in springtime, in particular Edelweiss. As many as 66 different species of waterfowl live on the shores of the lake – about two thirds of all the varieties found in Kyrgyzstan.
Visitors to the area are hosted by local herders who rent out yurts and provide provisions from June to September.
Itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek
Your redspokes Kyrgyzstan adventure begins in Bishkek, the laid-back capital nestled at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Later in the morning, enjoy a relaxed city tour – a fascinating glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s Soviet-era heritage and deep-rooted nomadic culture.
Highlights include Victory Square, Oak Park, the House of Parliament, Ala-Too Square, and more. We’ll also dive into the sensory overload of the colourful Asian Bazaar, where traders sell everything from fresh fruit to felt hats – a perfect intro to Kyrgyz life.
In the evening, we’ll gather for our first dinner together at a traditional Kyrgyz restaurant. Expect hearty, meat-based nomadic dishes (vegetarians will be well looked after too). Afterwards, take a stroll through Ala-Too Square, where the fountains and lights bring the city to life after dark.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2: Bishkek – Balykchy – Kochkor (with a stop at Burana Tower)
With an early start, we leave Bishkek behind and drive to the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world and often referred to as the ‘pearl of Kyrgyzstan’. Framed by the snow-capped Tien Shan Mountains, the lake’s dazzling turquoise waters have been a place of legend, once considered sacred and untouchable. We will stop en route to visit Burana Tower, a historic minaret located near the town of Tokmok in the Chuy Valley of northern Kyrgyzstan, approx 80 kilometers east of Bishkek. It is one of the oldest architectural structures in Central Asia, dating back to the 11th century. Now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Site, with a small museum nearby displaying archaeological finds from the area.
After lunch, we begin our first ride of the tour, cycling along peaceful roads that pass by rivers, farmland, and remote hamlets. We ascend gently towards Orto-Tokay Reservoir, whose shimmering waters offer a stunning contrast to the rugged mountain backdrop. Our route finishes in the village of Kochkor, a centre for traditional Kyrgyz crafts.
Cycling Distance: 57km (35 miles)
Total Climb: 361m (1184ft)
Total Descent: 121m (397ft)
Accommodation: Guesthouse (B,L,D)
Day 3: Kochkor – just before Jalpak Bel Pass
Today, we ride into the remote wilderness of the Tien Shan Mountains. The day begins with a steady incline that continues throughout, offering a solid warm-up for the higher passes to come. Our route winds along rarely-used dirt tracks, through spectacular gorges and past scattered yurts where nomadic herders live much as they have for centuries.
The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as we ascend. With few vehicles and fewer tourists, this feels like genuine off-the-beaten-track cycling. Tonight, we camp under a canopy of stars at nearly 3,000m – the perfect setting for a true wilderness experience.
Cycling Distance: 96km (60 miles)
Total Climb: 1,360m (4,461ft)
Total Descent: 179m (587ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)
Day 4: Jalpak Bel Pass- Eki Naryn
Today, our adventure continues over the Jalpak Bel Pass (3,348m), surrounded by breath-taking views of the Central Tien Shan. This high-altitude section offers a mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents as we ride through a landscape of alpine meadows, winding rivers, and distant peaks.
This is some of the most exciting cycling of the tour, with every turn revealing new panoramas. We end the day in Eki Naryn, a peaceful valley where the pace of life has barely changed in generations.
Cycling Distance: 76km (47 miles)
Total Climb: 680m (2,230ft)
Total Descent: 1,140m (3,740ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)
Day 5: Eki Naryn – Naryn
We ride deeper into the heart of Kyrgyzstan, where mountain life thrives. The route is a mix of rough tarmac and dirt roads, with more steep climbs and rewarding descents. We pass grazing herds and traditional yurts, with endless views of the surrounding mountains.
Arriving in the small town of Naryn, nestled in a narrow gorge, we’ll have the chance to recharge, explore, and take care of essentials like laundry.
Cycling Distance: 67km (41 miles)
Total Climb: 480m (1,574ft)
Total Descent: 920m (3,018ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 6: Naryn – Kurtka
Our Kyrgyzstan cycling tour continues through mountain landscapes as we ride further onwards on traffic-free unpaved roads with more challenging climbs and exciting descents along meandering valley and mountain. Tonight at camp you can indulge in the unique flavors of kymzy, a delightful beverage crafted from the nourishing milk of mares, truly capturing the essence of local culture and taste.
Cycling Distance: 99km (61 miles)
Total Climb: 520m (1,706ft)
Total Descent: 780m (2,559ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)
Day 7: Kurtka – Son Kul South
We begin riding today with a challenging uphill cycle along a snaking route to the summit; at over 3346m the peak is higher than any Alpine pass and a great spot for a group photo. We follow a narrow road along the top of the mountain peak which leads us to the most famous place in Kyrgyzstan – Son Kul Lake. This is a wild mountainous area with a large nomadic population.
Remote from civilization, Son Kul Lake is a real encounter with unspoiled nature. At the end of the day we arrive at our camp. Tonight we will be staying in Yurts: a genuine Kyrgyz nomadic experience that will take you back in time. Made from felt and wood and held together with wooden sticks and strips of leather, it takes just one hour to collapse or to erect a yurt.
Cycling Distance: 50km (23 miles)
Total Climb: 1,660m (5,446ft)
Total Descent: 320m (1,049ft)
Accommodation: Yurt (B,L,D)
Day 8: Son Kul Lake – Rest day or ride to 33 Parrots Pass
Wake up on the high steppe and choose your perfect day:
Option A — Rest & nomad culture
Take it slow around the lakeshore: visit ancient petroglyphs (2,000+ years old), try a gentle horse ride along Son Kul, and learn how kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and salty kurts are made—a classic Kyrgyz snack.
Option B — Cycle the 33 Parrots Pass (out-and-back)
Pedal the legendary switchbacks of Terskey-Torpok (3,132 m / 10,276 ft). The road’s tight “parrot” curves deliver big views of the Inner Tien Shan and a good chance to spot raptors riding the thermals. Roll back to camp with tired legs and a very happy camera.
Cycling Distance: 54.8km (34 miles)
Total Climb: 420m (1,377ft)
Total Descent: 420m (1,377ft)
Accommodation: Yurt (B,L,D)
Day 9: Son Kul Lake – Chaek
Cycling from Son Kul Lake to Chaek offers a thrilling journey through Kyrgyzstan’s rugged landscape. After 33 km of riding, we ascend over a mountain pass, rewarded with stunning views. We then pass Karakeche, Kyrgyzstan’s largest coal mine, responsible for producing nearly half of the country’s coal. The contrast between the remote natural beauty and the industrial scale of the mine is striking, making this route both scenic and significant. The ride continues through valleys toward the small town of Chaek.
Cycling Distance: 97km (60 miles)
Total Climb: 636m (2,086ft)
Total Descent: 1,860m (6,102ft)
Accommodation: Guesthouse (B,L,D)
Day 11: Kyzyl-Oi – Baytur
Our final day on the bikes will be mainly uphill. We ride through the beautiful Suusamyr Valley. The valley abounds with stunning panoramas encompassing mountains, verdant forests, glistening lakes, and meandering rivers. This breathtaking locale stands proudly as one of the premier tourist havens in Kyrgyzstan. Visitors flock to indulge in an array of exhilarating activities, including rafting expeditions, horseback rides, heart-pounding paragliding adventures, and even the unique seasonal tradition of partaking in kumis, a detoxifying drink made from mare’s milk.
Cycling Distance: 56km (35 miles)
Total Climb: 710m (2,329ft)
Total Descent: 110m (360ft)
Accommodation: Camp (B,L,D)
Day 12: Baytur – Bishkek
We drive back to Bishkek via the spectacular Too Ashuu Pass (3,000m), descending through dramatic alpine landscapes and deep valleys. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery as we leave the mountains behind and return to the capital.
Once back in Bishkek, there will be time for some last-minute shopping – perfect for picking up local souvenirs, crafts, or a traditional Kyrgyz felt hat. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the adventure and reflect on the journey.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Day 13: Bishkek
redspokes Kyrgyzstan cycling tour ends today. You will be transferred to the airport for your journey home. Chon Rakhmat! Ak Jol – Thank you! Have a good flight!
Essential Info
Tour Status & Booking Conditions
- Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
- Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
- Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed
Tour Status Definitions
- Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
- Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
- Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
- Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
- Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
- Fully Booked – No places remaining
Booking & Payments
- A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
- Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
- Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
- By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
What’s included
Fully supported cycling holiday
- Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
- Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
- Sleeping tents, shower tent, toilet tent, sleeping mats and camping/kitchen team for camping nights
- Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
- Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
- English-speaking local guide(s)
- Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
- B = Breakfast
- L = Lunch
- D = Dinner
- Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
- Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.
What’s not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips for guides and support staff
- Bike hire
- Single room supplements
Getting there and away
Tour Start
- Start location: Bishkek (FRU) Manas International Airport
- Airport transfers included on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
- Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)
Tour End
- End location: Bishkek (FRU) Manas International Airport
- Airport transfers included if departing on the final tour day
- Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost
Flights
- International flights are not included
- We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports
Accommodation
- Accommodation Level: Traditional
- This is one of redspokes’ most authentic expedition-style tours, with accommodation reflecting the nomadic culture and remote landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. Across the journey you will stay in a mix of city hotels, family-run guesthouses, yurt camps, and tented wilderness camps as you travel deep into the Tien Shan Mountains.
- We choose accommodation based on comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room/tent. Should you wish to have a room to yourself there is a single supplement option on most of our tours.
- The accommodation for this trip is varied. Please be aware that the yurts are on a shared basis between 4 or 6 people.
- Some rooms within the hotels will have en suite facilities and air conditioning.
- There are showers at the yurt camp and a shower tent at the wild camping nights
Eating & Drinking (Special diets)
Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price.
Please check the itinerary for all meals provided.
Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of booking.
We can cater for most diets, but advance notice is essential to ensure the best experience.
Exceptions:
Meals in Bishkek and on the rest day are not included — giving you the freedom to explore local cuisine on your own.
Sample Kyrgyz Cuisine:
Experience local favorites such as:
- Manti – dumplings similar to large ravioli
- Kuurdak – fried meat and potatoes
- Lagman – mildly spicy noodle soup
- Guro Lagman – dry noodles with vegetables
- Plov – rice with meat and vegetables
Cycling Support
Support Vehicle
- Two or three support vehicles (depending on participant numbers) accompanies the group throughout the tour
- Transports main luggage between overnight stops
- Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
- Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles
On-Ride Support
- Guides carry tools for minor repairs
- You only need a small daypack while riding
Helmet Policy
- Helmets are mandatory while cycling
- Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
- You must bring your own helmet
Bike Hire
In Kyrgyzstan we provide Cannondale Trail SL 3 hardtail mountain bikes or similar.
What’s Included with Bike Hire
- Standard flat pedals
- Basic spares and mechanical support
Customising Your Bike
- You may bring your own pedals (SPD / clip-in)
- You may bring your own saddle if preferred
- Our guide will help fit pedals and saddles on arrival
Can I bring My own bike
Yes, this tour is best suited for mountain bikes with knobbly or semi-slick tyres to handle mixed terrain comfortably.
Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:
- All bearings are properly greased
- Wheel spokes are correctly tensioned
- Gear and brake cables are functioning well
- All nuts and bolts are tightened securely
- Chain, tyres and quick-release clamps are checked
- New inner tubes are installed
- Wheel rims are not excessively worn
- If you are unsure, ask your local bike shop to carry out a pre-tour inspection.
What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:
- Multi-tool
- Tyre levers
- Pump
- Spare inner tubes
- Spare spokes
- Chain links or quick links
- Spare brake pads (ensure compatibility with disc or rim brakes)
- Any specialist tools, fluids or parts specific to your bike, such as a bleed kit.
Travelling with your bike
Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.
If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.
Money, Currency and Tipping
The local currency is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS). All transactions must be made in Som—foreign currencies are not accepted for purchases.
What to Bring
- Bring a Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM access
- Travellers from the UK, Europe, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand: bring USD or EUR for easier exchange. Clean, undamaged notes only—torn or old bills may be rejected
- Cash is essential for rural areas where card facilities may not be available
Where to Exchange
- At Manas International Airport (FRU), Bishkek:
- Currency exchange desks are available in the Arrivals area
- ATMs are also accessible in the terminal
- Exchange a small amount on arrival (e.g. 2,000–3,000 KGS / £18–£28) for immediate expenses
Spending Money
We recommend budgeting around £250 / $320 for the trip, to cover drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and incidental expenses.
Tipping
- Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service
- Suggested guideline: £60-£80/ $80-100 range per customer
- Tips are pooled and distributed by your guide at the end of the tour
Extra Costs & Optional Upgrades
- Bike hire
- Single room/tent supplement
- Sleeping bag hire
- Extra nights before or after the tour
- Additional airport transfers
- Optional excursions or rest-day activities
Solo Travellers
- Solo travellers are very welcome
- Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
- We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
- Single rooms/tents are usually available for an additional charge
Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements
- A valid passport is required
- Passport must usually be valid for at least 6 months after return
- Visa requirements vary by nationality and can change
- You are responsible for checking current entry requirements
- Government travel advice websites are the most reliable source
- Since late 2012 Kyrgyzstan has allowed most nationalities to visit for tourist or business reasons without having to obtain a visa. Depending on nationality, no official invitation letter is now needed. Please note visa requirements frequently change and as such we advise that you check with the relevant embassies.You can check on the official Kyrgyzstan e-visa portal.
Health, Insurance and Vaccinations
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Cycling and adventure activities
- Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking
Health & Vaccinations
- Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
- Follow advice from official travel health authorities
Climate and hydration
Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Kyrgyzstan experiences a wide range of climates — from sunny lowlands to snow-covered highlands.
General Climate
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Mostly temperate and sunny
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Low rainfall throughout the year
Lowland Temperatures:
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January: 21–24°F (–6°C to –4°C)
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July: 61–75°F (16°C to 24°C)
Mountain Temperatures:
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Summer: 46–54°F (8°C to 12°C)
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Winter: 7°F to –4°F (–14°C to –20°C)
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Expect heavy snowfall in winter months
Best Time to Visit:
May to October offers the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities and cycling tours.
Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
- Why it matters: A healthy gut boosts absorption of water and nutrients.
- How to do it: Feed your microbiome with probiotics (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (garlic, onions, bananas) to keep digestion and hydration strong.
2. Time Your Hydration
- Why it matters: When you drink can matter as much as how much.
- How to do it: Start the day with a big glass of water—add lemon or a pinch of sea salt for an extra boost.
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
- Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated.
- How to do it: Include coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to hydrate and replace electrolytes—especially during long rides or after heavy sweating.
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
- Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help retain water.
- How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods such as salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or take a quality mineral supplement if needed.
5. Absorb Water Better
- Why it matters: Drinking water too fast can flush out nutrients and reduce absorption.
- How to do it: Sip steadily throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle and eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
- Why it matters: Electrolytes regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
- How to do it: Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or sea salt to your water after intense sweat sessions.
Equipment & Packing List
This is a flexible guide to help you prepare for your tour. Adjust it based on your personal needs and preferences.
Sleeping Gear
- 3–4 season sleeping bag (recommended for cold nights)
- Sleeping mat: For added comfort on our wild camping nights in Kyrgyzstan, you may wish to bring a lightweight self-inflating mattress, as the standard non-inflating sleep mats we provide are more basic
Cycling Essentials
- Cycle helmet (mandatory and must be worn at all times while cycling)
- Small bike bag or daypack for essentials
- Water bottles or a CamelBak hydration pack
- Sunglasses
Clothing
- Base layer tops
- Fleece jacket/pullover
- Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable)
- Baggy trekking shorts
- Long cycling trousers / trekking trousers
- T-shirts – lightweight
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Padded cycling shorts
- Trekking shoes or cycle shoes
- Lightweight & heavyweight socks
- Fingerless cycling gloves
- Thermal gloves
- Fleece hat
- Cap (to wear under helmet)
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Flip-flops or sandals for around camp
Thermal Layers
- Long johns
- Thermal tops
Toiletries & Protection
- Towel
- Lip balm
- High-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Antiseptic wet wipes
First Aid Kit (Recommended Personal Items)
- Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
- Lomotil or Diacalm (for digestive issues)
- Rehydration salts (e.g., Dioralyte)
- Antiseptic cream
- Throat lozenges
- Plasters (band-aids)
- Nasal spray
- Eye drops
- Ear plugs
Extras
- Energy bars, gels, or power snacks
- Energy/recovery drinks
- Camera (optional but great for capturing memories)
Electricity Supply – Plug and socket types
In Kyrgyzstan, the standard voltage is 220 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, which is typical for many countries in Europe and Asia. The country primarily uses Type C and Type F ockets.
Country Profile
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Capital: Bishkek
- Population: Approx. 6 million
- Area: 199,900 sq km (77,182 sq miles)
- Major Languages: Kyrgyz, Russian
- Major Religions: Islam, Christianity
- Life Expectancy:Men: 67 years / Women: 75 years
- Currency: Kyrgyz Som (KGS)
Cycle Tops & T-shirts
- Kyrgyzstan Cycle Tops
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Our Kyrgyzstan-themed cycling tops are currently out of stock. We’ll update you as soon as they become available again.
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Redspokes T-Shirts Available
We do have Redspokes-branded T-shirts in stock.
General Safety
Please do not approach or pet any domestic or farm animals along the route.
Warning: Farm dogs can be intimidating and aggressive, as they are trained to protect livestock and property.
Swimming Opportunities
- Always check with your tour leader before swimming.
- Some seemingly idyllic spots may pose hidden risks, including strong currents or waterborne hazards.
- Your guide will direct you to safe, recommended swimming areas.
Accommodation
This is one of redspokes’ most authentic expedition-style tours, with accommodation reflecting the nomadic culture and remote landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. Across the journey you will stay in a mix of city hotels, family-run guesthouses, yurt camps and tented wilderness camps as you travel deep into the Tien Shan Mountains.
Across the itinerary you will stay in:
- 4 hotel nights – Bishkek ×2, Naryn ×1, plus one final night in a city hotel
- 3–4 tented camping nights – remote high-mountain wilderness (Days 3–6)
- 2 yurt camp nights – traditional shared yurts at Son-Kul (around 4 people per yurt)
- 2 guesthouse / family-stay nights – Kochkor, Chaek
- 1 homestay night – Kyzyl-Oi (simple, shared facilities)
Hotels in Bishkek and Naryn are modern 3–4★ properties offering private bathrooms and the chance to refresh before and after the remote stages. In the mountains, accommodation becomes progressively more traditional. Tented camps offer basic but well-supported nights under vast star-filled skies, while the yurt camp at Son-Kul provides the highlight of the tour — a true nomadic experience surrounded by high pastures and herding families. Guesthouses and homestays in Kochkor, Chaek and Kyzyl-Oi are simple but warm, offering local hospitality and hearty home-cooked meals.
Expect:
- A genuine nomadic adventure with basic facilities
- Traditional yurts, family guesthouses and multiple nights of camping
- A small number of hotel nights in the cities
- Accommodation chosen for cultural immersion and access to Kyrgyzstan’s most remote cycling terrain
Accommodation Level: traditional
See our Accommodation Grading page for more details.
Accommodation Highlights
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Videos
Here are a selection of videos for our ‘Kyrgyzstan – The Shepherd’s Way’ Cycling holiday.
Dates & Prices
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