£1 KGS 116.62
Today
8:54 am
+6h from you
Weather in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan
26°
Clear sky
Fri
7
26
Sat
9
23
Sun
6
24
Mon
9
26
Tue
9
25
SPF level in Kyrgyzstan
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Kyrgyzstan
Tipping in Kyrgyzstan
Tipping is becoming more common in Kyrgyzstan, especially in tourist areas. While not always expected, it is appreciated for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% for good service
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or a small tip for good service
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated
Hotel Porter
50-100 KGS per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
50-100 KGS per day
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price for a good experience
Safety in Kyrgyzstan
Tips for British travellers
Kyrgyzstan is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Be wary of bag-snatching and mugging, especially on public transport or when alone at night.
Watch your drinks in bars and nightclubs to avoid spiking, which can lead to sexual assault.
Pickpockets often target tourists at bazaars like Osh Bazaar in Bishkek.
Drinking alcohol in public is illegal and can result in a fine or imprisonment.
Do not take photos or use drones near military sites, border checkpoints, or police stations.
Bonus tips:
Always carry your passport or a notarised copy with you, as police can arrest you if you don't have ID.
Do not bring e-cigarettes or vaping devices into the country as they are illegal and will be confiscated.
Driving in Kyrgyzstan
UK driving licenses are generally accepted for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
60 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Kyrgyzstan drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
102
Ambulance
103
Fire
101
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Kyrgyzstan
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Kyrgyzstan uses 220V electricity at 50Hz. Plugs are typically Type C and Type F. British travelers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit card acceptance is limited, especially outside of Bishkek. Visa is the most widely accepted card, followed by Mastercard. Smaller establishments and rural areas often only accept cash.
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Kyrgyzstan
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural areas. It is advisable to carry cash when travelling outside of major centres.
Local name
Банкомат
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the best way to obtain local currency. Ensure your card is enabled for international use before travelling. Be aware of transaction fees.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming charges in Kyrgyzstan as they can be high. Purchasing a local SIM card is usually the most cost-effective option for calls and data.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 500 KGS (~£5)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Beeline, Megacom, O!
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities. Coverage can be spotty in rural areas.
Average speed
15 Mbps
Internet access is readily available in Bishkek and other cities. Mobile data is affordable, so a local SIM is a good choice.
Health & vaccinations in Kyrgyzstan
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. A GHIC or EHIC card is not applicable in Kyrgyzstan.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor regarding necessary vaccinations and health precautions before travelling to Kyrgyzstan. Drink bottled water and be cautious about food hygiene to avoid stomach issues. Medical facilities, especially outside Bishkek, may be limited.
Calling Kyrgyzstan
Country code
+996
To call Kyrgyzstan from the UK, dial 00 996 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Bishkek, dial 00 996 312 596 200.
To call a Kyrgyz number from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of the country you are calling from, followed by the country code for Kyrgyzstan (996), and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Kyrgyzstan
British Embassy Bishkek
17 Erkindik Boulevard, Bishkek 720040, Kyrgyz Republic
Airports in Kyrgyzstan
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.