Kyrgyzstan is one of Central Asia's most stunning countries shaped by magnificent mountains, wild plains, imposing glaciers, breathtaking lakes and endless valleys. A true land of adventure, Kyrgyzstan's authentic wilderness is a place where nomadic life still thrives.

Geographic Location

Kyrgyzstan is bordered to the north by Kazakhstan, to the south by Tajikistan, to the east by China and to the west by Uzbekistan. It covers an area of 199,000 km² and has a population of approximately 5.548 million inhabitants. Entirely landlocked, Kyrgyzstan has no access to the sea, yet it enjoys significant water reserves through its natural lakes.

More than 90% of the country is covered in mountains with an average altitude of 2,750 metres. Kyrgyzstan is home to exceptionally high peaks, some of which are covered in snow year-round.

The Tian Shan, which extends across China, is the country's highest mountain range, dominated by the peak of Jengish Chokusu, formerly known as the Peak of Victory, which rises to 7,439 metres above sea level.

The territory is blessed to the north-west by the Fergana ranges and to the south-west by the Pamir Alay. The Pamir Alay chain is a Tajik massif that stretches into Kyrgyzstan, notably featuring the famous Lenin Peak, which stands at 7,134 metres above sea level.

The country is divided in two by mountains, making connections between north and south challenging. The few roads that cross the country must weave between mountain passes and sometimes climb to altitudes exceeding 2,700 metres. However, these winding roads promise spectacular scenery.

The lowest-lying areas are naturally inhabited, with towns and villages built across them. The capital Bishkek sits in a valley at 800 metres altitude, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. The city of Osh and Jalal-Abad are located to the south-west in the Fergana Valley. The Kara-Daria valley nestles even lower at 132 metres altitude.

Lakes and Rivers

The numerous mountains and valleys have given rise to magnificent rivers and lakes that shimmer and bring life to these otherwise harsh landscapes.

Kyrgyzstan boasts several blue jewels, including the salt lake Issyk Kul, which means warm lake. This inland sea, positioned at 1,600 metres altitude, is a genuine gem that never freezes, hence its name.

Another treasure, Song Kul Lake, is another high-altitude lake that enhances this mountainous landscape with blue waters reflecting the peaks of the surrounding hills. Song Kul Lake represents the country's largest natural freshwater reserve.