Thinking about traveling to Kyrgyzstan with children? Great idea! The country is full of wonders and activities suitable for all ages.  But taking a family trip to Kyrgyzstan requires careful planning. Managing travel times, meals for children, packing suitcases, advice for getting around once you're there, must-see sites:  here's everything you need to know before you go…

Can you travel to Kyrgyzstan with children?
   

The answer is yes! Moreover, there are no special precautions to take. The only constraint is to avoid planning treks at very high altitudes, as they are not suitable for children.

Long journeys

Car journeys can sometimes be long. Before you depart, think about how you'll keep them entertained during travel (role-playing games, cards, etc.). For the youngest, also prepare a small bag for their favorite toys: in addition to carrying their comfort items, they'll be proud to have their own travel bag!

Meals

Children can sometimes be picky with food, but rest assured, local cuisine features recipes suited for children, such as plov (fried rice with mutton and vegetables), mantys (large steamed meat dumplings) or laghman (a noodle dish with meat broth and vegetables). Finally, most accommodations offer pancakes, omelets, etc.

What's the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan with family?
   

Kyrgyzstan is renowned for its continental climate, with very distinct seasons (very hot summers and very cold winters, for example). While the country can be visited year-round, make sure to choose a period that aligns perfectly with your itinerary (Trekking? Swimming? Camping?).

Note that the ideal period for hiking runs from mid-June to mid-September. For the rest of the year, the passes are snowy, and the shepherds have taken down their yurts…

How to get to Kyrgyzstan?

To reach Kyrgyzstan, you have a choice of three airlines departing from Paris: Aeroflot (the Russian airline), Turkish Airlines (the Turkish airline) and Pegasus Airline (a low-cost Istanbul-based airline). Depending on your choice, you'll pass through Moscow or Istanbul. Expect between 10 and 15 hours of flight, depending on the duration of your transfer.

What to pack for a trip to Kyrgyzstan?

To cope with climate changes, don't forget to pack clothes suitable for different temperatures (averaging 30°C during the day between June and September, but around 15°C at night, and often less in mountainous regions).

But packing well also means thinking about the camping equipment you'll need! Depending on your activities, ask yourself if you need sleeping bags? Equestrian gear, etc. To address any health issues: check out the details of the first aid kit to bring along!

How to get around once you're there?

To get around Kyrgyzstan with family, it's recommended to make journeys in 4x4 vehicles. This type of vehicle is also essential to deal with the poor condition of road infrastructure… A tip? If you don't know how to repair a car and can't read the Cyrillic alphabet, the presence of an English-speaking guide-driver is absolutely essential! In addition to being familiar with local driving rules, they'll be invaluable in case of a breakdown (especially in mountainous areas with no cell service…).

Good to know about getting around

- If you plan to drive a vehicle during your stay, remember to obtain your international driving permit before leaving for Kyrgyzstan! To do this, you must submit an online request on the website of the National Agency for Secure Documents (ANTS).

- If you need to take a taxi during your stay, know that the "official" ones are recognizable by their yellow signage. To avoid any inconvenience, ask the driver to use the meter at the start of the ride (and don't share the vehicle with strangers).

- If you're traveling with a young child, don't bring a stroller (it will burden you more than help) and opt for a backpack carrier instead!

What are the must-see attractions and activities in Kyrgyzstan?

Swimming in Lake Issyk Kul
   

Located in Issyk-Kul Province, Lake Issyk Kul is a must-see destination. Why? Its beaches offer views of snow-capped mountains! Around the lake, the forests are also prized for their waterfalls and gorges, ideal for hiking. On fine days, it's also pleasant to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

Sleeping in a yurt

During your journey, you'll sometimes venture away from cities in favor of wild landscapes… Take the opportunity to sleep in a yurt! This experience will allow you to discover the culture of Kyrgyz nomads. Many shepherd families offer this type of accommodation.

A stop at Bishkek's amusement park
   

Wondering what to do in Bishkek with family? Among the many options in the capital, don't miss Panfilov Park! Located in the city center, it promises wonderful family moments, thanks to its rides…

Exploring nature on horseback

Taking a horseback ride in Kyrgyzstan is an authentic experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the daily life of nomads. During your ride, you can admire the beauty of vast wild landscapes while sharing a unique moment with your horse. No prior horseback riding experience is necessary.

Visiting the city of Naryn and its region
           

Located in the province of the same name, the city of Naryn is celebrated for the diversity of its landscapes – including numerous lakes, such as Kel Suu or Son Koul. This small town is also an opportunity to meet locals and taste regional cuisine. 90 km from Naryn, also explore the Tash Rabat caravanserai!

Meeting a golden eagle hunter

Kyrgyzstan is a country rooted in ancestral customs. Among them? Golden eagle hunting! The Kyrgyz (who have always been very close to this raptor) still hunt today by its side. During a demonstration with a golden eagle hunter, you'll have the chance to witness the flight of this bird of prey and notice the bond that links the bird to its master…

Good to know about water and waste

- Kyrgyzstan doesn't have a very sophisticated wastewater management system… Toilets are mostly holes in the ground… Rest assured, these facilities are still set up for tourists.

- Similarly, the country doesn't have very good waste management. During your stay, try to minimize yours. Bring, for example, a reusable water bottle. As water isn't potable, also bring purification tablets (or boil the water before consuming it).