Kyrgyzstan… its mountain ranges, its lakes and its nomadic culture. Here's a setting that captures the imagination of adventure seekers. Explore a country where half the territory sits above 3,000 meters of altitude. Venture across lakes, the last remnants of a vanished ocean. Cross the Altyn Arashan valley on horseback. Visit Osh, a trading city since antiquity. Relive the Silk Road's legacy at Tash Rabat. Witness a falcon hunt alongside local communities south of Lake Issyk-Kul. Spend a night in a yurt and experience nomadic hospitality… Yes, Kyrgyzstan has an air of the world's edge. But how do you get there when you're a woman traveling alone? Is it safe enough?

The status of women in Kyrgyzstan

In this small Central Asian country, a former Soviet satellite, initiatives to promote gender equality are gradually taking root—and for good reason! Kyrgyzstan is similar to most countries practicing moderate Islam; the status of women differs from Europe. Although culture dictates that women are not men's equals, Kyrgyz women are far from submissive. Quite the opposite, in fact. For example, women have the right to hold opinions different from their husbands'. They simply shouldn't assert them publicly; such discussions happen in private.

Organizing your trip

Torn between a poncho and a fleece? Flip-flops and hiking boots? No need to worry! Here's our non-exhaustive list of things to pack (whether in a suitcase or backpack).

• Light and warm clothing—temperature variations between locations can be extreme, depending on climate and time of day.

• Fleece jacket, windbreaker, Polartec or Windpro type.

• Comfortable trousers (trekking style) for hiking and horseback riding.

• High socks and thermal tights, just in case, in May and September.

• Waterproof, high-grip hiking boots with ankle support that feel comfortable to you; avoid new shoes that risk giving you blisters. Gloves, especially if you ride horses.

• Raincoat, K-Way or Gore-tex style. Avoid ponchos and loose-fitting rain gear that could startle horses if you're riding.

• Scarf, bandana-style for sun and dust protection, or a hat or cap.

• An English-language guide; you can also print a few words in Kyrgyz from this site (http://www.sras.org/english_kyrgyz_phrasebook)

What to know about Kyrgyzstan before you go

Traveling to Kyrgyzstan is a great adventure. To make the most of it, here are some tips for organizing your stay in Kyrgyzstan.

• Documents: Valid passport for stays of fewer than 60 days. For a tourist stay of more than 60 days, you'll need a visa (which can be obtained upon arrival at Manas Airport after paying in USD, or obtained in advance from the Kyrgyz embassy). Another option is to leave the country and re-enter the border to receive another 60-day visa exemption.

• Recommended vaccinations: Universal vaccines (DTCP, hepatitis B), hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and possibly rabies.

• Best season: Summer.

• By air: 10–12 hours flight with a connection to Bishkek.

• Time difference: +4 hours summer, +5 hours winter.

Traveling solo to Kyrgyzstan as a woman

Many testimonials reveal that it's quite rare for hikers and tourists (male or female) to encounter problems during their trip to Kyrgyzstan. As with any journey, whether to Paris, New York, or Mumbai, there are basic safety rules to follow; zero risk doesn't exist. It's essential to have the right reflexes, namely:

• informing someone of your itinerary,

• staying away from intoxicated people,

• avoiding provocative clothing,

• avoiding being alone in isolated areas,

• checking that the yurt has a proper lock for the night.

Furthermore, although communication with locals can sometimes be difficult (most don't speak English), Kyrgyzstan is renowned as a warm and very welcoming country; ultimately, the language barrier becomes meaningless.

As you've gathered, traveling to Kyrgyzstan as a woman is an achievable endeavor. That said, for greater flexibility and freedom, you can turn to our Kyrgyz'What? agency. Our team would be delighted to advise and guide you before and during your stay.