Kyrgyzstan is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Landscapes ranging from walnut forests, glacial lakes and vast fruit plantations, with the mighty mountains always present.
90% of Kyrgyzstan lies above 1,000 meters, so it’s no surprise that most tourists come for the mountains. But Kyrgyzstan has so much more to offer. How about Lake Issyk-Kul with its golden sandy beaches? Or the vibrant city of Bishkek? Did you know there are ancient rock carvings? And don’t forget the natural hot springs!
“Kyrgyzstan is changing rapidly. I grew up during the Soviet era when everything was centrally controlled. Independence in 1991 brought us hope, but the first years were tough, really tough. I remember the two years of eating only potatoes—simply because there was nothing else to eat. With the opening of the borders, much has changed. I now make a living by organizing tours, largely thanks to Ryce Travel”
After centuries of oppression, the Kyrgyz have finally had control of their own country since 1991. Kyrgyzstan (or Kyrgyzstan) is officially called the Kyrgyz Republic and has a population of about 6 million. As one of the few countries in the world, Kyrgyzstan has a larger rural than urban population. Apart from the capital Bishkek, there are no major cities. This shows that nomadic culture and agriculture still hold an important place in society. But with the country’s growing economy in mind, however, this is changing rapidly.
Originally, the Kyrgyz are a nomadic people who left the Altai region due to oppression. The Kyrgyz are a Turkic people with a great affinity to the Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Uyghurs, Turkmen, Azerbaijanis and Turks. Particularly during the time of Jengiz Khan, the population composition changed. There are even rumors that ethnic Kirgians had blond hair and blue eyes. Years of domination by other cultures have made Kyrgyz people who they are. A largely Muslim population with a strong Russian influence. Especially during the time of the Soviet Union, many ethnic Russians moved to Kyrgyzstan. Their influence was enormous and today the majority speaks Russian as their first language and the Russian Orthodox church has an important place in society.
Kyrgyzstan is centrally located in Central Asia with Kazakhstan (big brother), Uzbekistan (enclaves/exclaves), China (trade and Uyghur refugees) and Tajikistan (Farsi friend) as neighbors. It is sandwiched between the Tien Shan and Ala Tau mountain ranges. More than 90% of the country is above 1000 meters, and the south can only be reached via the Too Ashuu mountain pass (3180 meters high) or by plane. The highest mountains are in the far east and the far south. Jengish Chokusu is the highest in the country and rises to 7,439 meters above sea level. In northeastern Kyrgyzstan lies the gigantic Issyk Kul Lake. This lake is fed by hot springs and has a relatively high salinity compared to other large lakes. After Lake Titicaca, Issyk Kul is the largest mountain lake on earth, located at about 1,600 meters. Further south, between the mountain passes, is Son Köl Lake.
Tourism certainly took a big leap from 2008. Starting that year, the visa requirements were lifted for many Western countries. Still most tourists come from surrounding countries (mainly Kazakhstan) but that share continues to decline. The country has everything to become one of the tourism hot spots of the future. It has amazing nature, vast mountain massifs, a gigantic lake with golden beaches, an ancient nomadic culture, wild rivers, petroglyphs, snow-capped peaks, huge glaciers and fertile valleys. Moreover, the Kyrgyz live there. An incredibly hospitable people with a delicious cuisine. Often you are invited to just have a cup of tea with some snacks. The people live relaxed lives and are not too worried about tomorrow. They even say Kyrgyz are the Jamaicans of Central Asia. Always up for a dance and always up for a chat.
A VIP experience at the Freeride World Tour Qualifier in Kyrgyzstan. As a supporter of our non-profit, you can be part of this unique freeride event in Kyrgyzstan, all week long. You’ll get a special behind-the-scenes view of our organization. After arriving in Bishkek, we’ll arrange a transfer to the eastern part of the country.
Kyrgyzstan, the place where it all started for us. In addition to our celebrated Ski Adventure trip, we will also be offering a Ski Safari. As always, a combination of winter sports and culture, for the adventurous, autonomous and curious winter sports enthusiast.
Cat skiing in Kyrgyzstan promises an extraordinary experience with its abundant dry Central Asian snow in the breathtaking Jyrgalan Valley. The massive Issyk Kul Lake creates a unique micro-climate, delivering significantly more snowfall than anywhere else in the region. Join us for an organized cat ski trip to Jyrgalan, where you’ll carve through pristine powder and spend your nights in traditional yurts. After a day on the slopes, unwind in a Russian sauna, immersing yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan.
