Kyrgyzstan Travel Safety

General safety

Tourist facilities are not highly developed. Contact Ministry of Emergency (0312) 61-48-47) for assistance. Plan ahead to minimize safety risks.

Road safety

Drive defensively, as traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury. Roads are poorly maintained and inadequately lit, and traffic regulations are often ignored. There are few gas stations outside of the cities of Bishkek and Osh. Ensure that you have an adequate supply of gasoline when travelling outside these cities. Travel on the road between Almaty and Bishkek is difficult because of the many checkpoints set up on the road. Roads to Tashkent are hazardous in winter.

Identification

You must carry photo identification, such as your valid passport. Police regularly carry out identification checks and you could be arrested if you're stopped and you don't have ID on you. Keep a legally certified copy of your visa, registration and passport with you at all times. Keep your passport and visa in safekeeping facilities. You should also have digital copies of all your travel documents.

Regional travel

If you are travelling onward to China from Kyrgyzstan, you must obtain special permission from Chinese authorities.

Border crossings

Uzbekistan's land border crossings are open to citizens of some countries, but are closed to Kyrgyz citizens. Uzbek authorities may restrict access to border crossings with Kazakhstan without warning. Confirm that border posts are open if travelling between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Use officially recognized border crossings only, as landmines may be present in uncontrolled border areas.

Taxis

Use only officially marked taxis. Ask the driver to use the meter or pre-negotiate the fare. Do not share a ride with strangers.

Public transportation

Avoid public transportation. It is unsafe due to poor maintenance and reckless driving practices.

Women's safety

Although Kyrgyzstan is safe, women travelling alone may be subject to certain forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise common precautions throughout your travel.

Scams

Tactics used by criminals Men posing as police (in uniform) have committed robberies. If you're approached by a man in a police uniform, ask to see his police credentials. Men posing as "meet and greet" airport facilitators lure unsuspecting foreigners into cars and demand money. Make prior arrangements with your contacts and ask for identification upon arrival. Don't leave the airport with anyone who does not show you their identification. You may be approached by one or more women who want to go to your hotel room or apartment. The woman will then seek to provide access to your accommodation to men she is working with. In these situations, you could be robbed, physically assaulted and possibly blackmailed.

Crime

Violent crime is common and criminals (including organized gangs) target foreigners due to their perceived wealth. Robbery, mugging and pickpocketing occur frequently. Target locations include bars, parks areas near major hotels, public transportation, including stations, currency exchange booths, shopping centres and markets. The capacity of police to respond to crimes and other incidents is limited. To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime do not walk or travel alone, especially at night be vigilant and keep your personal belongings, including passports and other documents, secure don't show signs of affluence avoid carrying large sums of money. Foreign men are targets for theft in bars, nightclubs and other drinking establishments. To minimize safety risks at night, call a reputable taxi service in advance before leaving popular restaurants and places of recreation. Foreigners on foot, travelling alone or in small groups at night have been followed and robbed. Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Credit card, Internet and ATM fraud is common, pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others, use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN, check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statementsMore about overseas fraud.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include: government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs and networks as well as public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Dress and behaviour

Although Kyrgyzstan is a secular country, locals closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs, particularly in rural areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

LGBT

Homosexuality is legal, but not often discussed or recognised publicly. You should take care over public displays of affection as this could get unwanted negative attention.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Avoid taking pictures of military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty. Seek permission from local authorities before taking such photographs. Possession and use of drugs is illegal. If you are found guilty, you could face a lengthy prison sentence in basic conditions.

Identification

The police can arrest you if you do not carry ID.

Driving

You must carry an International Driving Permit. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The blood alcohol limit is 0%.