Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan

Final Details

Ruth and Richard Kinler

April 29th – May 15th, 2024

Important Details

Tourist Visas

➜ Kyrgyzstan – Citizens of the USA are allowed to enter Kyrgyzstan without a visa for stays of less than 60 days. As a result, no preparations are needed and you don’t need to obtain a tourist visa for this country.

➜ Uzbekistan – United States citizens age 55 or older are exempt from the Uzbekistan visa requirements. As a result, no preparations are needed and you don’t need to obtain a tourist visa for this country.

Airport Arrival & Pickup

Please follow the below instructions upon arrival at Bishkek’s Manas International Airport:

• After exiting the plane, walk through the terminal building to the immigration inspection
• Once through immigration, walk straight ahead into the luggage area. Collect your luggage from the correct carousel and then pass through the customs inspection
• After you exit the baggage/customs area, you’ll enter the small Arrivals Hall where you’ll see drivers waiting with signs. Your driver will be waiting inside that area with a sign that says “Wandering Earl Tours”

If you are unable to find your driver, please call your local guide, Ulan, at +996 551-220-275 or Derek Baron at +1 912 289-5602

Please note: When arriving into Kyrgyzstan, you are sometimes required to fill out a landing card or tell the immigration officer where you will be staying in Bishkek. Here are the details:

City Stay Bishkek, 105 Chokmorov Street, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Local currency

➜ Kyrgyzstan: The local currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgystani Som (KGS) The current exchange rate is $1 USD = 89 KGS.

➜ Uzbekistan: The local currency in Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS) The current exchange rate is $1 USD = 12,490 UZS.

In terms of spending money, you should estimate an average of $30 USD per day for all of your needs. This would be for meals that are not included in the tour, basic purchases (laundry service, snacks, etc) as well as any activities you choose to do on your own.

As for exchanging money, the best method is via ATM machines which are located throughout urban areas in both countries. However, check with your bank at home as many banks charge high foreign transaction fees every time you withdraw money overseas.

If using an ATM is not an option, or the fees are too high, simply bring USD, Euros or GBP to exchange at money exchange offices in the cities.

*US dollars are sometimes accepted in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, but in general, you would need crisp, clear bills to make any purchases. Overall, it is far better to use the local currency in order to avoid any issues.

*Credit cards are sometimes accepted in some businesses in the cities (nicer restaurants, cafes, some shops, etc…) However, cash will be the main method of payment outside of the cities.

Tipping

Tipping in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan is not as common as in the West but in some cases it is expected. Here’s a general guideline:

• Restaurants – 10% – 15% for excellent service and only if a service charge is not already added to the bill
• Hotel staff – $1 USD – $2 USD if someone helps you with luggage or anything else
• Your drivers – Before flying to Uzbekistan, we recommend that you give a $50 USD tip per person for your driver. We also recommend that you give a $50 USD tip per person on the last day for your driver in Uzbekistan.
• Local Guides – Before flying to Uzbekistan, we recommend that you give a $100 USD tip per person for your local guide. We also recommend that you give a $100 USD tip per person on the last day for your local guide in Uzbekistan.

Staying Connected

Although both countries are relatively modern, the infrastructure is not as you’d expect back home. Wi-Fi will be available in all of the major urban areas and it will be okay, although most likely slower than what you’re used to. There may not be WiFi or a signal in some places in the countryside. If you want a stronger connection throughout the trip, we recommend that you either activate the international plan from your network at home or buy an online E-Sim for both countries (there are packages available that offer both countries together). These two options will ensure you have a good 4G connection throughout the tour.

Packing / Luggage Restrictions

Packing lightly will make it easier for you, as there may be times when you’ll need to walk with your luggage for a short while to reach our accommodation.

*Important: For your flight you can take a maximum of 1 check-in luggage (max 23kg/50lbs with a size of no more than 158cm/62″ by the sum of its three dimensions), 1 carry-on luggage (max 8kg/17 lbs), as well as 1 small personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

Itinerary

April 29th: Bishkek / Arrival day

• Meet your representative upon arrival at the airport
• Transfer to the hotel

Accommodation: City Stay Bishkek

April 30th: Bishkek

• Welcome dinner

Accommodation: City Stay Bishkek
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

May 1st: Bishkek

• Full-walking tour of Bishkek to see the highlights of this charming city
• Drive to the outskirts of the city to the Aidai Asangulova Center to learn about the local felt-silk fashion and make your own small scarf
• Group lunch with a wonderful local craftswoman who will share her knowledge and efforts to save the traditional Kyrgyz costume industry
• Free evening at leisure

Accommodation: City Stay Bishkek
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

May 2nd: Bishkek ➜ Tamga

• 8-hour drive to Tamga with multiple stops through the majestic Ala-Too Mountain Range, containing the second largest mountain lake in the world
• Group lunch in the house of a local yurt-maker to learn all about the art of yurts
• Stop for a walk through the gorgeous Sazka Canyon
• Arrival in Tamga

Accommodation: Anyutaika-Sergei Guesthouse
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 3rd: Tamga

• Walk around the friendly village and visit the Soviet Sanatorium
• Optional horseback riding alongside the Silk Road
• Group lunch at your homestay
• Drive to the Barskoon Valley to visit the waterfalls and the monument to Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space
• Free time in Tamga, with options such as: taking a swim in the waters of the Issy-kul Lake, relaxing at your guest house or visiting a local sauna
• Evening cooking class, offering a hands-on experience with local culinary traditions

Accommodation: Anyutaika-Sergei Guesthouse
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional horseback riding: Approximately $15 USD

May 4th: Tamga ➜ Djeti Oguz ➜ Yrdyk ➜ Karakol

• Drive to Yrdyk, a unique village nestled in the mountains
• Stop for a scenic view of the impressive rock formations sculpted by nature’s forces over millennia
• Continue to the village of Yrdyk, home to the Dungan people (Muslim Chinese people of Hui origin)
• Traditional lunch of Dungan dishes at a local’s home
• Reach Karakol, a town famous for its rich history and gateway to some of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning landscapes
• Group dinner

Accommodation: Green Yard
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 5th: Karakol

• Full-walking tour through Karakol’s picturesque neighborhoods, exploring its charming streets and visiting local craft markets where artisans showcase their work
• Food tasting at the markets, where you can sample a variety of local delicacies and gain insight into Kyrgyz culinary traditions
• Free time in Karakol, with the option to visit the nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak in their therapeutic waters, known for their natural healing properties

Accommodation: Green Yard
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

May 6th: Karakol ➜ Chon-Kyzylsuu Valley ➜ Karakol

• Start the day with an adventurous ride in a Russian 4WD Van UAZ, heading to the tranquil Chon Kyzylsuu valley, where the journey itself offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes
• Upon arrival, engage in an exploration hike, delving into the valley’s untouched beauty
• Take a dip in the quaint outdoor hot spring
• Picnic lunch set against the backdrop of the valley’s picturesque scenery
• Return to Karakol in the evening

Accommodation: Green Yard
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 7th: Karakol ➜ Chon-Kemin Valley

• Morning 5-hour scenic drive to Chon-Kemin, a journey through picturesque landscapes and the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty
• Visit a local farm village in Chon-Kemin, where you’ll enjoy a short hike through the surrounding countryside, offering a glimpse into rural life and the area’s splendor
• Group dinner at your local family-run guesthouse, a warm and welcoming place to share stories and savor home-cooked Kyrgyz dishes

Accommodation: Ashu Guesthouse
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 8th: Chon-Kemin Valley ➜ Bishkek ➜ Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

• Begin your journey back to Bishkek
• Stop at the Burana Tower, a striking ancient minaret that stands in the Chuy Valley, offering insights into the architectural heritage and history of the region
• Group lunch
• Transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Tashkent
• Overnight in Tashkent

Accommodation: Medina Town Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

May 9th: Tashkent

• Comprehensive tour of Tashkent, featuring visits to the Museum of Stalin’s Repressions for a poignant look into the past, the vibrant Chorsu Bazaar for a taste of local life, and an ancient madrassa and mosque that showcase Uzbekistan’s rich Islamic heritage, along with a stroll through diverse neighborhoods
• Lunch at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Uzbek cuisine
• Free afternoon to explore Tashkent at your own pace, whether it’s further sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing in one of the city’s many parks
• Group dinner

Accommodation: Medina Town Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 10th: Tashkent ➜ Samarkand

• 4-hour drive to Samarkand
• Stop at a traditional mulberry paper-making workshop to witness the age-old craft and enjoy a lunch break at a restaurant serving local specialties
• Local group dinner
• Cap off the day with a unique evening light show in the heart of the ancient city, illuminating its majestic buildings and bringing the rich history of Samarkand to life under the stars

Accommodation: Registon Saroy Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 11th: Samarkand

• Full-day tour of Samarkand, marveling at its famous landmarks including the majestic Registan, the awe-inspiring Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the solemn Necropolis, and the historically significant Ulugh Bek Observatory
• Enjoy lunch at a local family restaurant
• Visit a local Uzbek winery for an exclusive wine tasting experience, delving into the region’s burgeoning wine culture and sampling a variety of locally produced wines
• Free evening
• Group dinner

Accommodation: Registon Saroy Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 12th: Samarkand ➜ Bukhara

• Morning drive to Bukhara, an ancient city rich in historical sites and architectural treasures, featuring multiple stops along the way
• Make a stop in the small town of Gijduvan, renowned for its ceramic workshops, where you can observe the skilled artisans crafting traditional Uzbek pottery
• Group lunch
• Arrival in Bukhara
• Group dinner

Accommodation: Omar Khayyam Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 13th: Bukhara

• Walking tour of Bukhara, exploring its heart and soul through visits to the Kalyan Minaret, the architecturally significant Samanid Mausoleum, a unique water museum illustrating the city’s ingenious ancient water systems, the serene Bolo Hauz Mosque, a traditional bazaar buzzing with local life, and a jewelry market market showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
• Enjoy a free evening to immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Bukhara, taking the opportunity to wander its historic streets, relax in one of the city’s tea houses, or further explore its rich cultural tapestry
• Group dinner

Accommodation: Omar Khayyam Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

May 14th: Bukhara ➜ Tashkent

• Trip to the Ark Fortress, delving into the history of this ancient citadel that has stood as a symbol of power and resilience at the heart of Bukhara for centuries
• Local lunch
• Quick 1-hour flight back to Tashkent
• Farewell dinner

Accommodation: Medina Town Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

May 15th: Tashkent / Departure day

• Transfers to the airport based on your departure flight

Included meals: Breakfast

What’s Included?

• Full private tour throughout
• Accommodation (15 nights – 3* and 4* hotels and guesthouses)
• 2 nights of pre-trip accommodation at your hotel in Bishkek (April 28th – 30th)
• Transportation within Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan (2 flights, private vans)
• Local English-speaking guides throughout the trip
• All mentioned activities and entrance fees
• Breakfast every day, 12 lunches and 12 dinners
• All airport transfers (Bishkek arrival / Tashkent departure)

What’s Not Included?

• Flights to/from Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan
• Passport/visa fees
• Meals and activities not mentioned
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Other gratuities

That’s all for now! If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to send us an email at team@wanderingearl.com.