Cheap backpacking through Kyrgyzstan! When I traveled there I went around for 38 days with just 30 euros. It might sound impossible, but trust me it can be done and this even authentic, If you really want to! Here is how I managed to do it and how you can too, all while diving deep into the country’s rich nomadic culture. Read this article to understand my travel tips in order to travel cheap in Kyrgyzstan
Couchsurfing in Kyrgyz Cities
If you haven’t tried Couchsurfing in Kyrgyzstan, it’s worth a shot, especially in bigger cities like Bishkek and Osh.
Couchsurfing is working here, there are not too many Hosts but those who are on there are very hospitable. My hosts weren’t just generous with their couches, but with their stories, meals, and local insights, too.
However, once you leave the city, you’re mostly on your own! Couchsurfing will not work outside of it.
Always have a backup plan when wanting to do Couchsurfing in Kyrgyzstan, especially in remote areas.
Be ready to camp or work for your stay if needed. Worst case you can find a cheap homestay somewhere, but when on a budget that might be not the preference
Camping: Kyrgyzstan’s Nature is Your (Free) Hotel
Kyrgyzstan is basically a giant outdoor playground. There’s no need for fancy accommodations when you can do camping almost anywhere.
For example by a lake, in the mountains, or even next to a country road like I did once. I camped near Song Kol and Issyk-Kul Lake for free, with nothing but my tent and a few curious horses or sometimes cows who had been waking me up in the morning sometimes!
Sometimes locals spotted me and brought tea or bread, thanks to their nomadic hospitality. Like this it was possible to experience the culture even better.
If you are camping in the mountains, prepare for cold nights and that even in summer. Bring a decent sleeping bag with you or someone who can keep you warm
Hitchhiking: Your Free Ticket to Adventure
Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan is a real cultural exchange. I got rides on my way from one town to the next, and nearly every ride turned into a little adventure.
The language barrier was an issue. With an offline translator in Russian is helping a lot but even with hands and feet you can try to communicate somehow.
I experienced the people to be very kind. The drivers were often willing to share food and stories.Learning a few phrases in Russian will help you a lot.
Especially in countryside areas where there is no English, but even in the Capital Bishkek it wasn’t easy to get by with english.
Work for Your Stay: Farm Life, Food, and Culture
One of the ways of my trip to save Money, was spending almost one week on a Kyrgyz farm.
In exchange for a few hours of work, I got free food and a bed, plus a little crash course in local life. Platforms like Workaway can connect you with these kinds of opportunities, but you can find that also by simply asking around.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals if they know of farms or families looking for help. You’ll get a more authentic experience than what most tours offer.
I personally don’t see working as much as traveling.
Eat Local, Cook Cheap
Skip the touristy restaurants and hit up local markets for fresh products.
Kyrgyz bazaars are filled with cheap, tasty ingredients.
I cooked most of my meals, but even when you want to eat out, try to stick to small, local places where dishes like plov can be found. This is not Just more authentic, delicious but also budget-friendly.
Carry basic cooking Equipment with you. It’s a big money saving tool, if you’re camping or staying somewhere without a kitchen.
Affordable Local Transport
If you don’t want to do hitchhiking there are other options. Getting around Kyrgyzstan is cheap and easy if you stick to public transportation.
The marshrutkas (shared minibusses) are especially affordable for longer distances and at many places it can be found.
If you’re covering longer distances, they are a great option too. It is Important to ask the price beforehand, better asking locals before entering the bus, Like this you will not be paying extra.
Summary
Traveling cheap through Kyrgyzstan is simple and it can be a dream for budget travelers. With a bit of creativity Couchsurfing, camping, hitchhiking, and even working for food, you can dive into the nomadic culture without spending much. All you need is a tent, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to dive into the unknown!
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