Welcome to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan! If you're a solo traveler or traveling as a group, you may want to book day trips departing from the capital city. By booking a day trip with a tour guide, you don't need to deal with the logistics. They handle all the transportation, fees, and scheduling, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying your trip without the stress of organizing the details. Going on a day trip with a group will also allow you to meet other tourists and your guide will provide you with in-depth knowledge about the destination you're visiting.
THINGS TO NOTE WHEN BOOKING DAY TRIPS
Before booking any trips, check what is included in the tour package. Some tours might cover transportation, meals, entrance fees to attractions, and even equipment for activities like hiking or horseback riding. Understanding what is included helps you avoid unexpected costs and ensures you are adequately prepared for the trip.
In recent years, there's been development in Kyrgyzstan's tourism with more English-speaking tours and guides. However, it's essential to verify the credibility of the tour operator. Look for reviews and ratings on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, or specialized travel forums. This will give you an idea of the experiences of other travelers and the reliability of the service provider.
Consider the group size of the tour. Smaller groups often provide a more personalized experience and allow for better interaction with the guide. Larger groups might be less expensive but can sometimes feel rushed or less intimate.
Review the itinerary to ensure it aligns with your interests and physical capabilities. Some day trips may involve strenuous activities like hiking or horseback riding, while others might be more relaxed and focused on cultural experiences. Make sure the activities match your preferences and fitness level.
Now that you know what to prepare for when booking day trips, here are some companies I can recommend.
WHERE TO BOOK DAY TRIPS FROM BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN
1. KETTIK
Kettik is a local travel startup where you can book day trips and excursions from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. It offers a variety of local and regional tours that cater to different interests from horseback riding, visiting Ala Acrcha National Park, and Sol Koy. I recommend checking out their Instagram page (https://www.instagram.com/kettik.kg/?hl=en) for the latest offerings and dates of departures. They even offer multi-day trip excursions.
You can book by contacting them via WhatsApp and will be asked to pay the fee via online banking. It may require you to use one of the bank booths available in supermarkets and shops to pay but unfortunately, these do not have any English options. If you're like me and can't speak the language, I suggest you hopefully have a local help you out or someone at the hotel.
I used Kettik to book my first horseriding day trip to Chon-Kemin Gorge in August 2022 and had a great experience. All the tours I found were well-priced, with ours costing approximately 2000 Kyrgyz Soms, well-organized, and run by a young, enthusiastic guide. The tours are given in Russian and I was the only non-Russian/Kyrgyz-speaking person on the tour.
2. Viator
Viator is a popular online platform that offers a wide range of travel experiences, including day trips from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. It provides a user-friendly interface where travelers can easily browse, compare, and book various tours and activities. This makes it a convenient option for those looking to explore the region without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Viator itself is in English but a majority of these tours are run by an English-speaking tour guide.
If you're interested in doing a short, city tour, I recommend the following:
4 Hours Private Bishkek Food Tasting Tour - Book here
If you're a hiking enthusiast and looking to do a day trip, I recommend the following:
If you're looking to explore further outside the city, I recommend the following:
Ultimately, choosing the right day trip from Bishkek can make your visit to Kyrgyzstan unforgettable. Whether you're immersing yourself in local culture or pushing your limits in the great outdoors, there's something for everyone. So, pack your essentials, align your plans with your interests, and get ready to experience the stunning landscapes and rich traditions that this incredible region has to offer.
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