FAQs

 

FINANCIAL QUESTIONS:

What is the currency of Kyrgyzstan? 

The Kyrgyz currency is the som. Bank notes come in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 som denominations. Coins are 1, 3, 5 and 10 som denominations.

Are there ATMS in Kyrgyzstan?

There are ATMS in Bishkek, Osh, Karakol and other big towns in Kyrgyzstan that accept AMERICAN EXPRESS, VISA and MASTERCARD.Other towns and villages have ATMs, but usually only accept VISA cards. 

Where can I exchange my money ?
 You can exchange U.S. Dollars, Euros, Rubles or Tenge in all cities in Kyrgyzstan. Smaller towns or villages rarely are able to provide such services.

QUESTIONS ABOUT HEALTH AND SECURITY:

What if I need to see a doctor?
Insurance is not included in our prices, and we recommend you to have coverage before you arrive. Our guides know first aid and can provide basic medications. Please bring any special medication that you may require.Please let us know if you have any allergies. Kyrgyzstan has hospitals, nursing homes and private clinics. Your hotel, guest house owner or guide can provide assistance on accessing these services. 

QUESTIONS ABOUT TRIP LOGISTICS:

Do you accept payment in Euro or US Dollar?

We accept both Euros and U.S. Dollars. Each program indicates the preferred currency to pay your invoice. If you need to pay in another currency, we can also accept it. Please let us know in advance of payment what currency you will use.

Do we carry our own packs?

During your treks, our staff will take care of transporting your packs and heavy item by horse or donkey. You can take a small backpack with some water and other personal belongings.

From the airport, how do I get to the city centre?
Transportation from Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek is included in the price. Our guide will greet you outside the airport terminal with either your name or our company’s name. There are also taxis or marshrutkas outside the airport terminal. Pre-paid taxi service is also available at the airport.
What type of accommodation is available in Kyrgyzstan?

Accommodation ranges from 5-star chain hotels and resorts to comfortable lodges in Bishkek and major tourist destinations. The hotels offer specialty restaurants, conference facilities, exclusive health clubs and business centers. You also have the option of homestay in houses with local people who will prepare their traditional food.In the villages, you will stay with local people in guest houses or yurts. A yurt is a portable, round tent covered with animal skins or felt and is used by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia.

What kind of food is available in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyz staples include meat, bread, cheese, and tea. Apart from Kyrgyz cuisine, Bishkek has restaurants serving Continental, Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Japanese, Italian and Korean food.Traveling with I’m Nomad gives you access to various types of food. Please let our experts know if you have dietary restrictions and we can design meals specific to your needs.