Is Central Asia safe?
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are safe countries. In fact, people from Central Asia are very welcoming, warm and hospitable in general. I have never felt unsafe for a single moment. 

 

What is the food going to be like and will there be vegetarian options?

The food in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are very similar. Breakfast is usually quite rich, although very simple. It will be either porridge, eggs (mostly fried) and/or bread with some jam, fruit and tea (they serve tea with every meal, so be prepared). Don’t worry, there will also be coffee, just don’t have high expectations. ​Lunch and dinner is usually warm, with soup, local dishes with either chicken, lamb or beef along with rice/potatoes and tea. If you are vegetarian, you will probably be served with the exact same meal, but without the meat. It is not as developed as most western countries. 

 

Will I receive a packing list prior to the tour?

Yes, you will receive a pdf-document with an overview of everything that you need to know and everything you will be needing throughout the tour. 

 

Do I need a visa?

Uzbekistan has a visa-free policy for citizens of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and many more countries.
Citizens of 76 countries, including the United States, have been granted the right to receive an electronic entry visa for a period of 30 days.

Check your local government whether or not you need to obtain an e-visa or if you are granted a free visa on arrival. 

 

Kyrgyzstan has a visa-free policy for citizens of 61 countries, including citizens of most EU countries, USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Check with your local government whether or not you need to obtain an e-visa or if you are granted a free visa on arrival.

Kazakhstan has a visa-free policy for citizens of the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many more countries. Check your local government whether or not you need to obtain an e-visa or if you are granted a free visa on arrival
 

How do I transfer from the airport to my hotel?

It is highly recommended to obtain an e-sim or a sim card upon arrival at the airport. You will be able to download Yandex (an uber-style application) from which you can order a taxi. This will be the easiest, quickest, safest and most economical option. This goes for Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. 

​

Do I need some hiking/trekking experience?
Yes, you need some experience of hiking/trekking or have a decent level of fitness. If you have never hiked before and you want to try out a new adventure, make sure to train in advance. If you know you have a strong mind and body, you will be fine, but do not underestimate it. However, I do not recommend it, because if your body is not used to long distances of hiking and/or trekking, you will feel it the day after. Remember that there are more days ahead of you. Keep that in mind.