Is Kyrgyzstan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kyrgyzstan is generally safe for solo female travelers, however, caution should always be taken. The people are friendly and hospitable, but language can be a major barrier as English is not widely spoken. It is also advisable to dress modestly due to the Islamic culture prevalent in the country. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded markets and public transportation. It's always good to stay alert of your surroundings and avoid less frequented areas during night time.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on 8 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Kyrgyzstan is currently ranked #79 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.2 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Kyrgyzstan?

Safety at night:Moderate

Kyrgyzstan is relatively safe in many areas, especially those frequented by tourists. However, like anywhere else, it is wise to be cautious, particularly when walking alone at night. Street lighting can be minimal in some parts and it's common to encounter stray dogs after dark. Avoid deserted areas and always arrange for reliable transportation, particularly late at night.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Kyrgyzstan, like buses and minivans (marshrutkas), is commonly used by locals and tourists alike. However, they can be crowded and aren't always in the best condition. Also, schedules can be erratic or non-existent. While generally safe, incidents of pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places. So, while traveling, it's advisable to stay aware and vigilant. Longer trips can be made in shared taxis which are quite safe, but it's crucial to negotiate the price before the journey.

Street harassment:Low

Kyrgyzstan is typically a safe destination for solo female travelers. Although male attention can sometimes be noticeable, most locals are respectful and helpful. Street harassment, such as catcalling or inappropriate touching, is generally low making it comfortable for women to explore the country. However, it is always recommended to dress modestly and adhere to local customs to avoid unwanted attention. An additional safety measure is not to walk alone late at night, particularly in secluded areas. Always remember to trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings.

Petty crimes:Low

Contrary to popular belief, Kyrgyzstan has a relatively low risk of petty crimes. While opportunistic theft can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets, pickpocketing and purse-snatching are not as common as in major Western cities. Nevertheless, remain cautious, keep your belongings secure, and avoid flashing expensive things in public.

Is Kyrgyzstan worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 8 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4/5

Budget-friendly

3.5/5

Fianna

Hong Kong S.A.R.

Kyrgyzstan, Solo travel

It's my first time in Kyrgyzstan, as well as middle asia! I have a great trip there, especially during the hikes and the three days horse trekking. I met two Filipino women and became friends during the trekking with them

Posted: August 13, 2024

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Željka

Croatia

Kyrgyzstan, Solo travel

Kyrgyzstan is amazing! I felt so safe all the time travelling. I dont always hitchike but here I felt like I could so I did a few times. Locals are very welcoming nd warm. They dont all speak English but they try to help.

Posted: June 13, 2024Experienced: May, 2023

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Kyrgyzstan, Solo travel

I recently travelled solo to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. It was my first stop in Central Asia, and I went to Ala Archa National Park and the National Museum. Overall, it was an experience being able to see ex-Soviet buildings, in a Russian speaking country and one of the best views from the plane flying into the country

Posted: May 29, 2024Experienced: May, 2024

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Kyrgyzstan, Group travel

A year ago, I went to Kyrgyzstan as part of a 5-Stans expedition and it was my favorite country out of all the Stans. Beautiful landscapes, wonderful people, and plenty of meat on large skewers. I can't wait to go back there and spend more time.

Posted: December 2, 2023

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Kyrgyzstan, Group travel

Kyrgyzstan is a true paradise. It is there that I saw the most incredible places in my life, even though I have seen many. Wild mountains, untouched by tourism, unimaginable spaces - I can't wait to go back there again. Transportation is quite expensive, as it is hard to get to the vehicles used by the locals. Prices for food and accommodation are typical. Camping costs depend on the location, as we slept in a yurt and at higher altitudes, our water bottles would freeze. For me, the valley and wetlands near Kol Su were the most amazing places during this trip.

Posted: October 3, 2023

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Kyrgyzstan, Solo travel

I visited Kyrgyzstan alone and did a small hike in the Ala Archa National Park and a walking tour around Bishkek (I loved the Osh market). I would also like to see Issyk Kul, unfortunately, I didn't have enough time. People in Kyrgyzstan seemed to be much friendlier than in the surrounding countries. I loved my stay in Kyrgyzstan and I will definitely return there someday.

Posted: September 20, 2023

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Bishkek, Solo travel

I love Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek, the capital, is such a beautiful, fascinating city. Lots of really good food, mountains, and small towns to discover.

Posted: May 10, 2023

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Bishkek, Solo travel

Bishkek was beautiful and I felt really safe there - the 2000-year-old Silk Road market was definitely an experience! I think that Bishkek was the only place where locals stopped me and asked to take a picture with me, which was surprising, but they were completely polite and then continued on their way.

Posted: February 18, 2023

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Kyrgyzstan, Solo travel

I went to Kyrgyzstan and I really liked it there. The people were very friendly, especially outside cities. Staying in homes through community-based tourism was pleasant and quite cheap. Regional airlines are the best way to get around the country or hop to another one, as they are fast and very reasonably priced. Driving longer distances can take forever due to poor road infrastructure and mountainous terrain.

Posted: November 27, 2022

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Is Kyrgyzstan safe for women?

Madina

Bishkek

Bishkek is mostly safe for women, especially if you walk alone in the city center or on busy streets. However, I wouldn’t recommend walking alone in remote areas, new neighborhoods, or suburbs, especially at night. The overall crime rate in Bishkek is quite low, but women should still be careful. Use comfort or business class taxis instead of economy. Avoid walking alone on dark and empty streets. Watch your drinks at bars. In general, stay alert and take the same precautions as you would in any other country.

Posted: November 17, 2024

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Bishkek

The city (Bishkek) is very safety. all streets are equipped with electricity, so it’s not dark at the streets. People are friendly and there are not many homeless people and drug addicts. The city is also not big. Most of the residents know English.

Posted: August 23, 2024

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Meet locals in Kyrgyzstan

nargi

About Me

my first independent journey began when I was 18 years old, it was scary and difficult, but every time I overcome these difficulties and become stronger and more confident! I would be glad to share my experience and talk about my culture, and also learn about you and your country 😊

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Stay with locals in Kyrgyzstan

Madina

Bishkek

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey! My name is Madina, I’m from Kyrgyzstan. I’m fashion photographer and stylist. I worked in several projects for Kyrgyz singers, artists, films and fashion brands. This year I decided to try travelling. I would like to learn and exchange cultures, knowledge and mindset with people from different countries of the world.